Horse Racing Advisory Commission

The Horse Racing Advisory Commission was created within the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to establish procedures governing the operation and promotion of horse racing in this state and make recommendations to the legislature that would improve the regulatory structure of horse racing with a goal of maintaining its long-term viability in Michigan.

2025 Horse Racing Advisory Commission Meeting Schedule

Statute

Public Act 271 of 2016 (PDF)

The Commission is comprised of seven members appointed by the Governor. Members serve four-year terms subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

Contact

Annual Report

2021 Horse Racing Advisory Commission Annual Report (PDF)

Members

Thomas J. Barrett, Novi
tbarr35223@aol.com
Represents statewide horse racing associations
Term ends: Oct. 31, 2024

Michael Carlo, Northville
mcarlo@northvilledowns.com
Represents owners or operators of horse racetracks in Michigan
Term ends: Oct. 31, 2024

William G. Frank, DVM, Warren
wmfrank3@outlook.com
Represents veterinarians
Term ends: Oct. 31, 2024

Brian D. Nielsen, Ph.D., Mason
(517) 432-1378
Represents individuals who have knowledge about and expertise in horse racing in Michigan
Term ends: Oct. 31, 2024

Sylvia Renteria, Lansing
RenteriaS@michigan.gov
Represents the designee of the Director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Term ends: Oct. 31, 2024

Please Note: Minutes are posted after they have been approved by the Commission at their next scheduled meeting.