The racing industry represents billions of dollars in revenue to Texas and thousands of jobs. It employs Texans across every major sector of our economy. From the hay fields that cover our state to the manufacturing plants that produce our textiles, chemicals and machinery, the racing industry is not merely the stables, trailers and tracks we think of, but an industry that plays an important role in the life of every Texan.
For more than a century now, Texans have been breeding horses and greyhounds for sport or recreation. They have made these animals their passion, and for the last decade many of them have had to stop. This rich history of our state is dying; it is racing across the border into neighboring states.
Since 2001, the number of mares bred in Texas has dropped almost 50%, and the number of Thoroughbred stallions in Texas has dropped by 55%. In the same period there has been a more than 30% decline in the number of Texas bred greyhounds.
All of this is a result of higher purses at tracks in our neighboring states forcing Texas horses and greyhounds to race elsewhere. These tracks have other entertainment options like slot machines that bring in more customers and allow the tracks to offer higher purses.
Texas must save this industry and the livelihood of thousands of Texas families.
For more information about the Texas racing industry, visit the Texas Horsemen’s Partnership website and the Texas Greyhound Association.