The original instrument and the following digest, which constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument, were prepared by Alan Miller.
DIGEST
SB 160 Original 2023 Regular Session Cortez
Present law provides for specific duties of the Louisiana State Racing Commission (LSRC).
Proposed law retains present law, but also prohibits the LSRC from making rules regarding the
operation or hours of operation of a racetrack other than matters necessary to the holding of such race
meetings and pari-mutuel wagering.
Present law requires that, after July 1, 2023, each association (operator of a live horse racing track)
shall deposit 10% of their gross profits into a facility maintenance fund established by the association
to pay for all LSRC-required facility maintenance and improvements and that such deposits shall
continue until LSRC finds the association in compliance with the facility maintenance and
improvement investments. Provides that the deposits shall be made at the same time as the state tax
is paid. Provides that once the initial facility maintenance and improvements are completed to the
satisfaction of LSRC, each association shall continue to maintain a minimum fund balance of $3M
in the account. Provides that for an association that is in compliance with LSRC's minimum
standards and infrastructure investments, the LSRC may by a 2/3 vote exempt an association making
deposits, maintaining a minimum fund balance, or allow the balance to be withdrawn or reduced.
Proposed law changes present law to require the deposit of 10% of gross profits only if the
association is found by LSRC not to be in compliance with the minimum standards and infrastructure
investments and provides that, in those instances, the deposits are capped at $3M.
Present law provides that a license from the La. Gaming Control Board (LGCB) to conduct slot
machine gaming at a race track shall be for a 5-year term and any renewals are for 5-year terms.
Present law provides an exception in instances where the LSRC notifies LGCB that it has determined
that its licensed live racing track is not in compliance with LSRC standards on facility maintenance
and improvements. Allows the LGCB to grant or renew a license for a probationary period not to
exceed one year. Provides that, barring extenuating circumstances, the probationary period shall not
be extended beyond one year and after the probationary period, LGCB shall either grant or renew
the license or revoke it.
Proposed law changes the exception to provide that, in such instances of an LSRC's determination
of an applicant's noncompliance with LSRC standards, the LGCB may grant or renew the license for
a 5-year term or for a probationary period to be determined by LGCB.
Effective July 1, 2023.
(Amends R.S. 4:147 and 164(C)(1) and R.S. 27:361(E)(3)(a))