Gov. Mike Braun recently ceremonially signed into law legislation authored by State Rep. Beau Baird (R-Greencastle) to expand equine dental care access and address the veterinarian shortage in Indiana.
Baird, a member of the House Agriculture and Rural Development Committee, said House Enrolled Act 1490 will allow the Indiana Horse Racing Commission to license qualified individuals to perform teeth floating at licensed racetracks in the state. Horse racing had an economic impact of nearly $2 billion in Indiana in 2021.
Teeth floating is a dental procedure performed on horses to remove sharp edges and uneven surfaces on their teeth. The procedure is used to help maintain optimal dental health and prevents pain and discomfort for the horse.
"This legislation ensures racehorses can receive the dental care they need from trusted, experienced providers without unnecessary red tape," Baird said. "By allowing qualified individuals to perform this service under commission oversight, we're supporting horse health and the racing industry in Indiana."
Baird said the law also provides an exemption from state veterinary licensing requirements for commission approved providers, which will streamline care for racehorses while maintaining oversight.
Currently, the United States faces a critical shortage of veterinarians with an estimated need for 41,000 additional veterinarians by 2030.
Lineup of 50 new food creations featured during this year's Indiana State Fair
Indiana wrapping up recounts in three legislative races
New traffic pattern to impact State Road 63 in Vermillion County
Illinois man arrested after chase through Vermillion, Parke counties
Garth Brooks announces The Blame It All On My Roots Tour kicking off at Gainbridge Fieldhouse
Art and photo contest open for DNR hard card licenses
IFB: Summer cookout costs decrease for Indiana shoppers, lower than U.S. average
$22 million Fourth of July water roller coaster coming to Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari
ISDA Launches IMAGE Cost-Share Program for southwest Indiana producers
July 4th: Red Cross offers safety tips for a harmless holiday
Full steam ahead: Indiana State Fair to debut new Family Train Ride in 2026
Governor Braun highlights America 250 Celebrations, encourages communities to participate with sSpecial grant program
Arts grant to support Parke Players’ summer musical, Ritz Theater
Missing teen Peyton Fulk found in Florida
Vermillion County Commissioners ready to look at solar overhaul
Know your fireworks laws, safety this holiday season
