Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

Iowa House Bill HSB344

Introduced
5/13/25  

Caption

A bill for an act relating to horse racing by transferring certain portions of the state sales tax for the purpose of supplementing horse race purses, and making appropriations.

Impact

The implementation of HSB344 is expected to significantly affect the state's horse racing sector. By creating a designated fund for racing purses, the bill aims to improve the financial viability of horse racing events in Iowa. This initiative is seen as a crucial support system for maintaining and growing the horse racing industry, which has faced challenges in recent years. The establishment of the purse fund could also stimulate more investments and participation in the industry's ecosystem, benefiting various stakeholders, from trainers to local businesses associated with horse racing.

Summary

House Study Bill 344 focuses on the horse racing industry in Iowa by proposing the establishment of a horse racing purse fund. This fund will be financed through the transfer of certain portions of the state sales tax collected on purchases made for the care of race horses, including feed and grooming supplies. The bill aims to provide a stable source of funding to enhance horse racing purses, which is crucial for promoting competitive horse racing in the state. The funding mechanism stipulates that beginning in 2026, collected sales tax revenues related to specific products would be diverted to this dedicated fund.

Contention

While HSB344 has garnered support from stakeholders within the horse racing community, it has also raised concerns regarding the allocation of state revenue. Some critics may voice apprehensions over the fairness of diverting sales tax funds earmarked for the general state fund to benefit a specific industry. There may also be discussions concerning the long-term sustainability of this funding method and how it impacts the overall budget of the state. Opponents might argue that such targeted financial support could set a precedent for similar requests from other sectors, complicating the state's fiscal landscape.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

IA SSB3052

A bill for an act relating to agriculture, by providing for the administration of programs and regulations, and making appropriations.(See SF 2209, SF 2410.)

IA HSB560

A bill for an act relating to agriculture, by providing for the administration of programs and regulations, and making appropriations.(See HF 2510, HF 2641.)

IA HF2510

A bill for an act relating to agriculture, by providing for the administration of programs and regulations, making appropriations, and including effective date provisions.(Formerly HSB 560; See HF 2641.)

IA HSB711

A bill for an act relating to the powers, duties, and responsibilities of state government entities associated with the budget, financial control, and information technology, making penalties applicable, and making appropriations.

IA HF2622

A bill for an act relating to the powers, duties, and responsibilities of state government entities associated with the budget, financial control, and information technology, making penalties applicable, and making appropriations.(Formerly HSB 695; See HF 2708.)

IA HSB695

A bill for an act relating to the powers, duties, and responsibilities of state government entities associated with the budget, financial control, and information technology, making penalties applicable, and making appropriations.(See HF 2622, HF 2708.)

IA SSB3173

A bill for an act relating to the powers, duties, and responsibilities of state government entities associated with the budget, financial control, and information technology, making penalties applicable, and making appropriations.(See SF 2375, SF 2409.)

IA HF2708

A bill for an act relating to the powers, duties, and responsibilities of state government entities associated with the budget, financial control, and information technology, making penalties applicable, and making appropriations. (Formerly HF 2622, HSB 695.) Effective date: 07/01/2024.

IA HF660

A bill for an act relating to sales tax rebates for a raceway facility and making tax provision corrections. (Formerly HF 198.) Effective date: 07/01/2023.

IA HF2641

A bill for an act relating to agriculture, by providing for the administration of programs and regulations, making appropriations, providing penalties, and including effective date provisions. (Formerly HF 2510, HSB 560.) Effective date: Enactment, 05/17/2024, 07/01/2024, 12/31/2024.

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