“A new opportunity is here that would bring horse racing back to Kansas,” according to Rita Osborn, Eureka,
Executive director of the Kansas Quarter Horse Racing Association, Osborn said Kanas Legislation changed the definition of “racetrack facility” in 2022.
“Legislature passed a sports betting bill that included language allowing Historical Horse Racing (HHR) to be operated in Sedgwick County,” she said.
The language actually changed the definition of a “racetrack facility” taking away the requirement for the license holder to conduct live racing.
“This felt like another slap in the face to horsemen. Expansion of gambling in the state has left horse racing at the tail-end,” Osborn said.
Bills are working their way through both the House and Senate that would revert the 3-percent state tax on HHR back to the horsemen. “That’s via the Kansas Breeders Development Fund and the County Fair Horse Racing Fund,” Osborn said.
“This will be a substantial amount of money,” she emphasized. “That would allow Eureka Downs to make facility improvements to host an improved class of racing.”
A group that operates a major racetrack has expressed interest in operating Eureka Downs if this bill is passed, Osborn noted.
“Kansas could be proud of the facilities and purses that could be offered,” Osborn said. “In addition, it will once again pay to raise and own a Kansas-bred horse.”
Hearing for HB 2434 is in the Kansas Capital House Taxation Committee Wednesday, March 8, room 346 South, 3:30 p.m. “A strong showing of supporters is important to let the legislators see there is a need for action,” Osborn said.
“In addition, contact your senator and representative with a short heart-written note asking them to support HB 2434,” Osborn encouraged.
Similar language has been introduced in the Senate but the number for that bill is unknown at this time.
“This is a big deal, folks,” Osborn said. “The legislators understand they have jilted our industry in the past and want to do something about it. This is their opportunity to make it right.”
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