59.1-364 - Control of racing with pari-mutuel wagering. - Virginia Statutes

§ 59.1-364. Control of racing with pari-mutuel wagering.

A. Horse racing with pari-mutuel wagering as licensed herein shall bepermitted in the Commonwealth for the promotion, sustenance and growth of anative industry, in a manner consistent with the health, safety and welfareof the people. The Virginia Racing Commission is vested with control of allhorse racing with pari-mutuel wagering in the Commonwealth, with plenarypower to prescribe regulations and conditions under which such racing andwagering shall be conducted, so as to maintain horse racing in theCommonwealth of the highest quality and free of any corrupt, incompetent,dishonest or unprincipled practices and to maintain in such racing completehonesty and integrity. The Virginia Racing Commission shall encourageparticipation by local individuals and businesses in those activitiesassociated with horse racing.

B. The conduct of any horse racing with pari-mutuel wagering participation insuch racing or wagering and entrance to any place where such racing orwagering is conducted is a privilege which may be granted or denied by theCommission or its duly authorized representatives in its discretion in orderto effectuate the purposes set forth in this chapter.

C. The award of any prize money for any pari-mutuel wager placed at aracetrack or satellite facility licensed by the Commission shall not bedeemed to be a part of any gaming contract within the purview of § 11-14.

(1988, c. 855; 1992, c. 820; 1998, c. 619.)