Contact Your Member(s) of Congress to Join the House Congressional Horse Caucus
To: State Horse Councils
From: American Horse Council
Date: November 30, 2021
Re: House Congressional Horse Caucus
Tell Your Member(s) of Congress to Renew or Join the House Congressional House Caucus
We urge your continued support of the horse industry in public policy on Capitol Hill by contacting your respective Member(s) of Congress in the U.S. House of Representatives to either renew their commitment/membership in the House Congressional Horse Caucus, or by joining the House Congressional Horse Caucus (if your Member(s) of Congress are not currently a member).
Education of any industry on Capitol Hill is the key to success in public policy, and Members of Congress have committed their support of the horse industry through education, with the formation of the House Congressional Horse Caucus. A Congressional Caucus is an excellent, yet critical vehicle on Capitol Hill for information dissemination, education, and relationship building by directly joining an industry with Congress.
The horse industry has a wonderful story to tell in terms of its positive economic impact on local, state, and national economies, job creation, equine therapy, equine rescue & sanctuaries, the racing sector, and land management. Lawmakers are eager to understand more about the industry and its benefits, and it is important that they receive responsible, comprehensive information in order to make decision impacting the horse industry.
The American Horse Council has made it easy to contact your respective Member(s) of Congress through our automated system to urge their support for the House Congressional Horse Caucus. Take a few minutes and –
Click the blue “Take Action” button below
– Review the Congressional letter template (no need to edit)
– Fill out your information
– Click send
Our automated system will attach your name onto the letter and send (email) the letter to your respective Member(s) of Congress…it’s that easy!
Please contact us at the American Horse Council (website –www.horsecouncil.org, email – info@horsecouncil.org, phone – 202.296.4031), if you have any questions or need assistance.
Thank you for your support and continued leadership.
Julie Broadway
Julie M. Broadway, CAE®
President – American Horse Council & American Horse Council Foundation
1616 H Street NW, 7th Floor Washington DC 20006
AHC general line: 202-296-4031
Direct line: 202-846-1724
About the Congressional Horse Caucus
The Congressional Horse Caucus (Co-Chaired by Congressmen Andy Barr (R-KY) and Paul Tonko (D-NY), is a bipartisan group of Members of the House of Representatives formed to educate Congress and their staffs about the importance of the horse industry in the economic, agricultural, sporting, gaming and recreational life of the nation.
The AHC News is published monthly and we’d love to recruit you back as a member. Don’t miss out on the latest legislative and regulatory updates, along with news and industry efforts.
AHC Annual Congressional Fly-In October 28th – Highlights & Recap
Helping American’s veterans with Equine Assisted Services. Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY) spoke to how evidence-based research has proven the effectiveness of EAS in helping youth, veterans, and the disabled community, Adaptive Sports Program through VA initially helped with funding for EAS with $1.5 million which was increased in 2020 to $5 million in grant appropriations. Barr urged the attendees to contact Senators about keeping this 5 million dedicated to EAS and to improve upon that. Barr also spoke regarding the Suicide Prevention Bill, John Scott Hannon Mental Health Care and Improvement Act. Data shows that 21 Veterans take their lives every day in USA. Only 14 of those had any sort of interaction with the VA in the previous 2 years – thus we need other entry points and access points for Veterans who are not utilizing the VA. Barr offered an amendment for non-VA organizations, which passed and made it into the final bill. Barr again asked attendees to talk to Senators to keep the house amendment on a dedicated budget.
Kathy Alm of PATH Intl. and Ruth Dismuke-Blakely of AHA mentioned that EAS for veterans should all fall under the umbrella of mental health and keeping the boundaries clear regarding treatment for Veterans when it comes to EAS. When it’s under Adaptive Sports, it undermines EAS as a treatment strategy when asking for reimbursement and confuses the public. Barr agreed to have further discussion and investigate strategies.
Guest Workers – We need them, but can we get them? Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD) who is the lead on H2B Visas, shared how we need temporary workers to help fill the vast need for farm workers and the returning worker exemption is one option or exempt/remove some from H2B. Rep. Harris asked attendees to help his colleagues on the hill learn and understand the difference between immigration vs guest workers, as the penalties are strict for temporary work visas.
