Tougher rules for California?

The California Horse Racing Board gave initial approval Tuesday to an overhaul of the state's equine drug policies—both Thoroughbred and Standardbred. The plan would include the first ban of anabolic steroids and stiffer penalties for TCO2 positives.

According to a report by Debbie Arrington in the Sacramento Bee, the racing board voted 7-0 to open a 45-day public review of the changes, which include tougher and consistent penalties for more than 800 drugs.

"What we're trying to do is make the risk not worth the reward," said Dr. Rick Arthur, the CHRB's equine medical director. "Our real goal is assuring we have the cleanest racing in the country. I have no doubt we already do."

The story also reported that trainers with second offenses for Class B drugs would be forced to "dismantle their stables" and turn their horses over to other non-affiliated trainers. Class A violations carry a minimum one-year suspension and $10,000 fine. Owners, veterinarians and assistant trainers also face new penalties, starting with 30-day suspensions and fines for a minor first offense.

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