December 27, 2020 marked a turning point toward a bright future for American horse racing, the health and welfare of its horses and jockeys, and the integrity of the sport. After years of negotiation and compromise, it is with great pride and complete satisfaction that the Water Hay Oats Alliance (WHOA) celebrates the the inclusion of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA) in the 2020 Omnibus Appropriations Bill which was signed into law by President Donald J. Trump today.
The Subcommittee on Consumer Protection and Commerce of the Committee on Energy and Commerce Hearing on Tuesday, January 28, 2020. The hearing is entitled, “Legislation to Promote the Health and Safety of Racehorses.”
Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY) and Congressman Paul Tonko (D-NY), the co-chairs of the Congressional Horse Caucus, hosted a hearing with fellow Caucus members and leaders from the horseracing industry to discuss a path forward for the Thoroughbred Horseracing Integrity Act.
Barr and Tonko introduced the legislation in July, 2015 in order to advance reforms aimed at promoting uniform medication standards across the 38 different racing jurisdictions in the United States. In doing so, the American thoroughbred industry would benefit from increased safety and integrity.
Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade Subcommittee Convenes Hearing on H.R. 2012, held a hearing on Thursday, November 21, 2013. This hearing discussed a bill to improve the integrity and safety of interstate horseracing, and for other purposes.
Medication and Performance Enhancing Drugs in Horse Racing
The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a hearing on Thursday, July 12, 2012 entitled “Medication and Performance Enhancing Drugs in Horseracing”. This hearing examined the prevalence and use of medications and performance enhancing drugs in horseracing. At the hearing, a cross section of industry leaders shared their opinions.
To watch the hearing and read written testimony, click below: Medication and Performance Enhancing Drugs in Horse Racing
Field Hearing on the Health of Jockeys and Horses in Horseracing On Monday, April 30, 2012, (9:30 a.m., Unionville High School, 750 Unionville Road, Kennett Square, PA) the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health held a hearing entitled “A Review of Efforts to Protect Jockeys and Horses in Horseracing”. At the hearing, the Subcommittee reviewed what reforms, if any, have been made in the horseracing industry to protect jockeys, horses, and the integrity of the sport.