House Ag Committee Update Rep. GT Thompson (R-PA) shared his goal of being a strong voice for American Agriculture. The House Ag Committee is blessed with opportunities to help Agriculture rebound from these crisis (COVID, natural disasters, etc.).
What’s happening with Tax policy? Jordan Harris and Mason Foley of Sen. Mitch McConnell’s (R-KY) office spoke about the new framework for reconciliation package which was recently released. AHC staff asked about the Build Back Better – looking to get this reevaluated and would like suggestions on raising the awareness.
Can another state’s legislative issues affect me? Case Studies… 11:30 AM Julie Beeman spoke regarding CAFO (Concentrated Animal Feed Operations) Challenges in CA and shared San Jan Capistrano Case Study. Scott Dorenkamp of PRCA spoke of potential rodeo ban in Los Angeles CA. Concern that this movement will move up and down the state of CA and into CO. With potential impact on future equestrian events that involve fixed spurs. If Rodeo is banned, others will not be far behind, so it is in everyone’s interest to pay attention to this.
Senate Ag Committee Update Kyle Varner of Sen. Deb Stabenow’s Office (D-MI) shared that thus far this year the committee has been working on confirming any administration nominees, turnover of secretary positions at USDA. 28 Nominees. COVID relief package passed, monitoring the USDAs release of those assistance programs. Kinks in the supply chain. Varner also spoke about climate change and Introduced Growing Climate Solutions Act, 94-6 vote passed out of the Senate. Intended to help USDA put more structure around carbon markets that producers are taking advantage of. Helps provide more certainty for farmers/ranchers in getting involved with that, certification process for USDA. Certification process for verifiers on the ground, so farmers know who to trust. One stop shop website for producers who are interested in participating in the carbon markets. Varner stated that the committee will start turning to more formal review of 2018 Farm Bill. Current bill doesn’t expire until 2023, so there is time for industry input. AHC staff mentioned the Equine Industry is consistently underrepresented in the USDA census data. Making that large gap in numbers critical to address for future changes to the Farm Bill.
What is the status of the PAST Act? Rep Steve Cohen (D- TN) shared that the PAST Act was introduced in June, with 209 co-sponsors initially, 234 now, which is majority of the house. Cohen also noted that in 2017, USDA submitted a role to the OMB (Office of Management and Budget) that would take the language from the Past Act and codify it in a way that the USDA could take action on it now. This rule change gives USDA the teeth they need to enforce the Horse Protection Act. If this rule was to be introduced, it would likely be adopted.
What is the Congressional Horse Caucus and what are its priorities? Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY) noted that the Equine Industry contributes over $50 billion to the US economy annually and plays a key role in conserving agricultural land. The Caucus Is made up of bi-partisan members who are aware of and support the Equine Industry as well as the health and safety of horses in the racing industry. Tonko urged the attendees to use storytelling as a tool to help get PAST Act over the finish line. And AHC offered its services to help grow the Horse Caucus and its mission – outreach, build by consensus.
Updates from the US Dept. of Agriculture
Oscar Gonzales, Asst. Secretary USDA spoke about his 3rd generation connection to the horse industry and efforts underway by National Security Council, to bring in workers from Ecuador, El Salvador & Guatemala to help with season work and address labor shortage. Gonzales also spoke about keeping eyes out for legislation to unleash a substantial amount of funding in rural areas. Making sure that children are fed and that the needs of rural America are being met. Reaching out to small business owners, most families in agriculture have some form of supplemental small business. Providing workshops to find out what the needs of small business owners are. AHC staff asked if there is any discussion about reintroducing the rule change in the Horse Protection Act – Specifically realigning the language around testing procedures and protocols related to the PAST Act. Gonzales said he was not up to speed on this and would make inquiries. AHC staff also noted that the Farm Bill is an important part of the USDA’s program funding, and the equine industry is looking to include more provisions for better horse census numbers. AHC would like to see the USDA to find a better solution to this problem, and better realize the equine population in the United States. Lynn Coakley of Equus Foundation asked if Gonzales had any idea why the number of horses being exported for slaughter appear to have decreased significantly in the past year? Discussion about possibilities followed including potentially more awareness about the issue, less demand, and COVID possibly reducing the number of horses crossing the border.
