H.R.3378 - Racehorse Health and Safety Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 3378, the Racehorse Health and Safety Act of 2025, aims to protect the health and welfare of racehorses and improve the integrity and safety of horseracing. It authorizes states to enter into an interstate compact to develop and enforce uniform scientific medication control and racetrack safety rules for each equine breed. The bill also establishes a Racehorse Health and Safety Organization (RHSO) to coordinate decision-making among member states and repeal the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act of 2020.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to uniform standards for medication control and racetrack safety across participating states. This could result in safer racing conditions for horses and increased integrity in the sport. However, it could also create challenges for states that are not part of the interstate compact, potentially affecting interstate wagering.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced horse welfare through uniform medication and safety standards.
- Increased integrity and fairness in horseracing.
- A nationwide database of racehorse safety, performance, health, and injury information for epidemiological studies.
- Potential for reduced injuries and fatalities among racehorses.
- Greater public confidence in the sport of horseracing.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs for state racing commissions to fund the RHSO.
- Possible conflicts between state and federal regulations.
- Challenges for smaller racetracks to meet new safety standards.
- Potential for reduced interstate wagering opportunities for non-member states.
- Concerns about the preemption of state laws by RHSO rules.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's authorization of interstate compacts aligns with Article I, Section 10, Clause 3 of the U.S. Constitution, which allows states to enter into agreements with the consent of Congress. The regulation of activities related to interstate commerce, such as horseracing and wagering, falls under the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3). However, the preemption of state laws could raise federalism concerns if not carefully balanced.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).