Claude Ragle

The meeting included industry reports from Emerald Downs, which discussed the upcoming live racing season and extended stable area openings. The stewards' end-of-meet report indicated a successful racing season. The commission reviewed annual source market fees and license fees, deciding not to increase the latter for 2026. Updates were provided on Washington-Bred Owners/Breeders Awards. The commission approved the WHRC meeting dates for 2026. The Executive Secretary presented a wagering recap, live meet wagering data, and monthly financial statements. Commissioners discussed the ADW handicapping option and the upcoming Stewards CE Seminar.

The meeting agenda includes approval of meeting minutes, commissioners' reports, industry reports from Emerald Downs, WHBPA, WTBOA, and The Jockeys Guild. Also on the agenda are a Class C Purse Fund update, proposed rules changes regarding penalty matrixes, approval of split sample laboratories, and a hearing before the commission. The Executive Secretary's Report covers wagering recaps and monthly financial statements. The agenda also includes discussion items for commissioners and any other business properly brought before the Commission.

The meeting agenda includes approval of the meeting minutes from October 10, 2025, commissioners' reports, and the ADW License Renewal for Xpress Bet. Industry reports from Emerald Downs, WHBPA, WTBOA, and The Jockeys Guild will be presented. The agenda also covers Emerald Downs' 2026 Date Request, the 2026 HISA Assessment Fee, and the Executive Secretary's Report, including a Wagering Recap for October 2025 and the Monthly Financial Statement for September 2025. There will be discussion items for the commissioners and any other business properly brought before the Commission.

The meeting addressed several key areas including approving Xpress Bet's and Twin Spires' proposals to update their Plan of Operations to include the offering of handicapping contests, industry reports from Emerald Downs, WHBPA, and The Jockeys Guild, a financial summary for the 2023-2025 biennium, and a grant request submitted by Emerald Downs Racing LLC to cover safety expenses for the 2025 and 2026 race season. Additionally, hearings were held for Alex M. Cruz and Silvio Amador, and the Executive Secretary presented a wagering recap and monthly financial statement. The commission also approved travel for Executive Secretary Amanda Benton to attend the 2025 Centennial Acord and the ARCI model rules meeting.

The meeting included discussions on various topics such as the ADW License Renewal for TVG, where the commission reviewed TVG's application, wagering data, and compliance with regulations, ultimately approving the renewal. Industry reports were presented by representatives from Emerald Downs, the Washington Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association, the Washington Thoroughbred Breeders and Owners Association. Also, the commission discussed Emerald Downs' grant request for the Morning Training Track Veterinary Program, which was approved to ensure equine health and safety. The Racehorse Health and Safety Act was reviewed, and the Executive Secretary provided updates on wagering recaps and monthly financial statements. Commissioners also approved travel to Emerald Downs' Legislature Day.