The USDA might decertify five Tennessee Walking Horse Horse Industry Organizations (HIOs) for failing to comply with provisions contained in a new Horse Protection Act (HPA) enforcement rule.

The HPA prohibits soring–the deliberate injury to a horse’s feet and legs to achieve an exaggerated, high-stepping gait. The USDA Animal and Plant Inspection Service (APHIS) enforces the Act, certifies HIOs that manage horse shows, and trains Designated Qualified Persons (DQPs) who inspect horses presented for exhibition at the horse shows for HPA compliance.

Last year the USDA proposed a minimum HPA penalty protocol that would require HIOs to enforce uniform minimum penalties for the HPA. In June APHIS announced a final HPA penalty rule requiring all APHIS-certified HIOs to assess penalties that equal or exceed minimum levels for HPA violations. The rule also stiffens penalties for repeat HPA violators and took effect July 9.

On July 8 APHIS notified HIOs that they must adopt minimum penalty protocols and appeals processes as prescribed in the new enforcement rule. As evidence of their compliance, the HIOs were required to submit amended rulebooks containing the minimum penalty and appeals protocols