Changes to medication regulations in Louisiana

The Louisiana State Racing Commission's decision to revert to stricter regulations regarding Clenbuterol and Depo-Medrol has prompted the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) to take action. In a memo addressed to various stakeholders, including owners, trainers, regulatory veterinarians, and track management, HISA outlined new protocols for horses shipping out of Louisiana.

Effective June 8, horses leaving Louisiana will be placed on the vets' list upon arrival at their destination track. This designation applies to horses that have, shipped directly from Louisiana and participated in workouts or races in Louisiana since June 8, 2024

These horses will remain on the vets' list until they undergo a supervised workout overseen by the regulatory veterinarian. Following the workout, a blood sample will be collected at the owner's expense to ensure the horse's soundness. Only after the blood sample tests negative will the horse be eligible to race.

HISA emphasised that horses meeting the criteria outlined in the memo must be scratched from races until they have completed the requirements. Trainers can initiate the vets' list protocol by notifying the regulatory veterinarian upon leaving Louisiana.

This stringent measure aims to uphold equine welfare and racing integrity amid concerns raised by recent changes in medication regulations in Louisiana.