Blog

Visa to The United States of America, USA, close-up focusing on the word VISA

Key Takeaways for Employers from the Report of the H-2B Worker Protection TaskforceFor employers of H-2B workers, understanding the contents of the H-2B Taskforce Report is essential to anticipate potential impacts on hiring and managing H-2B staff. Below is a summarized account of the report's main objectives and the likely implications for employers:---Understanding the H-2B Taskforce Report: Key Points for EmployersThe primary mission of the Taskforce is to address concerns related to the vulnerabilities and exploitation of H-2B workers. The report underscores the government's commitment to better protect these workers' rights while preserving the integrity of the H-2B program.Main Objectives of the Taskforce:<ol><li>**Enhanced Federal Coordination and Enforcement Mechanisms:**</li></ol>&nbsp;&nbsp; - The government aims to harmonize the efforts of different departments, ensuring that H-2B workers involved in labor disputes are not penalized in future visa applications. <ol start="2"><li>**Leverage Existing Data for Transparency:**</li></ol>&nbsp;&nbsp; - By sharing data across departments like Homeland Security, Labor, and State, the aim is to spot labor law violations more effectively and prevent worker abuse.&nbsp;&nbsp; - A special focus is on ensuring gender equity within the H-2 program, with reports indicating less than 15% of H-2B workers are women. <ol start="3"><li>**Reduce Workers’ Vulnerability to Exploitation:**</li></ol>&nbsp;&nbsp; - Tackling the issue of recruitment fees, which majority of H-2B workers reported having to pay, is a priority. The onus might be on employers to provide better information about recruiters they engage with.&nbsp;&nbsp; - There's a commitment to enhance information sharing among consular posts about impermissible recruitment practices, which might result in stricter vetting processes for recruiters. <ol start="4"><li>**Empower Workers Through Information Access:**</li></ol>&nbsp;&nbsp; - Employers might need to ensure that H-2B workers are better informed about their rights. Resources will be developed and shared widely to achieve this.&nbsp;&nbsp; - There's a push to provide real-time job opportunity information, which could mean employers need to be more transparent about job openings and worker requirements. <ol start="5"><li>**Establishment of an Interagency H-2 Worker Protection Working Group:**</li></ol>&nbsp;&nbsp; - This working group will serve as the main communication bridge between stakeholders, including employers, and the government. Regular interactions and feedback sessions might become the norm. ---Potential Impacts for Employers:Enhanced Scrutiny: Employers should expect stricter oversight of their hiring and management practices to ensure compliance with updated H-2B program standards.Transparency Requirements: The Taskforce could result in increased requirements to share data about H-2B workers, their job roles, and other pertinent details.Recruitment Clarity: Employers may need to be more transparent about the recruitment agencies they work with, ensuring no prohibited fees are levied on potential H-2B hires.---In conclusion, while the Taskforce's report primarily focuses on worker protection, we should also expect notable impacts for employers of H-2B workers.&nbsp; Embracing these changes and ensuring compliance will not only be a legal necessity, but also a step forward in establishing a more equitable and transparent H-2B working environment.

Key Takeaways for Employers from the Report of the H-2B Worker Protection Taskforce

Key Updates in Equine Doping Controls: Standardizing Metformin TestingRecent actions by the Horseracing Integrity &amp; Welfare Unit (HIWU) highlight significant strides towards fairness and uniformity in the application and adjudication of horse racing doping controls. Here are the key takeaways:Inconsistency Identified: An internal review revealed discrepancies among six HIWU-accredited labs in the blood Limit of Detection for Metformin, a banned substance. This inconsistency led to unequal adjudications in doping cases.Unified Standards: HIWU addressed this by standardizing the Limit of Detection for Metformin across all labs. This immediate rectification ensures consistent testing for this substance nationwide.Direct Consequences: The standardization had prompt implications. Provisional Suspensions were lifted and Equine Anti-Doping Charge letters were withdrawn for trainers Guadalupe Munoz Elizondo and Javier Morzan, as their horses' Metformin levels fell below the new threshold.Ongoing Harmonization: Beyond this incident, there's a broader push for uniformity in testing standards. HIWU is actively harmonizing testing sensitivities via robust quality assurance programs, marking progress from the previous state-based regulatory systems.Future Developments: The transition to the HISA Equine Analytical Laboratory Accreditation standards is underway, anticipated to extend through 2024. This move further solidifies the commitment to the harmonization of its laboratoriesfor and consistency in its detection standards.&nbsp;The resolve demonstrated by HIWU in standardizing Metformin testing is a clear indicator of its dedication to upholding the highest integrity levels in horse racing. This development is not just a win for the regulatory bodies but for the entire horse racing community, affirming a commitment to fair competition and the welfare of the equine athletes.The complete statement from HIWU can be found here: https://www.hiwu.org/news/update-on-admc-cases-and-the-harmonization-among-hiwu-accredited-laboratories-of-metformin-s-limit-of-detection-in-blood

