Off to the Races: Bill 31 The Horse Racing Regulatory Modernization Act (Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Control Act And Pari -Mutuel Levy Act Amended)

The Horse Racing Regulatory Modernization Act, otherwise known as Bill 31, was first introduced to the Manitoba Legislative Assembly in October 2020. This piece of legislation seeks to modernize the regulatory framework for thoroughbred and standardbred horse racing in the province. Its main goal is to switch the regulator for the horse racing industry from the Manitoba Horse Racing Commission (MHRC) to the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Authority (LGCA). On its surface, Bill 31 ran a smooth race and successfully crossed the finish line. It received positive support throughout the legislative process, and was granted Royal Assent on May 12, 2021. However, this paper, while examining the bill itself and the discussion that surrounded its journey, will also explore the story underlying this piece of legislation and the motivating factors that got it to the starting gate in the first place. To truly understand the purpose of this Bill and the impact of the amendments contained within – it is necessary to dive into the world of horse racing; survey the current status of the horse racing industry in Manitoba; explore the government’s reliance on, and regulation of, gambling activities; and how regulations are made and regulators appointed. This paper seeks to highlight a number of concerns regarding the government’s complicated relationship with horse racing. Subsequently, this paper will pose a few recommendations on how the government could take steps to improve the transparency and accountability in the legislation and regulation-making process – especially when it comes to handling gambling policy and regulating sports, like horse racing.