CHRB Enters Into Voluntary HISA, ADMC Program Agreement

The California Horse Racing Board, a steadfast supporter of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority and its authorizing act, has signed a new voluntary agreement with HISA and its Horseracing Integrity & Welfare Unit, indicating the CHRB's intention to enforce and comply with all federal horse racing rules and procedures.

The CHRB has been enforcing and complying with safety regulations HISA introduced on July 1, 2022. Under the new agreement, the CHRB will implement rules under the Anti-Doping and Medication Control Program, scheduled to go into effect March 27. 

Under the agreement, the CHRB agrees to perform certain tasks for the Authority and HIWU, including collecting equine samples, testing those samples at the University of California, Davis, collaborating on equine-related research, and performing investigations related to adverse analytical findings. As the CHRB and California horse racing industry already pay for these activities, HISA is giving California a credit, reducing California's annual HISA assessment fee.  

"The CHRB is proud of our work and record in safety and animal welfare, and therefore we want to have a role in shaping policy going forward," CHRB executive director Scott Chaney said. "We have partnered and supported the national effort from the beginning and appreciate the dedication of the Authority and HIWU."

The federal rules are similar to those in California, meaning participants in California will need to make fewer adjustments than some counterparts in other racing jurisdictions.