NW Kentucky News

House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer is scrutinizing the U.S. Department of Agriculture's enforcement of the Horse Protection Act (HPA). This comes amid concerns that the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) might be overstepping its authority in inspections at horse shows. Comer has requested a transcribed interview with Dr. Aaron Rhyner, Assistant Director of APHIS, to gain further insight.

Comer expressed his concerns in a letter to USDA Secretary Thomas J. Vilsack, stating: “The Committee on Oversight and Accountability is continuing to conduct oversight of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) enforcement of the Horse Protection Act (HPA) and its promulgation of a final rule titled Horse Protection Amendments that will update USDA’s standards regarding the HPA.”

The Committee has received reports alleging that new inspection requirements were communicated by email just two hours before a competition, without prior notice. On August 9, 2024, Comer urged the Office of Inspector General to review USDA policies concerning HPA implementation and sought related documents from APHIS.

“It is imperative that USDA enforces HPA in a manner that is fair, consistent, and within the bounds of its statutory authority," said Comer. He highlighted issues such as arbitrary enforcement and potential retribution against horse trainers or owners through last-minute changes in inspection procedures.

Comer emphasized the importance of hearing directly from Dr. Rhyner to understand any policy changes regarding HPA enforcement: "It is imperative that the Committee hear directly from Dr. Rhyner to understand USDA’s approach to HPA enforcement and any related policy changes."

The full letter addressed to Secretary Vilsack can be accessed for more details.