American Horse Council Releases Congressional Scorecard for 118th Congress

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American Horse Council Releases Congressional Scorecard for 118th Congress

WASHINGTON, DC—There is an oft-repeated saying in Washington: “If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog.” Thankfully, that’s not the only option. The American Horse Council (AHC) continues to rely on dependable advocates for the equine industry among members of Congress.

The AHC announces its bi-annual Congressional Scorecard, covering the second half of 2023. “The 118th Congress is facing many challenges,” said Julie Broadway, President of AHC. “The pace of legislating is slow, money is tight, and it is an election year. A trifecta of troubles, yet we’re pleased to announce our Champions in the Congress who continue to advocate for the equine industry. It’s been a particularly tumultuous period, and our Congressional Scorecard is more important than ever to help our members sort through all the noise that has enveloped the political discourse.”

The Congressional Scorecard identifies legislation that supports the U.S. equine industry. Bills are evaluated that draw consensus among the AHC’s diverse membership in areas such as animal welfare issues arising under the Horse Protection Act, labor flexibility, tax reform, public trails access, federal resources for equine-assisted services, USDA resources to promote equine programs and others that may emerge as the legislative, process moves forward. In addition to the legislation, points are awarded to members of the U.S. Congress who support the AHC through their membership in the Congressional Horse Caucus, who participate in AHC events, and who are accessible and responsive to AHC members and staff.

The methodology used identifies “priority legislation,” and assigns points based on a lawmaker’s degree of support for priority bills, among other factors. The point system then makes a smaller pool of “industry champions” emerge to inform members of the horse industry which incumbents should be recognized and acknowledged for their support.

The following are the top five ranking members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives:

SENATE

  1. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-West Virginia)
  2. Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota)
  3. Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kansas)
  4. Sen. John Thune (R-South Dakota)
  5. Sen. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho)

HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

  1. Rep. Don Bacon (R-Nebraska-2)
  2. Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-California-19)
  3. Rep. Andy Barr (R-Kentucky-6)
  4. Rep. Dan Meuser (R-Pennsylvania-9)
  5. Rep. McGarvey Morgan (D-Kentucky-3)

Those interested in viewing the Congressional Scorecard can visit the AHC website and look under “Election Center” (https://horsecouncil.org/election-center/congressional-scorecard/).

The scoring does not consider party affiliations. “The integrity of the scorecard is based on performance, not politics,” said Broadway. “We have a strong track record of working with both sides of the aisle. It’s the work product that matters, not the letter after their names.”

The scoring does not consider party affiliations. “The integrity of the scorecard is based on performance, not politics,” said Broadway. “We have a strong track record of working with both sides of the aisle. It’s the work product that matters, not the letter after their names.”

Some of the bills from the first half of the 118th Congress include:

  • H.R. 1582—Personal Health Investment Today Act of 2023 (PHIT Act of 2023) Sponsor: Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA-16)
  • H.R. 3090—Prevent All Soring Tactics Act of 2023 (PAST Act of 2023) Sponsor: Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1)
  • H.R. 1839—Combating Illicit Xylazine Act Sponsor: Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19)
  • H.R. 2927—Racehorse Tax Parity Act Sponsor: Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY-6)
  • H.R. 2296—Racehorse Cost Recovery Act of 2023 Sponsor: Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY-6)
  • H.R. 1250—Family Farm and Small Business Exemption Act Sponsor: Rep. Tracey Mann (R-KS-1)
  • H.R. 237—Recognizing the Importance of Stepped-Up Basis under Section 1014 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 in preserving family-owned farms and small businesses Sponsor: Rep. Tracey Man (R-KS-1)
  • S. 1108—Death Tax Repeal Act of 2023 Sponsor: Sen. John Thune (R-SD)
  • S. 993—Combating Illicit Xylazine Act Sponsor: Sen. Catherine Cortez Mastro (D-NV)
  • S. 4004—Prevent All Soring Tactics Act Sponsors: Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID)
  • S. 873— America’s Outdoor Recreation Act of 2023 (serves as an omnibus for related bills, additional co-sponsors will be added) Sponsor: Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV)

