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Reporting and Processes

To ensure the fairness, safety, and enjoyment of our sport, US Equestrian has reporting processes for our members. Reports can be made anonymously.

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Resolution Process for Reports

Report

The Federation will acknowledge receipt of a report within 3 to 5 business days of submission by one of the reporting methods discussed above.

Intake

The Federation will undertake a review of the information received, pull records, and determine whether it has jurisdiction over the matter and over the person reported. This step can take up to 14 business days.

Investigation

The Federation will initiate a fact-gathering investigation to obtain as much information as possible. The Federation will interview witnesses, gather any digital or documentary evidence, and, if appropriate, consult with relevant experts. Depending on the complexity of the matter and availability of witnesses, the investigation can take between 30 and 120 days.

Action

The Federation may pursue any of a range of actions from closure of the matter to an informal agreed resolution to formal disciplinary action. If a matter proceeds to disciplinary action, a hearing will be scheduled within 90 days from the issuance of a Disciplinary Action Complaint.


Resources for Reporting Rule Violations

Rule Violations

Any individual may report misconduct or allegations of a rule violation through the USEF Rule Violation Report Form. Your anonymity is ensured

Report Unethical Treatment of a Horse

If you have witnessed an act that jeopardizes the safety and welfare of a horse, you should report the abuse on the
Horse Abuse & Unethical Treatment Report Form. You can also anonymously submit a report by texting 28733 (2USEF).

Safe Sport

Find information on reporting Safe Sport violations

Grievances

Learn about filing a grievance.

Forms and Publications

Process for Reported Violation(s) of Federation Rules

Each report of an alleged rule violation received by the Regulation Department is subject to a four-step process.

Evidence Gathering Guidelines

These guidelines were established to assist USEF Licensed Officials with ensuring the information and evidence collated at a competition will be of value not only throughout an investigation but also within any formal proceedings.

Cruelty, Abuse, Or Unethical Treatment Of A Horse Penalty Guidelines

The Cruelty, Abuse, or Unethical Treatment of a Horse Penalty Guidelines (“Guidelines”) have been prepared to inform the Federation membership of the types and ranges of penalties that may be imposed for rule violations based on the categories included therein. These Guidelines assist the Hearing Committee Panels in the imposition of consistent and efficient penalties.

Drugs & Medications Penalty Guidelines

The Drugs & Medications Penalty Guidelines (“Guidelines”) have been prepared to inform the Federation membership of the types and ranges of penalties that may be imposed for rule violations based on the categories included therein. These Guidelines assist the Hearing Committee Panels in the imposition of consistent and efficient penalties.

Inappropriate Conduct Towards Licensed Officials Penalty Guidelines

The Inappropriate Conduct Towards Licensed Officials Penalty Guidelines (“Guidelines”) have been prepared to inform the Federation membership of the types and ranges of penalties that may be imposed for rule violations based on the categories included therein. These Guidelines assist the Hearing Committee Panels in the imposition of consistent and efficient penalties.

Members' Rights

Before any adverse action is taken by the Federation, you will be afforded the rights contained herein.

Process to Relieve a Suspended Horse from Suspension

Allows new owners or lessees the opportunity to demonstrate to the Hearing Committee that they acquired a horse through a bona fide transaction and therefore the horse should be relieved of suspension.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Suspended Horses

Answers questions about suspended horses.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Suspended Persons

Answers questions relating to regulations placed on a suspended person and anyone who takes over responsibilities of a suspended person.

Have Questions?

For more information on the Federation's processes, contact the Regulation Department.