A proposed rule by the New Jersey Racing Commission could now mean an end to the use and popularity of androgenic-anabolic steroids in horses and horse races.

The rule will enforce strict penalties and a testing program and has been welcomed by admirers of horse racing ever since the news broke out.

From App.com:

Androgenic-anabolic steroids are substances that increase muscle size and strength, but they also induce behavior in horses such as biting, kicking and aggressiveness toward other horses and humans, officials said.

The proposed rule bans the administration of anabolic steroids to thoroughbred race horses except for specified levels of four permitted steroids. The concentration of a permitted steroid would have to be so low that it cannot affect a horse’s performance in a race. Trainers who violate the rule would face license suspensions and fines.

Public comment on the proposed rule will be accepted until Nov. 20, officials said.

Fairness would now be added to the game of horse racing besides inhibiting the use of anabolic steroids. Moreover, the rule would also clear the “dirt” caused by accusations of steroid use in horses.