For more information, or to see the top ten, visit the AHC website: https://horsecouncil.org/election-center/congressional-scorecard/

American Horse Council Releases Supporting Report for National Equine Economic Impact Study

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American Horse Council Releases Supporting Report for National Equine Economic Impact Study

 

The American Horse Council (AHC) and AHC Foundation are proud to release the 2023 National Economic Impact Study Technical Appendix (also known as Report #2). The original report, released in January 2024, contained national statistics and economic impact data, while report #2 offers demographics, consumer data and detailed tables from the study that were not contained in Report #1. This includes responses to questions on purchasing patterns and future involvement.

 

This supporting report is available for purchase on the AHC website for $50.00. A two-page PDF of the Report #1 results is available for FREE on the AHC website, and the full report is available for purchase for $100.

 

“We are very excited that, for the first time, we can offer some additional insights and trends obtained during the course of the study,” states AHC President Julie Broadway. “We believe you will find this data very useful and fascinating.”  

 

Broadway added that because AHC staff and board have had the time to process the results and the numbers, there was one noted correction, which is as follows:

Page 40 on horse acreage should state … If 62% of the horse owners reported owning or leasing a farm, barn, or stable this results in ~2 acres per horse. 

The supporting report looks to highlight more details relating to the horse industry’s increased contribution to the gross distribution product (GDP) and can be a valuable tool for business owners and professionals alike.

 

For more information and to purchase the overall National Equine Economic Impact Study (Report #1) or the supporting report (Report #2), see the AHC website: https://horsecouncil.org/economic-impact-study/

American Horse Council Announces 2024 National Issues Forum Speakers

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American Horse Council Announces 2024 National Issues Forum Speakers

 

When you want to be in the know about the latest issues affecting the horse industry nationally and regionally, you’ve got to be in Washington, D.C., June 9-12.

 

The Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill Hotel is the place to be for insightful and informative discussions on all things affecting the equine industry for the 2024 American Horse Council Conference and National Issues Forum. The two-day event will wrap up with opportunities for organized agency and congressional hill visits as a way to show unity within the equine industry.

 

The American Horse Council (AHC) is excited to announce its lineup of tentative speakers and presenters for the annual conference at the Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill Hotel. Attendees can expect to get the most current and relevant information on topics affecting the equine industry.

 

The tentative schedule (all times EDT):

 

Sunday, June 9

1:00 pm – Panel discussion on “Own Responsibility” and “Social License to Operate” – moderated by David O’Connor of USEF, including Dr. Jim Heird (others TBA)

3:00 pm – Grass Roots Advocacy (part of the Coalition of State Horse Councils meeting)

 

Monday, June 10

8:00 am – Here For Horses Presentation by the AHC Marketing Alliance

8:30 am – AHC Legislative & Regulatory Update from AHC Staff

9:00 am – Advocacy Playbook: Learn How Other Associations Develop Their Positions and Polices – Dr. Mark Lutschaunig (AVMA), Burton Eller (The National Grange), Ryan Yates (American Farm Bureau Federation) and Jeff Evan (American Society of Association Executives)

10:00 am – Economics of Ag & Equine – Todd Van Hoose (President and CEO of Farm Credit Council) and Julie Broadway (American Horse Council)

11:00 am – Equine Assisted Services – Kathy Alm (PATH International), Kathy Blaine Loudon (therapeutic riding) and Karyn Brown (retired veteran)

1:00 pm – Racing Committee – Topic and speaker TBA, Unsanctioned Racing Update (Brigid Shea of AHC and AHC intern Ramsey Stroud)

2:00 pm – Health Committee – Veterinary Workforce Development – Dr. Paula Parker (AVMA), Dr. Eleanor Green (Lincoln Memorial) and Dr. Katherine Garrett (AAEP)

3:00 pm – Welfare Committee – Equine Euthanasia and Disposal – Dr. Michael Murphy (AVMA) and Dr. Emily Cornell (FDA)

