May 6, 2020
After 2018’s landmark decision in which nearly 70% of Floridians voted in favor of Amendment 13’s statewide ban on greyhound racing, several pro-racing groups such as Support Working Dogs Inc., as well as other individuals who opposed the new law, challenged the amendment claiming it was unconstitutional.
The lawsuit, which was filed last October, claimed that Amendment 13 was unconstitutional because it was stripping greyhound racing industry workers of their jobs and property. District Judge Walker rebutted, saying that Amendment 13 is a legitimate exercise of the state’s authority and is therefore constitutional.
Amendment 13 requires all of Florida’s dog racing tracks to shut down by the end of 2020. However, due to COVID-19 and social distancing concerns, most of the dog tracks in the Sunshine State have already closed their doors. Although the plaintiffs have an opportunity to appeal his decision, District Judge Walker is confident that his decision will stand.