Washington, D.C.— U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06) released the following statement upon passage of fiscal year (FY) 2023 appropriations legislation which confirmed the rulemaking authority of Congressman Barr’s Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA).

“I opposed the Omnibus spending bill for a variety of reasons, predominantly because of its excessive level of non-defense spending, which will only perpetuate the fiscally reckless policies that have burdened American taxpayers with 40-year high inflation and a $30 trillion national debt.   

“Nevertheless, I strongly supported and applaud the inclusion in the bill of language clarifying the Federal Trade Commission’s oversight of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority’s rulemaking authority.  This technical correction of the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act confirms congressional intent —and my intent, as the bill’s author— to adhere to the nondelegation doctrine, removing any doubt about the constitutionality of this law.  

“Now, HISA can continue to fulfill its mission to improve the safety of jockeys and our equine athletes by establishing uniform rules of competition and drug safety standards that will increase the popularity, public confidence, and international competitiveness of the sport.”

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