Washington, D.C.— Today, U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06) and U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) expressed their confidence in the announcement that the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) selected Drug Free Sport International (DFS) to build HISA’s independent Anti-Doping and Medication Control enforcement agency. HISA and DFS will work together to develop uniform drug safety standards for the horse racing industry.
“I am confident that this partnership will succeed in HISA’s founding mission to create uniform standards of competition that will strengthen thoroughbred horse racing for years to come, as it is the result of a deliberative and thoughtful selection process,” said Congressman Barr. “It is fitting that this news comes as eyes draw to Kentucky and the world prepares for the greatest two minutes in sports, the Kentucky Derby, this weekend. I applaud HISA for continuing to take steps to improve our signature industry. There is more work to be done, including ongoing congressional oversight, but I am encouraged by today’s announcement.”
“With the Kentucky Derby coming up this weekend, all eyes are on the Commonwealth and our world-famous Thoroughbred racing industry. Congressman Barr and I led the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act of 2020 to passage to promote safety and fairness in this cornerstone of Kentucky’s economy, protecting the 24,000 Kentuckians it employs. We are pleased to hear that the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority, which is tasked with enforcing the law, has chosen the experienced and highly-credentialed Drug Free Sport International to serve as its independent Anti-Doping and Medication Control entity. I’ve maintained close contact with HISA CEO Lisa Lazarus throughout this process and know that this choice will help ensure Kentucky’s Thoroughbred racing industry – and our proud Derby traditions – remain viable for years to come,” said Senator McConnell.
U.S. Congressman Andy Barr and U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell championed the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act through Congress in 2020. The law represents the most transformational reform to the thoroughbred horse racing industry in decades