TX
Texas House Bill HB4115

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4115

Filed
3/8/23  
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to eligibility for membership on and the regulation of horse racing by the Texas Racing Commission and a prohibition on the conduct of greyhound or other dog racing as live events in this state; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a fee.

Impact

Should HB 4115 be enacted, it will principally impact laws governing horse racing in Texas. By authorizing criminal penalties and fees related to the regulation and oversight of horse racing, the bill could fundamentally alter how racing entities operate under state jurisdiction. The elimination of live greyhound racing also signals a significant shift in Texas's approach to this particular form of entertainment and gambling, reflecting a broader change in societal attitudes toward animal welfare.

Summary

House Bill 4115 proposes significant changes to the regulation of horse racing within the state of Texas, primarily focusing on the Texas Racing Commission. The bill introduces stringent provisions regarding eligibility for membership on the Commission and establishes a ban on live greyhound and dog racing in the state. Furthermore, it aims at modernizing the Texas Racing Act by addressing issues such as unlicensed activities and aims to enhance the regulation and oversight of horse racing operations, thereby promoting the integrity of the racing industry.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 4115 appears to be cautiously optimistic among supporters, especially those advocating for streamlined regulation of horse racing and increased measures against illicit activities in the industry. However, there are points of contention among various stakeholders, particularly concerning the prohibition of greyhound racing. Opponents argue that this ban could significantly affect communities tied to greyhound racing and its associated employment, raising concerns about job losses and economic impact.

Contention

The debate over HB 4115 encapsulates several points of contention, particularly regarding the implications of removing live greyhound racing and the impact on related local economies. Additionally, the new provisions on the Texas Racing Commission's authority and membership eligibility have stirred discussions about governance and oversight within the industry. Stakeholders are divided on whether these regulatory changes will enhance or hinder the racing culture in Texas.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Occupations Code

  • Chapter 2021. General Provisions
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 2022. Texas Racing Commission
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 2030. Texas-bred Horses And Greyhounds
    • Section: New Section

Latest TX HB4115 Activity

View All Events: TX 2023 - 88th Regular HB4115

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4757

Relating to eligibility for membership on and the regulation of horse racing by the Texas Racing Commission and a prohibition on the conduct of greyhound or other dog racing as live events in this state; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a fee.

TX HB5013

Relating to the Texas Racing Commission and the regulation of dog races, including greyhound races, as live events in this state and of simulcast wagering on greyhound races conducted out of state.

TX HB3926

Relating to the regulation of horse racing and greyhound racing and pari-mutuel wagering in connection with that racing.

TX SB704

Relating to the transfer of the regulation of racing to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, the abolishment of the Texas Racing Commission, and the creation of the Texas Racing Advisory Board, following recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission.

TX SB1494

Relating to the licensing and regulation of horse and greyhound racing; providing penalties; authorizing a fee.

TX SB2633

Relating to the regulation of horse and greyhound racing by the Texas Racing Commission.

TX HB2843

Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB2731

Relating to the regulation of historical racing pari-mutuel wagering by licensed horse and greyhound racetracks and the distribution of certain live, simulcast, and historical pari-mutuel pools.

TX SB1920

Relating to the regulation of historical racing pari-mutuel wagering by licensed horse and greyhound racetracks and the distribution of certain live, simulcast, and historical pari-mutuel pools.

TX SB789

Relating to the operation of video lottery games by licensed horse and greyhound racetrack operators, to a defense for the operation of video lottery by Indian tribes, to the authority of the Texas Lottery Commission and the Texas Racing Commission, and to the conduct of gambling in this state; providing penalties; authorizing fees.

Similar Bills

TX HB4757

Relating to eligibility for membership on and the regulation of horse racing by the Texas Racing Commission and a prohibition on the conduct of greyhound or other dog racing as live events in this state; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a fee.

TX SB1969

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the Texas Racing Act, including conforming amendments.

TX HB5013

Relating to the Texas Racing Commission and the regulation of dog races, including greyhound races, as live events in this state and of simulcast wagering on greyhound races conducted out of state.

TX HB2731

Relating to the regulation of historical racing pari-mutuel wagering by licensed horse and greyhound racetracks and the distribution of certain live, simulcast, and historical pari-mutuel pools.

TX SB1920

Relating to the regulation of historical racing pari-mutuel wagering by licensed horse and greyhound racetracks and the distribution of certain live, simulcast, and historical pari-mutuel pools.

TX SB704

Relating to the transfer of the regulation of racing to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, the abolishment of the Texas Racing Commission, and the creation of the Texas Racing Advisory Board, following recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission.

TX HB3926

Relating to the regulation of horse racing and greyhound racing and pari-mutuel wagering in connection with that racing.

TX SB1450

Relating to the abolishment of the Texas Racing Commission and the transfer of its powers and duties to the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation; providing penalties; authorizing fees.