HB773 Summary

• Racing operators must apply seven percent of total horse racing handle to provide purse moneys for Alabama Equine Commission horse races, with funds sent monthly to the Alabama Equine Association.

• Takeout funds from horse racing are distributed as follows: 10% for starving, adoption, retirement, education, and equestrian programs; 40% to Alabama Quarter Horse Racing Association; 50% to Alabama Thoroughbred Breeders Racing Association.

• Creates the Alabama Equine Commission composed of five members: representatives from Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred racing associations, one House member, one Senate member, and one non-breeding/non-racing horse owner appointed by the Governor.

• Commission members serve six-year terms (except legislative members serving until end of quadrennium), with four members constituting a quorum; commission has authority to administer takeout proceeds and is subject to Alabama Sunset Law with termination date of October 1, 2014, and every four years thereafter.

• Greyhound racing purses remain determined by operator negotiation with kennel owners with no minimum purse requirements imposed by the commission.