Court Rules in Favor of Tennessee Walking Horse Industry on Key Issues
By WalkingHorseChat.com Staff
Friday, January 31, 2025

In a landmark decision that has sent ripples through the Tennessee Walking Horse community, United States District Judge Matthew J. Kacsmaryk ruled today in favor of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, Tom Gould, and Kimberly Lewis in their legal challenge against the USDA’s controversial amendments to the Horse Protection Act (HPA). The ruling, which was met with widespread celebration among industry supporters, marks a significant victory for the Tennessee Walking Horse industry on nearly all counts, with the exception of the USDA’s provisions regarding the Designated Qualified Persons (DQP) program.

Judge Kacsmaryk’s ruling addressed several critical aspects of the USDA’s 2024 amendments, which had sparked intense debate and concern within the Walking Horse community. In his opinion, the judge stated:

“The Court HOLDS that: (1) USDA exceeded its statutory authority by promulgating a blanket prohibition on action devices, pads, and substances; (2) the DCIS provision replacing the Scar Rule fails to provide adequate due process; and (3) the lack of genuine pre- and post-deprivation review in the 2024 Rule fails to provide adequate due process. However, the 2024 Rule provision regarding the DQP program does not constitute an excess of statutory authority, arbitrary or capricious decision-making, or a violation of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.”

This decision effectively overturns key components of the USDA’s amendments, which many in the industry viewed as overly restrictive and detrimental to the future of the Tennessee Walking Horse. The ruling has been hailed as a triumph for horse enthusiasts, trainers, and breeders who have long argued that the USDA’s regulations were not only unnecessary but also harmful to the breed’s legacy and the industry’s economic viability.

Industry Leaders and Supporters React

Tommy Williams, publisher of WalkingHorseChat.com and a vocal advocate for the Tennessee Walking Horse industry, expressed his overwhelming support for the court’s decision. In an exclusive statement, Williams said:

“This ruling is a monumental win for the Tennessee Walking Horse industry and for everyone who loves and supports this incredible breed. Judge Kacsmaryk’s decision reaffirms what we’ve been saying all along—that the USDA’s overreach was not only unjustified but also a direct threat to the future of our industry. The court has recognized the importance of preserving our traditions while ensuring that due process is upheld. This is a victory for fairness, for the horses, and for the people who dedicate their lives to this sport.”

Williams went on to praise the efforts of Tom Gould, Kimberly Lewis, and the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration for their unwavering commitment to defending the industry.

“Tom Gould and Kimberly Lewis have been tireless champions for the Walking Horse community, and their leadership in this case has been nothing short of extraordinary. This ruling wouldn’t have been possible without their determination and the support of countless individuals who believe in the future of our breed. Today, we celebrate not just a legal victory, but a reaffirmation of the values that make this industry so special.”

Key Takeaways from the Ruling

The court’s decision addressed several critical issues that have been at the heart of the debate surrounding the USDA’s amendments:

1. Blanket Prohibition on Action Devices, Pads, and Substances
   Judge Kacsmaryk ruled that the USDA exceeded its statutory authority by implementing a blanket ban on action devices, pads, and substances. This aspect of the ruling is particularly significant, as these tools have long been used in the training and presentation of Tennessee Walking Horses. The court’s decision ensures that these practices can continue, provided they are used responsibly and in compliance with existing regulations.
2. Due Process Concerns
   The court found that the USDA’s replacement of the Scar Rule with the Digital Composite Image Scoring (DCIS) system failed to provide adequate due process. Additionally, the lack of pre- and post-deprivation review in the 2024 Rule was deemed insufficient to protect the rights of individuals within the industry. These findings underscore the importance of transparency and fairness in regulatory decision-making.
3. DQP Program Upheld
   While the court ruled in favor of the industry on nearly all counts, it upheld the USDA’s provisions regarding the DQP program. The DQP program, which designates qualified individuals to inspect horses for compliance with the HPA, was found to be within the USDA’s statutory authority and not arbitrary or capricious.

A Turning Point for the Industry

Today’s ruling represents a turning point for the Tennessee Walking Horse industry, which has faced significant challenges in recent years. The decision not only validates the concerns of industry stakeholders but also provides a path forward for the preservation and promotion of the breed.

As Tommy Williams noted, “This is more than just a legal victory—it’s a testament to the resilience and passion of the Walking Horse community. We’ve faced adversity before, and we’ve always come out stronger. Today’s ruling is a reminder that when we stand together, we can overcome even the greatest challenges.”

