The Impact of HISA on Horse Safety

The implementation of federal regulations has brought measurable improvements in equine safety within U.S. thoroughbred racing. The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) recently reported a notable decrease in horse fatalities, with the fatality rate at regulated tracks dropping to 0.90 deaths per 1,000 starts in 2024—marking a 27% decline from the previous year and the lowest rate recorded since these metrics began in 2009.

A Closer Look at Progress

This progress reflects the success of HISA’s regulatory framework, suggesting a positive trend in horse welfare and safety. Chelsea Perez, senior program manager at Humane World for Animals, emphasized the initiative’s role in bringing together various stakeholders within the racing industry to foster a culture of safety.

However, the gains are juxtaposed against significant challenges. The fatality rate at tracks outside HISA’s jurisdiction remains concerning at 1.76 per 1,000 starts, indicating a fragmented industry. HISA’s regulations currently apply to 47 venues across 19 states, while many others operate under inconsistent state laws.

Training-Related Mortality and New Data

The 2024 report also includes new statistics on training-related equine deaths. For the first time, HISA documented fatalities occurring during timed workouts, revealing a rate of 0.50 per 1,000 workouts at HISA-regulated tracks. Horses that died or were euthanized within 72 hours due to race-related injuries have been included in these figures.

HISA’s Regulatory Measures

Created by Congress and operating under the Federal Trade Commission, HISA began its efforts in July 2022. New protocols introduced include:

• Improved track surface standards
• Restrictions on crop usage by jockeys
• Enhanced training requirements
• A national drug testing policy

Despite these advancements, some states have contested HISA’s authority, leading to ongoing legal challenges that split opinions across jurisdictions. Notably, Texas has even taken measures to resist federal control by prohibiting interstate simulcasting.

Future Developments and Ongoing Challenges

The legal battles concerning HISA’s authority continue to unfold, with differing court rulings creating uncertainty. The Supreme Court may ultimately decide on the constitutionality of HISA’s framework. Until these issues are resolved, the regulatory reach of HISA remains restricted, exposing the sport to risks associated with non-compliance.

Perez highlighted the significant concern that such resistance might create a dual system where adherence to HISA protocols would enhance horse safety, while non-compliant venues could endanger equine lives.

Public Image and Safety Assurance

The ongoing scrutiny of horse racing’s public image, particularly following high-profile incidents of horse deaths, has contributed to declining fan engagement. In 2023, notable events included multiple fatalities at prestigious events such as the Kentucky Derby.

Organizations like Horseracing Wrongs reported approximately 850 racehorse deaths in 2024 alone, excluding fatalities occurring off-site or at private training facilities, which might inflate the actual total to around 2,000 annually.

Addressing Safety Concerns

To understand the trajectory of HISA’s reforms, we spoke with its CEO, Lisa Lazarus. She attributed the recent drop in fatalities primarily to stakeholder collaboration and data-driven decision-making. The organization now receives over 5,000 veterinary records daily, which helps identify patterns and contributes to refining safety protocols.

Looking forward, particularly toward major events like the Kentucky Derby, HISA has implemented heightened safety measures, involving detailed assessments and coordination with local veterinary teams.