Officials with the Kentucky Harness Association have issued a release to the industry in regard to proposed state medication regulations that are in the final stages of the legislative process. If they are enacted, the regulations will become effective as of August 25.

The regulations will apply to anyone intending to race in Kentucky, if passed.

The KHA has also released the updated withdrawal and threshold guidelines (from the KHRC) that would apply as part of the new regulations. The guidelines document can be accessed by clicking here.

The regulations include the following:

• the 48-hour NSAID restriction and the ban on stacking;

• the 14-day stand-down on intra-articular corticosteroid injections and the ban on stacking;

• the 24-hour restriction on furosemide administration for two-year-olds;

• the ban on bisphosphonate use in horses under four years old;

• the restriction on race day use of electronic therapeutics; and

• the medical history and veterinary examination requirements for entry.

Any questions regarding the proposed regulations should be directed to Bruce A. Howard DVM at 502-338-3730 or by email at [email protected].

(With files from the KHA)