Sam Houston won't export signal for out-of-state wagering

Sam Houston Race Park will not be exporting its races to out-of-state wagering sites as planned Friday, according to a statement issued by the Houston track. It was to be the meet’s first card exported to sites around the United States.

Earlier this week, the Texas Racing Commission approved the widespread distribution of Sam Houston’s signal following a Tuesday court ruling concerning the federal Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority. Sam Houston’s signal had been limited to tracks in Texas and international sites like Canada to start the meet due to an impasse between the commission and HISA.

Plans for wider distribution were called off Friday morning, according to a Friday morning statement issued by Sam Houston. The track was to begin its card at 1 p.m. Central on Friday.

“Sam Houston Race Park previously announced that interstate simulcast wagering would resume at all locations today,” the statement reads. “Since that announcement, we have determined that more time is needed to fully evaluate the many legal complexities surrounding recent court decisions and the HISA amendment enacted by Congress at the end of last year.

“While we are eager to export our signal across the country, our commitment to maintaining federal and state compliance remains our top priority," the statement continued. "We will export our signal across state lines when we are confident that it can be done in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Until then, we will only broadcast our signal throughout Texas and to approved international locations, but will not simulcast to any other locations in the United States. During this time, racing at Sam Houston Race Park will continue to be governed by the Texas Racing Act."

Sam Houston said in the statement any new developments would be communicated. The track opened its meet in January and races through April 8.