title: RCW 67.16.015

text:
The commission shall organize by electing one of its members chair, and shall appoint and employ a secretary, and such other clerical, office, and other help as is necessary in the performance of the duties imposed upon it by this chapter. The commission shall keep detailed records of all meetings and of the business transacted therein, and of all the collections and disbursements. The commission shall prepare and submit an annual report to the governor. All records of the commission shall be public records and as such, subject to public inspection.
[ 2012 c 117 s 304; 1977 c 75 s 80; 1933 c 55 s 3; RRS s 8312-3. Formerly RCW 43.50.020.]

catchline: Washington horse racing commission—Organization—Secretary—Records—Annual reports.


doc_type: statute

jurisdiction: wa

title: RCW 67.16.017

text:
Each member of the Washington horse racing commission shall be compensated in accordance with RCW 43.03.250 and shall be reimbursed for travel expenses in accordance with RCW 43.03.050 and 43.03.060 in going to, attending, and returning from meetings of the commission, and travel expenses incurred in the discharge of such duties as may be requested of him or her by a majority vote of the commission, but in no event shall a commissioner be paid in any one fiscal year in excess of one hundred twenty days, except the chair of the commission who may be paid for not more than one hundred fifty days.
[ 2012 c 117 s 305; 1984 c 287 s 100; 1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 34 s 155; 1969 ex.s. c 233 s 2.]
Notes:
Legislative findings—Severability—Effective date—1984 c 287: See notes following RCW 43.03.220.
Effective date—Severability—1975-'76 2nd ex.s. c 34: See notes following RCW 2.08.115.

license: public-domain-government-work

rule_set: Revised Code of Washington

catchline: Washington horse racing commission—Compensation and travel expenses.

code: rcw

unit: section

court: Washington State Legislature


title: RCW 67.16.020

text:
(1) It shall be the duty of the commission, as soon as it is possible after its organization, to prepare and promulgate a complete set of rules and regulations to govern the race meets in this state. It shall determine and announce the place, time and duration of race meets for which license fees are exacted; and it shall be the duty of each person holding a license under the authority of this chapter, and every owner, trainer, jockey, and attendant at any racecourse in this state, to comply with all rules and regulations promulgated and all orders issued by the commission. It shall be unlawful for any person to hold any race meet without having first obtained and having in force and effect a license issued by the commission as in this chapter provided; and it shall be unlawful for any owner, trainer or jockey to participate in race meets in this state without first securing a license therefor from the state [horse] racing commission, the fee for which shall be set by the commission which shall offset the cost of administration and shall not be for a period exceeding one year.
(2) The commission shall immediately suspend the license of a person who has been certified under RCW 74.20A.320 by the department of social and health services as a person who is not in compliance with a support order. If the person has continued to meet all other requirements for a license under this chapter during the suspension, reissuance of the license shall be automatic upon the department's receipt of a release issued by the department of social and health services stating that the licensee is in compliance with the support order. The procedure in RCW 74.20A.320 is the exclusive administrative remedy for contesting the establishment of noncompliance with a child support order, and suspension of a license under this subsection, and satisfies the requirements of RCW 34.05.422.
[ 2000 c 86 s 5; 1989 c 385 s 5; 1985 c 146 s 2; 1982 c 32 s 1; 1933 c 55 s 4; RRS s 8312-4. Formerly RCW 67.16.020 and 67.16.030.]
Notes:
Severability—1985 c 146: See note following RCW 67.16.010.
Severability—1982 c 32: "If any provision of this amendatory act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1982 c 32 s 6.]

catchline: Duties of commission—Race meet license—Suspension.


title: RCW 67.16.040

text:
The commission created by this chapter is hereby authorized, and it shall be its duty, to license, regulate and supervise all race meets held in this state under the terms of this chapter, and to cause the various racecourses of the state to be visited and inspected at least once a year.
[ 1933 c 55 s 5; RRS s 8312-5.]

catchline: Commission to regulate and license meets—Inspection.


title: RCW 67.16.045

text:
The commission is authorized to receive criminal history record information that includes nonconviction data for any purpose associated with the investigation for suitability for involvement in horse racing activities authorized under this chapter. Dissemination or use of nonconviction data for purposes other than that authorized in this section is prohibited.
[ 2000 c 204 s 1.]

catchline: Criminal history records—Dissemination.


title: RCW 67.16.050

text:
Every person making application for license to hold a race meet, under the provisions of this chapter shall file an application with the commission which shall set forth the time, the place, the number of days such meet will continue, and such other information as the commission may require. The commission shall be the sole judge of whether or not the race meet shall be licensed and the number of days the meet shall continue. No person who has been convicted of any crime involving moral turpitude shall be issued a license, nor shall any license be issued to any person who has violated the terms or provisions of this chapter, or any of the rules and regulations of the commission made pursuant thereto, or who has failed to pay to the commission any or all sums required under the provisions of this chapter. The license shall specify the number of days the race meet shall continue and the number of races per day, which shall include not less than six live races per day, and for which a fee shall be paid daily in advance of $500 for each live race day: PROVIDED, That if unforeseen obstacles arise, which prevent the holding, or completion of any race meet, the license fee for the meet, or for a portion which cannot be held may be refunded the licensee, if the commission deems the reasons for failure to hold or complete the race meet sufficient. Any unexpired license held by any person who violates any of the provisions of this chapter, or any of the rules or regulations of the commission made pursuant thereto, or who fails to pay to the commission any and all sums required under the provisions of this chapter, shall be subject to cancellation and revocation by the commission. Such cancellation shall be made only after a summary hearing before the commission, of which three days' notice, in writing, shall be given the licensee, specifying the grounds for the proposed cancellation, and at which hearing the licensee shall be given an opportunity to be heard in opposition to the proposed cancellation.
[ 2025 c 89 s 3; 1997 c 87 s 2; 1985 c 146 s 3; 1982 c 32 s 2; 1973 1st ex.s. c 39 s 1; 1933 c 55 s 6; RRS s 8312-6.]
Notes:
Findings—Purpose—Report by joint legislative audit and review committee—Severability—Effective date—1997 c 87: See notes following RCW 67.16.200.
Severability—1985 c 146: See note following RCW 67.16.010.
Severability—1982 c 32: See note following RCW 67.16.020.

catchline: Application for meet—Issuance of license—Fee—Cancellation, grounds, procedure.


title: RCW 67.16.060

text:
(1) It shall be unlawful:
(a) To conduct pool selling, bookmaking, or to circulate handbooks; or
(b) To bet or wager on any horse race other than by the parimutuel method; or
(c) For any licensee to take more than the percentage provided in RCW 67.16.170 and 67.16.175; or
(d) For any licensee to compute breaks in the parimutuel system at more than ten cents.
(2) Any willful violation of the terms of this chapter, or of any rule, regulation, or order of the commission shall constitute a gross misdemeanor and when such violation is by a person holding a license under this chapter, the commission may cancel the license held by the offender, and such cancellation shall operate as a forfeiture of all rights and privileges granted by the commission and of all sums of money paid to the commission by the offender; and the action of the commission in that respect shall be final.
(3) The commission shall have power to exclude from any and all racecourses of the state of Washington any person whom the commission deems detrimental to the best interests of racing or any person who willfully violates any of the provisions of this chapter or of any rule, regulation, or order issued by the commission.
(4) Every race meet held in this state contrary to the provisions of this chapter is hereby declared to be a public nuisance.
[ 2008 c 24 s 1; 1991 c 270 s 3; 1985 c 146 s 4; 1979 c 31 s 1; 1933 c 55 s 7; RRS s 8312-7.]
Notes:
Severability—1985 c 146: See note following RCW 67.16.010.
Gambling: Chapters 9.46 and 9.47 RCW.

catchline: Prohibited practices—Parimutuel system permitted—Race meet as public nuisance.


title: RCW 67.16.065

text:
(1) Any licensee authorized under this chapter is prohibited from allowing the use of public assistance electronic benefit cards for the purpose of parimutuel wagering authorized under this chapter.
(2) Any licensee authorized under this chapter shall report to the department of social and health services any known violations of RCW 74.08.580.
[ 2002 c 252 s 4.]

catchline: Use of public assistance electronic benefit cards prohibited—Licensee to report violations.


title: RCW 67.16.070

text:
For the purpose of encouraging the breeding, within this state, of valuable thoroughbred, quarter[,] and/or standard bred racehorses, at least one race of each day's meet shall be offered exclusively for Washington bred horses.
[ 2025 c 89 s 4; 1949 c 236 s 2; 1933 c 55 s 8; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 8312-8.]

catchline: Races for local breeders.


