A diverse coalition of stakeholders praised the leadership of state lawmakers Representative Tom McKee (D) and Senator Robin Webb (D), the entire Kentucky Legislature, and Gov. Steve Beshear for enacting a measure Friday (March 20) to reduce the hold period for stray horses from 90 days to 15 days.
This new law is designed to allow for more positive outcomes for horses and the local communities by significantly shortening the amount of time a stray horse must be held before the animal can be rehomed and decreasing the high costs for local officials to care for the horses. Prior to the enactment of HB 312, which takes effect in June 24, Kentucky had the second highest hold period in the country at 90 days. This new law brings Kentucky more in line with bordering states that all have 10-day hold periods.
The legislation was introduced to address a growing population of stray and abandoned horses in rural Kentucky areas that has been increasing at a rate that is not sustainable. Many of these domestic horses have been turned out to survive on their own, something they are ill-equipped for, resulting in horses migrating onto roadways and private properties in search of food, creating public safety problems. The lengthy stray hold period has been a deterrent to communities, individuals, and groups who step in to care for these horses, which can cost them thousands of dollars in unbudgeted expenditures.