California Horse Racing Industry Has Major Impact. In a study prepared for the horse racing industry, the following impacts were noted:18
The industry generates more than $3 billion each year for the agribusiness, tourism and entertainment economies of California.
Nearly 25,000 Californians work either directly or indirectly in the industry.
The industry has declined in recent years as horse racing activity has shifted to states with lower state and local taxes or fees.
The state's share of pari-mutuel receipts is three times higher than the national average.
Approximately 4,000 jobs have been lost in the last five years.