Sw Louisiana News

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) is set to introduce the Racehorse Health and Safety Act of 2023 (RHSA), a new legislation aimed at safeguarding the well-being of racing horses and enhancing the integrity and safety of horse racing.

The proposed legislation seeks to address concerns surrounding the implementation of the Horseracing Safety and Integrity Act (HISA), which was passed by Congress in December 2020. HISA was intended to establish a standardized set of rules for the horse racing industry, enforced by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority. However, since its enactment, HISA has faced numerous legal challenges.

Congressman Higgins, who opposed the passage of HISA, highlights the need for a fresh approach to protect the horse racing industry and the welfare of the majestic animals involved. He states, "Government should be a partner to Americans, not a predator. This legislation brings Constitutional liberties and rights to the forefront, protecting the horse racing industry and the beautiful animals that we love."

The Racehorse Health and Safety Act proposes several key measures:

1. Repealing the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA), which has been marred by legal setbacks and failed to address the root causes of safety concerns within the industry.

2. Granting states the authority to enter into interstate compacts, allowing them to collaborate on developing nationwide rules for scientific control and racetrack safety in horse racing. This would enable a broader and more inclusive approach to addressing industry challenges.

3. Establishing the Racehorse Health and Safety Organization (RHSO) as the regulatory body for the horse racing industry. The RHSO would oversee the implementation and enforcement of industry-wide standards to ensure the well-being and safety of racing horses.

4. Creating three Scientific Medication Control Committees (SMCCs), responsible for drafting recommended rules specific to each breed of racing horse. These committees would bring together experts in equine health and medication to develop guidelines that prioritize the welfare of the animals.

The Racehorse Health and Safety Act has garnered support from various organizations within the horse racing community. The legislation has received endorsements from the National Horsemen's Benevolent & Protective Association (HBPA), the United Trotting Association (USTA), the North American Association of Racetrack Veterinarians (NAARV), and others.

By introducing this legislation, Congressman Higgins aims to restore trust in the horse racing industry by addressing concerns of federal overreach and oppressive mandates. The Racehorse Health and Safety Act seeks to strike a balance between ensuring the integrity of the sport and prioritizing the welfare of racing horses.

For more information on the proposed legislation, interested parties can read the full text of the Racehorse Health and Safety Act here.

To find out more, go to this link: https://clayhiggins.house.gov/2023/09/26/higgins-will-introduce-legislation-fight-against-federal-overreach-and/