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Bill

HB 49

Pari-mutuel wagering; historical horse racing, percentage retained for distribution.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Buddy Fowler and 3 co-sponsors

HB 49 adjusts the share of historical horse racing wagering revenue distributed to stakeholders, affecting industry funding and state coffers.

Senate committee offered
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Bill Summary · HB 49

Legislative bill overview

HB 49 modifies Virginia's pari-mutuel wagering regulations by adjusting the percentage of historical horse racing revenues retained for distribution to various stakeholders. The bill passed the House with overwhelming support (95-3) and is now under Senate review. It represents a technical adjustment to existing gaming law rather than a substantive policy expansion.

Why is this important

Historical horse racing (HHR) generates significant state and local revenue in Virginia through wagering on past races. Adjusting distribution percentages directly affects funding for horse racing industry support, purses, regulatory oversight, and potentially state general revenue. These mechanical changes can have material fiscal impacts on affected businesses and government budgets.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue allocation disputes: Different stakeholders (tracks, horsemen, state, localities) may compete over how much of the pot each receives, with winners and losers depending on specific percentage changes
  • Regulatory clarity: The bill's language on "percentage retained for distribution" may create ambiguity about which entities qualify and how distributions are calculated, potentially leading to disputes
  • Industry viability: Depending on which direction percentages shift, changes could strengthen or weaken the economic viability of Virginia horse racing operations and breeding programs

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

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