Established in 1970 to address the inhumane practice of soring in Tennessee Walking Horses, the Horse Protection Act (HPA) has become the center of decades of regulatory debate. Despite significant advances in equine welfare, established industry standards, and state animal cruelty laws, repeated attempts to expand federal regulations threaten to extend government oversight into horse shows, competitions, and sales across the entire equine industry.

Western Justice remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting horses while defending the rights of horse owners, trainers, exhibitors, and sellers. Through legislative advocacy, public awareness campaigns, petitions, and calls to action, Western Justice has challenged federal overreach and advocated for state and industry-led oversight.

Today, Western Justice is pursuing the full repeal of the Horse Protection Act to eliminate the ongoing threat of expanded federal regulation while preserving strong equine welfare protections. Explore the timeline below to follow the HPA'S evolution, proposed regulatory changes, and Western Justice's efforts to protect the equine industry.