Texas Racing Commission orders Sam Houston Race Park to close its doors

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Caught in the middle of a legal and funding war, the Sam Houston Race Park is being forced to close its doors at midnight.

The last televised race airs at 11:50pm.

The park's imminent closure comes as a result of the battle happening at the Texas Legislature over how much money to give the Texas Racing Commission after it recently approved a controversial form of gambling.

Last week, commissioners voted to let Texas horse and dog tracks install "historical racing" terminals. That allows people to bet on already-run races stripped of identifying information. That move cast doubt on whether the Legislative Budget Board, consisting of Senate and House members, would authorize funding for the racing commission.

If no deal is struck by midnight, the commission ceases operations, and as a result, the Sam Houston Race Park loses its ability to import simulcast wagering, live racing and export live signals.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick announced earlier Monday that the board's Senate members agreed to fund the commission temporarily, for at least the next three months. But its House members balked, saying they'd like to see the commission fully funded. Negotiations expire at midnight.

The Associated Press contributed to this report