4:00 pm – Show and Competition Committee – Innovation and Technology – Fatima Terry and Fredy Diaz (USDA Digital Services) and Juliana Chapman (The Tech Equestrian)

 

Tuesday, June 11

8:00 am – Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Survey Results from the AHC DEI Task Force

8:30 am – Recreation, Trails and Land Use Committee – Together Outdoors – Outdoor Recreational Roundtable and Holley Groshek (Equine Land Conservation Resource)

9:30 am – Regulatory Committee – The Regulatory Playbook: How Does It All Work? – Emily Stearns (AHC), Jennifery Reynolds (UMD) and Sandra TenBroech (University of Florida)

10:45 am – Congressional Hill Visit Orientation and Briefing – AHC Staff

 

Afternoon & Wednesday, June 12 – Agency and Congressional Hill Visits

 

Event registration is now open: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-american-horse-council-annual-conference-tickets-810166368417

 

Book your hotel within the AHC Conference block: https://www.sonesta.com/royal-sonesta/dc/washington/royal-sonesta-washington-dc-capitol-hill?isGroupCode=true&groupCode=G060124AHCM&checkin=2024-06-08&checkout=2024-06-12

 

For more information or questions, contact the AHC: info@horsecouncil.org

 

Nominations for 2024 American Horse Council Annual Awards Open

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American Horse Council Awards

Nominations for 2024 American Horse Council Annual Awards Open


The American Horse Council (AHC) is looking to honor the brightest leaders in the equine industry. The nomination period for the prestigious awards is now open. Honorees will be named during the AHC’s annual meeting and National Issues Forum, to be held in Washington, D.C., June 9-12.

These awards highlight the remarkable achievements and contributions made by those dedicated to advancing and promoting the horse community. While there are so many individuals and groups that should be recognized, the AHC looks to accept suggestions from all industry stakeholders.

The annual awards include:


The Van Ness Award is named in honor of the late Marjorie Van Ness of New Jersey, a long-time leader and friend to the horse industry. This award is presented to an individual who best emulates the dedication and commitment of Marjorie Van Ness to the improvement of the horse industry at the state level.


The recipient of the Van Ness Award must fulfill at least one of the following criteria:

  • Successfully worked to pass legislation that had a beneficial and significant impact on the horse industry in his/her state.
  • Developed programs through state government or state agencies that promoted and represented the interests of all horse people in the state.
  • Increased awareness, generated interest, and raised the visibility of the horse industry through educational programs and related events.

Last year’s recipient of the Van Ness Award was Cheslie Huseman, Ph.D., assistant professor and extension horse specialist in the Department of Animal Science at Texas A&M University.

The Hickey Award is named in honor of past AHC President James J. Hickey Jr., who served the AHC from 1993 to 2016. This award is presented to an individual who has been a great supporter of the horse industry and the AHC.

The recipient of the Hickey Award must meet the following criteria:

  • Exhibited a history of service and leadership to the industry and AHC.
  • Made a lasting impact on AHC and the industry.

Given their time and expertise willingly with the simple goal of improving the industry.

The recipient of the 2023 Hickey Award was Jerry Black, DVM, whose contributions cover a host of organizations, including the Pacific Coast Cutting Horse Association, the American Veterinary Medical Association, the National Cutting Horse Association, and the California Veterinary Medical Association. He served as president of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) in 2021 and was AHC Board Chairman from 2016 to 2019.

The Rolapp Award is presented in honor of the late Rich Rolapp, who was President of the AHC from 1974 to 1993. This award is presented to a Member of Congress who has been a great supporter of the horse industry.

The recipient of this award is selected by AHC staff and leadership. In 2023, the award was given posthumously to Representative Jackie Walorski (R-IN).


The AHC Champion Award will honor an AHC member (individual or group/association) who has demonstrated extensive and exemplary advocacy for the industry and the AHC. The recipient of this award will be selected from nominations by AHC staff and leadership.

The recipient must meet the following criteria:

  • Exhibited a history of service to the industry and AHC – routinely attending participating and presenting at AHC events, Fly-ins, and webinars, serving on AHC committees and/or task forces.
  • Exhibited leadership by routinely submitting letters to congressional offices regarding legislative issues and furthering the goals of AHC.
  • Involvement in and recognition of education, research, and professional development of the industry.

