Federal Regulations Proposed for Raceday Medication

Source: Daily Racing Forum, Associated Press

2 May 2011

Legislation detailing a ban on race-day medications is expected to be submitted to the United States Congress some time this week. The ban includes the popular medication known as Lasix, which aids in preventing exercise-induced bleeding in the lungs and airways of many race horses.

The bill comes three years after the tragic breakdown of Eight Belles at the 2008 Kentucky Derby. Though the filly tested clean and clear of steroids, safety and the lack of a universal governing body seemed to quickly top the charts in importance. 

Steroids are already banned on racetracks, but enforcement has been uneven and inconsistent, Associated Press reports. Just last month, the Association of Racing Commissioners International (RCI) released their plan to phase drugs out of racing in the U.S. and Canada over five years. William Koester, the RCI's newest chairman, admits that the industry is full of doping, compromising the image of the already fragile sport.

To read more about the bill and the effects on the racing industry, read the full articles here and here.