How to get the biggest bang from Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA)? Sherry Reaves & Brenda Yankoviak of USFS spoke to the GAOA. The GAOA provides funding through Legacy Restoration Fund (LRF). Forest Service is the largest agency under the Department of Agriculture. National Parks and Public Legacy Restoration Fund, authorized up to $285 Million annually. Used to address deferred maintenance (maintenance that was not performed when it was scheduled or should have been accomplished and which, therefore, was put off or delayed for a future period. Yankoviak suggested what makes a successful GAOA project includes Priorities: deferred maintenance reduction, visitor access and experience, supporting undeserved communities, mitigating climate change, leveraging partnerships.
Creating story maps and connecting people to these projects. Promoting these improvements across the country. The more people see the impacts, the more they are willing to support and contribute. Share your stories!
How to get involved: Leverage funding, collaborate on project development, provide feedback on projects, assist with data collection, and volunteer!
Thank you to all our participants and speakers.
Barr Leads the Charge on Legislation to Spur Investment in Equine Industry
Washington, D.C.— U.S. Congressman Andy Barr (KY-06) reintroduced legislation to incentivize investment in Kentucky’s signature equine industry. The Equine Tax Fairness Act would make the three-year depreciation schedule permanent for racehorses, regardless of their age when put into service. Currently, Congress must reauthorize this provision in the tax law on an annual basis.
Additionally, this legislation would reduce the holding period for equine assets to be considered long term capital gains, putting them on a level playing field with other similar assets. Congressman Barr’s bill is endorsed by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA), the Kentucky Thoroughbred Association, the Jockey Club, the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association, Keeneland, and the American Horse Council.
AHC welcomes new Government Affairs Liaison – Mark Riso
AHC President, Julie Broadway, is pleased to announce the addition of Mark Riso to the AHC Team effective November 15th.
Mark is a public policy professional and national lobbyist, with over three decades of public policy – advocacy experience on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. – with an expertise in the legislative, regulatory, and political processes. Mark served as Legislative Director to two senior Members of Congress and as a professional staff member on the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations (U.S. House of Representatives, House Banking Committee). Following his work on Capitol Hill, Mark has served as a senior lobbyist for past twenty-five years for industry associations, and passionate about advocacy.
Horse Week Re-Releases Available
“Just like your passion for horses never fades, neither does Horse Week’s brilliant video content. That’s why The Equine Network is re-releasing your favorite Horse Week classics each week from now until Christmas!
The Horse Week re-releases will be streamed each Tuesday night, at 7pm ET. Head on over to horseweek.tv for a full video lineup. Tune in from the barn, office or comfort of your couch—Horse Week videos can be watched on any smart device by visiting horseweek.tv or the Equine Network YouTube channel. Once a video has been released, you will have until the week of Christmas to watch it as many times as you like for FREE!
Climate Change & the Equine Industry
Cliff Williamson, Director Health & Regulatory Affairs
Weather has always been an important variable to the operations of the horse industry, regardless of breed or activity. But the horse industry is facing new and unique challenges in the form of unpredictable climate. Whether it is “climate change” in the fundamental sense caused by an increase in greenhouse gasses or simply a temporary shifting of weather patterns can be left to the scientists and politicians to debate. But it is hard to disagree with the idea that “something is happening” with weather wherever you live. Most climate scientists believe that fundamental changes in weather may be the new norm. Like all industries, the horse industry should be alert to potential changes and their harmful ramifications. It may be that these changes are beyond our control, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be considered and prepared for.
Climate change is generally associated with drought, higher temperatures, swings in heat and cold, changes in rainfall, increases in extreme weather events, like hurricanes, tornadoes, and flooding, and stronger and more frequent storms. These changes have the potential to influence how the horse industry operates day-to-day. Such changes can also have broader effects, such as a rise in invasive species, the movement of ticks and mosquitoes, the costs of feed and hay, and increasingly intense wildfires.