 

The 2023 AHC Champion Award was given to Gary Carpenter, who recently retired as Commissioner of the National Reining Horse Association.

The UHC’s Unity Award which recognizes an individual (or organization) that meets the following criteria:

 

  • An active member of the United Horse Coalition for two or more years, in good standing.
  • Taken the initiative to be involved in, and work towards programs that promote responsible ownership and breeding, and/or programs that support horses at-risk or in transition and their owners.
  • Used their industry relationships to work collaboratively to further strengthen and promote the mission of the United Horse Coalition.

The inaugural winner of the UHC United Award was Days End Farm Horse Rescue, located in Woodbine, Maryland.

Nominations are due April 1, 2024, and may be sent to the attention of current AHC President Julie Broadway at jbroadway@horsecouncil.org.

More information regarding the 2024 AHC Conference and National Issues Forum will be released soon.

One Stop Shop: The Source Book Looks for Submissions of Equine Educational Resources

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One Stop Shop: The Source Book Looks for Submissions of Equine Educational Resources

Submit Equine Educational Resources for Updated Source Book Directory of Equine Educational Resources

The latest trend is to resurrect things that were once considered new. Considering that trend, two esteemed equine institutions are bringing back a vital piece of informative material to assist the equine industry.

The American Horse Council (AHC) and American Youth Horse Council (AYHC) have joined forces to recreate a directory of equine educational resources known as “The Source Book.”

Originally published in 1999, the AYHC’s Source Book included a list of brochures, CDs, publications and other educational material focusing on the equine industry. Since then, technology has delivered a wider variety of resources that now includes online learning platforms, podcasts, e-publications and more. With so much information, that can honestly be a little mind boggling, it was time to refresh and bring back “The Source Book.”

The refresh edition will include resources provided by:

  • Equine associations,
  • Equine nonprofits,
  • Academic institutions and
  • Cooperative extension services.

The Source Book will be available as an online tool on both the AYHC and AHC websites.

“One of the missions of the American Horse Council is to provide as many doors to opportunities as possible to all horse owners and enthusiasts,” says Julie Broadway, president of the AHC. “And it is the mission of the AYHC to provide leadership and resources that will serve and promote the youth of the equine industry. Partnering on The Source Book is just a small part of what both groups can do to help enthusiasts, supporters, and everyone in the industry.”

Submissions are free and are being accepted from all equine associations and nonprofit organizations.

Submissions received by March 29, 2024, will be entered into a drawing for one of two $50 Visa gift cards.

To be a part of this revolutionary resource list, complete the following form for each resource: https://forms.gle/S9918UmTdvom5fA26

American Horse Council Internships

American Horse Council Internship Opportunities for Summer 2024

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American Horse Council Internships

American Horse Council Internship Opportunities for Summer 2024

The American Horse Council (AHC) is currently seeking student interns for the Summer 2024 (May-August) session. Most internships can be completed remotely, but opportunities are also available for students wishing to experience government affairs activities in person in Washington, D.C. All projects are coordinated by AHC staff and are limited to 12-week terms. Students may choose to receive course credit or a financial stipend (up to $125 per week, dependent on agreed-upon project commitment). Project commitments typically range from 10-20 hours per week. The AHC is also able to accommodate thesis projects and other student-led research academic credit needs.

Students participating in AHC internships gain experience in the larger equine industry through exposure to association involvement in active government affairs and regulatory issues at the Federal level and introduction to the immense range of industry stakeholders. Interns are invited to attend virtual staff meetings to understand active and future AHC initiatives outside of their direct project as well as general association operations.

Students do not need horse experience to apply. Projects listed for student involvement are not necessarily comprehensive of all available opportunities. Students are encouraged to reach out to the AHC if they have a related interest that is not specifically listed. This would include students interested in advocacy and political science, equine welfare, and other industry-related topics.

