Racing Division adopts new rules regarding medication, veterinary practices, and safety equipment
- July 09, 2013
- by MGC Communications
- 0 comments
Racing Division Implements Emergency Rules on a Permanent Basis
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission has adopted regulatory amendments pertaining to national best practices and operational standards for the state’s standardbred and thoroughbred horse racing industry on a permanent basis.
Adopted as emergency rules in late March, these now permanent amendments incorporate nationally-recognized best practices from the Racing Commissioners International Model Rules as they pertain to uniform medication and testing standards and the health and safety of racing’s participants. These proactive measures taken by MassGaming will support the highest standards as the horse racing industry prepares for the arrival of expanded gaming.
MassGaming’s Director of Racing, Jennifer Durenberger, stated, “Taking these important and proactive measures to strengthen our standards and promote uniformity will reassure the pari-mutuel customer that Massachusetts is serious about protecting the integrity of its racing and the welfare of its participants.”
On May 20, 2012, MassGaming assumed regulatory responsibility for the state’s horse racing industry from the State Racing Commission In preparation for the 2013 racing season, the Racing Division has aggressively pursued and implemented new protocols, procedures and standards to ensure the utmost integrity and efficiency for horse racing in Massachusetts As of June 30, 2013, the Racing Division has tested over 750 post-race samples from Standardbred and Thoroughbred racehorses as part of its newly-adopted comprehensive accredited drug testing program.