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MPHRC Proposed Rules, Directives, and Regulatory Amendments

The Maritime Provinces Harness Racing Commission (MPHRC) is committed to transparency and evidence-based rulemaking.

This page provides a central location where stakeholders can:

  • Review proposed new rules and directives

  • Review proposed amendments to existing rules

  • See comment deadlines and status

  • Access supporting documents (proposed text, Initial Statement of Reasons, notices)

All proposals listed here are open for written feedback during their stated public comment period.

Current Proposed Rules and Directives

At this time, there are no proposed rules, directives, or regulatory amendments open for public review or comment.

When proposals are brought forward, they will be posted on this page along with:

  • The proposed rule or directive text

  • A summary of the rationale and intended impact

  • Any supporting documentation

  • Instructions on how and by when feedback may be submitted

Stakeholders are encouraged to check back regularly, as this page will be updated whenever new proposals are released for consultation.

If you have questions or wish to raise an issue for consideration outside of an active consultation period, please contact the Commission directly.

MPHRC Rule 5XX: Example Rule Change

15-Day Public Comment Period: December 31, 2025 to January 14, 2026

MPHRC Rule 5XX: Example Rule Change

15-Day Public Comment Period: December 31, 2025 to January 14, 2026

Commission Updates

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FAQ

Who can comment on proposed rules?

Anyone with an interest in Maritime harness racing, including:

  • Owners, trainers, drivers, grooms

  • Veterinarians and veterinary clinics

  • Racetrack operators and race offices

  • Industry associations and horsepeople’s groups

  • Members of the general public

Do I need to use a specific form?

No. Comments can be submitted as a regular email or phone call. For clarity, please:

  • Identify the rule or directive you are commenting on

  • Indicate whether you support, oppose, or suggest specific amendments

  • Provide reasons or examples where possible

Will there be public hearings?

The Commission may hold a public hearing where deemed appropriate, but hearings are not automatic. The primary method for input is the 15-day written comment period for each proposal.

Where will final decisions be posted?

Once adopted, final rules and directives will be:

  • Integrated into the MPHRC Rules of Racing and/or Commission Directives

  • Posted on the MPHRC website

  • Communicated to racetracks and relevant stakeholders

How the Public Comment Process Works

  • Commission staff prepare a draft rule, directive, or amendment.

  • A Notice and an Initial Statement of Reasons (ISOR) are prepared to explain the rationale and anticipated impacts.

  • The proposal is posted on this page under “Current Proposed Rules and Directives”.

  • The posting includes a 15-day written public comment period.

  • Horsepeople, veterinarians, racetrack operators, associations, and members of the public may submit written feedback.

  • Comments are reviewed by Commission staff and provided to Commissioners before final consideration.

  • After the comment period closes, the Commission may:

    • adopt the proposal as drafted

    • adopt with modifications (if appropriate)

    • defer for further work

    • decline to adopt

  • If adopted, the rule or directive is scheduled for an effective date and added to the MPHRC Rules of Racing or Commission Directives.

The final adopted text and effective date are posted on the MPHRC website and, where applicable, circulated to stakeholders.

Approved Rules and Directives

MPHRC Rule 5XX: Rule Change Final Notice
  • Regulation Effective Date: April 1, 2100
  • Filed with Director of Racing: December 24, 2100
    • Rules Committee Report
    • Final Statement of Reasons
MPHRC Rule 5XX: Rule Change Final Notice
  • Regulation Effective Date: April 1, 2100
  • Filed with Director of Racing: December 24, 2100
    • Rules Committee Report
    • Final Statement of Reasons