Governor Signs Sen. Dodd’s Horse Racing Safety Laws

SACRAMENTO – Gov. Gavin Newsom today signed a law from Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, to improve horse racing safety across California and build on reforms adopted last year.  

The governor also signed a second horse racing bill, co-authored by Sen. Dodd and Assemblymember Adam Gray, D-Merced,  incorporating recommendations from the California Horse Racing Board.

“The horse racing industry must accept and adopt forward-thinking solutions as the health and welfare of the sport's human and equine athletes are paramount to their future in California,” said Gov. Newsom. “These bills are an essential step to create a safer and more transparent horse racing experience for everyone involved and can serve as a model for other states to follow.”

“Making horse racing safer for horses and jockeys is critical for the future of this sport,” Sen. Dodd said. “Thanks to Gov. Newsom for signing my bill, 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.

This year, Sen. Dodd followed up with Senate Bill 800, which incorporates reforms recommended by the CHRB, including improved veterinary medical review prior to races and increased transparency in drug testing. The second bill, AB 1974, provides additional safeguards.

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.