Cowboy Racing advocates for 100 mile rule reinstatement during Wyoming gaming committee meeting

The Wyoming House Travel, Recreation, Wildlife & Cultural Resources Committee convened on January 30, 2025, to discuss House Bill 85, which aims to amend regulations surrounding horse racing and gaming in the state. A significant point of consensus emerged among several stakeholders, including representatives from Wyoming Horse Racing LLC and the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce, who expressed strong support for the bill and its proposed amendments.

Neil Tomlinson, representing Wyoming Downs, highlighted the collaborative efforts made with local municipalities and the Appropriations Committee to refine the bill. He emphasized the importance of the legislation in fostering economic growth and supporting the horse racing industry in Wyoming. Similarly, Amber Leyba from the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce echoed this sentiment, reinforcing the bill's potential benefits for local businesses and the community.

However, the meeting also featured opposition from Cowboy Racing representatives, who raised concerns about the implications of the bill, particularly regarding the removal of the "100-mile rule." This rule currently protects local tracks by limiting off-track betting (OTB) operations within a specified distance, ensuring that revenue generated supports live horse racing. Cowboy Racing argued that eliminating this rule could undermine their significant investments in building a new racetrack, Thunder Plains, which is set to be the first full-size horse racing track in Wyoming in over a decade.

The representatives from Cowboy Racing articulated their commitment to enhancing live horse racing in the state, citing the economic impact of the industry and the jobs it supports. They urged the committee to consider the potential negative consequences of the proposed changes, particularly for new applicants seeking permits, who would lose the right to appeal local authority decisions.

As discussions progressed, committee members sought clarity on the number of race days planned for the upcoming season, with Cowboy Racing confirming they are approved for 16 race days starting in late September. The committee's deliberations highlighted the need for a balanced approach that considers the interests of both established operators and new entrants in the gaming market.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions underscored the complexities of regulating horse racing and gaming in Wyoming. As stakeholders continue to navigate the legislative process, the outcomes of House Bill 85 will have lasting implications for the state's horse racing industry and its economic landscape. The committee is expected to deliberate further on the proposed amendments and the overall direction of the bill in the coming sessions.