title: RCW 67.16.075

text:
Only breeders or owners of Washington-bred horses are eligible to demand and receive a breeder's award, an owner's bonus or both. The commission shall promulgate rules and regulations to certify Washington-bred horses. In setting standards to certify horses as Washington-bred, the commission shall seek the advice of and consult with industry, including (1) the Washington Horse Breeders' Association, for thoroughbreds; (2) the Washington State Standardbred Association, for standardbred harness horses; (3) the Northern Racing Quarter Horse Association, for quarter horses; (4) the Washington State Appaloosa Racing Association, for Appaloosas; and (5) the Washington State Arabian Horse Racing Association, for Arabian horses.
[ 1985 c 146 s 13.]
Notes:
Severability—1985 c 146: See note following RCW 67.16.010.

catchline: Breeder's awards and owner's bonuses—Eligibility—Certification.


title: RCW 67.16.080

text:
A quarter horse to be eligible for a race meet herein shall be duly registered with the American Quarter Horse Association. An Appaloosa horse to be eligible for a race meet herein shall be duly registered with the National Appaloosa Horse Club or any successor thereto. An Arabian horse to be eligible for a race meet herein shall be duly registered with the Arabian Horse Registry of America, or any successor thereto.
[ 1982 c 132 s 2; 1969 c 22 s 2; 1949 c 236 s 3; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 8312-13.]
Notes:
Severability—1982 c 132: See note following RCW 67.16.010.

catchline: Horses to be registered.


title: RCW 67.16.090

text:
In any race meet in which quarter horses, thoroughbred horses, Appaloosa horses, standard bred harness horses, paint horses, or Arabian horses participate horses of different breeds may be allowed to compete in the same race if such mixed races are so designated in the racing conditions.
[ 1985 c 146 s 5; 1982 c 132 s 3; 1969 c 22 s 3; 1949 c 236 s 4; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 8312-14.]
Notes:
Severability—1985 c 146: See note following RCW 67.16.010.
Severability—1982 c 132: See note following RCW 67.16.010.

catchline: Races not limited to horses of same breed.


title: RCW 67.16.100

text:
(1) All sums paid to the commission under this chapter, including those sums collected for license fees and excluding those sums collected under RCW 67.16.102 and 67.16.105(3), shall be disposed of by the commission as follows: One hundred percent thereof shall be retained by the commission for the payment of the salaries of its members, secretary, clerical, office, and other help and all expenses incurred in carrying out the provisions of this chapter.
(2) Any moneys collected or paid to the commission under the terms of this chapter and not expended at the close of the fiscal biennium shall be either dispersed to Washington state registered equestrian nonprofit organizations or recognized equine-related youth organizations through a grant process set up by the commission or paid to the state treasurer and be placed in the fair fund created in RCW 15.76.115. The commission may, with the approval of the office of financial management, retain any sum required for working capital.
[ 2025 c 89 s 5; 1998 c 345 s 5; (2021 c 149 s 1 expired June 30, 2023); 1995 c 399 s 166; 1991 c 270 s 4. Prior: 1985 c 466 s 67; 1985 c 146 s 6; 1980 c 16 s 1; prior: 1979 c 151 s 169; 1979 c 31 s 2; 1977 c 75 s 81; 1965 c 148 s 7; 1955 c 106 s 5; 1947 c 34 s 2; 1941 c 48 s 4; 1935 c 182 s 30; 1933 c 55 s 9; Rem. Supp. 1947 s 8312-9.]
Notes:
Expiration date—2021 c 149: "This act expires June 30, 2023." [ 2021 c 149 s 2.]
Severability—Effective date—Contingent effective date—1998 c 345: See notes following RCW 15.04.090.
Effective date—Severability—1985 c 466: See notes following RCW 43.31.125.
Severability—1985 c 146: See note following RCW 67.16.010.

catchline: Disposition of fees—"Fair fund."


title: RCW 67.16.101

text:
The legislature finds that:
(1) A primary responsibility of the horse racing commission is the encouragement of the training and development of the equine industry in the state of Washington whether the result of this training and development results in legalized horse racing or in the recreational use of horses;
(2) The horse racing commission has a further major responsibility to assure that any facility used as a racecourse should be maintained and upgraded to ensure the continued safety of both the public and the horse at any time the facility is used for the training or contesting of these animals;
(3) Nonprofit race meets within the state have difficulty in obtaining sufficient funds to provide the maintenance and upgrading necessary to assure this safety at these facilities, or to permit frequent use of these facilities by 4-H children or other horse owners involved in training; and
(4) The one percent of the parimutuel machine gross receipts used to pay a special purse to the licensed owners of Washington bred horses is available for the purpose of drawing interest, thereby obtaining funds to be disbursed to achieve the necessary support to these nonprofit race meets.
[ 2025 c 89 s 6; 2006 c 174 s 2; 1977 ex.s. c 372 s 1.]
Notes:
Severability—1977 ex.s. c 372: "If any provision of this 1977 amendatory act, or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act, or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1977 ex.s. c 372 s 3.]

catchline: Legislative finding—Responsibilities of horse racing commission—Availability of interest on one percent of gross receipts to support nonprofit race meets.


title: RCW 67.16.102

text:
(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter to the contrary, the licensee shall withhold and shall pay daily to the commission, in addition to the percentages authorized by RCW 67.16.105, one percent of the gross receipts of all parimutuel machines at each race meet which sums shall, at the end of each meet, be paid by the commission to the licensed owners of those Washington bred only horses finishing first, second, third, and fourth at each meet from which the additional one percent is derived in accordance with an equitable distribution formula to be promulgated by the commission prior to the commencement of each race meet: PROVIDED, That nothing in this section shall apply to race meets which are nonprofit in nature, are of ten days or less, and have an average daily handle of less than one hundred twenty thousand dollars.
(2) The additional one percent specified in subsection (1) of this section shall be deposited by the commission in the Washington horse racing commission Washington bred owners' bonus fund and breeder awards account created in RCW 67.16.275. The interest derived from this account shall be distributed annually on an equal basis to those racecourses at which independent race meets are held which are nonprofit in nature and are of ten days or less. Prior to receiving a payment under this subsection, any new racecourse shall meet the qualifications set forth in this section for a period of two years. All funds distributed under this subsection shall be used for the purpose of maintaining and upgrading the respective racing courses and equine quartering areas of said nonprofit meets.
(3) The commission shall not permit the licensees to take into consideration the benefits derived from this section in establishing purses.
[ 2025 c 89 s 7; 2009 c 87 s 1; 2004 c 246 s 6; 2001 c 53 s 1; 1991 c 270 s 5; 1982 c 132 s 5; 1979 c 31 s 3; 1977 ex.s. c 372 s 2; 1969 ex.s. c 233 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective date—2004 c 246: See note following RCW 67.16.270.
Severability—1982 c 132: See note following RCW 67.16.010.
Severability—1977 ex.s. c 372: See note following RCW 67.16.101.

catchline: Withholding of additional one percent of gross receipts—Payment to owners—Interest payment on one percent and amount retained by commission.


title: RCW 67.16.105

text:
(1) Licensees of race meets that are nonprofit in nature and are of ten days or less are exempt from payment of a parimutuel tax.
(2) Licensees that do not fall under subsection (1) of this section must withhold and pay to the commission daily for each authorized day of parimutuel wagering the following applicable percentage of all daily gross receipts from its in-state parimutuel machines:
(a) If the gross receipts of all its in-state parimutuel machines are more than $20,000,000 in the previous calendar year, the licensee must withhold and pay to the commission daily 1.30 percent of the daily gross receipts; and
(b) If the gross receipts of all its in-state parimutuel machines are $20,000,000 or less in the previous calendar year, the licensee must withhold and pay to the commission daily 1.8 percent of the daily gross receipts.
(3)(a) In addition to those amounts in subsection (2) of this section, a licensee must forward one-tenth of one percent of the daily gross receipts of all its in-state parimutuel machines to the commission for payment to those nonprofit race meets as set forth in RCW 67.16.130 and subsection (1) of this section, but the percentage may not be charged against the licensee.
(b) Payments to nonprofit race meets under this subsection must be distributed on a per-race-day basis and used only for purses at racetracks that have been approved for race dates in the current calendar year and operating under RCW 67.16.130 and subsection (1) of this section. If no nonprofit racing dates are approved, any amount in the fund that exceeds $180,000 at the end of each fiscal year must be deposited into the commission's operating account.
(c) As provided in this subsection, the commission must distribute funds up to $30,000 per race day from funds generated under this subsection (3).
[ 2025 c 89 s 8; 2011 c 12 s 1; 2010 c 39 s 1; 2004 c 246 s 7; 2003 1st sp.s. c 27 s 1; 1998 c 345 s 6; 1997 c 87 s 3; 1995 c 173 s 2; 1994 c 159 s 2; 1993 c 170 s 2; 1991 c 270 s 6; 1987 c 347 s 4; 1985 c 146 s 7; 1982 c 32 s 3; 1979 c 31 s 6.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 c 12: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [April 5, 2011]." [ 2011 c 12 s 3.]
Effective date—2004 c 246: See note following RCW 67.16.270.
Effective date—2003 1st sp.s. c 27: "This act takes effect January 1, 2004." [ 2003 1st sp.s. c 27 s 2.]
Severability—Effective date—Contingent effective date—1998 c 345: See notes following RCW 15.04.090.
Findings—Purpose—Report by joint legislative audit and review committee—Severability—Effective date—1997 c 87: See notes following RCW 67.16.200.
Intent—1995 c 173: "It is the intent of the legislature that one-half of the money being paid into the Washington thoroughbred racing fund continue to be directed to enhanced purses, and that one-half of the money being paid into the fund continue to be deposited into an escrow or trust account and used for the construction of a new thoroughbred racing facility in western Washington." [ 1995 c 173 s 1.]
Effective date—1995 c 173: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect immediately [May 1, 1995]." [ 1995 c 173 s 3.]
Intent—1994 c 159: "It is the intent of the legislature to terminate payments into the Washington thoroughbred racing fund from licensees of nonprofit race meets from March 30, 1994, until June 1, 1995, and to provide that one-half of moneys that otherwise would have been paid into the fund be directed to enhanced purses and one-half of moneys be deposited in an escrow or trust account and used solely for construction of a new thoroughbred racetrack facility in western Washington." [ 1994 c 159 s 1.]
Effective date—1994 c 159: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect immediately [March 30, 1994]." [ 1994 c 159 s 4.]
Intent—1993 c 170: "It is the intent of the legislature that one-half of those moneys that would otherwise have been paid into the Washington thoroughbred racing fund be retained for the purpose of enhancing purses, excluding stakes purses, until that time as a permanent thoroughbred racing facility is built and operating in western Washington. It is recognized by the Washington legislature that the enhancement in purses provided in this legislation will not directly benefit all racetracks in Washington. It is the legislature's intent that the horse racing commission work with the horse racing community to ensure that this opportunity for increased purses will not inadvertently injure horse racing at tracks not directly benefiting from this legislation." [ 1993 c 170 s 1.]
Effective date—1993 c 170: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect immediately [April 30, 1993]." [ 1993 c 170 s 3.]
Severability—1985 c 146: See note following RCW 67.16.010.
Severability—1982 c 32: See note following RCW 67.16.020.


