Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has joined forces with other agricultural leaders to challenge a new rule under the Horse Protection Act. The group, consisting of ten state agriculture officials, has sent a letter to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) urging the withdrawal of the Horse Protection Amendments final rule. This rule was published in the Federal Register on May 8, 2024, and is set to take effect on February 1, 2025.

Commissioner Miller expressed concerns about the implications of these amendments, stating that they are not focused on horse protection but rather represent an overreach by federal authorities. "This isn’t about protecting horses; it’s about federal bureaucrats grabbing more control," he said. He emphasized that those who own horses treat them as family members and integral parts of their livelihoods.

The commissioner also warned that the new regulations could have severe consequences for the equine industry and rural communities across the nation. "The new rule will devastate the equine industry, punish responsible horse owners, and destroy rural communities nationwide," Miller stated. He criticized the USDA for imposing what he described as "senseless regulations" that would ultimately harm rather than help horses.

Miller and his colleagues have requested that the USDA consider all possible options, including delaying enforcement of the rule.

Director of Communications Maddison Jaureguito provided this information in a statement from Commissioner Sid Miller's office.