Aaron Grigsby

The committee meeting focused on proposed rule amendments, adoptions, and repeals concerning definitions, employee and executive director roles, procurement of historically underutilized businesses, powers of entry, documentation certification, allocation of race dates, and pari-mutuel racing fund oversight. A significant portion of the agenda addressed the removal of obsolete greyhound-specific rules and terminology following the cessation of greyhound racing in Texas.

The primary agenda item was the recommendation for the appointment of David Holmes, the current interim director and general counsel, to become the permanent executive director of the agency at his existing salary. Prior to this, public comments were heard. The search process involved reviewing 42 applications received through January 31st, narrowing the field to eight initial candidates, followed by interviews, and noting several voluntary withdrawals from the candidate pool.

The meeting began with the invocation and recitation of the pledges of allegiance. Key discussions during the public comment period focused on the economic damage caused by the lack of signal export due to the commission not permitting thoroughbred racetracks to follow HISA rules, resulting in an estimated loss of $23 million since 2023. Stakeholders urged the commission to find a solution, potentially modeled after Oklahoma's approach, to regain lost revenue and support the breeding industry, as the 2026 breeding season is at risk. Concerns were also raised regarding the impact of Twin Spires activity on local tracks. The Chairman's opening remarks noted recent agency activities, including coordination regarding the opening of the 2026 Sam Houston race meet, legislative requirements for rule and efficiency audits, and the issuance of a cease and desist order and subpoenas to Churchill Downs Incorporated related to illegal wagers. The Interim Executive Director's report detailed ongoing work on licensing, digital security, purse release efficiency, preparing for the new world screwworm threat, and provided preliminary details on the enforcement caseload, noting a significant increase in the volume and complexity of cases related to prohibited substances and devices.

The agenda items include staff reports from the Interim Executive Director and General Counsel. The commission planned proceedings on rules, specifically discussion and possible action to adopt amendments for several administrative codes sections related to licensee living quarters, trainers, mutuel employees, cashed tickets, vouchers, and totalisator requirements. Further proceedings cover the possible approval of the renewal of the totalisator system agreement for Lone Star Park. The agenda also includes discussion and possible action regarding the allocation of funds from the Horse Industry Escrow Account to state horse breed registries for industry-furthering events. Potential executive session topics involve seeking attorney advice on litigation, reviewing security and contract matters, and personnel actions concerning the Executive Director and other staff.

This strategic plan outlines the Texas Racing Commission's direction from 2025-2029, focusing on transforming the agency into a specialized law enforcement body. The plan aims to enhance enforcement of the Texas Racing Act, support the Governor's "Build a Safer Texas" and "Build a More Prosperous Texas" initiatives, and establish Texas as the premier state for horseracing. Key strategies include reclassifying agency appropriations to public safety, enabling statewide enforcement against unlicensed activities, and adhering to principles of Accountability, Respect, Integrity, Safety, and Excellence.