In response to mounting criticism over recent rule adjustments, particularly concerning the use of clenbuterol, the Louisiana State Racing Commission has called for an emergency meeting scheduled for 5 p.m. EDT on Tuesday.
Last month, the commission introduced emergency rules permitting the administration of up to 725 micrograms of clenbuterol, a steroid, with a 72-hour withdrawal period before races. These rules were slated to take effect last Saturday.
Unlike areas covered by the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Administration, Louisiana does not adhere to the requirement for horses administered clenbuterol to be listed under veterinarians' supervision for at least 21 days. Additionally, horses must exhibit negative clenbuterol results in both blood and urine samples to be removed from the veterinarians' list.
Traditionally, the state has followed guidelines established by the Association of Racing Commissioners International, which necessitate a 14-day withdrawal period for clenbuterol before races.
This alteration, posing logistical challenges for horses travelling from Louisiana to other jurisdictions, has been met with widespread industry opposition. Various stakeholders, including Churchill Downs Inc., owner of Fair Grounds in New Orleans, have expressed disapproval. A spokesperson for CDI labelled the move as an "inexcusable abuse of process resulting in a substantial degradation in the safety and integrity of racing in the state."
The agenda for the upcoming meeting indicates that clenbuterol and depomedrol, an anti-inflammatory steroid, will be discussed. In light of the opposition to the rule changes, the final item on the agenda pledges "safeguards" during the transition period to revert to extended withdrawal periods.