Individuals suspended for Horse Protection Act (HPA) violations by one Horse Industry Organization (HIO) can participate in equine events managed by another, according to a final rule clarification issued by Chester A. Gipson, DVM, deputy administrator of Animal Care for the USDA Animal and Plant Inspection Service (APHIS).

APHIS enforces the HPA–which prohibits "soring" the deliberate injury to a horse’s feet and legs to achieve an exaggerated high-stepping gait–and certifies HIOs that manage horse shows and other events. On June 7 APHIS published a final penalty rule requiring all APHIS-certified HIOs to stiffen penalties for HPA violators.

In his June 28 clarification memo, Gipson said that violators suspended under the rule are prevented from participating in horse shows and events affiliated with the HIO that issued the suspension, but may participate in events affiliated with other HIOs.

"HIOs and show managers can still choose to honor suspensions issued by other HIOs as many currently do," the memo read. "Additionally, all HIOs and show managers are required under the HPA to recognize USDA federal disqualification periods