Michigan’s equine industry is very broad and involves many people and a variety of horse breeds. We strongly encourage and support collaborative efforts by equine professionals to strengthen the industry and support its growth. The equine industry is stronger and able to thrive when united and working collectively.
We support:
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development working with local governments to continue classifying equine operations as agricultural for zoning purposes.
Additional changes or legislation that provide economic growth and strengthens the horse racing industry.
Funding for the expansion of the Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education at Michigan State University.
Marketing opportunities for the equine industry.
Michigan Farm Bureau working to re-establish additional harvest options for the equine industry.
Funding for the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service for inspectors in facilities that slaughter horses.
The Equine Liability Act, which strengthens liability protection measures for the industry.
Efforts to establish an equine industry marketing and education program.
The industry’s efforts in conducting a study to determine the impact and status of the state’s equine industry.
Removing the online wagering tax cap with the funds being allocated to the Agriculture Equine Industry Development Fund.
The expansion and promotion of equine recreational opportunities on public land.
Prohibiting bicycle/pedal powered devices on trails signed for equestrian and hiking only.
Prohibiting non-equestrian campers in equestrian campgrounds and portions of other campgrounds dedicated to equestrian use.
The establishment, growth, and funding of urban equestrian education and promotion programs.
Seven-year retention of signed liability release forms.
We oppose:
Attempts to classify equine as companion animals.
Legislation limiting or prohibiting the use of horses as working animals.
Relocating the horsemen’s simulcast purse pool funds to any race meet licensee.
We understand there are instances where owners can no longer care for their animals and under these circumstances there must be viable options for dealing with them. All equine owners need to understand the responsibility of owning and caring for their animals.
In instances where equine is abandoned, we encourage local officials to seek out the owner and levy a fine for animal abandonment.
In an attempt to encourage the equine industry to be more proactive in environmental protection, we encourage MFB to develop an equine specific strategy that focuses on Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program verification, manure management and environmental protection for the industry.
We are concerned about the number of wild mustangs being rounded up on federal land and being moved into Michigan. These horses should have an inter-state health certificate and meet the health standards of the Michigan equine population and the Bureau of Land Management adoption requirements.