The late Robert Johnson Sr. played an important part in the push to legalize pari-mutuel wagering at Texas racetracks in the 1980s.

Johnson wrote the original legislation and worked with legislative leaders in both the Texas House of Representatives and the Senate to bring about the successful passage of the bill in 1987.

Beginning in 1991, Johnson served as Senate parliamentarian and aide to Lieutenant Governor Bob Bullock. He had previously worked as a parliamentarian in the House for 15 years.

Johnson passed away in 1995, and Lone Star Park runs the Bob Johnson Memorial Stakes in his memory each summer.

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