Understanding Minus Pool (Gaming Law): Legal Implications and Definitions
Definition & Meaning
A minus pool refers to a situation in horse racing where the total amount of money in the betting pool is insufficient to pay the legally required minimum returns to winning bettors after the takeout, which is the portion of the pool that is retained by the racing association. In this case, the racing association must cover the shortfall to ensure that all winning bets receive at least the minimum payout mandated by law.
Legal Use & context
The term "minus pool" is primarily used in the context of pari-mutuel betting in horse racing. It is relevant in jurisdictions where laws govern the minimum payouts for winning bets. This concept is important for racing associations and bettors, as it ensures that even in cases of high betting volume on a particular horse, the legal requirements for payouts are met. Users may encounter forms related to betting regulations or disputes in this area, which can be managed using legal templates from US Legal Forms.
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: In a race where a horse receives an overwhelming majority of the bets, the total pool may be $100,000. After deducting a 20 percent takeout, only $80,000 remains. If the minimum payout required for winning bets exceeds this amount, a minus pool situation arises, and the racing association must cover the shortfall.
Example 2: A hypothetical example could involve a race with a betting pool of $50,000. If the takeout is 15 percent, leaving $42,500, but the minimum payout required for winners is $45,000, the racing association would need to pay an additional $2,500 to meet the legal requirements.
Relevant laws & statutes
Pursuant to 3A Okl. St. § 200.1 in Oklahoma, a "minus pool" is defined as a pari-mutuel pool where the amount remaining after the takeout is insufficient to pay the legally prescribed minimum returns to winning wagers. This statute mandates that the organization must cover any shortfall.