Amna Nawaz
@PBSNewsHour·5.3M subscribers·62.2K videos
As tracks close, states push 'right to race' laws
Posted
August 17, 2026
Views
5,868
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547
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August 17, 2026
5,868
547
9.32%
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4:57Now PlayingFor race fans, summer weekends are peak season for heading to the local track. But this longtime tradition is under threat. In the last 25 years, around a quarter of operating motorsports facilities have closed, according to the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA).
One reason for the closures: Noise and nuisance lawsuit from nearby property owners, which have entangled tracks in lengthy legal battles and forced some to close.
In a growing number of states, lawmakers are boosting legal protections for their hometown tracks through so-called "right to race" laws, which protect existing facilities from noise and nuisance complaints from neighbors.
Four states have passed such legislation, and similar bills have been introduced or advanced in 12 other states.
PBS News’ Tim McPhillips visits a track in Virginia to learn more about the challenges race track owners, drivers and communities are facing.
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