Weekly Edition | May 4 | By: NP staff

Albuquerque, NM – The New Mexico Racing Commission held a public hearing, May 2, to receive feedback on the possible adoption of internationally-recognized standards for New Mexico’s horse racing industry.

Officials with the commission, discussed ways the rules and penalties prescribed by the Association of Racing Commissioners International (ARCI). Adoption of ARCI standards will increase safety regulations and introduce more consistency to the treatment of New Mexico’s race horses.

ARCI’s “model rules” set high standards for multiple aspects of the racing industry, such as testing for illegal substances, veterinary care, licensing, and conduct, and also include tougher penalties for rules violations.

“By adopting widely-recognized standards and bringing New Mexico into line with other states, we are better able to protect the health and safety of our horses,” said Racing Commission Chairman Rob Doughty. “We look forward to hearing feedback from New Mexicans so we can determine the best way to uphold the integrity of our state’s racing industry. The responses we receive will be valuable as we move forward with stricter and more uniform standards to govern horse racing in New Mexico.”