Charles Town, W.Va. (WVDN) – Governor Patrick Morrisey signed Senate Bill 1060 into law, a landmark piece of legislation reportedly designed to strengthen West Virginia’s thoroughbred industry, boost local agriculture, and ensure the state’s racetracks remain premier destinations for high-quality racing.
“By increasing these prizes, we’re telling our breeders and owners that you will be rewarded for investing in West Virginia,” said Governor Morrisey. “We want the winning, the jobs, and the investment to stay right here in our own backyard.”
SB 1060 updates West Virginia’s thoroughbred racing laws to include certified thoroughbred horses and doubles the funding cap for restricted races at state tracks from $1 million to $2 million. By allowing horses that have resided in West Virginia for at least six consecutive months to compete for increased purses, the bill incentivizes out-of-state owners to move their operations to the Mountain State.
The bill also modernizes revenue distribution from interstate simulcasts, ensuring that a greater portion of wagering funds is reinvested directly into the West Virginia Thoroughbred Development Fund.
“When we put more money into the purses for our homegrown horses, we’re supporting the local feed stores, the vets, and the family farms,” said Governor Morrisey. ”This is about making sure West Virginia remains the best place in the country to do business and raise a champion.”
SB 1060 passed with broad bipartisan support during the 2026 Regular Session and will officially take effect on June 7, 2026.