title: RCW 67.16.110

text:
All radio broadcasting rights, and motion picture rights in connection with meets licensed hereunder are reserved to the state and the commission shall lease or license same only to the highest bidder. The exercise of such rights shall at all times be under the supervision of the commission.
[ 1980 c 32 s 10; 1933 c 55 s 11; RRS s 8312-11.]

catchline: Broadcasting and motion picture rights reserved.


title: RCW 67.16.130

text:
(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law or of chapter 67.16 RCW, the commission may license race meets which are nonprofit in nature, of ten days or less, and which have an average daily handle of one hundred twenty thousand dollars or less, at a daily licensing fee of ten dollars, and the sponsoring nonprofit association shall be exempt from any other fees as provided for in chapter 67.16 RCW or by rule or regulation of the commission: PROVIDED, That the commission may deny the application for a license to conduct a racing meet by a nonprofit association, if same shall be determined not to be a nonprofit association by the Washington state [horse] racing commission.
(2) Notwithstanding any other provision of law or of chapter 67.16 RCW or any rule promulgated by the commission, no license for a race meet which is nonprofit in nature, of ten days or less, and which has an average daily handle of one hundred twenty thousand dollars or less, shall be denied for the reason that the applicant has not installed an electric parimutuel tote board.
(3) As a condition to the reduction in fees as provided for in subsection (1) of this section, all fees charged to horse owners, trainers, or jockeys, or any other fee charged for a permit incident to the running of such race meet shall be retained by the commission as reimbursement for its expenses incurred in connection with the particular race meet.
[ 1991 c 270 s 7; 1985 c 146 s 8; 1982 c 32 s 4; 1979 c 31 s 4; 1969 ex.s. c 94 s 2.]
Notes:
Severability—1985 c 146: See note following RCW 67.16.010.
Severability—1982 c 32: See note following RCW 67.16.020.
Effective date—1969 ex.s. c 94: "This 1969 amendatory act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health and safety, the support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect May 1, 1969." [ 1969 ex.s. c 94 s 3.]

catchline: Nonprofit race meets—Licensing—Fees.


title: RCW 67.16.140

text:
No employee of the horse racing commission shall simultaneously serve as an employee of any track at which that individual will also serve as an employee of the commission.
[ 2025 c 89 s 9; 1973 1st ex.s. c 216 s 3.]

catchline: Employees of commission—Employment restriction.


title: RCW 67.16.150

text:
No employee nor any commissioner of the horse racing commission shall have any financial interest whatsoever, other than an ownership interest in a community venture, in any track at which said employee serves as an agent or employee of the commission or at any track with respect to a commissioner.
[ 1973 1st ex.s. c 216 s 4.]

catchline: Employees of commission—Commissioners—Financial interest restrictions.


title: RCW 67.16.160

text:
No later than 90 days after July 16, 1973, the horse racing commission shall adopt, pursuant to chapter 34.05 RCW, reasonable rules implementing to the extent applicable to the circumstances of the horse racing commission the conflict of interest laws of the state of Washington as set forth in chapter 42.52 RCW. In no case may a commissioner make any wager on the outcome of a live horse race at a race meet conducted in Washington state under the authority of the commission. For authorized simulcast races held outside the state of Washington, a commissioner is permitted to wager.
[ 2025 c 89 s 10; 2004 c 274 s 3; 1994 c 154 s 314; 1973 1st ex.s. c 216 s 5.]
Notes:
Effective date—2004 c 274: See note following RCW 67.16.160.
Effective date—1994 c 154: See RCW 42.52.904.

catchline: Rules implementing conflict of interest laws—Wagers by commissioner.


title: RCW 67.16.170

text:
(1) Licensees of race meets that are nonprofit in nature and are of ten days or less may retain daily for each authorized day of racing fifteen percent of daily gross receipts of all parimutuel machines at each race meet.
(2) Licensees of race meets that do not fall under subsection (1) of this section may retain daily for each authorized day of parimutuel wagering no more than 15 percent of the daily gross receipts.
[ 2025 c 89 s 11; 1998 c 345 s 7; 1991 c 270 s 8; 1987 c 347 s 2; 1985 c 146 s 9; 1983 c 228 s 1; 1979 c 31 s 5.]
Notes:
Severability—Effective date—Contingent effective date—1998 c 345: See notes following RCW 15.04.090.
Severability—1985 c 146: See note following RCW 67.16.010.

catchline: Gross receipts—Retention of percentage by licensees.


title: RCW 67.16.175

text:
(1) In addition to the amounts authorized to be retained in RCW 67.16.170, race meets may retain daily for each authorized day of racing an additional six percent of the daily gross receipts of all parimutuel machines from exotic wagers at each race meet.
(2) Of the amounts retained in subsection (1) of this section, one-sixth shall be paid to the commission at the end of the race meet for deposit in the Washington horse racing commission Washington bred owners' bonus fund and breeder awards account created in RCW 67.16.275. Such amounts shall be used by the commission for Washington bred breeder awards, in accordance with the rules and qualifications adopted by the commission.
(3) As used in this section, "exotic wagers" means any multiple wager. Exotic wagers are subject to approval of the commission.
[ 2025 c 89 s 12; 2009 c 87 s 2; 2001 c 53 s 2; 1991 c 270 s 9. Prior: 1987 c 453 s 1; 1987 c 347 s 3; 1986 c 43 s 1; 1985 c 146 s 10; 1981 c 135 s 1.]
Notes:
Severability—1985 c 146: See note following RCW 67.16.010.
Severability—1981 c 135: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1981 c 135 s 2.]

catchline: Exotic wagers—Retention of percentage by race meets.


