CHARLES TOWN, W.Va. — Gov. Patrick Morrisey made a stop at the Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races Monday morning for the ceremonial signing of Senate Bill 1060 aimed at revitalizing the horse racing industry.
Morrisey was flanked by a full cast of state legislators including State Senators Jason Barrett and Patricia Rucker, State Representatives Joe Funkhouser, Wayne Clark and Bill Ridenour. In attendance were other notable government officials, as well, including Jefferson County Commissioner Pasha Majdi, Cara Keys, and Steve Stolipher.
The governor opened his remarks by talking about the importance of the horse industry in Jefferson County.
“You can really feel the history of this track,” Morrisey said. “I think that there’s a palpable energy of what makes this place run. And it’s not just the actual race day. It’s the trainers, it’s the breeders, it’s the farmers, it’s the backstretch workers and of course the fans. It’s never just about one person. But when I look here, I don’t just see a sport, I see an incredible way of life for the Eastern Panhandle and for our state.”
Morrisey talked about how the bill fits into his overall goals to improve economic development throughout the state.
“This is an incredible chance. What we’re doing today to help drive more racing here in the Eastern Panhandle, better purses, fans, more tourism, it’s all going to lead to great things. So we’re excited,” he said.
Under the bill, which goes into effect in June, accredited West Virginia thoroughbreds may race for an additional percentage of purses in certain races under a written agreement between the racing association and the organization that represents the majority of owners and trainers at that racetrack.
The bill is aimed at boosting the state’s horse racing industry by creating a “West Virginia Certified Thoroughbred” designation and raising restricted race caps. The designation requires horses to reside in the state for six consecutive months before their 3-year-old season to qualify.
In closing out his remarks Morrisey said, “This bill ensures that if you invest in West Virginia, West Virginia will invest in you.”
Morrisey handed ceremonial pens to State Senators Jason Barrett and Patricia Rucker for helping to drive the bill, along with State Representative Joe Funkhouser for being a driving factor back when Morrisey was still Attorney General.
The bill was put forth by Senator Jason Barrett and 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, according to a press release from the governor’s office.
“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,” according to 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.
Panhandle News Network reporter Clint Gaige covered this story.