KEEP Day at the Capitol, held Feb. 12 in Frankfort, Ky., emphasized the significant economic impact of the horse racing industry, while encouraging Kentucky Equine Education Project members and those involved in the equine industry to continue building relationships with legislators.
Kentucky State Sens. Julie Raque Adams, Amanda Mays Bledsoe, and Matt Nunn were some of the legislators present, as was KEEP executive director Will Glasscock.
Glasscock stated that the horse racing and equine industry employs 60,000 people and contributes $6 billion annually to Kentucky's economy.
"It's critical the lawmakers understand those numbers, but that they see the real people in the businesses that make up those numbers," Glasscock said. "I know we have a number of young people here today who are the future of our industry, and I want to thank them for coming and hope they have a chance to talk to legislators about what the industry needs."
"The economic impact that you make on Kentucky is significant," Adams said. "And I want to say thank you for what you do, and thank you for being here, and thank you for employing all the people that you do, because it really, really matters."
Also highlighted at KEEP Day was the importance of legislative engagement and the need for continued support from lawmakers. They praised the efforts of the Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation and the importance of maintaining strong relationships with legislators.
It was highly encouraged that attendees, including those associated with the Kentucky Thoroughbred Farm Managers' Club, KEEP, and Kentucky Thoroughbred Association, meet with legislators and tell their personal stories to strengthen relationships with lawmakers. Ongoing communication and collaboration ensure the industry's stability and growth, especially in the face of potential future challenges.
"Building those relationships now is essential to ensuring they understand the importance of our industry in their districts and across the state," Glasscock said. "As we've seen developments in other states, new challenges can emerge quickly, and that's why it's vital that we continue to strengthen our infrastructure and voice for our industry here in Frankfort so we're ready to respond effectively when needed."
The Florida decoupling bill is one of the developments Glasscock is referring to. On Feb.11, with little debate and in under nine minutes, the Florida House of Representatives passed a bill eliminating the mandate that the state's two Thoroughbred racetracks hold live racing to retain licenses for slot machines or card rooms. The bill was approved by a 77-34 vote. This is the second consecutive year it has been approved by the House and will move on to the Senate.
