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Bill

SF 45

Local approval for simulcasting.

2026 Regular Session

Wyoming law now requires local government approval before horse racing simulcasting can operate, shifting betting venue decisions from state to county/municipal control.

Assigned Chapter Number 72
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Bill Summary · SF 45

Legislative bill overview

SF 45 (SEA No. 0051) modifies Wyoming law to require local government approval before horse racing simulcasting operations can be established or expanded in a jurisdiction. The bill shifts regulatory authority from purely state-level oversight to a local control model, allowing counties or municipalities to accept or reject simulcasting venues within their boundaries.

Why is this important

Simulcasting generates significant revenue for horse racing industries and local governments through licensing fees and taxes. This bill fundamentally changes who decides whether these betting operations exist locally—giving communities direct say over gambling expansion while potentially affecting state racing revenue and local gaming business opportunities.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. state uniformity: Counties may block simulcasting despite state authorization, creating a patchwork of allowed/prohibited venues and potentially disadvantaging border communities
  • Revenue implications: Reduced simulcasting locations could decrease state racing fund revenues that support horse breeders, tracks, and equine programs
  • Economic development conflict: Some communities may welcome simulcasting revenue while others oppose gambling expansion on moral or public health grounds

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

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