Protecting Horses from Soring: New Rules for Shows and Auctions
This act introduces stricter rules to protect horses from 'soring' during shows, exhibitions, and auctions. Citizens should be aware that these changes aim to ensure better animal treatment through objective veterinary inspections and the establishment of a new oversight organization. This is intended to enhance the safety and welfare of horses participating in these events.
Key points
Introduction of 'objective inspections' for horses, including science-based tests (e.g., swabbing, blood testing) conducted by veterinarians to detect soring.
Horses found to be sore will be disqualified from shows for at least 30 days (first offense) or 90 days (subsequent offenses).
Establishment of a new, independent Horse Industry Organization responsible for licensing inspectors and overseeing compliance, eliminating conflicts of interest.
All horse shows and auctions will be required to formally affiliate with the new organization to ensure compliance.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_2648
Sponsor: Rep. DesJarlais, Scott [R-TN-4]
Process start date: 2023-04-17