| INDUSTRY |
HISA: DEVILISH DETAILS DEFINED N
ot everyone required to opt into the Horseracing Integrity & Safety Act is pleased to oblige. The confusing regulations have left many with less than a clear understanding of what the new rules actually mean. Those details have constantly fluctuated and will probably continue to shift past their application. Not everyone hates the idea, however. The intent was to make United States Thoroughbred racing safe, fair and ethical for everyone involved through national uniform standards. The legislation, H.R. 1754, passed in 2020 as part of a COVID-19 relief bill. Once signed by President Donald J. Trump, HISA officially became law. An introductory overview of HISA can be found on p.26 of Issue 62 / Breeders’ Cup 2021 of Trainer.
The legislation includes racetrack safety program protocols that began July 1, as well as anti-doping and medication control regulations, under the direction of Drug Free Sports International, to be finalized by January 1, 2023. The governing body of HISA, referred to as the “Authority” in the legislation, did not leave an abundance of time for the busy and independent members of the racing community to thoroughly digest the new rules and oversights before being asked/ required to become obligated by registering themselves and their horses. The Authority refers to those within their jurisdiction as “covered,” such as covered horses and covered persons. According to the Authority, as of June 29th, 20,537 people and 23,070 horses were registered. In addition, 20 of 24 states under HISA Authority were in agreement or expected to comply. Not signing up means a person or horse may not participate in racing. Once signed up, however, being misinformed or not following the rules can land people and equines severe punishments, large monetary fines and/or disqualification from industry participation. To date, stakeholders who feel the regulations are overly invasive and confusing appear to outnumber those who believe HISA is necessary to save the horseracing industry.
40
TRAINERMAGAZINE.COM ISSUE 65