Congress·In Committee·H.R. 5017

Greyhound Racing: National Ban on Commercial Racing

Greyhound Protection Act of 2025

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This bill would end commercial greyhound racing across the country. It specifically bans races where people bet money on the dogs and stops "live lure training," a practice where live animals like rabbits are used as bait to train the dogs to chase.
The law would make it a federal crime to buy, sell, or transport greyhounds for racing purposes. It also bans "simulcast" betting, which allows people to gamble on dog races through the internet or TV from different states or countries.
Lawmakers are pushing this because of high injury rates for racing dogs, including broken bones and paralysis. They also noted that the industry is already shrinking, with only two active tracks remaining in the United States, both located in West Virginia.
If passed, these rules would take effect on October 1, 2027. Anyone who breaks the law could face up to seven years in prison and significant fines for each violation.