OCALA, FL (352today.com) – A new bill moving through Tallahassee could put thousands of local jobs – and Ocala’s horse-driven economy – at risk by allowing casinos to cut ties with live racing.

The battle over decoupling continued in the Florida House of Representatives this past week.  Language in the proposed bill was amended to require any entity wishing to discontinue racing at a track to give the thoroughbred industry a three-year notice.

The earliest this could happen would be in 2027. The bill, with the new language, passed the House Commerce Committee on March 17 by a 15-7 vote. Notably, Republicans David Borrero (Miami-Dade) and David Smith (Seminole) broke party lines to vote with Democrats, following a prior 12-4 partisan vote in the House Industries and Professional Activities Subcommittee.

Previously, the bill would have allowed casinos to stop live racing at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale Beach and the cardroom at Tampa Bay Downs in Oldsmar while continuing gambling operations.

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“The results weren’t a surprise… we would need to deal with it in the Senate,” said Lonny T. Powell, CEO of the Florida Thoroughbred Breeders’ and Owners’ Association.

Powell credited heartfelt testimony from a wide range of thoroughbred industry representatives for swaying some lawmakers.

“The horsemen in the south Florida area don’t support decoupling,” said Powell. “People are realizing more and more that this would lead to the significant loss of jobs.”

He emphasized the importance of grassroots support in Tallahassee.

“It reinforces what our plan has been… the elimination of 34,000 jobs, and the $3.24 billion economic effect… It’s not good for Florida,” Powell said. “It certainly doesn’t seem like it should be a priority of anybody to see this happen.”

What Does That Mean to You?

Ocala is one of the horse capitals of the world – home to farms, breeders, trainers, and a huge support industry around the thoroughbred business. So even if you’re not a horse person, you might be surprised how much it still touches your life:

  • Local economy: If racetracks shut down or reduce operations due to decoupling, that could lead to a big drop in horse breeding and training demand. That means job losses not just on farms, but in related industries – vets, feed stores, construction, hospitality, and even local tourism.

  • Property values: Horse farms and equine-related businesses support land values in Marion County. If the industry weakens, land use and values could shift.

  • Community identity: Ocala’s horse industry isn’t just economic – it’s cultural. It’s part of the region’s identity and even plays a role in attracting new residents and businesses.

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