arrow_back Back to App

Stronger Penalties and Ban on Devices Causing Horse Soring (PAST Act 2025)

This law significantly strengthens the protection of horses, particularly Tennessee Walking, Racking, and Spotted Saddle Horses, against "soring" (intentional infliction of pain to alter gait). It bans specific devices used to cause friction or striking and drastically increases fines and jail time for violations. The public gains transparency through mandatory publication of violation records by the USDA.
Key points
Increased Penalties: Maximum fines for knowing violations rise from $3,000 to $5,000, and imprisonment increases from 1 year to 3 years.
Device Ban: Completely prohibits the use of "action devices" (chains, weighted shoes, pads) designed to artificially alter the gait of specific horse breeds at shows or sales.
Improved Inspections: USDA must license and oversee independent inspectors (preferably veterinarians) to detect soring, ensuring they are free from conflicts of interest.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Introduced
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_1684
Sponsor: Rep. Fitzpatrick, Brian K. [R-PA-1]
Process start date: 2025-02-27
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-flash-latest
Source data: api.congress.gov
AI work logs for this document launch

OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

PAST Act of 2025

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_HR_1684.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2025-02-27.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Increased Penalties: Maximum fines for knowing violations rise from $3,000 to $5,000, and imprisonment increases from 1 year to 3 years.
  • Device Ban: Completely prohibits the use of "action devices" (chains, weighted shoes, pads) designed to artificially alter the gait of specific horse breeds at shows or sales.
  • Improved Inspections: USDA must license and oversee independent inspectors (preferably veterinarians) to detect soring, ensuring they are free from conflicts of interest.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Fitzpatrick, Brian K. [R-PA-1].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-23.

CATEGORIES

Agriculture Courts and Law