Persistent drought conditions in California have created annual wildfire situations that have not only posed a real threat to local citizens and their horses, but have also impacted air quality, event space availability and forage production resulting in cascading negative impacts for the region. The hurricanes that were once considered once in a lifetime events now occur with such consistancy that traditional naming practices had to be revisited. Particularly in the last decade, the number of significant climate events that have affected the equine industry has increased to such a degree that scores of organizations have felt the need to publish materials concerning the avoidance of, preparation for, and response to wildfires, blizzards, flooding, drought, extreme heat and extreme cold.
The equine industry serves as a critical player in the preservation and protection of green space in urban, suburban and rural areas. More than 80 million acres of open space is preserved for equestrian use according to the 2017 AHC Foundation Economic Impact Study. These spaces are capable of facilitating positive environmental efforts in their respective communities, as long as they are allowed to remain in place. Because of the unique methods in which horses are cared for in comparison to other livestock species, our impacts on water, air and soil quality are generally minimal, if not mitigated completely.
The equine industry not only needs to continue to be good stewards, it also needs to be proactive and prepare. The AHC recently offered a webinar on eco-friendly equestrian facility designs (see our website for that recording). We also are working to seek avenues for climate smart solutions to help our 80 million acres of equestrian lands in the US. As part of that effort, the AHC is encouraging the USDA to include the equine industry in their discussions with farmers, ranchers and rural communities so that together we can develop innovative climate-smart practices.
Tax Consideration for Charitable Contributions in Equine Industry
If a horse or other property is given as a charitable contribution, the donor may generally deduct the fair market value of the property. However, when property given to a charity would result in ordinary income to the donor if the property had been sold instead, the amount of the gift must be reduced by the amount of the ordinary income that would have been reported by the donor had the property been sold instead of donated. Also, if a horse that is eligible for capital gain treatment has been depreciated and is then donated to the charity, the amount of the gift is the value of the horse reduced by the amount of depreciation recapture. The deduction amount must also be reduced if gifted tangible personal property does not in some way relate to the purposes that give rise to the charity’s tax exemption
United Horse Coalition (UHC), A Home For Every Horse (AHFEH) &
Purina mail out Fall 2021 Feed Coupons
We are delighted to announce that the fall mailing of feed coupons were shipped Tuesday, October 26th to hundreds of deserving rescues across the US, reported Carly Barrick, AHFEH Program Coordinator. “Thank you for the hard work you do for these deserving animals! ”
The United Horse Coalition is a proud partner with AHFEH and Purina to make this happen!
P.S. We love when you tag us in your posts so we can stay up to date on your hard work and successes. Remember to follow and tag @ahomeforeveryhorse on Instagram and Facebook!
We are very excited about the planning phase of Expo 2022. It provides us with a great opportunity to support of Colorado equine community as well as introduce others about the greatest human animal bond know to man.
Expo 2022 will be the first Expo managed as an event by the newly formed foundation, The Equine Heritage Foundation. This is the educational organizations that :
Promotes the Heritage of the Horse
Protects the Heritage of the Horse
Develops the Future Heritage of the Horse
Your support of this organization is extremely important to all involved or wanting to become involved in the the equine industry
It has been a tough time for everyone and the work of our equine associations is important. We ask that this year, especially, you become involved, support and promote our work . We are here serving all equine enthusiasts!
Rocky Mountain Horse Expo, it is important that there is ample planning and scheduling of events and gatherings.
Please consider the following when planning your Expo experience
· Clubs, organizations and special event coordinators must submit an Abstract Form to be consider for scheduling.
· Clinicians wishing to present Pre Expo Clinics, Workshops, and Demonstrations must submit an Abstract Form early in order to secure the limited time slots.
Any groups or organizations wishing to hold meetings or events during Expo must also submit the Abstract Form in order to be placed on the schedule and allow for appropriate venues.
