Standing Ovation by Ovation Riding: Louisiana House Bill 384

Louisiana takes steps to ensure the safety of its equine athletes.

In early June, the state legislature of Louisiana approved a measure that would allocate $5 per start to fund Thoroughbred aftercare. House Bill 384, authored by Rep. Clay Schexnayder (R-District 81), indicates that all monies raised from the program will be managed by a representative from Louisiana Horsemen’s Benevolent & Protective Association (LAHBPA). The bill was passed unanimously by both the Louisiana House of Representatives and Senate.

The $5 donation will be deducted automatically from the horse owner’s bookkeeper account unless the owner has filled out and submitted an opt-out form. Withdrawals will be taken beginning on August 1, 2019 and will be placed in a fund known as the Automatic Horse Aftercare Donation. Despite the option to opt out, the LAHBPA is, per its website, encouraging its members to remain in the program in order to “help care for our equine athletes after their racing careers.”

Pixabay/Clarence Alford/CC

Seeing states and organizations take steps to ensure the safety of their animals is heartening. We’ll be following the progress of the Automatic Horse Aftercare Donation to see how it is put into action. In the mean time, this week’s Standing Ovation goes to Rep. Schexnayder, the Louisiana state legislature, and the LAHBPA. Go riding!

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.