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HB 2698

Repeals the prohibition on off-track pari-mutuel wagering on horse racing

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jeff Knight

Missouri bill repeals ban on off-track horse racing wagers, expanding gambling access while potentially generating state revenue but risking revenue diversion from existing tracks.

Referred: General Laws(H)
#gambling #horseracing #publicsafety #departmentof
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Bill Summary · HB 2698

Legislative bill overview

HB 2698 would repeal Missouri's existing ban on off-track pari-mutuel wagering for horse racing. This means bettors could place wagers on horse races at locations other than the physical racetrack itself, such as dedicated betting parlors or potentially online platforms. The bill represents a reversal of current state policy restricting horse race gambling to on-site venues.

Why is this important

Off-track wagering legalization could generate new tax revenue for the state and create jobs in the betting industry, but would also expand gambling access and potentially increase problem gambling. This involves a fundamental policy choice about how Missouri regulates gambling activities and where betting revenue should flow—to existing tracks versus new off-track operations.

Potential points of contention

  • Cannibalization concerns: Off-track wagering may divert money from existing on-track operations and horsemen's purses, potentially harming horse racing infrastructure that depends on on-site betting revenue
  • Problem gambling expansion: Removing geographic barriers to wagering could increase gambling participation among problem gamblers and younger populations
  • Revenue allocation: Disputes over how tax revenue from off-track betting would be distributed among the state, horsemen, and racing facilities versus other priorities

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

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