Prevents anyone from wagering money or any other thing of value on the outcome of a greyhound race or other dog race, or accept or facilitate such wagering, regardless of the location at which the race takes place.

Summary of Rhode Island Dog Racing Wagering Bill

This bill would make it illegal for anyone in Rhode Island to bet money or anything of value on the outcome of a greyhound or dog race. It would also prohibit anyone from accepting bets or helping others place bets on dog races. Importantly, the ban would apply regardless of where the actual race takes place — meaning Rhode Islanders could not legally wager on dog races happening anywhere in the country, not just races held within the state.

The bill specifically references dog racing in the Rhode Island communities of Burrillville, Lincoln, and West Greenwich, which have historically been connected to this type of gambling activity. By closing off wagering options — including what may currently be available through off-track or online betting platforms — the bill would effectively cut off any remaining legal connection between Rhode Island residents and dog race gambling.

This legislation would primarily affect bettors who currently wager on dog races, as well as any businesses, betting facilities, or platforms that accept or process those wagers in Rhode Island. The bill has been referred to the House Finance Committee, where lawmakers will examine its potential impact on state gambling revenues and related industries before deciding whether to advance it further.