HB 279 Summary

• Consolidates the Idaho Racing Commission and Lottery Commission into a single Idaho State Gaming Commission to oversee lottery operations, pari-mutuel horse and dog racing, Indian gaming, and bingo/raffle games

• Expands the Gaming Commission from 5 members to 7 members, with required representation from the state lottery, racing industry, and Indian gaming sectors, all appointed by the governor with senate consent

• Transfers all racing regulatory authority from Chapter 25, Title 54 to the new Gaming Commission, maintaining existing pari-mutuel betting rules, licensing procedures, and revenue distribution to horse breeders and public schools

• Redesignates all references to the "Racing Commission" and "Lottery Commission" throughout Idaho Code as the "Gaming Commission" while preserving existing bingo, raffle, and lottery regulations

• Authorizes the director to monitor Class III gaming on Indian reservations as required by state compacts and the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act