The joint Horseracing Commission in the Virgin Islands is seeking the Attorney General’s opinion on how to proceed with granting permission to operate off-track betting (OTB) facilities, which allow wagering on horse races without being at the racetrack. Currently, only franchise holders of the territory’s two horse-racing tracks have the legal right to operate OTBs, but there are no active franchise holders at present. With interest from various entities to establish OTBs, the Commission is exploring whether it can authorize non-franchise holders to operate these facilities temporarily and how such permissions would be affected if a franchise holder returns.

Commissioners discussed the legal framework, noting that the Virgin Islands Code may allow the Commission to grant OTB rights to licensed companies in the absence of franchise holders. They emphasized a strategic approach to issuing licenses, mindful that any permissions now might be temporary until a race track promoter is secured. The goal is to maintain horse racing entertainment in the territory while clarifying legal authority and ensuring that revenues benefit the racing industry. To move forward, the Commission will seek formal legal guidance from the Attorney General to confirm their authority and support the revitalization of horse racing in the Virgin Islands.