The Kentucky Equine Education Project (KEEP) is mobilizing support for House Bill 112, which will provide horse owners the same exemption from state sales tax on feed, supplies, and equipment that other agriculture animals receive. 

 

Introduced by Rep. Mike Denham, HB 112 is supported by a bipartisan group of legislators from across the state, KEEP said in a press release.

 

"The horse industry is critically important to Kentucky's economy and especially to the agriculture sector," Denham said. "It's time we treat this signature industry fairly and render the benefits that other livestock industries receive."

 

HB 112 is identical to legislation introduced last year by then Rep. Ryan Quarles, who was elected the state's commissioner of agriculture in November. 

 

During a recent address to the Kentucky Thoroughbred Farm Mangers Club, Quarles urged those in attendance to contact their legislators and express support for HB 112. The newly launched KEEP Advocacy website will identify state legislators, making contacting them quick and easy. Also available on the site is a link to the Legislative Research Commission bill information page for HB 112, which includes an updated list of co-sponsors.

 

In July, the KEEP board unanimously approved a resolution calling for Equine Tax Equity for Kentucky's horse industry and also approved the formation of the Equine Sales Tax Equity Task Force, appointing Frank Penn as chairman. The task force includes a broad-based statewide coalition of horse industry leaders and representatives from outside the industry that recognize the importance of equine agriculture to Kentucky's overall economy. 

 

"It's a matter of fairness," said Penn, owner of Pennbrook Farm. "Caring for horses is not any different from raising other livestock animals. Equine sales tax equity will boost Kentucky's economy, through increased equine activity as well as the accompanying indirect impact. We have built a strong coalition of those inside and outside the equine industry to lead the charge in working with policymakers in Frankfort. Now we need all supporters statewide to lend their voice to this effort."

 

"The priority placed on this issue demonstrates KEEP's commitment to all aspects of the equine economy, regardless of breed or discipline," said Corey Johnsen, KEEP chairman and president of Kentucky Downs. "Over the next few months, we'll work to ensure that Gov. Bevin and legislators understand the critical role horses play in Kentucky's economy."    

 

Kentucky residents to contact their legislators with a message of support for HB 112 through KEEP's online advocacy center at www.horseswork.com/advocacy