The THIA remains a top priority.  As Chairman of the Congressional Horse Caucus and the Member of Congress representing the "Horse Capital of the World," I recognize that the horse industry is critical to the economy and heritage of Kentucky's Sixth Congressional District.  For too long, our industry has labored under a patchwork of inconsistent rules and regulations across 38 different jurisdictions which have impaired interstate commerce and deterred industry participation.  Further, inconsistent enforcement of these rules and the perception of leniency have led to the diminishment of public confidence in the integrity of our beloved sport.  

As the lead sponsor representing the majority party in the House of Representatives, my advocacy efforts have been focused on appealing to members of House and committee leadership, educating them about the problem, advocating for our solution, and demonstrating the growing support for our efforts.  To that end, I have held private meetings with House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton, and Subcommittee Chairman Michael Burgess to discuss THIA.  As the members responsible for setting the schedule for the full House, the full Committee, and the Subcommittee, respectively, I have urged each of them to take up this issue and join as coalition partners.  I have been encouraged by my conversations with each of them.  As we begin the second session of the 114th Congress, I will continue my efforts to push for a legislative hearing in the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade to facilitate a robust debate on the merits of this important legislation.  

The Thoroughbred Horse Racing Integrity Act continues to be one of my top legislative priorities. As I travel throughout New York's Capital Region, home to the famed Saratoga Race Course, constituents everywhere are enthused about this legislation to reinvigorate this sport of kings. Last August, during the Saratoga meet, I had the opportunity to provide the keynote address at the Saratoga Institute on Equine, Racing & Gaming Law Conference, where I made the case that implementing uniform rules and enhancing respect for our equine athletes are essential elements to improve the image of the sport for today's discerning fans.

In the halls of Congress, I have focused my advocacy on building support for the legislation within my home state delegation and with members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. I am pleased to report that New York has 7 co-sponsors of H.R. 3084, the most of any state, and I have individually spoken to each member of New York delegation about the bill. In addition, I have stressed the importance of this legislation to House Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone and will continue to advocate for a hearing on this issue.