USDA/APHIS has announced that the HPA Regulations set to go into effect February 1st will be postponed until April 2nd. The Agency will continue to screen, train and authorize Inspectors, and will “issue guidance to Stakeholders for the upcoming show season.” This announcement is good news for our horse shows and represents a shift in posture by USDA. Equine Sports Council encourages individuals to sign our petition to make your voice heard. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will announce new guidance as it becomes available.

Equine Sports Council was pleased to host an educational forum at the UPHA National Convention on Friday, January 10th. Dr. Travis Mays presented, “Demystifying Drug Testing,” and shared information on the chain of custody process and testing procedures at Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory. In addition to Dr. Mays’ presentation, Tamara Tucker, ESC Director and General Counsel, introduced our Show Safety Policy. Jackie Hale, Director, provided an update on the USDA’s Horse Protection Act and a checklist of regulations for trainers. And fellow Director, Shane Darnell, shared information about what we learned from the 2024 drug testing results and outlined some changes in withdrawal times we are considering for…