S.1770 - Racehorse Health and Safety Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
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 medication control and racetrack safety rules for each equine breed. This bill also repeals the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act of 2020.
The Act establishes a Racehorse Health and Safety Organization (RHSO) to coordinate decision-making among member states. It also creates scientific medication control committees and a Racetrack Safety Committee to develop and recommend rules to the RHSO board.
Furthermore, the bill addresses prohibited acts, results management, disciplinary processes, and administrative sanctions for rule violations.
Expected Effects
The likely effect of this bill is a more standardized and regulated horseracing industry across participating states. This includes uniform medication rules and safety protocols.
The establishment of the RHSO and its committees will centralize oversight and enforcement. This could lead to improved horse welfare and increased public confidence in the sport.
However, the repeal of the 2020 act may create a temporary regulatory gap until the new system is fully implemented.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced horse welfare through uniform medication control and safety standards.
- Increased integrity and fairness in horseracing, potentially attracting more participants and fans.
- A centralized organization (RHSO) to oversee and enforce rules, promoting consistency and accountability.
- Development of a nationwide database for racehorse safety and health information, facilitating research and prevention efforts.
- Potential for increased public trust in the horseracing industry due to improved safety and fairness measures.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for conflicts between the RHSO and state racing commissions regarding enforcement authority.
- Possible challenges in achieving uniformity across different breeds and racing facilities.
- Financial burden on states to fund the RHSO and implement the new regulations.
- Risk of unintended consequences from repealing the 2020 act before the new system is fully operational.
- Potential for increased costs for covered persons (trainers, owners, etc.) due to new regulations and fees.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The act'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 Act provides that consent.
The establishment of uniform rules and regulations could be seen as promoting interstate commerce, which falls under the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3). However, the extent of federal oversight and potential preemption of state laws could raise federalism concerns.
The due process provisions in Section 402(c) align with the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments, ensuring fair treatment for individuals subject to disciplinary actions.
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).