The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration and its supporters are now looking ahead to the future with renewed optimism. With the court’s decision in hand, the industry is poised to continue its tradition of excellence while ensuring the welfare of the horses remains a top priority.

For more updates and analysis on this developing story, stay tuned to WalkingHorseChat.com, your trusted source for all things Tennessee Walking Horse.

Quotes from Tommy Williams, publisher of WalkingHorseChat.com, were included in this article with his permission.

Written by: Tommy Williams
email:tommywhc@aol.com
931-492-2825
WHC Publisher-Williams Media Entertainment

Summary of Court Ruling in Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Association v. USDA
Northern District of Texas, Amarillo Division
Case No. 2:24-CV-143-Z
January 31, 2025

Key Holdings

The court ruled on five provisions of the USDA’s 2024 Horse Protection Act (HPA) Rule, granting partial summary judgment to both parties. Key outcomes include:

1. Prohibition of Action Devices and Pads (9 C.F.R. § 11.6(c))

• Holding: Vacated as exceeding statutory authority.
• Reasoning:
  • The HPA authorizes bans on equipment causing soring. Evidence showed action devices (weights) and pads, when used within existing limits (e.g., ≤6 oz.), do not inherently cause soring.
  • A blanket ban would eliminate the Performance Division of competitions, conflicting with Congress’s dual goals of preventing soring while preserving fair competition.
  • USDA’s rationale (preventing soring “in conjunction” with other practices) was deemed an overreach.

2. Ban on Substances Above the Hoof (9 C.F.R. § 11.6(c)(4))

• Holding: Vacated as exceeding statutory authority.
• Reasoning:
  • Lubricants (e.g., glycerine) were previously exempted to reduce friction. USDA failed to prove they mask soring.
  • No evidence linked lubricants to masking agents. Existing regulations already address illicit substances.

3. DCIS Provision Replacing Scar Rule (9 C.F.R. § 11.7)

• Holding: Vacated for violating Due Process (vagueness).
• Reasoning:
  • The Dermatologic Conditions Indicative of Soring (DCIS) provision lacked clear criteria (e.g., “irritation,” “hair loss”), allowing subjective inspector discretion.
  • Failed to provide fair notice or prevent arbitrary enforcement, rendering it unconstitutional under the Fifth Amendment.

4. Pre- and Post-Deprivation Review Process (9 C.F.R. §§ 11.5, 11.8(h))

• Holding: Vacated for Due Process violations.
• Reasoning:
  • Pre-deprivation review (24-hour re-inspection) was impractical, as inspections occur minutes before competitions.
  • Post-deprivation appeals (21-day window) did not remedy lost competitive opportunities.
  • Violated Mathews v. Eldridge balancing test, failing to protect owners’ property interests.

5. Replacement of DQPs with HPIs (9 C.F.R. § 11.19)

• Holding: Upheld as lawful.
• Reasoning:
  • Statutory Authority: The HPA permits USDA to set inspector qualifications. HPIs (veterinarians/animal welfare officials) reduce conflicts of interest.
  • Not Arbitrary: Supported by audits showing DQPs inadequately enforced the HPA.
  • Regulatory Flexibility Act: USDA’s analysis certified minimal economic impact on small entities, complying with procedural requirements.

Remedy

• Vacatur: Struck down provisions on action devices, substances, DCIS, and review processes.
• Severability: The 2024 Rule’s severability clause preserved remaining provisions (e.g., HPI program).

Outcome: The 2024 Rule is partially invalidated, with core enforcement changes (HPIs) remaining intact. The ruling emphasizes statutory limits on agency authority and due process protections.

Federal Court Delivers Split Ruling on USDA Horse Protection Reforms

Written by: Tommy Williams
email:tommywhc@aol.com
931-492-2825
WHC Publisher-Williams Media Entertainment

LISTEN TO ARTICLE AUDIO

Federal Court Delivers Split Ruling on USDA Horse Protection Reforms
April 2 Implementation Looms for Key Provision

A U.S. District Court in Texas issued a mixed verdict Friday in the high-stakes legal battle over the USDA’s 2024 amendments to the Horse Protection Act (HPA), granting partial victories to both the Tennessee Walking Horse industry and federal regulators.

