Includes whereas clauses.

Enacts new GS Chapter 16A, North Carolina Derby Act, providing as follows.

Sets out NCGA findings related to horse racing. States that it is in the public interest to provide for a racing commission to: (1) regulate horse racing; (2) promote breeding and training of horses and the further development of the equine industry in this state; (3) promote farmland enhancement, the development of new crops in this state, and the enhancement of the state's agribusiness industry; (4) administer and enforce the provisions of this GS Chapter; and (5) develop a long-term plan for racing in North Carolina to determine the appropriate location and number of tracks to be built in this state so as to position any major track and its purse structure in the upper segment of good quality tracks while creating a strong breeding, foaling, and training structure throughout the state.

Establishes the North Carolina Racing Office (Office) within the North Carolina Lottery Commission (Commission), vested with control of all horse racing in the state and allowed to adopt rules governing racing and implementing this Chapter; sets out 12 specific powers and duties including licensing all racing personnel and adopting licenses, auditing books and distributing funds, collecting and distributing all taxes, and proviing testing facilities for racing animals. Requires an annual report to the Commission, Governor, and NCGA that contains information necessary for the oversight of the Office's operations and responsibilities, including the specified information.

Makes the Executive Secretary in charge of executing rules adopted by the Commission and conducting the Office's business. Responsibilities include, among others, the licensing department, racing field personnel, and hiring and supervising Office personnel. 

Requires all persons, other than admission-paying patrons or other members of the general public attending the horse races at licensed facilities, to be licensed by the Office. Prohibits engaging in any of the activities subject to licensing requirements without the appropriate license. Requires the Commission to create a schedule of license application requirements and application fees to support the activities of the Office in reviewing and administering licenses. Allows requiring that all licensed personnel sign waivers allowing drug testing.