An administrative law judge in Florida ruled May 6 the state can’t allow pari-mutuel barrel racing under current law.

The ruling follows months of taxpayer-funded litigation in defense by of pari-mutuel barrel racing, for which there is no legislative authorization. Barrel racing began at Gretna Racing, which is located in the Florida panhandle, as a means to offer other forms of gambling.

"The State of Florida should be pleased with this ruling," Florida Quarter Horse Racing Association (FQHRA) president Steve Fisch, DVM, said in a release. "It is well-written and consistent with the law. This ruling will lend confidence to both Florida Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred breeders and owners that Florida is a legally safe and prosperous state in which to race and breed a superior horse."

Horsemen’s groups have argued pari-mutuel barrel racing is damaging to regular racetracks because only 10-12 horses are needed per day, and hardly any money is wagered. They called it "a farce