Thoroughbred Racing Launces New National Safety Campaign

On Tuesday, April 23, the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) announced a new national campaign, Safety Runs First, and corresponding website to promote the sport’s collective commitment to safety, welfare, and integrity.  Safety Runs First (safetyrunsfirst.com) highlights reforms being implemented in the sport of Thoroughbred racing and their results to date, including the impacts of the national regulatory oversight body, the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA); emerging technologies and their applications on the future of equine safety and welfare; new veterinary and track surface protocols; and other measures being taken by the sport to enhance safety practices. The campaign and website are designed to be a continuing, long-term resource for the public as the racing industry furthers its investment in programs and resources to help reduce injury risk and enhance the safety of its athletes. The initial promotional campaign will coincide with the 2024 Triple Crown series of races and then continue through the summer and fall. It will launch with national and regional broadcast, digital, social media, and radio advertising.

To learn more about Safety Runs First, visit safetyrunsfirst.com

Another Successful NTRA Kentucky Derby Kick-off Reception on Capitol Hill

Tom Rooney (Middle) with Rep. Morgan McGarvey (Left) and Rep. Andy Barr (Right)

Last week the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) hosted its second annual Kentucky Derby Kick-off Reception on Capitol Hill. The aim of the event was to leverage the momentum from our established presence in Washington, D.C. and elevate awareness for both the NTRA and the broader Thoroughbred racing community among Capitol Hill stakeholders.

Over 600 attendees, including influential staff integral to the legislative process, graced the occasion. Among them were Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY-06), Congressman Morgan McGarvey (D-KY-03), Congressman Ralph Norman (R-SC-05), and Congressman Paul Tonko (D-NY-20), all staunch supporters of horseracing who actively advocate for our sport and its interests. Notably, Representatives Barr and McGarvey collaborated on introducing bipartisan bills in this Congress aimed at promoting investment in the Thoroughbred industry through diverse tax incentives.

The National Museum of Racing generously loaned us the esteemed Count Fleet Triple Crown and Kentucky Derby trophies, which became instant favorites for attendees seeking photo opportunities. Additionally, Coolmore provided halters worn by Triple Crown Winners American Pharoah and Justify and alongside we had life-sized cutouts of these iconic champions. To enhance the celebratory ambiance, cocktails were served in the official 150th Kentucky Derby glasses, while John Deere contributed 150th Derby hats.

Joe De Francis, HISA Board member (left), Rep. Paul Tonko D-NY (middle), and Charles Scheeler, HISA Board Chair (right)

Tax Bill Still Stalled

Supporters of a bipartisan tax deal, the Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act, are frustrated by its stall in the Senate due to Republican opposition to expanding the child tax credit. The deal pairs an expansion of the child tax credit with reinstating business tax breaks, like 100% bonus depreciation, which has been crucial in providing a boost to the equine economy.

While the business provisions in the bill have bipartisan support, Senate Republicans are hesitant to move forward on a deal before the November elections, where they could potentially gain more power to enact another major tax bill. Democrats, led by Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden (D-OR), are pushing for the bill’s passage, but negotiations remain at a standstill.

Key Republicans have varying stances on the bill. Some, like Sen. Todd Young (R-IN), support it but have doubts about its direction, while others, like Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC), are actively trying to kill it due to concerns over the child tax credit and timing. Despite the roadblocks, Democratic enthusiasm for the proposal remains strong, with Senators like Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Michael Bennet (D-CO) urging for its consideration and passage.

Big businesses are eager for the bill to move forward, seeing it as a critical opportunity that may be lost if not addressed promptly. There’s a sense of urgency to get the bill passed during the May work period, as failure to do so could jeopardize its chances of passing in this Congress. NTRA is actively engage with Senate Republicans to emphasize the importance of 100% bonus depreciation being reinstated for the equine economy.

NTRA Sends Letter to Congressional Appropriations Leadership on H-2B Cap Relief

On April 23, NTRA through the H-2B Workforce Coalition sent a letter to Appropriations leadership urging them to include meaningful H-2B cap relief in the Fiscal 2025 Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill. Without Congressional intervention, numerous employers nationwide face the imminent prospect of lacking the essential workforce necessary for operations in the forthcoming spring and summer seasons. The H-2B program stands as a cornerstone for employers encountering difficulty in sourcing local temporary labor to fulfill roles, particularly those within industries such as ours, notably in roles on the backstretch. The destiny of this vital workforce should not be contingent upon the existing lottery system. What’s imperative is the implementation of substantive cap relief, ensuring the continuity of our sport’s contribution to economic growth and employment opportunities for American workers across the nation.

Read the full letter HERE.

Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY) speaking to attendees of the NTRA Kentucky Derby Kickoff Reception on Capitol Hill