On Thursday, November 6, Governor Wes Moore issued an executive order establishing the Horse Industry Strategic Planning Initiative (“the Initiative”) and directed it “to develop a strategic plan to ensure a coordinated and sustainable future for Maryland’s horse industry.”
The Initiative will be staffed, lead, and administered by the Maryland Department of Agriculture with the assistance of, and in consultation with, the Secretary of State, the Maryland Racing Commission, the Department of Labor, the Department of Natural Resources, and the Department of Commerce.
The Executive Order directs the Initiative to:
“a. Provide a coordinated framework to strengthen, support, and promote the State’s horse ecosystem;
b. Advance policies, programs, and partnerships that ensure the long-term viability, growth, and sustainability of equine enterprises across all sections including racing, breeding, sport, recreation, and education; and
c. Develop a recommended strategy to advance the Maryland horse industry and address the following objectives:
I. Strategic Planning and Policy Guidance;
II. Economic Development;
III. Advocacy, Public Awareness and Promotion;
IV. Education and Workforce Development;
V. Sustainability and Land Use;
VI. Health and Welfare; and
VII. Collaboration and Communication.”
The order obliges the Department of Agriculture to submit a report to the Governor and to the General Assembly by September 1, 2026.