UPDATE | Harmonization Among HIWU-Accredited Laboratories of Metformin’s Limit of Detection in Blood

Medical marketing and Health care business concept

OwnerView: Common Surgery with Dr. Bramlage In the racing industry world, understanding the medical facets of horse health can be a daunting task for owners. Recently, an enlightening conference hosted by OwnerView pulled back the curtain on equine arthroscopy, featuring renowned veterinary surgeon Dr. Larry Bramlage from Rood &amp; Riddle Equine Hospital. Known for his extensive expertise, Dr. Bramlage delved into removing a chip from an ankle, a common surgical procedure among racehorses, offering clarity and reassurance. Here are five takeaways: <ol><li>**Understanding Arthroscopy**:</li></ol>&nbsp;&nbsp; Dr. Bramlage introduced attendees to the world of equine arthroscopy, a minimally invasive surgical method used to diagnose and treat joint problems. In layman's terms, arthroscopy involves inserting a small camera, called an arthroscope, into the horse's joint to provide a clear view of the join and enable treatment. This technique is pivotal for resolving joint issues with minimal recovery time, as well as significantly enhancing a horse's comfort and performance capabilities. <ol start="2"><li> **The Significance of Prompt Surgery**:</li></ol>&nbsp;&nbsp; Addressing the common issue of bone chips in the joint, Dr. Bramlage stressed the importance of timely surgical intervention. When these chips are ignored, they can wreak havoc within the joint, causing pain and lasting damage. By opting for prompt arthroscopy, owners can prevent further joint degradation, ensuring quicker recoveries and prolonged athletic functionality for their horses. <ol start="3"><li> **Post-Surgery Recovery and Prognosis**:</li></ol>&nbsp;&nbsp; Post-operative care was a hot topic, with particular attention to the horse's swift recovery post-arthroscopy. Horses experience minimal discomfort post-surgery, with most returning to the recovery stalls slightly wobbly, but otherwise in good spirits. The prognosis is generally excellent, with the surgery preventing further joint issues and reducing the chance of re-injury. <ol start="4"><li> **Comparison Between Bone Chips and OCD**:</li></ol>&nbsp;&nbsp; The session clarified the difference between bone chips, caused by wear and tear, and OCD (Osteochondritis Dissecans), a developmental condition often discovered in young horses. Despite their different origins, both conditions can lead to joint debris, necessitating their removal. Dr. Bramlage underlined that while the removal reasons are similar, each case is unique and requires veterinary assessment. <ol start="5"><li> **Injury Frequency in Different Equestrian Disciplines**:</li></ol>&nbsp;&nbsp; An interesting takeaway was the discussion on injury prevalence across various horse sports. Contrary to expectation, disciplines like jumping aren't the primary contributors to joint issues. Instead, repetitive, cyclic loading activities (think long-distance running, akin to a horse horse’s normal training program) pose a higher risk. Among several fascinating insights, one that stood out was the revelation that advancements in equine arthroscopy have influenced human medicine. In a striking role-reversal, techniques perfected in equine surgery have been observed and adopted by human medical professionals, highlighting the mutually beneficial intersections between veterinary and human medical fields. The conference with Dr. Bramlage was an invaluable opportunity for horse owners to demystify the complexities of equine joint health. Understanding the need, process, and benefits of procedures like arthroscopy is essential for those dedicated to the welfare and athletic longevity of their horses. So, here's a salute to continued learning and the relentless pursuit of advancements in equine healthcare!

Common Equine Surgery | Removing a Chip with Dr. Bramlage

COMPLIANCE: Close up green button keyboard computer. Digital Business and Technology Concept.