By submitting abstract forms allows for the Expo management to organize, plan and implement you activity appropriately. The information submitted on the forms automatically enters your request into a database. This will assist us in securing your information in one scheduling platform
For more information, please do not hesitate to contact the show manager.
“Norm Brown made great contributions to the equine community in our state. His enthusiasm, dedication and support of the work of the Colorado Horse Council is well documented and appreciated. His leadership moved our organization into a leadership role throughout the country!”
CEO/Executive Director, Bill Scebbi.
North Forty News, Wellington: Norman (Norm) Edward Brown passed away on June 14, 2021, at the age of 89. He was born to Charles E. and Ethel Mae Brown in Conklin, New York on February 8, 1932. Two years later, his family moved to Brown family farm along the banks of Williams Pond in Montrose, PA. The farm has been owned by the Brown family since 1860.Norm and his dad farmed with horses and milked cows by hand. Norm attended a one-room 8 grade country school across the pond from his house. During winters, he would skate to school after ice covered the pond, and at lunchtime, the kids would climb the hill outside the school and sled back to school.
Norm attended high school in Montrose. PA. After high school graduation, Norm received a Senatorial Scholarship to Penn State. He enrolled in Air Force ROTC program, and while at Penn State, Norm received a varsity letter as First Assistant Basketball Manager.
After receiving his BS in Dairy Husbandry in 1954, Norm was commissioned as Second Lieutenant in the Air Force. He was stationed in Florida. After 2 years, he was offered relief from active duty as there was “no conflict”. He continued in the Air Force Reserves until 1976 receiving an honorable discharge as a major.
Upon completion of his active duty, Norm became an Extension Agent in Clearfield County, PA. After 6 years, Norm went to Colorado where he received his M. Ed. in Extension Education and got married. Norm and Donna moved back to Clearfield County where they had 2 children, Russell and Trisha. Later, Norm was offered a position in Jefferson County.
In addition to his work as a county agent, Norm was the horse show announcer at the Keystone International from 1969- 1973. He announced the horse pulling contest at PA State Farm Show 73-74.
Later, Norm and his family moved to Wellington, Colorado where they helped Donna’s mother (Marie) run her farm. They took over all farm operations after Marie’s death in 1999.
Norm continued to work as a county agent, this time in Adams and Larimer counties. Eventually, he became County Extension Director in Adams County, a post that he held for 6 years before his retirement in 1987. His career in extension was distinguished with numerous awards including the Distinguished Service from the National County Agents Association.
After his retirement, Norm worked as an agricultural consultant. His biggest client was Rabobank. He also took the lead role in running the farm in Wellington which he continued to do up until his death.
While in Pennsylvania, Norm and Donna bred their two Arabian mares and they continued to breed Arabians in Colorado. Norm and Donna were the first husband and wife team to be presidents of The Colorado Arabian Club (Norm in 1977 and Donna 1981-83). Norm primarily showed Arabians at halter, and in 1975, he showed Marie’s Arabian mare to a Top Five at the Arabian Region 8 Championships. In 2011, Norm completed a Century Club Ride on Trisha’s Arabian gelding Amie Phoenix+. This enabled him to be the 88th horse and rider team to join this prestigious list (where the age of horse and rider total at least 100 years).
Norm was also active in the Colorado Horse Council (CHC), a founding member of the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo, an original board member of the Colorado Horse Development Authority, and on the management team of the Western National 4H Horse Classic. While Norma was a leader in CHC, the state legislature passed the Equine Liability law and Hold Your Next Horse Show in Colorado (the first guide of horse show facilities in the state) was published. These and other achievements led to Norm being named the Colorado Horse Person of the Year (1995) and Lifetime Achievement award in 2013.
After Norm’s parents passed away, he inherited the family farm in Montrose, PA. Russ now owns the farm, continuing the 160-year-old family ownership.
Norm was well-known as an avid Penn State sports fan, and he perfected his trademark technique of yelling at the TV ensuring his part to ensure a Penn State victory. His love of sports permeated his life, from swimming and diving in Williams Pond as a child and teen, trying out for the New York Yankees as a young adult, surfing the Atlantic while in the Air Force, to running 5K races with his daughter in his mid-50’s. Later in life, he enjoyed attending collegiate wrestling matches with Russ, basketball and volleyball games with Donna, and bluegrass concerts with Trish. He was also well-known for his skills of irrigating, tractor driving, and being a beer aficionado.