Potential Internship Positions:

SEO Project Internship

The AHC maintains an active and constantly updating website. The website is a key component of how the AHC communicates current issues and events to members and stakeholders. Search engine optimization (SEO) is needed to improve the appearance and positioning of web pages in organic search results. Interns should have experience with SEO and YOAST. This project may be done remotely.

Congressional Fly-In Support Internship

Each year as part of its Annual Conference, the AHC coordinates congressional office and federal agency visits for attendees. This position will work closely with the AHC Government Affairs and Regulatory staff to schedule meetings and, using information collected from the attendee’s registration forms, put together teams to meet with congressional and federal agency staff. The intern will also research and prepare issue briefings. This individual may work remotely but must be located in the D.C. area and attend the AHC Conference June 9-12, 2024.

For more information and or to apply contact Julie Broadway, AHC President, at jbroadway@horsecouncil.org

To learn more about AHC Internships, visit:  https://horsecouncil.org/about-us/ahc-student-internship-program/

To learn more about the American Horse Council, visit:  www.horsecouncil.org

American Horse Council and Equine Welfare Data Collective Data Palooza

Webinar: Data Palooza!

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American Horse Council and Equine Welfare Data Collective Data Palooza

 

 

Webinar: Data Palooza!Discussing the Results from the National Equine Economic Impact Survey and the Equine Welfare Data Collective

 

In recent weeks the horse industry has seen the “reveal” of two major studies that are meant to shape the actions of the industry in the present and future. The American Horse Council’s (AHC) 2023 National Equine Economic Impact Survey was released on January 31, sharing the results from the almost year-long data collection project that covers almost every aspect of the equine industry in the United States. Then, the United Horse Coalition’s Equine Welfare Data Collective (EWDC) released its annual report covering data on at-risk equines and those in transition with nonprofit organizations.

 

“We realize that we have released a lot of information in a short time, but both reports have very important roles in the horse industry,” says Julie Broadway, president of the AHC.

 

This is why the AHC will be hosting a free webinar on Monday, March 4 at 1 pm EST titled “Data Palooza.” This webinar, which is open to all, will discuss the results from the National Equine Economic Impact Survey as well as the sixth report from the EWDC.

 

The panel will include:

  • Julie Broadway, CAE – President of the American Horse Council and American Horse Council Foundation
  • Ashley Harkins – Director of the United Horse Coalition
  • Kelsey Buckley – Equine Welfare Data Collective  Program Administrator

Over the course of its 50-plus year history, the American Horse Council has conducted numerous national economic impact studies for the U.S. horse industry, which has included such pivotal years as 1987, 1997, 2007, 2017, and, the most recent study, 2023. Data collected will inform public and private investments in equine-related businesses, equine health care, education, land use decisions, tax policy, tourism, employment incentives, etc. During this presentation, Ms. Broadway will share highlights from the recent study and outline how legislative and regulatory issues at federal, state, and local levels drive inputs and outputs that affect the economy of the horse industry.

The Equine Welfare Data Collective began collecting data on at-risk and transitioning horses in November of 2018. Five years later we are proud to publish our 6th report detailing the services organizations provided to at-risk horses and their owners in 2022. Five years of data collection and reporting will enable Ms. Harkins and Ms. Buckley to provide the industry with a snapshot of the hard work and dedication shown every day by the people who are boots on the ground with horses in the rescue pipeline. Our goal is always to provide unbiased information to the industry so that those in a position to help can allocate resources in ways that will best benefit the horse.

Want to learn more about the AHC’s Economic Impact Study?  Click here:  https://horsecouncil.org/economic-impact-study/

Check out the latest trends in Equine Welfare straight from the source – data from your rescues and sanctuaries.  https://unitedhorsecoalition.org/ewdc-reports/

 

To register for the webinar, send an email to info@horsecouncil.org by Friday, March 1 at 5 pm EST

American Horse Council Foundation Economic Impact Study 2023

Results from the 2023 National Equine Economic Impact Study Released

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American Horse Council Foundation Economic Impact Study 2023

Results from the 2023 National Equine Economic Impact Study Released


The findings of the highly-anticipated 2023 Equine Economic Impact Survey have been officially released by the American Horse Council (AHC). The results shed light on the significant and robust contributions of the equine industry to the U.S. economy. The survey offers a comprehensive overview of the economic impact and trends within the equine sector and highlights how it reaches far beyond the pastures and ranch land across the country.

