The HPA prohibits horses subjected to a process called soring from participating in exhibitions, sales, shows, or auctions. In addition, the Act prohibits drivers from hauling sored horses across State lines to compete in shows. The law was first passed in 1970 and amended in 1976.

As part of its ongoing efforts to safeguard U.S. animal health, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) initiated the implementation of the National Animal Identification System (NAIS) in 2004. The main objective is to develop and implement a comprehensive information system that will support ongoing animal disease monitoring, surveillance, and eradication programs. Additionally, successful advancements of NAIS will enable State and Federal animal health officials to respond rapidly and effectively to animal heath emergencies such as foreign animal disease outbreaks or emerging domestic diseases.