Horse Protection Act Regulation

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AHC has submitted a letter in support of the proposed changes by the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Inspection Service (APHIS) to strengthen enforcement of the Horse Protection Act regulation. The AHC letter will be posted on Regulations.gov. Click on the “Browse Posted Comments” tab and enter “American Horse Council” in search tab. Note it may take several days for APHIS to review and post our comments.

AHC offered comments on the following proposed changes:

  • Establishing qualifying criteria for people applying to be inspectors, as well as processes for denying applications;
  • Allowing event management to appoint an APHIS representative to conduct inspections;
  • Prohibiting any device, method, practice, or substance that could mask evidence of soring, as well as all action devices and non-therapeutic pads and wedges, and substances applied above the hoof;
  • Clarifying the “scar rule” by modifying the description of visible changes that indicate soring, and;
  • Amending recordkeeping and reporting requirements for management at horse shows, exhibitions, sales, and auctions to increase oversight and prevent those that have been previously disqualified from participating in events.

AHC’s comment letter specifically states, “The mandate of this law and its detailed regulations have not prevented the illegal and inhumane treatment of horses as the delegated responsibility for ensuring compliance has fallen short. These proposed changes are positive and necessary steps toward ensuring that the congressional mandate, clearly spelled out in the legislation, is effectively enforced.”

AHC additionally “The AHC and the equine industry at large recognize we must meet a level of public acceptance and trust. APHIS also recognizes, as highlighted in the Agency’s Strategic Plan, that perceptions of animal welfare and wildlife are evolving, increasing pressure on related government activities.

This rule is intended to protect the welfare of Tennessee Walking Horses, Racking Horses, and Spotted Saddle Horses — three beautiful and talented breeds of horses. It is also designed to restore trust in those owners, managers, and regulators participating in activities involving these breeds. APHIS must quickly build the capacity to investigate and prosecute violators of the HPA to accomplish these goals. This means increasing the number of qualified personnel, adopting forward-facing, integrated IT data systems and platforms, and strengthening collaboration with organizational stakeholders.”

For more information on the proposal email info@horsecouncil.org