HSB 658: Relating to thoroughbred and quarter horse racing seasons

What it does

This bill relates to thoroughbred and quarter horse racing seasons. The bill strikes a provision requiring, as part of the state racing and gaming commission’s (commission) standards, that thoroughbred and quarter horse racing seasons be run independently unless mutually agreed upon by the associations representing the thoroughbred and quarter horse owners and the licensee of the horse racetrack located in Polk county. Instead, the bill requires that thoroughbred and quarter horse racing seasons be conducted as separate stand-alone meets that do not overlap, that races for the breeds not take place on the same day, and that the racing season for one breed not commence until the season for the other breed has concluded.

House subcommittee · named February 3, 2026

• Rep. Heather Hora (R) · heather.hora@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Chad Behn (R) · chad.behn@legis.iowa.gov
• Rep. Jeff Cooling (D) · jeff.cooling@legis.iowa.gov

Lobbying · 2 for, 1 against

For: Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (IHBPA); Iowa Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association

Against: Iowa Quarter Horse Racing Association

In plain words

1. February 3, 2026Filed in the House and sent to the Agriculture committee
2. February 3, 2026House subcommittee named: Hora, Behn and Cooling
3. February 11, 2026Subcommittee recommended passing it
4. February 17, 2026Approved by the House committee
5. February 17, 2026Committee vote: 22–1
6. February 19, 2026Approved by the House committee, and given a new number: HF 2615