Part of an email I received from WHOA today.
The House Energy & Commerce Committee passed H.R. 1754, the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act (HISA) by a recorded vote of 46-5, as amended. A substitute amendment by the bill's sponsor, Congressman Tonko (R-NY), which encompassed the HISA language, also passed 46-5. Reps. Kurt Schrader (D-OR), John Shimkus (R-IL). Michael Burgess (R-TX), Morgan Griffith (R-VA), and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) voted no in both instances.
During the debate, Rep. Schrader raised concerns about the lack of veterinary involvement in the crafting of the bill, as well as the lack of veterinary representation on the Authority created in the legislation. He also expressed concern about the prohibition of furosemide, suggesting that furosemide should be allowed during the suggested three-year study period until a determination can be made as to whether or not they should be prohibited. Congressman Tonko forcefully pushed back on these concerns and was backed up by Chairman Frank Pallone (D-NJ).
