Historic Internet Betting Ban on Greyhound Races in Oregon Celebrated by Advocates

A Landmark Victory for Greyhound Advocates

The greyhound racing industry faced a monumental setback as Oregon Governor Tina Kotek recently signed a pivotal bill prohibiting the processing of internet bets on dog races. This new legislation represents a significant win for animal rights advocates, notably the GREY2K USA organization. Carey Theil, Executive Director of GREY2K USA, expressed that this moment is one of the most significant advancements for greyhound welfare since Florida’s ban on dog racing in 2018.

The law, officially known as House Bill 3020, is set to phase out all internet betting on greyhound races by July 1, 2027, and effectively ends remote gambling, termed simulcasting, on dog races within Oregon. Prior to this law, Oregon and North Dakota were the only two states allowing legal processing of such bets, which amounted to an estimated $155 million in 2024 alone. Alarmingly, Oregon accounted for 57% of the total internet greyhound bets across the nation.

As the greyhound racing industry dwindles, only two tracks currently remain operational in West Virginia, a stark contrast to previous years when numerous tracks flourished. Florida voters made headlines in 2018 by overwhelmingly electing to end dog racing, with a staggering 69% voting in favor of the ban, leading to the closure of twelve tracks.

At the federal level, efforts are underway to establish a nationwide ban on dog racing through the Greyhound Protection Act, which has already garnered support from 80 bipartisan cosponsors and over 250 humane organizations and anti-gambling factions. In recent legislative trends, states like Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Oregon have also enacted laws to phase out greyhound simulcasting.

Animal protection groups have long condemned greyhound racing due to severe animal welfare issues. Disturbingly, data from West Virginia indicates that in 2024 alone, 487 greyhounds experienced injuries, including broken bones, and tragically, thirteen greyhounds lost their lives. Countless dogs at these facilities continue to suffer, being kept in confined spaces for extensive hours—a situation deemed unacceptable by advocates.

Established in February 2001, GREY2K USA is recognized as the largest greyhound protection organization in the United States, boasting over 300,000 supporters worldwide. With its mission rooted in promoting legislative advancements for greyhound welfare and ending the cruelty associated with racing, GREY2K USA actively advocates for the rescue and adoption of greyhounds across the globe.

This recent success in Oregon not only marks a step forward for greyhound advocates but also paves the way for a potential decline in an industry regarded as outdated and inhumane. With a collective push from the public and support from lawmakers, it’s a hopeful time for the future welfare of greyhounds everywhere.