Press Release 9/29/20 

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), the Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, today applauded House passage of a bill that will create safer racing conditions for Thoroughbred horses. The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act establishes uniform standards for anti-doping and medication control and racetrack safety for Thoroughbred horseracing. It also applies stronger safeguards and enforcement against performance enhancing drugs (PEDs). The legislation was approved by Pallone’s Energy and Commerce Committee earlier this month. 

“Horseracing at Monmouth Park in my district and across the country is more than just sport – it is a tradition that we look forward to year after year. Unfortunately, accidents that endanger both the horses and their riders ruin the joy of the races far too often. This bill sets standards that will help ensure we can maintain a safe, thriving horseracing industry,” Congressman Pallone said. “Racehorses need appropriate time to recover after intense physical activity. Under no circumstances should racehorses train or race if suffering from soreness, swelling, or pain nor should they race or train on unsuitable, treacherous tracks. This bill provides the guidelines necessary to protect thoroughbred racehorses and establish trust in the authenticity of thoroughbred races.”

According to the American Horse Council, the horseracing sector generates $15.6 billion of economic activity nationally every year that helps support almost 250,000 jobs. A 2007 Rutgers Equine Science Center study found that the horse industry in New Jersey was responsible for $1.1 billion dollars in economic impact and generated about 13,000 jobs.