Norm is survived by his loving wife Donna; his two children Russ (Jackie Meier) and Trisha who were the apples of his eyes; his sister-in-law Jeannette (Nico Bink) as well as countless people to whom he was a mentor and second father. He was proceeded in death by his parents Charlie and Ethel; his brother Kenneth; and his daughter-in-law Aadria.
In lieu of flowers or donations, the family would appreciate your support of the Norman and Donna Brown Mountain View Arabians Scholarship in the College of Agricultural Sciences at Penn State. Gifts may be written out to “Penn State University” with “Norm Brown scholarship” in the memo and mailed to: College of Agricultural Sciences, 240 Ag Administration Bldg., University Park, PA 16802.
Please find attached the Agenda for our Coalition of State Horse Councils meeting next week, Tuesday June 15, 2021, 1PM (Eastern Time). This meeting is in conjunction with the 2021 AHC Conference, which is virtual as well. There are great presentations and wonderful opportunities for you to learn about our equine industry. Again we encourage your to take advantage of these presentations and REGISTER.
This June meeting of the Coalition is a Zoom Meeting and you may login without attending the entire AHC Conference. Please find our agenda below. Your input at this meeting is very important to our growth and development and suggest that you invite others from your state organization to attend, especially if your cannot attend. Please forward this invitation to anyone you think can be helpful for input.
I look forward to being with you. After this our uncertain times and we are excited to continue with the building our Coalition of State Horse Councils!
Best Regards, Bill Scebbi, CSHC Chair
Here is the Invitation:
Bill Scebbi is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: The Coalition of State Horse Councils – Tuesday, June 15th, In Conjunction with 2021 AHC Conference.
Time: Jun 15, 2021 01:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Secretary’s Report – Minutes – Prepared by Sue Gray
Financial Report –Tom Tweeten, Financial Liaison
State Updates – Tom Tweeten – Brief update from each State Representative (3 min report)
Presentation:The Coalition Website, Bill Scebbi will lead the review of the Coalition of State Horse Councils new website, the various areas that will help with communication, calendars and other options for the state’s use.
Round Table Discussion:
Recruiting New State Members, Sue Gray from North Carolina Horse Council will lead a discussion on how best to provide value and services to state Horse Councils.
Horse Expos How to Best to Work Together, Ann Swinker has helped develop many equine educational events and will lead this discussion to see how state can work together on their major events.
Senate “Sign-On” Letter to USDA Supporting Horse Protection
As you might recall, in early 2017, the outgoing Obama Administration issued a final USDA rule on the Horse Protection Act (HPA) to end the practice of “soring” of a horse’s limb. This rule mirrors the industry-endorsed “Prevent All Soring Tactics” (PAST) Act by taking common sense measures to protect certain Tennessee Walking Horses and Racking Horses from the practice. Unfortunately, the Trump Administration suspended the HPA rule four years ago and never reinstated it.
The horse industry and its allies in Congress are currently lobbying the new Administration to bring the HPA rule back, by circulating a petition to USDA. Contact your senators today and urge them to sign the petition below and reinstate the Horse Protection Rule of 2017!
As you might recall, in early 2017, the outgoing Obama Administration issued a final USDA rule on the Horse Protection Act (HPA) to end the practice of “soring” of a horse’s limb. This rule mirrors the industry-endorsed “Prevent All Soring Tactics” (PAST) Act by taking common sense measures to protect certain Tennessee Walking Horses and Racking Horses from the practice. Unfortunately, the Trump Administration suspended the HPA rule four years ago and never reinstated it.
The horse industry and its allies in Congress are currently lobbying the new Administration to bring the HPA rule back, by circulating a “Dear Colleague” sign-on letter, and petition to USDA. Contact your House lawmaker today and urge him or her to sign the congressional letter and petition below and reinstate the Horse Protection Rule of 2017!
