The Kentucky Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA) could file a lawsuit to prevent implementation of a new race-day medication policy in the state.


Kentucky Gov. Ernie Fletcher signed the more restrictive rules Aug. 19 under an emergency order. The Kentucky Horse Racing Authority  (KHRA) gave final approval to the new policy Aug. 15, and a day later, Kentucky HBPA executive director Marty Maline said there was some question whether medication rules warrant an emergency procedure.


Maline said the HBPA could file suit Aug. 23 in Franklin Circuit Court to prevent the rules from taking effect before the administrative process is complete. The KHRA must now file permanent regulations with the Legislative Research Commission and will accept public comment on them.


Others plan action as well, according to Maline. “I’m told the veterinarians are meeting with an attorney (Aug. 26) to discuss similar action,” he said

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