title: RCW 67.16.200

text:
(1) A class 1 racing association licensed by the commission to conduct a race meet may seek approval from the commission to conduct parimutuel wagering at a satellite location or locations within the state of Washington. In order to participate in parimutuel wagering at a satellite location or locations within the state of Washington, the holder of a class 1 racing association license must have conducted at least one full live racing season. All class 1 racing associations must hold a live race meet within each succeeding twelve-month period to maintain eligibility to continue to participate in parimutuel wagering at a satellite location or locations. The commission's authority to approve satellite wagering at a particular location is subject to the following limitations:
(a) The commission may approve only one satellite location in each county in the state; provided however, the commission may approve two satellite locations in counties with a population exceeding one million. The commission may grant approval for more than one licensee to conduct wagering at each satellite location. A satellite location shall not be operated within twenty driving miles of any class 1 racing facility. For the purposes of this section, "driving miles" means miles measured by the most direct route as determined by the commission; and
(b) A licensee shall not conduct satellite wagering at any satellite location within sixty driving miles of any other class 1 racing facility conducting a live race meet.
(2) Subject to local zoning and other land use ordinances, the commission shall be the sole judge of whether approval to conduct wagering at a satellite location shall be granted.
(3) The licensee shall combine the parimutuel pools of the satellite location with those of the racing facility for the purpose of determining odds and computing payoffs. The amount wagered at the satellite location shall be combined with the amount wagered at the racing facility for the application of take out formulas and distribution as provided in RCW 67.16.102, 67.16.105, 67.16.170, and 67.16.175. A satellite extension of the licensee's racing facility shall be subject to the same application of the rules of racing as the licensee's racing facility.
(4) Upon written application to the commission, a class 1 racing association may be authorized to transmit simulcasts of live horse races conducted at its racetrack to locations outside of the state of Washington approved by the commission and in accordance with the interstate horse racing act of 1978 (15 U.S.C. Sec. 3001 to 3007) or any other applicable laws. The commission may permit parimutuel pools on the simulcast races to be combined in a common pool. A racing association that transmits simulcasts of its races to locations outside this state shall pay at least fifty percent of the fee that it receives for sale of the simulcast signal to the horsemen's or horsewomen's purse account for its live races after first deducting the actual cost of sending the signal out of state.
(5) Upon written application to the commission, a class 1 racing association may be authorized to transmit simulcasts of live horse races conducted at its racetrack to licensed racing associations located within the state of Washington and approved by the commission for the receipt of the simulcasts. The commission shall permit parimutuel pools on the simulcast races to be combined in a common pool. The fee for in-state, track-to-track simulcasts shall be five and one-half percent of the gross parimutuel receipts generated at the receiving location and payable to the sending racing association. A racing association that transmits simulcasts of its races to other licensed racing associations shall pay at least fifty percent of the fee that it receives for the simulcast signal to the horsemen's or horsewomen's purse account for its live race meet after first deducting the actual cost of sending the simulcast signal. A racing association that receives races simulcast from class 1 racing associations within the state shall pay at least fifty percent of its share of the parimutuel receipts to the horsemen's or horsewomen's purse account for its live race meet after first deducting the purchase price and the actual direct costs of importing the race.
(6) A class 1 racing association may be allowed to import simulcasts of horse races from out-of-state racing facilities. With the prior approval of the commission, the class 1 racing association may participate in a multijurisdictional common pool and may change its commission and breakage rates to achieve a common rate with other participants in the common pool.
(a) The class 1 racing association shall make written application with the commission for permission to import simulcast horse races for the purpose of parimutuel wagering. Subject to the terms of this section, the commission is the sole authority in determining whether to grant approval for an imported simulcast race.
(b) When open for parimutuel wagering, a class 1 racing association which imports simulcast races shall also conduct simulcast parimutuel wagering within its licensed racing enclosure on all races simulcast from other class 1 racing associations within the state of Washington.
(c) On any imported simulcast race, the class 1 racing association shall pay fifty percent of its share of the parimutuel receipts to the horsemen's or horsewomen's purse account for its live race meet after first deducting the purchase price of the imported race and the actual costs of importing and offering the race.
(7) A licensed nonprofit racing association may be approved to import one simulcast race of regional or national interest on each live race day.
(8) For purposes of this section, a class 1 racing association is defined as a licensee approved by the commission to conduct during each twelve-month period at least forty days of live racing. If a live race day is canceled due to reasons directly attributable to acts of God, labor disruptions affecting live race days but not directly involving the licensee or its employees, or other circumstances that the commission decides are beyond the control of the class 1 racing association, then the canceled day counts toward the forty-day requirement. The commission may by rule increase the number of live racing days required to maintain class 1 racing association status or make other rules necessary to implement this section.
(9) This section does not establish a new form of gaming in Washington or allow expanded gaming within the state beyond what has been previously authorized. Simulcast wagering has been allowed in Washington before April 19, 1997. Therefore, this section does not allow gaming of any nature or scope that was prohibited before April 19, 1997. This section is necessary to protect the Washington equine breeding and racing industries, and in particular those sectors of these industries that are dependent upon live horse racing. The purpose of this section is to protect these industries from adverse economic impacts and to promote fan attendance at class 1 racing facilities. Therefore, a licensed class 1 racing association may be approved to disseminate imported simulcast race card programs to satellite locations approved under this section.
(10) A licensee conducting simulcasting under this section shall place signs in the licensee's gambling establishment under RCW 9.46.071. The informational signs concerning problem and compulsive gambling must include a toll-free telephone number for problem and pathological gamblers and be developed under RCW 9.46.071.
(11) Chapter 10, Laws of 2001 1st sp. sess. does not establish a new form of gaming in Washington or allow expanded gaming within the state beyond what has been previously authorized. Simulcast wagering has been allowed in Washington before August 23, 2001. Therefore, this section does not allow gaming of any nature or scope that was prohibited before August 23, 2001. Chapter 10, Laws of 2001 1st sp. sess. is necessary to protect the Washington equine breeding and racing industries, and in particular those sectors of these industries that are dependent upon live horse racing. The purpose of chapter 10, Laws of 2001 1st sp. sess. is to protect these industries from adverse economic impacts and to promote fan attendance at class 1 racing facilities.
[ 2025 c 89 s 13. Prior: 2013 c 23 s 178; 2013 c 18 s 1; 2007 c 100 s 1; 2004 c 274 s 2; 2001 1st sp.s. c 10 s 2; 2000 c 223 s 1; 1997 c 87 s 4; 1991 c 270 s 10; 1987 c 347 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—2007 c 100: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [April 18, 2007]." [ 2007 c 100 s 2.]
Effective date—2004 c 274: See note following RCW 67.16.260.
Finding—Purpose—2001 1st sp.s. c 10: "The legislature finds that Washington's equine racing industry creates economic, environmental, and recreational impacts across the state affecting agriculture, horse breeding, the horse training industry, agricultural fairs and youth programs, and tourism and employment opportunities. The Washington equine industry has incurred a financial decline coinciding with increased competition from the gaming industry in the state and from the lack of a class 1 racing facility in western Washington from 1993 through 1995. This act is necessary to preserve, restore, and revitalize the equine breeding and racing industries and to preserve in Washington the economic and social impacts associated with these industries. Preserving Washington's equine breeding and racing industries, and in particular those sectors of the industries that are dependent upon live horse racing, is in the public interest of the state. The purpose of this act is to preserve Washington's equine breeding and racing industries and to protect these industries from adverse economic impacts. This act does not establish a new form of gaming in Washington or allow expanded gaming within the state beyond what has been previously authorized. Simulcast wagering has been allowed in Washington before August 23, 2001. Therefore, this act does not allow gaming of any nature or scope that was prohibited before August 23, 2001." [ 2001 1st sp.s. c 10 s 1.]
Findings—Purpose—1997 c 87: "The legislature finds that Washington's equine racing industry creates economic, environmental, and recreational impacts across the state affecting agriculture, horse breeding, the horse training industry, agricultural fairs and youth programs, and tourism and employment opportunities. The Washington equine industry has incurred a financial decline coinciding with increased competition from the gaming industry in the state and from the lack of a class 1 racing facility in western Washington from 1993 through 1995. This act is necessary to preserve, restore, and revitalize the equine breeding and racing industries and to preserve in Washington the economic and social impacts associated with these industries. Preserving Washington's equine breeding and racing industries, and in particular those sectors of the industries that are dependent upon live horse racing, is in the public interest of the state. The purpose of this act is to preserve Washington's equine breeding and racing industries and to protect these industries from adverse economic impacts. This act does not establish a new form of gaming in Washington or allow expanded gaming within the state beyond what has been previously authorized. Simulcast wagering has been allowed in Washington before April 19, 1997. Therefore, this act does not allow gaming of any nature or scope that was prohibited before April 19, 1997." [ 1997 c 87 s 1.]
Report by joint legislative audit and review committee—1997 c 87: "(1) The joint legislative audit and review committee shall conduct an evaluation to determine the extent to which this act has achieved the following outcomes:
(a) The extent to which purses at Emerald Downs, Playfair, and Yakima Meadows have increased as a result of the provisions of this act;
(b) The extent to which attendance at Emerald Downs, Playfair, and Yakima Meadows has increased specifically as a result of the provisions of this act;
(c) The extent to which the breeding of horses in this state has increased specifically related to the provisions of this act;
(d) The extent to which the number of horses running at Emerald Downs, Playfair, and Yakima Meadows has increased specifically as a result of the provisions of this act;
(e) The extent to which nonprofit racetracks in this state have benefited from this act including the removal of the cap on the nonprofit race meet purse fund; and
(f) The extent to which Emerald Downs, Playfair, and Yakima Meadows are capable of remaining economically viable given the provisions of this act and the increase in competition for gambling or entertainment dollars.
(2) The joint legislative audit and review committee may provide recommendations to the legislature concerning modifications that could be made to existing state laws to improve the ability of this act to meet the above intended goals.
(3) The joint legislative audit and review committee shall complete a report on its finding by June 30, 2000. The report shall be provided to the appropriate committees of the legislature by December 1, 2000." [ 1997 c 87 s 5.]
Severability—1997 c 87: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1997 c 87 s 7.]
Effective date—1997 c 87: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [April 19, 1997]." [ 1997 c 87 s 8.]

