Gov. Morrisey Signs SB 1060 to Revitalize Horse Racing Industry

Gov. Patrick Morrisey signed Senate Bill 1060 into law on April 13, 2026, introducing a series of legislative changes intended to revitalize the thoroughbred racing industry in West Virginia. The legislation focuses on strengthening the state’s thoroughbred sector, boosting local agriculture, and ensuring that state racetracks continue to serve as destinations for high-quality racing.

A central component of SB 1060 is the update to West Virginia’s racing laws to include certified thoroughbred horses. The bill also doubles the funding cap for restricted races at tracks within the state, raising the limit from $1 million to $2 million.

To incentivize out-of-state owners to relocate their operations to West Virginia, the law allows horses that have resided in the state for at least six consecutive months to compete for increased purses.

The legislation further modernizes the distribution of revenue generated from interstate simulcasts. These changes are designed to ensure that a larger portion of wagering funds is reinvested directly into the West Virginia Thoroughbred Development Fund.

the bill provides that accredited West Virginia thoroughbreds may race for an additional percentage of purses in certain races. This provision is contingent upon a written agreement between the racing association and the organization representing the majority of trainers and owners at the specific racetrack.

Governor Morrisey stated that the increase in prizes serves as a signal to owners and breeders that you will be rewarded for investing in West Virginia. He emphasized the importance of keeping the winning, the jobs, and the investment to stay right here in our own backyard.

The governor linked the financial support for homegrown horses to the broader health of the local economy, noting that increased purses support family farms, veterinarians, and local feed stores. According to Morrisey, the legislation is intended to make West Virginia the best place in the country to do business and raise a champion.

Ceremonial Signing at Charles Town Races

The ceremonial signing of Senate Bill 1060 took place on the morning of April 13, 2026, at the Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races in Charles Town, West Virginia.

The event was attended by a variety of state legislators, including State Senators Patricia Rucker and Jason Barrett, and State Representatives Bill Ridenour, Wayne Clark, and Joe Funkhouser. Other government officials in attendance included Cara Keys, Steve Stolipher, and Jefferson County Commissioner Pasha Majdi.

During his remarks at the track, Governor Morrisey discussed the cultural and economic significance of the industry in the Eastern Panhandle.

You can really feel the history of this track. I think that there’s a palpable energy of what makes this place run. And it’s not just the actual race day. It’s the trainers, it’s the breeders, it’s the farmers, it’s the backstretch workers and of course the fans. It’s never just about one person. But when I look here, I don’t just see a sport, I see an incredible way of life for the Eastern Panhandle and for our state.

Gov. Patrick Morrisey

Morrisey noted that the bill is part of a larger effort to drive economic development, tourism, and increased racing activity within the region.

Senate Bill 1060 passed with bipartisan support during the 2026 Regular Session. While some reports state the law takes effect on June 7, 2026, other reports indicate an effective date of July 1, 2026.