Sen. Dodd’s Horse Racing Safety Bill Approved by Legislature

SACRAMENTO – The Legislature late Sunday approved a bill from Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, to improve horse racing safety across California and build on reforms adopted last year.

“We must do everything possible to make horse racing safer for animals and jockeys, and this bill takes another step in that direction,” Sen. Dodd said. “I thank the Legislature for approving my plan, which will help ensure track conditions are right and horses are fit before they hit the starting gate.”

Last year, 37 horses died at Santa Anita Park, prompting calls for immediate action. Sen. Dodd wrote Senate Bill 469, which was signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, allowing the California Horse Racing Board to suspend racing at tracks where dangerous conditions exist.

Sen. Dodd’s new bill, Senate Bill 800, is expected to incorporate reforms recommended by the California Horse Racing Board, including improved veterinary medical review prior to races and increased transparency in drug testing. 

It passed the Senate and Assembly Sunday night, and heads to Gov. Gavin Newsom for a signature.

Sen. Dodd chairs the Senate Governmental Organization Committee, which sets policy for the horse racing industry, among other things.

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Senator Bill Dodd represents the 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Napa, Yolo, Sonoma, Solano, Sacramento and Contra Costa counties. More information on Senator Bill Dodd can be found at www.senate.ca.gov/dodd.