The horseracing industry in the United States has been under heightened public scrutiny in recent years, partly in response to racetrack breakdowns and deaths, and an abuse of medications by some trainers. This has led to the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act signed into Federal law in 2020. At its core is the creation of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA). This finally provides uniformity of Thoroughbred racing which up until now has been the governed under state laws.
On the 2nd of July the act requires the responsible person, almost always the trainer and assigned veterinarian, to upload all treatments, procedures, tests, and drugs administered including dose, for every ‘covered’ horse. The basis for the procedure also needs to be described. The act also describes procedures that are now banned across the whole of the United States, including blistering and thermocautery (pin-firing), surgical and chemical neurectomy, and banning the use of electrical medical therapeutic devices within 48 hours of racing. This includes magnetic wave therapy, lasers, electro-magnetic blankets and boots. Interestingly, they have banned the use of shock wave therapy for 30 days before racing or fast work (breezing). They have also banned all traction devices including rims, toe grabs and bends. They also describe use and specifications of the riding crop. Trainers and staff will have to undertake 8 hours of continuing education annually.
This will create an enormous database for every horse. The act also describes suspensions and fines, based on intent. Standardbreds, racing Quarter Horses and Arabians are exempt for these rule and regulations.
A powerful component of the act are the anti-doping regulations. These will come into effect on January 1st 2023, and will include national withdrawal times. There will be a mandate that Lasix (furosemide) will not be able to be used within 48 hours of racing. There will be a 3-year study to examine the effect of this ban. States may apply for an exemption during this period.
