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1996 SESSION

963387340
HOUSE BILL NO. 1491
Offered January 22, 1996
A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 59.1-378.1, relating to the Virginia Racing Commission; steeplechase licenses.
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Patrons-- May and Mims
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Referred to Committee on General Laws
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Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding a section numbered 59.1-378.1 as follows:

§ 59.1-378.1. Licensing of certain pari-mutuel wagering facilities, owners, and operators.

A. Notwithstanding the provisions of § 59.1-391, the Commission may grant a license to the owner or operator of a steeplechase facility for the purpose of conducting pari-mutuel wagering at steeplechase race meetings for no more than two days each year, provided that, prior to applying for such license, (i) the steeplechase facility has been sanctioned by the National Steeplechase Association and (ii) the facility owner or operator has been granted tax-exempt status under § 501 (c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. For purposes of this section, "steeplechase facility" means a turf racecourse constructed over natural ground which is utilized primarily for races where horses jump over fences.

B. In deciding whether to grant any license pursuant to this section, the Commission shall consider (i) the results of, circumstances surrounding, and issues involved in any referendum conducted under the provisions of § 59.1-391 and (ii) whether the Commission had previously granted a license to such owner or operator.

C. In no event shall the Commission issue more than twelve licenses in a calendar year pursuant to this section.

D. Except as provided in subsection A, the provisions of this chapter and Commission regulations shall apply to any person granted a license under this section.