catchline: Parimutuel wagering at satellite locations—Simulcasts.


title: RCW 67.16.230

text:
The commission is authorized to establish and collect an annual fee for each separate satellite location. The fee to be collected from the licensee shall be set to reflect the commission's expected costs of approving, regulating, and monitoring each satellite location, provided commission revenues generated under RCW 67.16.105 from the licensee shall be credited annually towards the licensee's fee assessment under this section.
[ 1991 c 270 s 11; 1987 c 347 s 7.]

catchline: Satellite locations—Fees.


title: RCW 67.16.251

text:
Class 1 racing associations and licensed advanced deposit wagering companies may conduct horse race handicapping contests. The commission shall establish rules for the approval of handicapping contests involving the outcome of multiple horse races.
[ 2025 c 89 s 14; 2005 c 351 s 2.]

catchline: Handicapping contests.


title: RCW 67.16.260

text:
(1) The horse racing commission may authorize advance deposit wagering to be conducted by:
(a) A licensed class 1 racing association operating a live horse racing facility; or
(b) The operator of an advance deposit wagering system accepting wagers pursuant to an agreement with a licensed class 1 racing association. The agreement between the operator and the class 1 racing association must be approved by the commission.
(2) An entity authorized to conduct advance deposit wagering under subsection (1) of this section:
(a) May accept advance deposit wagering for races conducted in this state under a class 1 license or races not conducted within this state on a schedule approved by the class 1 licensee. A system of advance deposit wagering located outside or within this state may not accept wagers from residents or other individuals located within this state, and residents or other individuals located within this state are prohibited from placing wagers through advance deposit wagering systems, except with an entity authorized to conduct advance deposit wagering under subsection (1) of this section;
(b) May not accept an account wager in an amount in excess of the funds on deposit in the advance deposit wagering account of the individual placing the wager;
(c) May not allow individuals under the age of twenty-one to open, own, or have access to an advance deposit wagering account;
(d) Must include a statement in all forms of advertising for advance deposit wagering that individuals under the age of twenty-one are not allowed to open, own, or have access to an advance deposit wagering account; and
(e) Must verify the identification, residence, and age of the advance deposit wagering account holder using methods and technologies approved by the commission.
(3) As used in this section, "advance deposit wagering" means a form of parimutuel wagering in which an individual deposits money in an account with an entity authorized by the commission to conduct advance deposit wagering and then the account funds are used to pay for parimutuel wagers made in person, by telephone, or through communication by other electronic means.
(4) In order to participate in advance deposit wagering, the holder of a class 1 racing association license must have conducted at least one full live racing season. All class 1 racing associations must complete a live race meet within each succeeding twelve-month period to maintain eligibility to continue participating in advance deposit wagering.
(5) When more than one class 1 racing association is participating in advance deposit wagering the moneys paid to the racing associations shall be allocated proportionate to the gross amount of all sources of parimutuel wagering during each twelve-month period derived from the associations' live race meets. This percentage must be calculated annually. Revenue derived from advance deposit wagers placed on races conducted by the class 1 racing association shall all be allocated to that association.
(6) The commission shall adopt rules regulating advance deposit wagering.
[ 2007 c 209 s 1; 2004 c 274 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—2004 c 274: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [April 1, 2004]." [ 2004 c 274 s 4.]

catchline: Advance deposit wagering.


title: RCW 67.16.270

text:
Upon making a determination that an individual or licensee has violated a commission rule, the board of stewards may assess a fine, suspend or revoke a person's license, or any combination of these penalties. The commission must adopt by rule standard penalties for a rules violation. All fines collected must be deposited in the Washington horse racing commission operating account. The funds accrued by the assessed fines will be used to support nonprofit race meets as authorized in RCW 67.16.280(2). If no dates for nonprofit racing are requested or approved, the fines will remain in the Washington horse racing commission operating account.
[ 2014 c 62 s 1; 2004 c 246 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—2004 c 246: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [March 31, 2004]." [ 2004 c 246 s 9.]

catchline: Violation of commission rules—Penalties.


title: RCW 67.16.275

text:
The Washington horse racing commission Washington bred owners' bonus fund and breeder awards account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. All receipts collected by the commission under RCW 67.16.102(1) and 67.16.175(2) must be deposited into the account. Expenditures from the account may be used only as authorized in RCW 67.16.102 and 67.16.175. Only the secretary of the commission or the secretary's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures.
[ 2009 c 87 s 3; 2004 c 246 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date—2004 c 246: See note following RCW 67.16.270.

catchline: Washington horse racing commission Washington bred owners' bonus fund and breeder awards account.


title: RCW 67.16.280

text:
(1)(a) The Washington horse racing commission operating account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. All receipts collected by the commission under RCW 67.16.105(2) must be deposited into the account. Expenditures from the account may be used only for the operating expenses of the commission. Only the commission or the commission's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures.
(b) The commission has the authority to receive such gifts, grants, and endowments from public or private sources as may be made from time to time in trust or otherwise for the use and purpose of regulating or supporting nonprofit race meets as set forth in RCW 67.16.130 and 67.16.105(1); such gifts, grants, and endowments must also be deposited into the horse racing commission operating account and expended according to the terms of such gift, grant, or endowment.
(2) In order to provide funding in support of the legislative findings in RCW 67.16.101 (1) through (3), and to provide additional necessary support to the nonprofit race meets beyond the funding provided by RCW 67.16.101(4) and 67.16.102(2), the commission is authorized to spend up to $500,000 per fiscal year from its operating account for the purpose of developing the equine industry, maintaining and upgrading racing facilities, and assisting equine health research. When determining how to allocate the funds available for these purposes, the commission must give first consideration to uses that regulate and assist the nonprofit race meets and equine health research. These expenditures may occur only when sufficient funds remain for the continued operations of the horse racing commission.
[ 2025 c 89 s 15; 2016 c 160 s 1; 2013 c 88 s 2; 2011 c 12 s 2; 2006 c 174 s 1; 2004 c 246 s 3.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 c 12: See note following RCW 67.16.105.
Effective date—2004 c 246: See note following RCW 67.16.270.

catchline: Washington horse racing commission operating account.


title: RCW 67.16.285

text:
The Washington horse racing commission class C purse fund account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. All receipts from RCW 67.16.105(3) must be deposited into the account. Expenditures from the account may be used only for the purposes provided in RCW 67.16.105(3). Only the secretary of the commission or the secretary's designee may authorize expenditures from the account. The account is subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW, but an appropriation is not required for expenditures. During the 2025-2027 fiscal biennium, the legislature may direct the state treasurer to make transfers of moneys in the horse racing commission class C purse fund account to the Washington horse racing commission operating account such amounts as reflect the excess fund balance of the account.
[ 2025 c 424 s 968; 2004 c 246 s 4.]
Notes:
Effective date—2025 c 424: See note following RCW 9.46.100.
Effective date—2004 c 246: See note following RCW 67.16.270.

catchline: Washington horse racing commission class C purse fund account.


title: RCW 67.16.300

text:
In addition to the license fees authorized by this chapter, the commission shall collect the industrial insurance premium assessments required under RCW 51.16.210 from trainers, grooms, and owners. The industrial insurance premium assessments required under RCW 51.16.210 shall be retroactive to January 1, 1989, and shall be collected from all licensees whose licenses were issued after that date. The commission shall deposit the industrial insurance premium assessments in the industrial insurance trust fund as required by rules adopted by the department of labor and industries.
[ 1989 c 385 s 2.]

catchline: Industrial insurance premium assessments.


title: RCW 67.16.900

text:
In case any part or portion of this chapter shall be held unconstitutional, such holding shall not affect the validity of this chapter as a whole or any other part or portion of this chapter not adjudged unconstitutional. All acts in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.
[ 1933 c 55 s 10; RRS s 8312-10.]

catchline: Severability—General repealer—1933 c 55.


title: RCW 67.17.005

text:
The purposes of the live horse racing compact are to:
(1) Establish uniform requirements among the party states for the licensing of participants in live horse racing with pari-mutuel wagering, and ensure that all such participants who are licensed pursuant to the compact meet a uniform minimum standard of honesty and integrity;
(2) Facilitate the growth of the horse racing industry in each party state and nationwide by simplifying the process for licensing participants in live racing, and reduce the duplicative and costly process of separate licensing by the regulatory agency in each state that conducts live horse racing with pari-mutuel wagering;
(3) Authorize the Washington horse racing commission to participate in the live horse racing compact;
(4) Provide for participation in the live horse racing compact by officials of the party states, and permit those officials, through the compact committee established by this chapter, to enter into contracts with governmental agencies and nongovernmental persons to carry out the purposes of the live horse racing compact; and
(5) Establish the compact committee created by this chapter as an interstate governmental entity duly authorized to request and receive criminal history record information from the federal bureau of investigation and other state and local law enforcement agencies.
[ 2001 c 18 s 1.]

catchline: Purpose.


