Source: USDA
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has postponed implementation of the 2024 Horse Protection Amendments final rule, delaying non-vacated provisions until December 31, 2026. Originally set to take effect February 1, 2026, the rule aimed to strengthen enforcement of the Horse Protection Act by replacing industry-led inspections with USDA-authorized Horse Protection Inspectors and tightening prohibitions on soring, a cruel practice used to exaggerate a horse’s gait.
However, a January 2025 federal court decision vacated key provisions, including bans on pads and action devices and changes to the “scar rule.” Additional litigation and a preliminary injunction in 2025 further complicated enforcement, while a House committee report directed APHIS to withdraw the rule. Officials said partial implementation would create regulatory confusion. The delay also lifts upcoming recordkeeping requirements for horse show managers. APHIS says it remains committed to ending soring and will reassess next steps consistent with court rulings and congressional guidance.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/news/program-update/usda-postpones-implementation-horse-protection-amendments