Violations of new drug rule to be covered

Contact: Mark York 502-564-3350

FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 13, 2006) – The penalty regulation relating to thoroughbred horse racing in Kentucky cleared another hurdle today after its review by the General Assembly’s Administrative Regulation Review Subcommittee.  The new penalty regulation provides greater guidance on the penalties that may be imposed for violations of the new drug rule.

The drug and penalty rules were developed by the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority (KHRA) after consultation with the Equine Drug Research Council for certain portions of the rules. The regulation reviewed today by the subcommittee provides direction to state racing stewards and the KHRA for the imposition of fines and penalties for violation of regulations pertaining to horse racing, including the medication rule.

“The new rules will enable the racing industry to regulate itself more effectively. They also will enhance the image of horse racing and its integrity in the eyes of the public,” said Lisa Underwood, general counsel for the KHRA.

The drug regulation already is in effect. The KHRA had drafted the new penalty regulation to go with the drug regulation. The penalty regulation includes guidelines for discontinuing certain equine drugs prior to a race. It also contains allowable thresholds for nine specific medications.