The Arkansas Legislature paved the way for an increase in occupational license fees in the state earlier this year and on Thursday the Arkansas Racing Commission set a new fee schedule for the upcoming meet at Oaklawn Park. The Hot Springs, Ark., track opens in January. 

According to commission staff, the fee for an owner license will increase from $30 to $60 per year; the trainer and jockey license fees have been boosted from $25 to $55; the license fees for veterinarians will rise from $15 to $45; and for blacksmiths from $5 to $35. There are no expected increases for other occupational licenses. 

In another change, Arkansas will now offer a three year license option. There also will be an opportunity to get licensed online, at a link that will be able to be found at the website of the Arkansas Racing Commission.