EXECUTIVE ORDER 01.01.2025.23

Maryland Horse Industry Strategic Planning Initiative

A. Establishment

1. There is hereby established a Horse Industry Strategic Plan Initiative ("Initiative") to promote growth, financial sustainability, and a thriving ecosystem within Maryland's horse industry.

2. The Initiative shall be administered by the Maryland Department of Agriculture, in consultation with:

a. The Secretary of State;

b. The Maryland Racing Commission;

c. The Department of Labor;

d. The Department of Natural Resources; and

e. The Department of Commerce.

3. If requested, all Executive Department agencies shall cooperate with and assist the Department of Agriculture in carrying out its responsibilities under this Executive Order.

4. The Department of Agriculture shall staff the Initiative.

B. Strategic Plan .

1. The Initiative, led by the Department of Agriculture, shall develop a strategic plan to ensure a coordinated and sustainable future for Maryland's horse industry.

2. The strategic plan shall:

a. Provide a coordinated framework to strengthen, support, and promote the State's horse ecosystem;

b. Advance policies, programs, and partnerships that ensure the long-term viability, growth, and sustainability of equine enterprises across all sections including racing, breeding, sport, recreation, and education; and

c. Develop a recommended strategy to advance the Maryland horse industry and address the following objectives:

i. Strategic Planning and Policy Guidance;

ii. Economic Development;

iii. Advocacy, Public Awareness and Promotion;

iv. Education and Workforce Development;

v. Sustainability and Land Use;

vi. Health and Welfare; and

vii. Collaboration and Communication.

C. Reporting . On or before September 1, 2026, the Department of Agriculture shall submit a report to the Governor and General Assembly outlining its progress, recommendations, and strategic priorities for the Maryland horse industry's ecosystem.

D. General Provisions .

1. This Executive Order shall be implemented in a manner that is consistent with all applicable statutes and regulations. Nothing in this Executive Order shall operate to contravene any State or federal law or to affect the State's receipt of federal funding.

2. If any provision of this Executive Order or its application to any person, entity, or circumstance is held invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, all other provisions or applications of the Executive Order shall remain in effect to the extent possible without the invalid provision or application. To achieve this purpose, the provisions of this Executive Order are severable.

Effective Date: November 6, 2025.