AUSTIN, TX—SEPTEMBER 21, 2017—Lone Star Park was the lone licensee who refused to sign a proposed rule amendment (Amendment to Rule 309.8- Racetrack License Fees) by the Texas Racing Commission on Wednesday.

The proposal was approved as part of a rule amendment, establishing the referenced license (see attached) fees schedule. The proposed license fees pay for 20 days of Texas Racing Commission regulation at each Class 1 track. That's a total of 20 days, split between four breeds at each facility.

Despite clear opposition to the proposal, it was apparent that the Commissioners had already made their decision before the meeting. Horsemen were not included in the dialog and were not supposed to see the proposal until today's meeting.

Lone Star Park did not sign the agreement and they disagree with the Commission's concept.

Commission Chairman John Steen, III says the commission will begin the process of a third party efficiency audit of the agency as soon as possible. According to Steen horsemen will have a seat at the table for this process.

The rule proposal will be published in the Texas Register for 30 days and as with all rule proposals, the public has that time to submit comment.

Texas horsemen and women who object to the proposed rule change can write letters, ask their friends and colleagues to do the same and let the Commissioners know that their opposition to Rule 309.8- Racetrack License Fees.