Advancing Equine Sport: A Push for Modernized Temporary International Transport Regulations
The American Horse Council is rallying behind a critical effort to modernize international horse transport regulations, aligning them with globally recognized standards set by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). These proposed changes aim to streamline the import process for high-performance horses, reduce unnecessary quarantine stress, and enhance the United States’ ability to host world-class equestrian events.
At the heart of this initiative is the adoption of WOAH’s High Health, High Performance (HHP) framework, which has already proven successful in Europe and at the last three Olympic Games. These science-based protocols are designed to protect animal health while facilitating safe, efficient international movement. They include modern tools such as digital health passports, microchip verification, and targeted disease surveillance—all of which are already in use by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), the international governing body for Olympic equestrian sport.
Why This Matters, and Why Now?
Current U.S. import protocols, particularly those related to diseases like Contagious Equine Metritis, have been cited as barriers to international participation. In March 2025, for example, a healthy Team Great Britain horse was denied entry to the U.S. due to a paperwork issue, preventing its participation in a major event in Ocala, Florida. Such incidents not only impact competition but also the reputation and economic potential of U.S.-hosted events.
Research also shows that prolonged stall confinement during quarantine can negatively affect horse welfare, increasing the risk of injury and stress. The proposed updates would allow for more humane, evidence-based practices that support both animal health and performance.
A number of high-level, internationally-sanctioned events hosted here in the United States are on the horizon – including most notably the 2028 Olympic Games to be held in Los Angeles, California. If we want to encourage top-level athletes to compete here in the U.S. by addressing health and welfare concerns while also maintaining strict biosecurity and traceability protocols, the time to act is now.
Economic and Strategic Benefits
Adopting internationally harmonized standards is not expected to impose significant new costs on the USDA or taxpayers. Most activities related to international horse movement are already funded through user fees. In fact, streamlining protocols could reduce administrative burdens and attract more international competitors—boosting tourism, local economies, and the global standing of U.S. equestrian sport.
This is not just about the Olympics. The changes would benefit all international equestrian events hosted in the U.S., from world championships to elite horse shows and races. By aligning with WOAH standards, the U.S. can maintain regulatory sovereignty while enhancing its competitiveness and commitment to animal welfare.
Congressional Outreach and Stakeholder Engagement
Efforts are currently underway to educate lawmakers and federal agencies about the benefits of these proposed changes. Meetings with congressional offices, USDA officials, and industry stakeholders are ongoing. The goal is to have a proposal introduced as part of the larger farm bill reauthorization effort. Without passage of another temporary extension, the current iteration of the farm bill will expire at the end of September. While a number of farm bill components were addressed within the One, Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), the appetite for a more comprehensive bill within Agriculture Committee leadership remains strong. The looming shadow of a potential government shutdown suggests that such a bill may not see the light of day for several months, but in the meantime we will keep positioning ourselves to build awareness and support.
As part of this effort, American Horse Council stakeholders are encouraged to share their experiences and support for the initiative to help build momentum for regulatory reform.