Over the last decade racetracks in neighboring states have added slot machines and other games that generate much larger purses than Texas tracks can offer. This has resulted in the exodus of horses, breeding farms and other horse professionals to these states. The very existence of the Texas horse agri-industry is now endangered.
Due to that economic impact, an unprecedented alliance has been formed between all of the major horse organizations in the state of Texas – Texas H.O.R.S.E. (Horse Organizations for Racing, Showing and Eventing), comprised of AQHA, APHA, NCHA, TQHA, TTA, TABA, TPHBA and THP. We are working together on legislation in the 2011 82nd Legislative Session that will invigorate and restore the ground lost to surrounding states, while also providing resources to the many horse enthusiasts who participate in diverse disciplines.
We are asking the Texas Legislature to give our state’s voters the opportunity to vote to allow slot machines at all currently licensed Texas racetracks (and recognized Native American Reservations). Doing so will help to rebuild all facets of the Texas horse industry.
Texas HORSE is working with Win For Texas on the public effort to educate the Legislature and Texas voters on this important issue.
