The West Virginia Racing Commission (WVRC) Aug. 20 approved an animal cruelty policy that will rely heavily on existing practices and state law.

The WVRC, as well as stewards and judges at racetracks, by law can take action against permit-holders found to have engaged in cruelty, mistreatment, neglect, abuse, or abandonment of Thoroughbreds and greyhounds, both of which race in the state. They also can refer cases to law enforcement officials if deemed necessary.

"I’m struggling to understand exactly the nature of any additional adjudicating responsibility with implementation of a formal cruelty policy," commissioner Greg McDermott said.

Still, racing commissioners said they believe there is value in having a policy on the books. The policy was adopted unanimously