The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has approved the proposed rule changes to the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA)'s Racetrack Safety Program and the changes will take effect starting July 8, the organization announced Friday via presser.
The 30-day window before the official start day allows for an educational campaign so as to prepare the industry for the changes, an effort which will include handbooks, webinars, posters, HISA portal messaging and social media outreach. The revisions come after extensive dialogue and feedback from industry participants, including from the Horsemen's Advisory Group.
Some highlights include an updated void claim rule; a second waiver claiming option; changes to certain intra-articular injection standdown times; updates to prohibited practices and qualifications for placement on, or removal from, the vet list; and enhanced safety protocols required at race meets.
The newly approved rules are available in full here.
In addition to the racetrack safety rule, the FTC also approved changes to HISA's registration rules, which will go into effect July 1. Those can be found here.
“The approval of these rule changes marks a significant step forward in our ongoing efforts to enhance the safety and integrity of Thoroughbred horse racing,” said HISA CEO Lisa Lazarus. “We are committed to working closely with all industry participants during this transition period and beyond to ensure these new standards are fully understood and effectively implemented.”
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