TBA Law Blog


Posted by: Katharine Heriges on Jul 25, 2019
The U.S. House today overwhelmingly approved a bill meant to stop the intentional mistreatment of Tennessee Walking Horses, USA Today reports. The Prevent All Soring Tactics (PAST) Act won approval on a 333 to 96 vote. The legislation amends the 1970 Horse Protection Act, which banned sored horses from competing in shows, exhibitions or sales. However, the older law was widely ignored, and the new version, sponsored by U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen, D-Memphis, would tighten restrictions and increase penalties. U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais, whose district is home to many Tennessee Walking Horse breeders and trainers, spoke in opposition of the bill during a House debate Wednesday night. The South Pittsburg Republican said horse inspectors were "abusing the process" and that owners were being disqualified from performing in shows. "The only problem with the Tennessee Walking Horses today is that the current inspection methods are subjective," Desjarlais said.