Congressman James Comer is set to co-sponsor the Horseracing Integrity Act, HR 1754, thereby adding his support to Animal Wellness Action (AWA), one of the US’ leading animal protection organizations.
The act, which would bring an end to doping in American horseracing, currently has 244 cosponsors in the US House, and 25 in the US Senate.
Discussing Comer’s support, an AWA released statement read: “We’re thrilled to see Rep Comer’s support for the Horseracing Integrity Act and applaud him for stepping up to protect the horses, the sport, and the Commonwealth’s best interests.
“Comer’s support is a significant milestone that shows the tide has turned against doping in Kentucky, and the Horseracing Integrity Act has more momentum than ever.”
It continued: “We anticipate the bill will receive a vote on the US House floor before the end of May, and call on US Reps Brett Guthrie, Thomas Massie, Hal Rogers, John Yarmuth, Senator Rand Paul, and US Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to join Reps. Barr, Comer, and 267 other members of Congress in supporting the Horseracing Integrity Act.”
The legislation was first introduced by US Rep Andy Barr who looked to address medication reform in the 114th Congress. However, at the time no other member of the current Kentucky Congressional delegation had joined him in his efforts.
Having now garnered support, the AWA estimates that prior to the end of May, the measure will receive a vote on the US House floor.