A new federal immigration rule will benefit the Thoroughbred industry, the National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA) said Jan. 28.

The Obama administration said the rule will take effect in early March. It will allow undocumented spouses and children of United States citizens to apply for a waiver while in the U.S., and if the waiver is granted, the foreign national will then briefly leave the U.S. to apply for his or her immigrant visa abroad.

The move comes as Congress is taking up broad immigration reform.

"This change has the potential to be very beneficial to the whole Thoroughbred industry," said Phil Hanrahan, chief executive officer of the National HBPA. "It can have a very positive impact on many hundreds, if not thousands, of dedicated grooms, farm workers, and their families, and could help to address the need for skilled workers both at the track and on horse farms