The House State Affairs Committee has voted 10-7 in favor of HB 191, which allows Idaho's eight live race tracks to transfer their current licenses to hold betting on simulcasts of live races to other locations, to raise money for purses to support the live racing operations. Rep. Carlos Bilbao, R-Emmett, said, "This is not an opening to other gambling in the state of Idaho. This is one of a kind, for economic development in our small communities and to keep horse racing alive in the state. It's a viable industry. It's part of our agricultural income." He told the committee, "I think that it's time that we look at this and we vote for the people who enjoy horse racing, whether it's live or it's on television."

The vote drew a quick burst of applause, which committee Chairman Tom Loertscher, R-Iona, quickly hushed. The lobbyist presenting the next bill, Roger Batt, then promised not to "horse around" with his bill, prompting Loertscher to say he didn't want the meeting to get "off track." The off-track betting bill now moves to the full House for a vote.

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