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If one Florida lawmaker has his way, horse racing will be stripped from the 'gambling' designation it is currently a part of pretty much everywhere.
The measure, introduced by Rep. Adam Anderson of Pinellas County, would allow racetrack operators to keep their gambling businesses without staging live races. There are also court battles in place pertaining to what is referred to as “decoupling".
Anderson (R‑FL) formally filed HB 881 to decouple live horse racing from gambling requirements for Florida’s remaining racetracks (e.g., Gulfstream Park and Tampa Bay Downs).
This is a renewed effort after similar measures in 2025 and is positioned as part of the 2026 legislative session’s docket.
In Florida, a bill can be filed ahead of the new legislative period, which begins January 13, 2026.
For his part, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis says he opposes decoupling but stopped short of promising a veto should the bill pass.
“The concern is that once live racing is no longer required, it becomes much easier for tracks to walk away from it entirely,” explained David O’Farrell, general manager of Ocala Stud Farm.
“There are still a couple of bills in the House that are technically alive, so we’re hoping to run out the clock and buy time. That would give our industry a chance to negotiate or find a workable solution before next year’s session.”
- Tony Caliente, Gambling911.com
