Steroid Ban Now in Effect

Late last night the word was out in the state of Kentucky: Stop using steroids now.

An emergency regulation signed by Governor Steve Beshear is now banning the use of anabolic steroids in Thoroughbred and Standard bred horse races effective immediately.

"This is a historic day in Kentucky racing," Beshear said in a statement. "This action demonstrates our commitment to ensuring the integrity of racing and the safety of its competitors."

While the ban is in place now, trainers will get a 90 day grace period and testing for steroids will begin in 30 days, with the Keeneland fall meet. Trainers will be notified of positive test results but there will be no penalty assessed.

The new drug rule sets acceptable levels, based on the sex of the horse, of three naturally occurring steroids, boldenone, nandrolone and testosterone.

Horses can still be given steroids therapeutically, but they can't race for 60 days afterward, must notify the racing commission and must present a clean test result.