The Wyoming Legislature’s Management Council has moved forward with a suite of bills aimed at tightening oversight of the state’s gambling industry while strengthening anti-money laundering enforcement. The five bills, developed by the Select Committee on Gaming, were debated amid concerns about balancing Wyoming’s free-market values with the need for regulatory control in a rapidly expanding sector.
No Cap on Historic Horse Racing Machines
A proposal to impose a statutory limit of 3,004 Historic Horse Racing (HHR) terminals per operator at live tracks was rejected in a 5-4 vote. Vice Chairman Sen. Bo Biteman questioned the HHR model, noting that average attendance at live races hovers around 500–600 spectators per event. He criticized the system for prioritizing machine revenue over supporting live horse racing.
Pete Liguori, partner and executive vice president of Wyoming Horse Racing, defended the model, highlighting that HHR machines fund race prizes, which are projected to rise from $800,000 to $3.4 million next year. He emphasized that live racing operates at a loss but generates broader economic benefits, with $4.5 million expected in operational expenses next year.
Rep. Jeremy Haroldson raised concerns that the 3,004-terminal proposal could worsen public perception, making Wyoming seem like a gambling-centric state. Sen. Barry Crago echoed the sentiment, arguing the bill would encourage operators to max out permit limits rather than addressing the underlying growth of gambling in the state.
Local Authority and Simulcasting
The council unanimously approved legislation granting local authorities control over simulcasting facilities, a top priority for co-chair Sen. John Kolb. The measure, supported by municipal leaders including Cheyenne City Council member Dr. Mark Rinne, keeps the controversial 100-mile rule, restricting simulcasting near live tracks unless approved by the track operator.
Affie Ellis, legal counsel for Cowboy Racing, praised the retention of the 100-mile restriction, noting its importance to ongoing construction at Thunder Plains track east of Cheyenne, scheduled to begin hosting races in 2026. The bill passed with a 9-0 vote.
Criminal Activity and Gambling Definitions
Two bills targeting criminal activity advanced. One establishes state felony offenses for money laundering and illegal investment, allowing Wyoming to enforce regulations without relying solely on federal authorities. Kyle Ridgeway, president of 307 Horse Racing and Wyoming Downs, confirmed support for the legislation, stating his business already complies with federal reporting but welcomed additional state-level protections. This bill passed 9-1.
Another measure tightens the definition of “gambling,” narrowing the “bona fide social relationship” exemption to permit prosecution of illegal operations. Rep. Jayme Lien explained the intent is to allow casual home play without turning private activity into business. This bill also passed 9-1.
Restricting Gaming Machines in Grocery Stores
A final bill restricts skill-based amusement games to liquor-licensed establishments that allow consumption on-site. The measure comes after reports of gambling machines appearing in grocery stores. Leslie George of Wyoming Amusement Inc. acknowledged the financial importance of skill games for her business but agreed on the need for regulation. Gaming Commission Executive Director Nick Larramendy noted rules will be amended to confine games to the liquor-licensed portion of grocery stores. This bill passed unanimously, 10-0.
Source:
“Wyoming lawmakers advance bills in attempt to limit gambling”, wyomingnews.com, November 20, 2025
The post Wyoming Lawmakers Push Forward New Gambling Oversight Measures first appeared on RealMoneyAction.com.