Horse racing: out-of-state thoroughbred races.

Senator Rubio's proposal to modify California's horse racing regulations would increase the daily limit on imported out-of-state thoroughbred races from 75 to 80 on days when live racing occurs within the state. The legislation maintains existing provisions allowing thoroughbred racing associations and fairs to distribute audiovisual signals and accept wagers on these imported races without requiring consent from horsemen's organizations.

The bill adjusts the threshold at which additional wagering restrictions apply, extending the current range of 51-75 imported races to 51-80 races per day. When imports fall within this range, racing associations must obtain permission from harness and quarter horse racing associations in Orange or Sacramento counties to accept wagers on out-of-state races that begin after 5:00 p.m. Pacific time. The measure preserves exemptions for major events like the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Breeders' Cup World Championship, as well as situations where no live racing is occurring in specific California regions.

The legislation retains requirements for racing associations to conduct wagering operations in accordance with existing state regulations while adjusting numerical thresholds that govern daily race import volumes. These modifications affect how racing associations schedule imported races and manage wagering activities, particularly regarding authorization requirements for evening events.