The Sales Integrity Task Force presented its initial recommendations Oct. 15 at Keeneland, suggesting the industry opt for self-regulation through the conditions of sale rather than through legislation.
The recommendations, which provide suggested regulatory guidelines for owner transparency, agent licensing, and medical disclosures, were developed over the course of seven months by the 36-member task force.
The group was formed after legislation was introduced in the Kentucky General Assembly at the urging of owner/breeder Jess Jackson, who alleged fraudulent activities existed at horse sales.A deal was worked out where the legislation was tabled, awaiting the recommendations of the task force.
Among the recommendations:
• No licensing of agents but a code of conduct which spells out instances when an agent must disclose information to his or her principal. Also, a method for formal arbitration and suggestion of penalties for those found to be in violation of the code.
• The establishment of a voluntary ownership registry.
• Rules for disclosure of ownership change after a horse is cataloged and after he arrives on the sale grounds.
• A system for drug testing, at the buyer's request, for anabolic steroids.
Persons will be able to submit signed comments online until Oct. 31. The recommendations are due to the Interim Joint Licensing and Occupations Committee and Rep. Larry Clark by Dec. 31.
To read the complete recommendations and a response from Jackson, click on the following links:
Sales Integrity Task Force Recommendations
Jess Jackson Reaction Statement
