HISA Posts Draft of Medication, Drug-Testing Rules

A June 1 draft of medication and drug-testing rules from the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority has been posted on the HISA website for public comment.

The Authority will soon become responsible for enforcing uniform safety and integrity rules in U.S. Thoroughbred racing after the passage of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act in 2020.

HISA first released a set of rules covering such topics last fall, but those rules were pulled when an enforcement agreement with the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency did not materialize. HISA announced May 3 that it had reached an agreement with Drug Free Sport International for its medication and drug-testing program.

In a letter accompanying the rules, Adolpho Birch, chair of the Anti-Doping and Medication Control program, addressed four subjects, including sanctions. He wrote that "Sanctions for violations of the Protocol also have been recalibrated to reflect the distinction between Banned Substances and Controlled Medications. In particular, sanctions for Controlled Medication rule violations (absent aggravating factors or repeat offenses) remain substantial but have been reduced relative to those involving Banned Substances."

Among the rules addressed in the most-recent draft are hearing and appeal procedures and increased sanctions for repeat offenders. The current draft of rules remains open for public comment before they become promulgated by the Federal Trade Commission.

Jan. 1 is the target date for implementation of the ADMC program, delayed from July 1, when racetrack safety rules take effect.