The Horse Protection Act (HPA) is a federal law prohibiting the soring of horses and their participation in horse shows, exhibitions, sales, or auctions. The HPA aims to protect horses from the inhumane practice of soring, which involves causing pain or distress to a horse to create a specific gait, often used in certain horse show disciplines.
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Key aspects of the HPA:
- The law defines soring and prohibits any device, method, practice, or substance that can cause or is associated with soring.
- The HPA applies to all horse shows, exhibitions, sales, and auctions, including those of all horse breeds, not just Tennessee Walking Horses.
- The USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is responsible for enforcing the HPA and establishing regulations.
- Violations of the HPA can result in civil penalties, disqualification from events, and even criminal prosecution.
Photo by HSUS
New Rule (Effective February 1, 2026): The USDA has been working to amend the HPA regulations. Key changes include expanded reporting requirements for event management, new training and qualification requirements for horse protection inspectors (HPIs), and updated definitions of covered events. USDA solicited public comments through May 20 on their implementation delay and to solicit additional information on the rules. AAEP filed joint comments with the American Veterinary Medical Association, while many other organizations, like the American Horse Council, also provided feedback.
