The United Florida Horsemen, a group representing equine racing breeds in the state, has announced that it is reaching out to local politicians to fight the proposed ‘decoupling’ issue that is threatening the future of live horse racing in Florida.

Florida boasts 10,000 licensed racehorse owners, trainers and breeders who live, work and do business in each of the state’s counties.

According to the UFH, the group is reaching out to the local politicians so there is a future for horsepeople in the state. The horsepeople are fearful that the racehorses industry will be, figuratively, on the chopping block during Florida’s 2016 legislative session because of decoupling, which is an aspect of the Seminole Gaming Compact.

Florida Standardbred Breeders and Owners Association Executive Director Joe Pennacchio addressed the issue last month. To read Pennacchio’s comments, click here.

The UFH describes itself as an advocacy group of Thoroughbred, American Quarter Horse and Standardbred horsepeople who do business in Florida, but are also voters, residents, taxpayers, parents and neighbors. The group states that it opposes decoupling because it will kill members’ businesses and put Florida horsepeople out of work.

For more information, visit the ‘no decoupling’ website by clicking here.

(With files from the UFH)