In light of the announcement today by New York Governor Andrew M. Cuomo regarding a safety overhaul of NYRA tracks, New York State Racing And Wagering Board Chairman John D. Sabini has issued a statement.

"The sweeping reform suggestions announced today by the Task Force on Racehorse Health and Safety are welcome recommendations that will greatly improve horse and rider safety in New York State," said Sabini. "The measures will be fully implemented by the Racing and Wagering Board."

Sabini went on to state that the NYSRWB will hold a special meeting within the next two weeks to enact several emergency rules in accordance with the Task Force's recommendations.

"These rules will apply to all thoroughbred racing in New York State. The Racing and Wagering Board will also adopt other recommended protocols and policies that do not require specific rulemaking actions."

Rules expected to be enacted on an emergency basis include:

• Voiding claims (at claimant's discretion) for horses that are vanned off the grounds
• Requiring that Claimants be advised of Intra-Articular Corticosteroid Administrations
• Adjusting the Purses Claiming Ratio to 1.6 times claiming price
• CORTICOSTEROID ADMINISTRATION CHANGES
• DepoMedrol prohibited within 15 days
• All other Intra-Articular Corticosteroids prohibited within 7 days
• All Systemic Corticosteroids prohibited within 5 days
• Required Corticosteroid Reporting to Stewards
• Clenbuterol prohibited within 21 days

To view Gov. Cuomo's announcement, click here.