On January 24, 2025, the USDA APHIS published the following announcement: “On January 24, 2025, APHIS temporarily postponed our final rule to amend the HPA regulations for 60 days from February 1 to April 2, 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:

What is the HPA?

First enacted in 1970 and amended in 1976, the HPA is designed to eliminate the abusive practice of soring—where pain is inflicted on a horse’s legs or hooves to produce an exaggerated gait. The act prohibits the showing, sale, auction, or transport of sored horses at regulated events.

What’s Changing?

The new amendments, effective February 1, 2025, will introduce the following updates:

  • Elimination of DQPs: Designated Qualified Persons (DQPs) will be replaced by APHIS-trained Horse Protection Inspectors (HPIs), eliminating conflicts of interest that existed under the previous system.
  • Prohibition on Pads and Devices: Pads, action devices, and other tools linked to soring will be banned, with exceptions for therapeutic use documented by a veterinarian.
  • New Inspection and Reporting Rules: Event managers must notify APHIS of events and utilize authorized HPIs or APHIS Veterinary Medical Officers (VMOs) for inspections.
  • Clearer Rules for Soring Detection: The “scar rule” will be replaced with updated guidelines for identifying visible dermatologic conditions indicative of soring.

Concerns and Challenges

While the changes aim to enhance the welfare of horses, industry stakeholders have raised concerns about:

  • Economic burdens on breeders and trainers.
  • Enforcement readiness and clarity in regulations.
  • The impact of device bans on fair competition.

Final Thoughts

The new HPA regulations represent a major step forward in ensuring the humane treatment of horses. However, understanding and implementing these changes will require careful planning and collaboration across the equine industry.

Want the Full Details?

The changes to the HPA are complex, and this blog post provides only an overview. For a comprehensive look at the new regulations on the Federal Register, the USDA/APHIS website, and read this white paper, which dives into specific requirements and potential impacts.

Disclaimer: This blog is intended for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For complete information, consult the full text of the regulations, guidance from APHIS, or seek advice from a qualified attorney.

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