title: RCW 67.17.010

text:
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter.
(1) "Compact committee" means the organization of officials from the party states that is authorized and empowered by the live horse racing compact to carry out the purposes of the compact.
(2) "Official" means the appointed, elected, designated, or otherwise duly selected member of a racing commission or the equivalent thereof in a party state who represents that party state as a member of the compact committee.
(3) "Participants in live racing" means participants in live horse racing with pari-mutuel wagering in the party states.
(4) "Party state" means each state that has enacted the live horse racing compact.
(5) "State" means each of the several states of the United States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and each territory or possession of the United States.
[ 2001 c 18 s 2.]

catchline: Definitions.


title: RCW 67.17.020

text:
The live horse racing compact shall come into force when enacted by any four states. Thereafter, the compact shall become effective as to any other state upon: (1) That state's enactment of the compact; and (2) the affirmative vote of a majority of the officials on the compact committee as provided in RCW 67.17.070.
[ 2001 c 18 s 3.]

catchline: Compact effective date.


title: RCW 67.17.030

text:
Any state that has adopted or authorized horse racing with pari-mutuel wagering is eligible to become party to the live horse racing compact.
[ 2001 c 18 s 4.]

catchline: Eligibility to enter compact.


title: RCW 67.17.040

text:
Any party state may withdraw from the live horse racing compact by enacting a statute repealing the compact, but no such withdrawal is effective until the head of the executive branch of the withdrawing state has given notice in writing of such withdrawal to the head of the executive branch of all other party states. If, as a result of withdrawals, participation in the compact decreases to less than three party states, the compact no longer shall be in force and effect unless and until there are at least three or more party states again participating in the compact.
[ 2001 c 18 s 5.]

catchline: Withdrawal from compact.


title: RCW 67.17.050

text:
(1) There is created an interstate governmental entity to be known as the "compact committee" which shall be comprised of one official from the racing commission or its equivalent in each party state who shall be appointed, serve, and be subject to removal in accordance with the laws of the party state he or she represents. Under the laws of his or her party state, each official shall have the assistance of his or her state's racing commission or the equivalent thereof in considering issues related to licensing of participants in live racing and in fulfilling his or her responsibilities as the representative from his or her state to the compact committee. If an official is unable to perform any duty in connection with the powers and duties of the compact committee, the racing commission or equivalent thereof from his or her state shall designate another of its members as an alternate who shall serve in his or her place and represent the party state as its official on the compact committee until that racing commission or equivalent thereof determines that the original representative official is able once again to perform his or her duties as that party state's representative official on the compact committee. The designation of an alternate shall be communicated by the affected state's racing commission or equivalent thereof to the compact committee as the committee's bylaws may provide.
(2) The horse racing commission shall appoint the official to represent the state of Washington on the compact committee for a term of four years. No official may serve more than three consecutive terms. A vacancy shall be filled by the horse racing commission for the unexpired term.
[ 2011 1st sp.s. c 21 s 29; 2001 c 18 s 6.]
Notes:
Effective date—2011 1st sp.s. c 21: See note following RCW 72.23.025.

catchline: Creation of compact committee.


title: RCW 67.17.060

text:
In order to carry out the live horse racing compact, the compact committee is granted the power and duty to:
(1) Determine which categories of participants in live racing, including but not limited to owners, trainers, jockeys, grooms, mutuel clerks, racing officials, veterinarians, and farriers, should be licensed by the compact committee, and establish the requirements for the initial licensure of applicants in each such category, the term of the license for each category, and the requirements for renewal of licenses in each category. However, with regard to requests for criminal history record information on each applicant for a license, and with regard to the effect of a criminal record on the issuance or renewal of a license, the compact committee shall determine for each category of participants in live racing which licensure requirements for that category are, in its judgment, the most restrictive licensure requirements of any party state for that category and shall adopt licensure requirements for that category that are, in its judgment, comparable to those most restrictive requirements;
(2) Investigate applicants for a license from the compact committee and, as permitted by federal and state law, gather information on such applicants, including criminal history record information from the federal bureau of investigation and relevant state and local law enforcement agencies, and, where appropriate, from the royal Canadian mounted police and law enforcement agencies of other countries, necessary to determine whether a license should be issued under the licensure requirements established by the compact committee under subsection (1) of this section. Only officials on, and employees of, the compact committee may receive and review such criminal history record information, and those officials and employees may use that information only for the purposes of the compact. No such official or employee may disclose or disseminate such information to any person or entity other than another official on or employee of the compact committee. The fingerprints of each applicant for a license from the compact committee shall be taken by the compact committee, its employees, or its designee and shall be forwarded to a state identification bureau, or to an association of state officials regulating pari-mutuel wagering designated by the attorney general of the United States, for submission to the federal bureau of investigation for a criminal history record check. Such fingerprints may be submitted on a fingerprint card or by electronic or other means authorized by the federal bureau of investigation or other receiving law enforcement agency;
(3) Issue licenses to, and renew the licenses of, participants in live racing listed in subsection (1) of this section who are found by the compact committee to have met the licensure and renewal requirements established by the compact committee. The compact committee shall not have the power or authority to deny a license. If it determines that an applicant will not be eligible for the issuance or renewal of a compact committee license, the compact committee shall notify the applicant that it will not be able to process his or her application further. Such notification does not constitute and shall not be considered to be the denial of a license. Any such applicant has the right to present additional evidence to, and to be heard by, the compact committee, but the final decision on issuance or renewal of the license shall be made by the compact committee using the requirements established under subsection (1) of this section;
(4) Enter into contracts or agreements with governmental agencies and with nongovernmental persons to provide personal services for its activities and such other services as may be necessary to carry out the compact;
(5) Create, appoint, and abolish those offices, employments, and positions, including an executive director, as it deems necessary for the purposes of the compact, prescribe their powers, duties, and qualifications, hire persons to fill those offices, employments, and positions, and provide for the removal, term, tenure, compensation, fringe benefits, retirement benefits, and other conditions of employment of its officers, employees, and other positions;
(6) Borrow, accept, or contract for the services of personnel from any state, the United States, or any other governmental agency, or from any person, firm, association, corporation, or other entity;
(7) Acquire, hold, and dispose of real and personal property by gift, purchase, lease, license, or in other similar manner, in furtherance of the compact;
(8) Charge a fee to each applicant for an initial license or renewal of a license; and
(9) Receive other funds through gifts, grants, and appropriations.
[ 2001 c 18 s 7.]

catchline: Compact committee powers and duties.


title: RCW 67.17.070

text:
(1) Each official is entitled to one vote on the compact committee.
(2) All action taken by the compact committee with regard to the addition of party states as provided in RCW 67.17.020, the licensure of participants in live racing, and the receipt and disbursement of funds require a majority vote of the total number of officials, or their alternates, on the compact committee. All other action by the compact committee requires a majority vote of those officials, or their alternates, present and voting.
(3) No action of the compact committee may be taken unless a quorum is present. A majority of the officials, or their alternates, on the compact committee constitutes a quorum.
[ 2001 c 18 s 8.]

catchline: Compact committee voting requirements.


title: RCW 67.17.080

text:
(1) The compact committee shall elect annually from among its members a chair, a vice chair, and a secretary/treasurer.
(2) The compact committee shall adopt bylaws for the conduct of its business by a two-thirds vote of the total number of officials, or their alternates, on the compact committee at that time and shall have the power by the same vote to amend and rescind such bylaws. The compact committee shall publish its bylaws in convenient form and shall file a copy thereof and a copy of any amendments thereto with the secretary of state or equivalent agency of each of the party states.
(3) The compact committee may delegate the day-to-day management and administration of its duties and responsibilities to an executive director and the executive director's support staff.
(4) Employees of the compact committee are considered governmental employees.
[ 2001 c 18 s 9.]

catchline: Compact committee governance.


title: RCW 67.17.090

text:
No official of a party state or employee of the compact committee shall be held personally liable for any good faith act or omission that occurs during the performance and within the scope of his or her responsibilities and duties under the live horse racing compact.
[ 2001 c 18 s 10.]

catchline: Liability of compact committee employees or officials.


title: RCW 67.17.100

text:
(1) By enacting the compact, each party state:
(a) Agrees: (i) To accept the decisions of the compact committee regarding the issuance of compact committee licenses to participants in live racing under the compact committee's licensure requirements; and (ii) to reimburse or otherwise pay the expenses of its official representative on the compact committee or his or her alternate;
(b) Agrees not to treat a notification to an applicant by the compact committee under RCW 67.17.060(3) that the compact committee will not be able to process the application further as the denial of a license, or to penalize such an applicant in any other way based solely on such a decision by the compact committee; and
(c) Reserves the right: (i) To charge a fee for the use of a compact committee license in that state; (ii) to apply its own standards in determining whether, on the facts of a particular case, a compact committee license should be suspended or revoked; (iii) to apply its own standards in determining licensure eligibility, under the laws of that party state, for categories of participants in live racing that the compact committee determines not to license and for individual participants in live racing who do not meet the licensure requirements of the compact committee; and (iv) to establish its own licensure standards for the licensure of nonracing employees at horse racetracks and employees at separate satellite wagering facilities. Any party state that suspends or revokes a compact committee license shall, through its racing commission or the equivalent thereof or otherwise, promptly notify the compact committee of that suspension or revocation.
(2) No party state shall be held liable for the debts or other financial obligations incurred by the compact committee.
[ 2001 c 18 s 11.]

