The Equine Protection Act of 2023: A Comprehensive Reform

This legislation aims to protect horses from harm and abuse in various industries, including racing, breeding, and transportation.

Key Provisions

Racing Industry: The bill establishes strict safety standards for racetracks, requires regular inspections, and imposes penalties for non-compliance. It also introduces a new system for reporting and investigating horse abuse and neglect.
Breeding Industry: The legislation updates regulations related to equine health care, vaccination requirements, and ownership transparency. It also establishes a national registry of breeders and sellers.
Transportation Industry: The bill strengthens laws governing horse transportation, including requirements for safe equipment, training, and licensing for transporters.

Administrative Sanctions and Disciplinary Process

The Equine Protection Act of 2023 introduces a new system for administrative sanctions and disciplinary process. The legislation establishes rules for investigating and disciplining individuals and organizations that violate safety standards or commit horse abuse and neglect.

“The Board shall issue rules with respect to the disciplinary process for safety, performance, and scientific medication control rule violations, which may include the existing Model Rules of the Association of Racing Commissioners International.”
— Section 402(a)

Effective Dates

The Equine Protection Act of 2023 takes effect on the later of:

the date that is 2 years after the date of the enactment of this Act; or
the date on which 2 or more States have entered into the interstate compact pursuant to section 4.3.

Please note: This is a summary of the Equine Protection Act of 2023, and its provisions are subject to change as the bill progresses through Congress.