HISA Town Hall: Top 8 Take Aways Provided by On Track The inaugural Town Hall invited all racing participants to attend and addressed questions submitted by participants regarding HISA’s Anti-Doping Medication and Control Program. The ADMC program, established by HISA, is the first-ever uniform anti-doping program and is run by the Horse Racing Integrity and Welfare Unit (HIWU).&nbsp;Panelists:Ben Mosher, Executive Director of HIWU.Michelle Pujals, General Counsel.Kate Middlestadt, Chief of Operations.Dr. Mary Scollay, Chief of Science 1. Provisional Suspension System and Modifications:<ol><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ol><li>Provisional suspensions generally apply only in the anti-doping context for banned substances and methods, with some exceptions for controlled medication substances.</li><li>Michelle Pujals distinguished between provisional suspensions, which are not a finding of guilt and occur during the dependency of the case, and final suspensions, which require the transfer of covered horses and have other implications.</li></ol></li></ol>2. Procedures in the Test Barn and Hygiene:<ol><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ol><li>Kate Middlestadt explained the procedures in the test barn, emphasizing the importance of hygiene throughout the sample collection process.</li><li>She clarifies the use of gloves, which are mandatory for personnel collecting urine samples but not for vets collecting blood, as gloves can interfere with the blood draw. The integrity of blood samples is not compromised even if gloves are not worn, as blood collection is considered a closed system.</li><li>The test barns are equipped with sanitized and disinfected buckets assigned to each horse for post-race testing, and additional hygiene measures are taken to prepare the area for each horse.</li></ol></li></ol>3. Atypical Findings Policy:<ol><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ol><li>Mary Scollay explained the atypical findings policy, which is modeled on a system used by the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI).</li><li>The policy addresses substances that are likely found as constituents of plant materials or through bedding or feed, rather than willful administration.</li></ol></li></ol>4. Atypical Findings Investigation and Determination:<ol><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ol><li>If an investigation determines that exposure was beyond the control of the responsible person, the finding is reverted to negative with no consequences.</li><li>The Anti-Doping and Medication Control Committee reviews regulations and can amend the list of specified substances based on intelligence, stakeholder input, and new science.</li><li>It is clarified that if an atypical finding is determined to be negative, it is not publicly disclosed. HISA or HIWU cannot disclose this information without the consent of the responsible person.</li></ol></li></ol>5. Environmental Contaminants and Human Medications:<ol><li style="list-style-type: none;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: none;"><ol><li>The panel discusses the definition of environmental contaminants, which are substances present in plant materials, feed, or bedding. The introduction of foreign substances into the horse’s environment through other means does not meet the criteria for environmental contaminants.</li></ol></li></ol>6. Administration of Electrolytes:<ol><li style="list-style-type: none;"><ol><li>Mary Scollay clarified the rules for administering electrolytes. Electrolytes can be given orally up to 24 hours prior to a horse’s post time. The use of a nasogastric tube extends this to 48 hours. Unsupplemented isotonic electrolyte solutions can be administered intravenously up to 24 hours. Salt and mineral blocks, as well as free-choice electrolyte solutions in water, are permitted at any time.</li></ol></li></ol>7. Process for Changing and Approving New Rules:<ol><li style="list-style-type: none;"><ol><li>The panel explains the process for changing and approving new rules. HISA has two standing committees responsible for drafting, creating, and modifying the rules. Stakeholder feedback is actively sought, and suggestions for rule changes can be sent to HISA via email. The committees review feedback and make modifications based on stakeholder input.</li></ol></li></ol>8. Out-of-Competition Testing and Controlled Medications:<ol><li style="list-style-type: none;"><ol><li>The panel clarifies that out-of-competition testing is only for banned substances, while controlled medications are allowed between races. The importance of reporting medications into the portal is emphasized, and the development of a transfer testing program is mentioned to allow testing of new horses coming into a barn.</li></ol></li></ol>

On Track TBS

Blog

Key Takeaways for Employers from the Report of the H-2B W...

UPDATE | Harmonization Among HIWU-Accredited Laboratories...

Common Equine Surgery | Removing a Chip with Dr. Bramlage

HISA Town Hall: Top 8 Takeaways