catchline: Conditions and terms for participating states.


title: RCW 67.17.110

text:
All departments, agencies, and officers of the state of Washington and its political subdivisions are authorized to cooperate with the compact committee in furtherance of any of its activities of the live horse racing compact.
[ 2001 c 18 s 12.]

catchline: Cooperation by governmental entities with compact committee.


title: RCW 67.17.120

text:
Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to diminish or limit the powers and responsibilities of the Washington horse racing commission established in chapter 67.16 RCW or to invalidate any action of the Washington horse racing commission previously taken, including without limitation any regulation issued by the commission.
[ 2001 c 18 s 13.]

catchline: Impact on horse racing commission.


title: RCW 67.17.130

text:
This chapter shall be liberally construed so as to effectuate its purposes. The provisions of this chapter are severable, and, if any phrase, clause, sentence, or provision of the compact is declared to be contrary to the Constitution of the United States or of any party state, or the applicability of the live horse racing compact to any government, agency, person, or circumstance is held invalid, the validity of the remainder of the compact and the applicability thereof to any government, agency, person, or circumstance shall not be affected thereby. If all or some portion of the live horse racing compact is held to be contrary to the constitution of any party state, the compact shall remain in full force and effect as to the remaining party states and in full force and effect as to the state affected as to all severable matters.
[ 2001 c 18 s 14.]

catchline: Construction and severability of language.


title: RCW 67.17.900

text:
This act may be known and cited as the live horse racing compact.
[ 2001 c 18 s 15.]

catchline: Short title—2001 c 18.


title: RCW 67.20.010

text:
Any city in this state acting through its city council, or its board of park commissioners when authorized by charter or ordinance, any separately organized park district acting through its board of park commissioners or other governing officers, any school district acting through its board of school directors, any county acting through its board of county commissioners, any park and recreation service area acting through its governing body, and any town acting through its town council shall have power, acting independently or in conjunction with the United States, the state of Washington, any county, city, park district, school district or town or any number of such public organizations to acquire any land within this state for park, playground, gymnasiums, swimming pools, field houses and other recreational facilities, bathing beach or public camp purposes and roads leading from said parks, playgrounds, gymnasiums, swimming pools, field houses and other recreational facilities, bathing beaches, or public camps to nearby highways by donation, purchase or condemnation, and to build, construct, care for, control, supervise, improve, operate and maintain parks, playgrounds, gymnasiums, swimming pools, field houses and other recreational facilities, bathing beaches, roads and public camps upon any such land, including the power to enact and enforce such police regulations not inconsistent with the constitution and laws of the state of Washington, as are deemed necessary for the government and control of the same. The power of eminent domain herein granted shall not extend to any land outside the territorial limits of the governmental unit or units exercising said power.
[ 1988 c 82 s 7; 1949 c 97 s 1; 1921 c 107 s 1; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 9319. FORMER PART OF SECTION: 1949 c 97 s 3; 1921 c 107 s 3; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 9321 now codified as RCW 67.20.015.]

catchline: Authority to acquire and operate certain recreational facilities—Charges—Eminent domain.


title: RCW 67.20.015

text:
Any city, town, county, separately organized park district, or school district shall have power to establish, care for, control, supervise, improve, operate and maintain a public camp, or camps anywhere within the state, and to that end may make, promulgate and enforce any reasonable rules and regulations in reference to such camps and make such charges for the use thereof as may be deemed expedient.
[ 1949 c 97 s 3; 1921 c 107 s 3; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 9321. Formerly RCW 67.20.010, part.]

catchline: Authority to establish and operate public camps—Charges.


title: RCW 67.20.020

text:
Any city, park district, school district, county or town shall have power to enter into any contract in writing with any organization or organizations referred to in this chapter for the purpose of conducting a recreation program or exercising any other power granted by this chapter. In the conduct of such recreation program property or facilities owned by any individual, group or organization, whether public or private, may be utilized by consent of the owner.
[ 1949 c 97 s 2; 1921 c 107 s 2; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 9320.]

catchline: Contracts for cooperation.


title: RCW 67.20.030

text:
This chapter shall not be construed to repeal or limit any existing power of any city or park district, but to grant powers in addition thereto.
[ 1949 c 97 s 4; 1921 c 107 s 4; Rem. Supp. 1949 s 9319 note.]

catchline: Scope of chapter.


title: RCW 67.24.010

text:
Every person who shall give, offer, receive, or promise, directly or indirectly, any compensation, gratuity, or reward, or make any promise thereof, or who shall fraudulently commit any act by trick, device, or bunco, or any means whatsoever with intent to influence or change the outcome of any sporting contest between people or between animals, is guilty of a class B felony and shall be punished by imprisonment in a state correctional facility for not less than five years.
[ 2003 c 53 s 302; 1992 c 7 s 43; 1945 c 107 s 1; 1941 c 181 s 1; Rem. Supp. 1945 s 2499-1.]
Notes:
Intent—Effective date—2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.

catchline: Commission of—Felony.


title: RCW 67.24.020

text:
All of the acts and statutes in conflict herewith are hereby repealed except chapter 55, Laws of 1933 [chapters *43.50 and 67.16 RCW] and amendments thereto.
[ 1945 c 107 s 2; Rem. Supp. 1945 s 2499-1 note.]
Notes:
*Reviser's note: Chapter 43.50 RCW is now codified as RCW 67.16.012 and 67.16.015.

catchline: Scope of 1945 c 107.


title: RCW 67.28.080

text:
The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.
(1) "Acquisition" includes, but is not limited to, siting, acquisition, design, construction, refurbishing, expansion, repair, and improvement, including paying or securing the payment of all or any portion of general obligation bonds, leases, revenue bonds, or other obligations issued or incurred for such purpose or purposes under this chapter.
(2) "Municipality" means any county, city or town of the state of Washington.
(3) "Operation" includes, but is not limited to, operation, management, and marketing.
(4) "Person" means the federal government or any agency thereof, the state or any agency, subdivision, taxing district or municipal corporation thereof other than county, city or town, any private corporation, partnership, association, or individual.
(5) "Tourism" means economic activity resulting from tourists, which may include sales of overnight lodging, meals, tours, gifts, or souvenirs.
(6) "Tourism promotion" means activities, operations, and expenditures designed to increase tourism, including but not limited to advertising, publicizing, or otherwise distributing information for the purpose of attracting and welcoming tourists; developing strategies to expand tourism; operating tourism promotion agencies; and funding the marketing of or the operation of special events and festivals designed to attract tourists.
(7) "Tourism-related facility" means real or tangible personal property with a usable life of three or more years, or constructed with volunteer labor that is: (a)(i) Owned by a public entity; (ii) owned by a nonprofit organization described under section 501(c)(3) of the federal internal revenue code of 1986, as amended; or (iii) owned by a nonprofit organization described under section 501(c)(6) of the federal internal revenue code of 1986, as amended, a business organization, destination marketing organization, main street organization, lodging association, or chamber of commerce and (b) used to support tourism, performing arts, or to accommodate tourist activities.
[ 2013 c 196 s 2. Prior: 2007 c 497 s 1; 1997 c 452 s 2; 1991 c 357 s 1; 1967 c 236 s 1.]
Notes:
Effective date—2013 c 196: See note following RCW 67.28.1816.
Intent—1997 c 452: "The intent of this act is to provide uniform standards for local option excise taxation of lodging." [ 1997 c 452 s 1.]
Severability—1997 c 452: "If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is held invalid, the remainder of the act or the application of the provision to other persons or circumstances is not affected." [ 1997 c 452 s 24.]
Savings—1997 c 452: See note following RCW 67.28.181.
Effective date, application—1991 c 357: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect after immediately [effect immediately (May 21, 1991)]. This act applies retroactively to all actions taken under chapter 67.28 RCW on or after January 1, 1990." [ 1991 c 357 s 5.]
Clarification of permitted use or purpose: 2000 c 256.

catchline: Definitions.


title: RCW 67.28.120

text:
Any municipality is authorized either individually or jointly with any other municipality, or person, or any combination thereof, to acquire and to operate tourism-related facilities, whether located within or without such municipality.
[ 1997 c 452 s 7; 1979 ex.s. c 222 s 1; 1973 2nd ex.s. c 34 s 1; 1967 c 236 s 5.]
Notes:
Intent—Severability—1997 c 452: See notes following RCW 67.28.080.
Savings—1997 c 452: See note following RCW 67.28.181.

catchline: Authorization to acquire and operate tourism-related facilities.


