The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has postponed the implementation of a final rule amending the Horse Protection Act regulations by 60 days, with the new date set for April 2, 2025. The rule aims to prevent soring, a painful practice used to enhance the movement of Tennessee Walking Horses, and includes provisions such as training qualified individuals to detect and diagnose soring at horse events.

Industry leaders have celebrated the postponement as a temporary victory, allowing stakeholders more time to address concerns about the new regulations. The revised rules under the Horse Protection Act require event organizers to give advanced notice to the USDA, have government-approved veterinarians on-site, and maintain detailed records. Inspections will now be conducted by USDA-trained Horse Protection Inspectors, eliminating the previous system of industry-appointed inspectors.

While the updated regulations are intended to combat inhumane practices, critics have raised concerns about the expanded scope of the law and the influence of animal rights groups in the revision process. The revised rules place additional responsibilities on all participants in the equine industry, including owners, trainers, haulers, and event sponsors, who must ensure compliance to avoid penalties.