The American Quarter Horse could become Oklahoma’s official state horse after legislation advanced through the House.

House Bill 3261, authored by Rep. Randy Randleman, R-Eufaula, names the American Quarter Horse as the state horse of Oklahoma in recognition of the value of the breed to Oklahomans.

“The American Quarter Horse has had a significant role in our state’s history and has been a huge economic driver as well,” Randleman said. “I’m pleased that this bill passed the House with such wide support.”

For nearly 50 years, the American Quarter Horse Association has held its world championship show in Oklahoma City with competitors from around the world.

The American Horse Council estimates about 104,000 American Quarter Horses were in Oklahoma in 2017, making it the most common horse breed in the state. Oklahoma ranks second in the country in total American Quarter Horse numbers.

The bill passed the floor 92-0.