Standing Ovation by Ovation Riding: PAST Act

Every Friday, Horse Nation teams up with Ovation Riding to share some good news in the horse world: spotlighting an organization or individual doing good work, or developments that will improve life for horses.

Flickr/Randall R. Saxton/CC

Loopholes in the Horse Protection Act of 1970 have allowed trainers seeking the exaggerated “big lick” action for show ring Tennessee Walking Horses to continue to use abusive soring practices. The Prevent All Soring Tactics (PAST) Act would tighten up those loopholes and provide stronger protections for the horses.

Thanks to a new rule in Congress, any bill with 290 cosponsors is automatically up for consideration in committee with a clear path to the House floor. The PAST Act received its 290th cosponsor and the bill’s original sponsor filed the proper paperwork yesterday to move the legislation to the floor. Following rules, the bill should be up for debate and vote in the House around July 23.

The PAST Act, in part, got to this stage thanks to the persistence of horse lovers all across the US contacting their representatives and urging them to support the legislation.

Need a refresher on the PAST Act? Check out our past in-depth guide to the bill, the issues at stake and FAQs about soring and legislation.

Many thanks thanks to Ovation Riding for their support of both Horse Nation and individuals and organizations that are doing good work in the horse world. If you know someone who deserves a Standing Ovation, we would love to recognize them in a future post. Email the name of the person or organization along with a message about the good work they do to [email protected]. Photos/videos are always welcome, and include a link to their website if applicable.