Core Rulings

1. Equipment Ban Overturned:
   Judge Matthew J. Kacsmaryk struck down the USDA’s blanket prohibition on action devices, pads, and substances, ruling the agency overstepped its statutory authority. The HPA allows regulation of equipment use to prevent soring—not outright bans.
2. Scar Rule Replacement Flawed:
   The Digital Cervical Imaging System (DCIS), intended to replace the decades-old Scar Rule for detecting soring, was deemed procedurally deficient. The court found USDA failed to establish safeguards for handlers to contest DCIS findings, violating due process.
3. DQP Program Phase-Out Upheld:
   The court greenlit the USDA’s elimination of the Designated Qualified Person (DQP) program, which let industry-affiliated inspectors enforce HPA standards. Judge Kacsmaryk ruled this reform aligns with Congress’ intent to prevent conflicts of interest.

Immediate Impact

• Equipment Use: Training and showing practices involving action devices (e.g., chains, weighted shoes) and lubricants may continue under existing HPA guidelines.
• Inspections: The DQP program will sunset on April 2, 2025, per last week’s USDA extension. Federal veterinarians and agents will assume full inspection duties.
• Legal Pathways: Plaintiffs retain the right to appeal the DQP ruling, while USDA must revise the DCIS process to include appeals and evidence challenges.

Stakeholder Reactions

• Industry Groups: Hailed the equipment ban reversal as a “victory for tradition,” but expressed concerns about federal inspection capacity post-DQP.
• Animal Welfare Advocates: Criticized the court for “prioritizing technicalities over horse welfare,” urging USDA to appeal the equipment ruling.

Next Steps

USDA faces a tight timeline to either:

• Revise the DCIS and penalty review processes to comply with due process requirements.
• Appeal the adverse rulings to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.

Bottom Line: While the ruling preserves certain industry practices, it solidifies federal oversight of inspections—a seismic shift for the Tennessee Walking Horse world. All eyes now turn to USDA’s next move.

Updated 1/31/2025 6:15 PM EST

WHOA National High Point Awards Banquet
Celebrating the 2024 High Point Award Recipients

Date & Venue
Saturday, February 8, 2025
TWHBEA Facility
250 N Ellington Parkway, Lewisburg, TN

Congratulations to all 2024 High Point Award winners!
Join us for an evening of celebration, camaraderie, and recognition of outstanding achievements.

Registration & Reservations

• Registration Opens: December 13, 2024
• Reservation Deadline: January 14, 2025
• Seating Limit: 240 guests (Reservations close when sold out).

Important Notes

• Separate orders required for Adult and Youth tickets.
• Act early—seats are limited and expected to fill quickly!

Event Schedule
6:00 p.m.

• Cocktail Hour (Cash bar available)

6:30 p.m.

• Dinner Service

7:30 p.m.

• Awards Ceremony
  • Kentucky ROM Awards
  • ISHA High Point Awards
  • WHOA National High Point Awards

Plan Your Visit

• Address: TWHBEA Facility, 250 N Ellington Pkwy, Lewisburg, TN
• Dress Code: Semi-formal or equestrian attire recommended.

Stay Connected

• Follow WHOA on social media for updates and highlights.
• Questions? Contact [Email/Phone/Website].

Don’t Miss Out!
Secure your spot to honor the best in the industry. Mark your calendars and reserve early!

NSSHA Welcomes 2025 Board of Directors with Renewed Vision
Friday, January 31, 2025

The National Spotted Saddle Horse Association (NSSHA) is proud to introduce its 2025 Board of Directors, a dynamic team poised to lead the organization into an exciting new chapter. Following a rigorous selection process, the association has appointed 15 dedicated members alongside three alternates, each chosen for their expertise and commitment to advancing the Spotted Saddle Horse breed.

2025 Board of Directors:
Lee Wilson, Leighanne Tibbs, Bobby Parker, Timmy Parks, Stephanie Richardson, Fount Darnell, Debbie Herdahl, Steve Fuller, Mike Satterfield, Jackie Ashworth, Ritchie Reese, Trent Hancock, Dorinda Mankin, Narsis Whigham, and Mandy Motes.

Alternate Members:
Cody Satterfield, Kayla Dewese, and Christie McBride.

This year’s board reflects a blend of seasoned leaders and fresh perspectives, with members hailing from diverse backgrounds in equine training, breeding, and advocacy. Their collective experience will drive initiatives to promote breed recognition, youth programs, and competitive events nationwide.

The 2025 term begins immediately, with strategic priorities including enhanced member engagement and the launch of a national mentorship program. The NSSHA extends gratitude to retiring board members for their service and invites all members to participate in upcoming virtual town halls for updates.

For more information, visit www.nssha.com or contact the NSSHA office at info@nssha.com.

The National Spotted Saddle Horse Association, founded in 1979, promotes the preservation and enjoyment of the Spotted Saddle Horse through education, competition, and community-building initiatives.

