Tonko Horseracing Reform Bill nearing finish line to become law
WASHINGTON » Congressman Paul D. Tonko ( D-Amsterdam) cheered the passage of his bipartisan legislation — H.R. 1754: the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act — as part of the bipartisan omnibus and COVID-19 relief legislation, H.R. 133, expected to be signed into law quickly by the President.
Tonko’s bill, which he was able to convince 260 of his colleagues to cosponsor, would designate the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority to design and implement uniform national horse racing medication and racetrack safety standards.
“For six years now, I have worked in a bipartisan fashion with my friend and partner in this effort, Congressman Andy Barr, to reform this noble sport to ensure it can continue to provide good jobs and support economic vitality in Saratoga Springs and communities like it throughout the nation,” Congressman Tonko said. “Our Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act does this by putting the well-being of our horses and jockeys front and center, delivering commonsense medication reforms and track safety standards that will restore public trust and confidence.
“After this long race, I amdelighted to see our legislation finally reach the winner’s circle and I look forward to ensuring a strong implementation of these new standards so that the sport of horseracing can thrive for generations to come.”
The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act was previously advanced out of the House as a standalone bill in September, 2020. Its companion Senate legislation was introduced this year by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martha McSally (R-AZ), and Dianne Feinstein (D- CA).