(1) The general assembly finds, determines, and declares that:
The provisions of this article 32 are enacted through the exercise of the police powersof this state for the protection of the health, peace, safety, and general welfare of the people of this state;
Horse racing is an inherently dangerous sport. Race horses weigh in excess of onethousand pounds, are almost six feet in height at the withers, and can run faster than thirty miles per hour. Horse racing brings significant physical risks to humans and horses. Jockeys and other persons working with horses have been injured before, during, and after horse races, occasionally resulting in death. As a result of these risks, it is crucial that persons working with horses in racing must at all times be free of any substances that might impair their judgement, reflexes, or ability to control a horse. Recent drug testing of horse racing licensees has shown instances of illegal drug use and consumption of alcohol in excess of statutory limitations, which could, therefore, endanger both human and equine participants. The most effective method of preventing alcohol and drug abuse and ensuring the safety of all persons and animals included in the sport of horse racing is to establish a program of alcohol and drug testing.
The purposes of this article 32 include:
Promoting racing and the recreational, entertainment, and commercial benefits to bederived therefrom;
Raising revenue for the general fund;
Establishing high standards of sport and fair play;
Protecting the health and safety of all participants, human and animal, involved inracing events both on and off the racetrack; and
Fostering honesty and fair dealing in the racing industry.
(2) This article 32 shall be liberally construed for all the stated purposes in this section.
Source: L. 2018: Entire section amended, (SB 18-172), ch. 129, p. 850, § 1, effective April 12; entire article added with relocations, (HB 18-1024), ch. 26, p. 286, § 2, effective October 1.
Editor's note: (1) This section is similar to former § 12-60-101 as it existed prior to 2018.
(2) This section was numbered as § 12-60-101 in SB 18-172. That section was harmonized with and relocated to this section as this section appears in HB 18-1024.