The Phoenix show information
Wednesday, January 29, 2025

FAST Spring Showcase announces judges
Wednesday, January 29, 2025

Outline for WHTA Horse of the Year Voting Instructions

Written by: Tommy Williams
email:tommywhc@aol.com
931-492-2825
WHC Publisher-Williams Media Entertainment

#### 1.Voting Deadline**
– Voting ends at **11:59 PM on January 31, 2025**.
– Ensure your vote is counted by clicking **“Submit My Final Ballot”**.

2. **Steps to Access the Voting System**
1. Open your browser and type:
**https://hoy.walkinghorsereport.com/**
2. Enter your **trainer’s license number**.
– If the number is incorrect or inactive, an error message will appear with a contact number for assistance.
3. Provide your **email address** and create a **password** when prompted.

3. **Voting Process**
– After logging in, you will be directed to the **ballot page** with available voting categories.
– To vote:
1. Click the **“Vote”** button next to a category.
2. Select a horse’s name and click **“Save Vote”**.

4. **Text Entry Categories**
– For categories like **One Night Show** or **Multi-Night Show**, complete a text entry instead of selecting from a list.
– Follow the same steps to save your text entries.

5. **Saving and Reviewing Votes**
– If you are not ready to submit your final ballot:
1. Log out using the button in the top-right corner.
2. Revisit the login page and enter your license number along with your newly created credentials.
– This ensures your progress is saved for later completion.

6. **Submitting Your Final Ballot**
– When ready, click the **“Submit My Final Ballot”** button to finalize your vote.
– After submission:
– You can view your ballot but will no longer be able to make edits.
– A confirmation email with a copy of your ballot will be sent to you.

7. **Important Notes**
– Ensure all selections are accurate before submitting your final ballot.
– Contact support if you encounter any issues with login or voting.

This outline provides a structured guide for completing the WHTA Horse of the Year voting process efficiently and accurately before the deadline.

Remembering Trip My Trigger: A Champion Palomino with a Legacy of Excellence

Written by: Tommy Williams
email:tommywhc@aol.com
931-492-2825
WHC Publisher-Williams Media Entertainment

The equestrian world mourns the loss of a true legend, Trip My Trigger, who passed away at the age of 33 on January 19, 2025. Known for his stunning palomino coat and an extraordinary career in the show ring, Trip My Trigger left an indelible mark on the industry and in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him.

Born as Stardust’s Diamond, Trip My Trigger was sired by One Golden Moment and out of a mare named A Gen & Tonic. He was bred and raised by Harold Brown of Fort Worth, Texas, before beginning a career that would see him transform into one of the most celebrated horses of his time. In an era when palominos were a rare sight in the ring, his striking appearance and magnetic presence made him an instant sensation.

During his two-year-old season, Trip My Trigger began to show his promise, competing in both open and amateur divisions and collecting five blue ribbons. It wasn’t long before he caught the eye of Jo Ann Dowell, who purchased him for her daughter, Sue Ann Dowell. Together with Sue Ann, Trip My Trigger embarked on a journey that would solidify his place in history.

Under the expert guidance of Billy and Tim Gray at Sand Creek Farm, Sue Ann and Trip My Trigger formed an unbeatable duo. Over the course of four years, they claimed an impressive 14 wins, dazzling crowds with their chemistry and flair. In 1995, they achieved their first major triumphs, winning both the O/A Three-Year-Old Stallions World Championship and the O/A Three-Year-Old World Grand Championship. The following year, they successfully defended their title in the O/A Four-Year-Old Stallions World Championship.

As they advanced into the Amateur division in 1997, the accolades kept coming. That year, they secured victories in the O/A Stallions division and claimed the prestigious O/A World Grand Championship title. By this time, Trip My Trigger had become a household name among equestrian enthusiasts, admired not only for his talent but also for his personality and charm.

After a few more appearances in 1998, it was decided that Trip My Trigger had earned his retirement. He moved to Fantasy Farm under the care of Beverly Burgess, where he transitioned into a successful career as a breeding stallion. Loved and pampered in his golden years, he spent the remainder of his life surrounded by those who cherished him deeply.

Trip My Trigger’s passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will live on through his offspring and the memories he created in the ring. His unique combination of athleticism, charisma, and dazzling good looks made him a once-in-a-lifetime horse who captured the hearts of all who saw him perform.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to Sue Ann Dowell, Beverly Burgess, Dr. Krista Gillam, and everyone who had the honor of working with or knowing this remarkable horse. Trip My Trigger may have left this world, but his spirit will continue to inspire generations to come. Rest in peace, champion—you will be missed but never forgotten