A new independent organization is being formed to provide national regulatory oversight to Thoroughbred racing. The announcement of the Horse Racing Integrity and Safety Authority and proposed legislation came Monday at Keeneland.
Churchill Downs CEO Bill Carstanjen said the new authority would address both equine medication and track safety issues. “The crux of the bill is that this new entity, the authority, will have jurisdiction over the design, implementation, and enforcement of anti-doping and medication controls as well as racetrack safety protocols,” said Carstanjen.
Jockey Club Vice-Chair Bill Lear said the proposed legislation differs from previous measures with additional focus on track safety. Lear noted the new organization will play a role in overseeing racing from coast to coast. “The majority of its board will be independent, meaning persons completely outside of the equine industry and the minority of the members will be drawn from recommendations of groups within the industry. None will have current involvement. There will be no conflicts,” explained Lear.
Congressman Andy Barr has filed legislation in recent years to address equine medication issues. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is from another state, California, with sizeable horse racing interests. Even in what he described as a ‘really partisan place right now’, McConnell expressed optimism the legislation can pass.
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