“Our bill delivers commonsense medication and track safety standards that protect America’s horses and jockeys, needed progress that will put this popular and historic sport on track for a strong recovery and a bright future,” said top sponsor Paul Tonko, D-N.Y., whose district is home to Saratoga Race Course.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., whose state is home to the country’s top breeding outfits and the Kentucky Derby, introduced identical legislation with senior Democrats from California and New York, which also have top racetracks and breeding operations.

The “Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act” comes after the racing industry has been hit by a series of doping scandals and a rash of fatal breakdowns in recent years. It is also struggling through the COVID-19 pandemic, with tracks like Churchill Downs holding races — including last weekend’s Kentucky Derby, delayed from May — without spectators. (AP)

Rodeo moves from Nevada to Texas: The marquee National Finals Rodeo is shifting this year from Las Vegas to Arlington, Texas, because of coronavirus restrictions, event officials announced. Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association and Texas Rangers officials said the Western horse sports championship will be held Dec. 3-12 at Globe Life Field, a retractable-roof stadium that opened this year and seats more than 40,000 people. Texas has 50% occupancy guidelines because of the pandemic, and rodeo officials project up to 17,000 ticket-buyers daily. The event has been held in Las Vegas since 1985, and usually draw 17,000 fans each night for 10 nights. Because of the move this year, the rodeo’s Las Vegas contract will be extended one year, through 2025. (AP)