Bill > A00727

This bill aims to prohibit the use of performance-enhancing drugs in horseracing throughout New York State by establishing comprehensive regulations and penalties. The legislation defines performance-enhancing drugs as substances that can affect a horse's physiological systems and performance, and it prohibits entering a horse in a race while under the influence of such drugs. Host racing associations must implement policies that ban performance-enhancing drugs, including mandatory testing by an accredited third-party laboratory for the first-place horse and one randomly selected horse in each race. Violations will result in escalating civil penalties, ranging from a $5,000 fine and 180-day suspension for a first offense to a $50,000 fine and permanent banishment for a third or subsequent violation. The bill also applies similar suspension periods to horses found in violation, with escalating penalties for repeated infractions. The gaming commission is granted enforcement authority, and the legislation provides a private right of action for individuals who believe their interests are adversely affected by violations. The bill reflects a broader goal of ensuring fair competition, protecting horse and jockey safety, and aligning New York's horseracing standards with international practices that prohibit performance-enhancing drugs.

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https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A727