Key highlights of the survey include:

  1. Diverse Economic Sectors Impacted: $177 billion. That’s the total value added in 2023 from the equine industry, up from $122 billion in 2017. The equine industry’s ripple effect extends beyond the traditional sectors, influencing a broad spectrum of industries. From agriculture and tourism to veterinary services and technology, the survey showcases the interconnectedness of the equine world with other economic realms
  2. Employment Boost: The survey reveals a substantial impact on employment with 2.2 million jobs linked both directly and indirectly to the equine sector. Not only are breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and farriers represented, but so are truck drivers, nutritionists, chemists, police officers, and journalists.
  3. Slight Downshift in Population: While there is a slight downshift in the total population of horses from 2023 (6.6 million) compared to 2017 (7.2 million), that’s only a slight consideration when compared to the growing numbers in jobs and expenditures.

The purpose of the survey is to demonstrate the value of the equine industry in the national and state economies by analyzing the direct, indirect, and induced economic impacts of horse ownership, recreation, and equine-related services.

Data collected will inform public and private investments in equine-related businesses, equine health care, education, land use decisions, tax policy, tourism, employment incentives, etc.

The AHC expresses gratitude to all participants, stakeholders, and partners who contributed to the success of the 2023 Equine Economic Impact Survey. The results not only underscore the industry’s economic significance but also serve as a foundation for informed decision-making and strategic planning within the equine community.

“The Economic Impact Study is the most effective tool in our advocacy quiver,” says Julie Broadway, president of the AHC. “When the industry needs to take aim at an issue, this data is invaluable in helping us paint the picture of the contributions the industry makes and the breadth & depth of its composition.” 

More information about the 2023 Equine Economic Impact Study can be found here: https://horsecouncil.org/economic-impact-study/

Any questions can be addressed to American Horse Council President Julie Broadway at jbroadway@horsecouncil.org

 

PURCHASE A COPY

 

 

Horseback riding on the trail

Outdoor Recreation Bill Passes House Committee

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First-Ever Outdoor Recreation Specific Bill Passes House Committee 

 

The Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act passed the House Natural Resources Committee on January 17 by unanimous consent.  

 

The EXPLORE Act is historically significant as it is the first-ever outdoor recreation specific bill package and does not cost taxpayer dollars. The bipartisan legislation will boost local and national economies, give more Americans—especially those in underserved areas—greater access to green spaces and public lands and waters, while also modernizing policies and procedures to support the recreation businesses that connect people to outdoor experiences. The EXPLORE Act is a companion to a similar package passed in the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee last year, America’s Outdoor Recreation Act (AORA).  

 

This passing of this act underscores the momentum the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR), along with the American Horse Council (AHC) and other industry partners have built over the past few years to advance bipartisan policies that improve access and transform outdoor recreation opportunities. The outdoor recreation industry, which in 2022 was valued at $1 trillion by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis, was instrumental in passing the Great American Outdoors Act in 2022, which was one of the greatest public lands and waters packages to become law in the history of our nation.    

  

“The AHC supports the EXPLORE Act because it protects access for horses and packers on public lands,” says Julie Broadway, President of the American Horse Council. “Maintaining and expanding trail access on public lands ensures the next generation of horseback riders can explore and recreate safely alongside other users. The inclusion of language to identify and adopt policies to promote conflict avoidance on multiple use trails is extremely important for the welfare of all users, and especially those who are riding or packing. AHC also commends the inclusion of the MVP Act (Military and Veterans in Parks Act) which holds the potential to expand access for Veterans and Active-Duty military as there are proven therapeutic benefits associated with outdoor recreation and Equine assisted service/therapy.”  

 

The AHC applauds the hard work of industry leaders and the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable.  

