U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) recently cosponsored a bill that would preserve the Tennessee Walking Horse industry by banning the practice of soring while also preventing overregulation that could harm the economy in several states.
The soring of horses involves actions taken on horses’ limbs to produce higher gaits that can cause pain, distress, or lameness.
The Protecting Horses from Soring Act of 2022, S. 4005, was introduced on April 5 by Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-TN), along with Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY).
“Bad actors are using caustic chemicals, pressure shoeing, and other harmful practices to undermine the prestige of the industry,” Sen. Blackburn said. “The Protecting Horses from Soring Act of 2022 will stop these bad actors and ensure that this Volunteer State tradition continues for years to come.”
The bill would amend the Horse Protection Act to provide increased protection for horses participating in shows, exhibitions, sales, and auctions. If enacted into law, the legislation would require the management of any horse show or exhibition to disqualify any horse from being shown if the horse is determined to be sore after an inspection, among other provisions.
According to a bill summary from Sen. Blackburn’s office, state officials and industry and equine experts would have the authority to ensure consistent oversight of inspections related to horse soring. It would also require objective, scientifically based testing and prevent conflicts of interest.
Sen. Hagerty noted the Tennessee Walking Horse industry dates back to 1886. “I am pleased to introduce legislation that will support this important industry by bringing regulatory certainty that is objective and scientifically based while protecting horses, breeders, and competitors moving forward.”
The proposed legislation is under consideration in the U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.