The Washington Horse Racing Commission is facing significant financial challenges due to rising assessment fees imposed by the Horse Racing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA). During a recent meeting of the House State Government & Tribal Relations Committee, Commission Chair Doug Moore highlighted the impact of these fees on the local horse racing industry, which is a vital part of the state's economy.

HISA, established as a self-regulatory organization, has implemented rules regarding horse racing, including anti-doping measures and racetrack safety protocols. While these regulations aim to enhance the integrity of the sport, they have also led to a dramatic increase in costs for Washington's horse racing participants. The assessment fee for 2025 is projected to reach between $1.2 million and $1.3 million, a staggering rise from $712,000 in 2025. This increase is attributed to changes in HISA's fee assessment methodology, which no longer considers the size of purses when calculating fees, placing smaller tracks like Emerald Downs at a disadvantage.

Moore emphasized that the horse racing industry cannot sustain such high fees, which could lead to restrictions on Emerald Downs' ability to sell its signal for interstate wagering. This would further jeopardize the industry, which has already seen a decline in tracks due to competition from other forms of gaming, such as tribal casinos and lottery systems.

The Commission's annual budget is approximately $1.6 million, and the burden of HISA's fees is nearly equal to their entire regulatory budget. Moore urged the legislature to view any potential financial support not as a handout but as an investment in a $240 million industry that contributes to the state's economy and provides entertainment options for families.

The meeting also touched on the broader implications of the horse racing industry's decline, including the loss of green spaces and agricultural value in the region. As the industry continues to face these challenges, stakeholders are looking for solutions to ensure its survival and continued contribution to Washington's economy. The discussion highlighted the need for legislative action to address the unsustainable financial pressures placed on the horse racing community.