Iowa HBPA: New Law Strengthens Thoroughbred Industry

The Iowa Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association applaud Gov. Kim Reynolds recent signing of House File 2615 into law. The legislation strengthens and protects Iowa's Thoroughbred racing industry by reaffirming the independent structure of Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing seasons. 

HF 2615 clarifies that Thoroughbred and Quarter Horse racing seasons are to be conducted as separate stand-alone meets unless otherwise mutually agreed upon in writing by the recognized horsemen's associations and Prairie Meadows. The legislation also reinforces the long-standing legislative intent that the breeds race independently and not concurrently without agreement from the affected parties. 

"This legislation is critically important to preserving and strengthening Iowa's Thoroughbred racing industry," said Jon Moss, executive director of the Iowa HBPA. "HF 2615 provides clarity, stability, and confidence for horsemen, breeders, owners, trainers, and the many agricultural businesses connected to racing in Iowa. We are extremely grateful to Gov. Reynolds for her support and leadership in signing this important bill into law."

The Iowa HBPA also expressed appreciation to legislative leaders in both chambers, along with Rep. Heather Hora and Sen. Mike Bousselot for their continued support of Iowa horse racing and agriculture.

The bill comes as Iowa's racehorse industry continues to demonstrate major economic importance across the state. According to a newly released 2025 economic impact study conducted by Blueprint Kentucky at the University of Kentucky, Iowa's racehorse industry generates approximately $264.6 million annually in economic output and supports more than 2,345 jobs statewide. 

The study found the Thoroughbred industry alone accounts for approximately $180.7 million in annual economic impact and supports 1,832 jobs, representing roughly 68% of the industry's total impact. Further, when removing the pari-mutuel operational impact component, Thoroughbreds account for more than 80% of Iowa's horse racing economic activity compared to other breeds. 

Among those attending the bill signing ceremony were longtime Iowa horsemen and HBPA board members Allen Poindexter, Joe Kelly, and Mike Vanderpool—all owner-breeders of Iowa-bred Thoroughbreds who continue to invest heavily in Iowa racing and breeding programs.

Kelly currently serves as vice president of the Iowa HBPA and has been a strong advocate for Iowa horsemen and breeders. Poindexter has been one of Iowa's leading owners and breeders for many years, breeding Iowa-bred horses that have competed successfully across the country and internationally, including Chancheng Glory, an Iowa-bred with racing success in Hong Kong. Mike Vanderpool has likewise remained deeply committed to Iowa breeding and racing through continued investment in Iowa-bred Thoroughbreds with such well-knowns as 13-time winner Tin Badge.

"The success of Iowa racing is built by people willing to invest in Iowa agriculture, Iowa jobs, and Iowa-bred horses," Moss said. "Legislation like HF 2615 gives breeders and owners confidence that Iowa remains committed to maintaining a strong and sustainable Thoroughbred industry for future generations."