Barn operators and other equine industry professionals in Texas are now protected from liability connected to injuries sustained during equine-related activities under a limited liability law that went into effect in June.

Passed by the Texas Legislature on May 27 and signed by Texas Governer Rick Perry in June, SB 479, The Texas Farm Animal Limitation of Liability Act, immunizes barn operators, riding instructors, and trainers from liability connected to equine activities on grounds that such activities carry inherent risks. Veterinarians, farriers, owners, and horse show sponsors are also protected under the measure.

Jerry Thames, spokesman for the Texas Horse Council, said that the measure "puts people on notice" that equine activities carry risks. The law could also reduce the number of unfounded lawsuits brought against barn operators and horse owners.

"Basically, it means if I have a $100,000 horse that kicks somebody at a horse show, I’m not going get a $1 million law suit," Thames said