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Bill

AB 1526

Horse racing: audits of the horsemen's organizations: minisatellite wagering facilities.

2025-2026 Regular Session

AB 1526 - Horse racing: minisatellite wagering facilities OverviewBill Number: AB 1526 Title: Horse racing: minisatellite wagering facilities Status: Ordered to inactive file at

From committee: Be ordered to second reading pursuant to Senate Rule 28.8.
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Bill Summary · AB 1526

AB 1526 - Horse racing: minisatellite wagering facilities

Overview

Bill Number: AB 1526
Title: Horse racing: minisatellite wagering facilities
Status: Ordered to inactive file at the request of Senator Padilla
Introduced: March 18, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of AB 1526 is to expand opportunities for legal horse race wagering in California by authorizing the establishment of "minisatellite" wagering facilities. These facilities would provide an alternative to the state's existing network of satellite wagering facilities, which are often located at racetracks or off-track betting sites.

The bill's supporters argue that minisatellite facilities would increase accessibility and convenience for bettors, potentially drawing in new participants and generating additional revenue for the horse racing industry and state.

Key Provisions

  • Authorizes the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) to license and regulate the operation of minisatellite wagering facilities
  • Defines minisatellite facilities as smaller-scale, off-site locations that offer pari-mutuel wagering on live and simulcast horse races
  • Establishes requirements for the physical size, amenities, and operational procedures of minisatellite facilities
  • Specifies that minisatellite facilities must be located at least 20 miles from the nearest racetrack or existing satellite wagering facility
  • Directs a portion of the revenue generated by minisatellite facilities to support California's horse racing purses and breeding programs

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Horse racing industry stakeholders, including racetracks, off-track betting operators, and horse owners/breeders, who could benefit from increased wagering and revenue
  • Bettors, who would gain more convenient access to legal horse race wagering options
  • Local communities where minisatellite facilities are established, which could see economic impacts (both positive and negative) from the new businesses

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

AB 1526 was introduced in the California State Assembly on March 18, 2025 and has been ordered to the inactive file at the request of Senator Padilla. This means the bill is currently not moving forward in the legislative process, though it could potentially be revived and reconsidered at a later date.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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