 

“(This) marks a major advancement for the future of outdoor recreation in the United States,” says Jessica Wahl Turner, the ORR president. “With the House Natural Resources Committee’s markup of the EXPLORE Act, we are moving closer to enacting legislation that will revitalize our approach to recreation management and access. This bipartisan effort, led by Chairman Bruce Westerman and Ranking Member Raul Grijalva, is a testament to the ongoing dedication to not only preserving, but also enhancing the outdoor experiences available to every American. The EXPLORE Act brings modern solutions to the forefront, ensuring that our green spaces and outdoor places are more accessible and enjoyable for all. It’s a forward-thinking move that aligns with the ever-growing enthusiasm for outdoor activities and addresses the need for our policies to reflect current and future outdoor engagement.”  

 

ORR and its members celebrate this milestone and urge swift passage of the EXPLORE Act through the full House and Senate, for the benefit of our public lands, waters, and the communities that thrive because of them.  

  

The EXPLORE Act would:  

·         Enable permit streamlining to ease burdens on outfitters and guides and improve access to outdoor experiences;  

·         Improve access to recreation on public lands and waters;  

·         Ensure access to green spaces in underserved communities;  

·         Develop, improve, and complete long range trails; and  

·         Invest in rural economic development.  

  

For more information on the bill and its progress through the House, visithttps://recreationroundtable.org/priorities/recreation-package/.  

For more information about the American Horse Council, visit:  https://www.horsecouncil.org

United States Capitol building at sunset.

Is your business organized as a Limited Liability Corporation?

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Is your farm, ranch, or business organized as a Limited Liability Corporation?

 

If so, you may be required to file a report to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). FinCEN is a bureau of the U.S. Department of Treasury.

 

Who has to report?

 

  1. A corporation, a limited liability company (LLC), or was otherwise created in the United States by filing a document with a secretary of state or any similar office under the law of a state or Indian tribe; or
  2. A foreign company and was registered to do business in any U.S. state or Indian tribe by such a filing.

If your company was created or registered prior to January 1, 2024, you will have until January 1, 2025, to report. (There are different reporting timelines if your company was not created or registered prior to 2024. See the Website for guidance.)

Companies required to report need to do so through FinCEN’s Website: www.fincen.gov/boi

 

Resources for more information include:

FinCEN’s Small Entity Compliance Guide

Iowa State University Center for Agricultural Law & Taxation

 

Background

 

These reporting requirements stem from the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), part of the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020. In 2021, Congress enacted the Corporate Transparency Act.

 

This law creates a beneficial ownership information reporting requirement as part of the U.S. government’s efforts to make it harder for bad actors to hide or benefit from their ill-gotten gains through shell companies or other opaque ownership structures. While this legislation has been around for a few years, FinCEN, a bureau within the U.S. Treasury Department, recently issued a final rule establishing the beneficial ownership information reporting requirements, which take effect on January 1, 2024.

 

The reporting requirement is to record Beneficial ownership.

A beneficial owner is:

  • Directly or indirectly exercises “substantial control” over a company, or
  • Directly or indirectly owns or controls 25% or more of a company’s ownership interests.

A person can be a beneficial owner when they have significant influence over the activities and decisions of the entity, even if they don’t own a substantial portion of the company’s stock or hold a formal title such as, but not limited to, CEO or President.

“Beneficial owners” could be found beyond the normal scope of ownership potentially extending to certain family members. These rules are complex and should be examined thoroughly to ensure compliance.

Information collected include the following items.

  • The business’s legal name and any trade names or “doing business as” (DBA) names
  • The current street address of its principal place of business in the U.S.
  • Its jurisdiction of formation or registration
  • Its taxpayer identification number
  • The name, date of birth, and address of all beneficial owners of the company
  • A unique identifying number from an acceptable identification document, such as a driver’s license issued by a U.S. state or passport

The company must also submit an image of the identification document to FinCEN.

For more information about the American Horse Council, click here:  www.horsecouncil.org

Want more industry news?  Check out the latest happenings here:  https://horsecouncil.org/latest-news/