Renowned Ocala-based horse trainer Mark Casse is calling for a stop to House Bill 105 and Senate Bill 408, which would allow Gulfstream Park to keep its gaming licenses without the live horse-racing mandate. Casse argues that decoupling would have a devastating economic impact on the horse racing industry in Florida, which provides jobs for over 33,000 people.
Casse, who operates one of the largest racing operations in North America, emphasizes the importance of the horse racing industry to the state’s economy. He points out that thousands of small businesses, such as breeding farms and training centers, would be at risk if decoupling is approved to benefit one foreign company.
The legislation would also negatively affect the South Florida community, where thousands of jobs are tied to the horse racing industry. In Marion County, known as the Horse Capital of the World, the Thoroughbred industry is a significant source of employment, with a population of 75,000 horses and 28,500 jobs.
Casse is urging lawmakers to consider the long-term consequences of decoupling on Florida’s economy and way of life. He highlights the importance of preserving Ocala and the state’s major horse racing industry for future generations. If the legislation passes, Florida stands to lose a $3.24 billion annual economic impact without gaining any significant benefits.
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