On Friday, May 29 in Washington, DC, a democratic congressman from New York State announced that he plans on introducing a piece of legislation, titled the Thoroughbred Horse Racing Anti-Doping Act of 2015, that will outline uniform, nationwide drug and medication standards. The bill calls for the rules to be overseen by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency.
''A single, national approach to medication and drug testing with strong independent oversight and enforcement is long overdue,'' Congressman Paul Tonko said via statement, according to a report on foxsports.com.
Congressman Tonko’s statement also explains that the Act would 'help ensure the industry's long-term viability, including enhancing the care and welfare of horses.''
Additionally, the report also explains that a ‘Coalition for Horse Racing Integrity’ support group has been assembled. The Jockey Club, Breeders' Cup Ltd., the Humane Society of the United States and the Water Hay Oats Alliance are all part of the coalition group.
The report also includes a statement on the subject by USADA CEO Travis Tygart. In it, Tygart stated that his organization supports the bill, adding that it is the USADA’s hope that “the model of independence, harmonization and enforcement of robust anti-doping programs envisioned through this legislation can be realized to finally truly protect the health of the athletes and the integrity of the competition.''
(With files from foxsports.com)