title: RCW 67.28.125

text:
The provisions of this section shall apply to any municipality in any county located in whole or in part in a national scenic area when the population of the county is less than 20,000. The provisions of this section shall also apply to the county when the county contains in whole or in part a national scenic area and the population of the county is less than 20,000.
(1) The legislative body of any municipality or the county legislative authority is authorized to sell to any public or private person, including a corporation, partnership, joint venture, or any other business entity, any convention center facility it owns in whole or in part.
(2) The price and other terms and conditions shall be as the legislative body or authority shall determine.
[ 1991 c 357 s 2.]
Notes:
Effective date, application—1991 c 357: See note following RCW 67.28.080.

catchline: Selling convention center facilities—Smaller counties within national scenic areas.


title: RCW 67.28.130

text:
Any municipality, taxing district, or municipal corporation is authorized to convey or lease any lands, properties or facilities to any other municipality for the development by such other municipality of tourism-related facilities or to provide for the joint use of such lands, properties or facilities, or to participate in the financing of all or any part of the public facilities on such terms as may be fixed by agreement between the respective legislative bodies without submitting the matter to the voters of such municipalities, unless the provisions of general law applicable to the incurring of municipal indebtedness shall require such submission.
[ 1997 c 452 s 8; 1979 ex.s. c 222 s 2; 1973 2nd ex.s. c 34 s 2; 1967 c 236 s 6.]
Notes:
Intent—Severability—1997 c 452: See notes following RCW 67.28.080.
Savings—1997 c 452: See note following RCW 67.28.181.

catchline: Conveyance or lease of lands, properties or facilities authorized—Joint participation, use of facilities.


title: RCW 67.28.140

text:
The acts authorized herein are declared to be strictly for the public purposes of the municipalities authorized to perform same. Any municipality as defined in RCW 67.28.080 shall have the power to acquire by condemnation and purchase any lands and property rights, both within and without its boundaries, which are necessary to carry out the purposes of this chapter. Such right of eminent domain shall be exercised by the legislative body of each such municipality in the manner provided by applicable general law or under chapter 8.12 RCW.
[ 1967 c 236 s 7.]

catchline: Declaration of public purpose—Right of eminent domain.


title: RCW 67.28.150

text:
To carry out the purposes of this chapter including, but not limited to, financing loans or grants to nonprofit organizations or public housing authorities for affordable workforce housing within one-half mile of a transit station, any municipality has the power to issue general obligation bonds within the limitations now or hereafter prescribed by the laws of this state. Such general obligation bonds must be authorized, executed, issued, and made payable as other general obligation bonds of such municipality. However, the governing body of such municipality may provide that such bonds mature in not to exceed forty years from the date of their issue, may provide that such bonds also be made payable from any special taxes provided for in this chapter and may pledge such special taxes to the repayment of the bonds, and may provide that such bonds also be made payable from any otherwise unpledged revenue, which may be derived from the ownership or operation of any properties.
[ 2015 c 102 s 1; 1997 c 452 s 9; 1984 c 186 s 56; 1967 c 236 s 8.]
Notes:
Intent—Severability—1997 c 452: See notes following RCW 67.28.080.
Savings—1997 c 452: See note following RCW 67.28.181.
Purpose—1984 c 186: See note following RCW 39.46.110.

catchline: Issuance of general obligation bonds—Maturity—Methods of payment.


title: RCW 67.28.160

text:
(1) To carry out the purposes of this chapter including, but not limited to, financing loans or grants to nonprofit organizations or public housing authorities for affordable workforce housing within one-half mile of a transit station, the legislative body of any municipality has the power to issue revenue bonds without submitting the matter to the voters of the municipality and may pledge the special taxes provided for in this chapter to the repayment of such revenue bonds. However, the legislative body must create a special fund or funds for the sole purpose of paying the principal of and interest on the bonds of each such issue, into which fund or funds the legislative body may obligate the municipality to pay all or part of amounts collected from the special taxes provided for in this chapter, and/or to pay such amounts of the gross revenue of all or any part of the facilities constructed, acquired, improved, added to, repaired, or replaced pursuant to this chapter, as the legislative body determines. The principal of and interest on such bonds is payable only out of such special fund or funds, and the owners of such bonds must have a lien and charge against the gross revenue pledged to such fund.
(a) The revenue bonds and the interest thereon issued against the fund or funds constitutes a claim of the owners thereof only as against such fund or funds and the revenue pledged therefor, and does not constitute a general indebtedness of the municipality.
(b) Each revenue bond must state upon its face that it is payable from such special fund or funds, and all revenue bonds issued under this chapter are negotiable securities within the provisions of the law of this state. The revenue bonds may be registered either as to principal only or as to principal and interest as provided in RCW 39.46.030, or may be bearer bonds. The revenue bonds must be:
(i) In such denominations as the legislative body deems proper;
(ii) Payable at such time or times and at such places, as determined by the legislative body;
(iii) Executed in such manner and bear interest at such rate or rates, as determined by the legislative body; and
(iv) Sold in such manner as the legislative body deems to be for the best interests of the municipality, either at public or private sale.
(c) The legislative body may at the time of the issuance of the revenue bonds make covenants with the owners of such bonds as it may deem necessary to secure and guaranty the payment of the principal thereof and the interest thereon, including but not being limited to covenants to set aside adequate reserves to secure or guaranty the payment of such principal and interest, to pledge and apply thereto part or all of any lawfully authorized special taxes provided for in this chapter, to maintain rates, charges, or rentals sufficient with other available moneys to pay such principal and interest and to maintain adequate coverage over debt service, to appoint a trustee or trustees for the bond owners, to safeguard the expenditure of the proceeds of sale of such bonds and to fix the powers and duties of such trustee or trustees and to make such other covenants as the legislative body may deem necessary to accomplish the most advantageous sale of such bonds. For revenue bonds issued for the purpose of funding affordable workforce housing projects within one-half mile of a transit station, where such revenue bonds are reasonably expected to be awarded to projects that can expend the funds within three years after bond issuance, the legislative body must require that the aggregate debt service on all such outstanding revenue bonds be limited to no more than fifty percent of the revenue collected under RCW 67.28.180(3)(d)(ii), and that at least ten percent of the aggregate proceeds of all such outstanding revenue bonds be committed to finance one or more projects by an authority under chapter 43.167 RCW to promote sustainable workplace opportunities near a community impacted by the construction or operation of tourism-related facilities. The legislative body may also provide that revenue bonds payable out of the same source may later be issued on a parity with revenue bonds being issued and sold.
(d) The legislative body may include in the principal amount of any such revenue bond issue an amount for engineering, architectural, planning, financial, legal, and other services and charges incident to the acquisition or construction of public stadium facilities, convention center facilities, performing arts center facilities, and/or visual arts center facilities, an amount to establish necessary reserves, an amount for working capital, and an amount necessary for interest during the period of construction of any facilities to be financed from the proceeds of such issue plus six months. The legislative body may, if it deems it in the best interest of the municipality, provide in any contract for the construction or acquisition of any facilities or additions or improvements thereto or replacements or extensions thereof that payment therefor may be made only in such revenue bonds.
(e) If the municipality fails to carry out or perform any of its obligations or covenants made in the authorization, issuance, and sale of such bonds, the owner of any such bond may bring action against the municipality and compel the performance of any or all of such covenants.
(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, such bonds may be issued and sold in accordance with chapter 39.46 RCW.
[ 2015 c 102 s 2; 1997 c 452 s 10; 1983 c 167 s 168; 1979 ex.s. c 222 s 3; 1973 2nd ex.s. c 34 s 3; 1967 c 236 s 9.]
Notes:
Intent—Severability—1997 c 452: See notes following RCW 67.28.080.
Savings—1997 c 452: See note following RCW 67.28.181.
Liberal construction—Severability—1983 c 167: See RCW 39.46.010 and note following.

catchline: Revenue bonds—Issuance, sale, form, term, payment, reserves, actions.


title: RCW 67.28.170

text:
The legislative body of any municipality owning or operating tourism-related facilities acquired under this chapter shall have power to lease to any municipality or person, or to contract for the use or operation by any municipality or person, of all or any part of the facilities authorized by this chapter, including but not limited to parking facilities, concession facilities of all kinds and any property or property rights appurtenant to such tourism-related facilities, for such period and under such terms and conditions and upon such rentals, fees and charges as such legislative body may determine, and may pledge all or any portion of such rentals, fees and charges and all other revenue derived from the ownership and/or operation of such facilities to pay and to secure the payment of general obligation bonds and/or revenue bonds of such municipality issued for authorized tourism-related facilities purposes.
[ 1997 c 452 s 11; 1979 ex.s. c 222 s 4; 1973 2nd ex.s. c 34 s 4; 1967 c 236 s 10.]
Notes:
Intent—Severability—1997 c 452: See notes following RCW 67.28.080.
Savings—1997 c 452: See note following RCW 67.28.181.

catchline: Power to lease all or part of facilities—Disposition of proceeds.