Report: Florida bill will fund tracks, help with costs

Florida's legislature pass a bill that will provide $5 million for Tampa Bay Downs and $15 million for Gulfstream Park and the tracks' horsemen.

Daily Racing Form reported that the bill is part of an omnibus tax bill that was expected to be signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis.

The funding for the tracks is for purses, capital improvements and maintenance, and operational expenses, according to the report.

The bill also provides $5 million for the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners Association for awards and incentives, and $2.5 million for purses and bonuses in races restricted to Florida-breds.

The bill also allows tracks to claim a tax credit for funds paid to the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority, an assessment that expected to total $5.9 million this year, according to the report.

Tracks are responsible for paying the assessments if a state’s racing commission does not collect fees from racing industry participants and make the payments.

The total HISA assessment for the state of Florida in 2023 is expected to be $5.9 million, according to the Florida Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association.