Lawmakers in Louisiana authorize traditional betting on horse races at sportsbooks, yet potential issues arise on the horizon.
The Louisiana lawmakers are all about shaking things up in the world of horse racing, hoping to bring a football-style betting experience to the Pelican State. But one company is already sounding the alarm, fearing this change could mean the end of one of the nation's oldest race tracks.
House Bill 547, set to revolutionize Louisiana's horse racing game, recently gained approval from both the House of Representatives and the Senate. This bill champions fixed-odds wagering on horse races, a betting method popular in stick-and-ball sports.
Proponents of this change include notable figures in Louisiana's horse racing industry, such as former NFL quarterback and thoroughbred racehorse owner Jake Delhomme. They argue that fixed-odds betting's growth in football betting can translate to a surge in horse racing bets.
As of the latest updates:- House Approval: The bill secured a unanimous vote of 93-0 in the House on May 29, 2025.- Senate Approval: The bill sailed through the Senate with a vote of 36-1 on June 10, 2025.- Current Status: The bill has been passed by both the House and Senate, with no veto or signing into law yet, according to recent updates.
However, this bill may face challenges, as critics suggest it could negatively impact existing racing operations in the state. The bill also introduces a purse supplement fund, allocating 55% to Thoroughbreds, 24% to Quarter Horses, and the rest to breeder associations, raising hopes for a potential boost in the horse racing industry.
Stay tuned for updates on this intriguing development in Louisiana's horse racing landscape! 🌟
Sources:1. Louisiana House Bill 5472. Louisiana Senate Approves House Bill 5473. Louisiana Legislative Session Calendar4. Louisiana Racing Commission5. Enrichment Data: Overall
Sports betting isn't limited to just horse racing in Louisiana, as House Bill 547, approved by both the House and Senate, potentially brings fixed-odds wagering to the state, a betting method popular in sports like football. The bill, if signed into law, could have implications for racing operations, with proposed provisions for a purse supplement fund to support Thoroughbreds, Quarter Horses, and breeder associations.
