Today’s announcement by the USDA-APHIS regarding the formal withdrawal of the 2016 Horse Protection rule and impending introduction of a new rule has been expected by industry leaders and been communicated for months to industry associations.

The industry has been preparing for this announcement and will closely monitor the contents of the new rule and how they affect the Tennessee Walking Show Horse. Just as with the last rule, the industry will retain outside counsel to file its comments during the public comment period.

Without knowing the contents of the new rule, what aspects of the National Academies of Science will be included and other changes proposed to the current regulations, it is premature to make any further conclusions. The industry and its leadership that has worked on this issue since the introduction of the previous rule has remained steadfast in support of the pleasure and performance Tennessee Walking Show Horse and will continue to do so during this new rulemaking.