By T. D. Thornton
A bill that would authorize fixed odds betting on Thoroughbred and greyhound racing was filed Monday in the West Virginia Senate.
If enacted, 5% of each licensee's adjusted gross wagering receipts from fixed odds wagering would go to a fund to supplement purses for Thoroughbreds and greyhounds. The money bet via Thoroughbred fixed odds would go to Thoroughbred purses; the greyhound revenue would be earmarked for greyhound purses.
According to the text of Senate Bill 576, “Any content authorized for fixed odds wagering on horse races from West Virginia, or fixed odds wagering on dog races from West Virginia, to be offered for wagering by a licensed operator, licensed gaming facility, or management services provider, shall require the consent of the host racetrack and recognized horsemen's group for horse races.”
The legislation was filed by Republican Senator Jason Barrett. The bill has been assigned to the Finance Committee, which Barrett chairs.
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