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Appeals Court Upholds $210K Fine Against Horse Dealer for Interstate Transport Violations

In a significant ruling from the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, the court upheld a $210,000 fine imposed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) against Jason Fabrizius and Fabrizius Livestock LLC, a Colorado-based horse dealer. The case revolved around violations of federal livestock transportation regulations, including failure to obtain required documentation when transporting horses across state lines.

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Proposed Legislation Alert: Oklahoma Senator Pushes for Major Changes to Livestock Liability Limitation Laws

Oklahoma's Senate Bill 776, known as Julie’s Law, introduces and seeks significant changes to the state's livestock and equine liability limitation laws. Set to take effect on November 1, 2025, this new legislation would enact key updates designed to enhance safety and clarify liability. Here's some of what you need to know.

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Galloping into Legal Battle: Northern District of Texas Reins in USDA Overreach in Tennessee Walking Horse Case

U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas vacates key provisions of the USDA's HPA 2024 Rule which aimed to eradicate the cruel practice of "soring" in horses.

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A little girl, a special horse, and a journey of healing. ❤️🐴

Kayden’s life changed forever after a tragic accident, but thanks to Nexus Equine and one incredible horse, she found strength, hope, and a new way forward. This heartwarming story proves the powerful bond between humans and animals. Read more about Kayden’s inspiring journey here: https://www.news9.com/story/67a6a887fe11f32f1f0efe90/kayden-s-journey-of-healing-how-nexus-equine-and-a-special-horse-changed-her-life #HealingWithHorses #Inspiration #NexusEquine

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HPA Final Rule Postponement

Today, the USDA via APHIS announced a 60-day postponement of the the Horse Protection Act (HPA) stating in part “[o]n January 24, 2025, APHIS temporarily postponed our final rule to amend the HPA regulations for 60 days from February 1 to April 2, 2025.” To read the announcement in its entirety, click here: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/hpa

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Major Changes Coming to the Horse Protection Act in 2025

As of January 23, 2025, the USDA/APHIS website continues to show an effective date of February 1, 2025. The Horse Protection Act (HPA), a cornerstone in protecting horses from the cruel practice of soring, is set to undergo significant amendments. These changes, published by APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) in May 2024, aim to modernize enforcement and ensure better oversight. Here’s what you need to know:

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Opinion: A Social License to Operate (SLO) is Critical to the Equine Industry.

A social license to operate (SLO) refers to the ongoing approval and acceptance of an organization or activity by the public and key stakeholders. One could reasonably argue, that in an era of heightened public scrutiny and growing concern for animal welfare, maintaining an SLO is critical to ensure the sustainability, growth, and public support of equine-related activities.

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Horse Adoption: Enrich your life and make a difference in the life of a horse ❤️.

Eley and Sherrie E., an Oklahoma couple with a deep affection for horses, expanded their herd by adopting two horses from the ASPCA’s Equine Adoption and Transition Center (ETAC) in El Reno, Oklahoma. Initially, they welcomed King, a 3-year-old blue roan, into their family. During the adoption process, Eley noticed Chief, a timid 9-year-old bay…

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American Horse Council (AHC) urges delay in implementation of Horse Protection Act changes.

The American Horse Council (AHC) has formally requested that the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) delay the implementation of the revised Horse Protection Act (HPA) regulations, currently set for February 1, 2025, by 60 days.

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Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Reporting – Back on a Voluntary Reporting Again…

Nothing says a hotly contested and outright confusing mandate like the FinCEN BOI reporting mandate which appears to be, once again, on hold. A voluntary reporting is currently being encouraged. Review the latest on the ongoing litigation by visiting the following site. You can also signup for emailed notifications from FinCEN. Likely a good idea…