Columbus, OH – The United States Trotting Association is now accepting proposals from members for changes to the organization’s Official Rules.
Current USTA members may submit suggestions for rule additions, deletions, or modifications by completing the 2027 USTA Rule Change Proposal Form.
When completing the form, members should identify the applicable rule under the section titled “Recommended Rule Change/Addition/Deletion” and clearly outline the proposed revision. Under “Justification for Change,” members should address the following:
- The specific issue or concern prompting the proposal
- The individuals or groups that would be affected by the change
- How the proposal would resolve the issue or benefit the industry
- Any potential drawbacks or unintended consequences
- Supporting information, data, or statistics, if applicable
Members are encouraged to review the current edition of the USTA Rule Book before submitting a proposal to ensure the appropriate rule is referenced. If no existing rule applies, members should identify the section of the Rule Book where the proposed change would best fit.
All rule change proposals will be published and presented during the USTA’s 13 annual district meetings. Members will vote on proposals electronically through MyAccount, unless a paper ballot is requested. Voting results from each district will be posted on the USTA website and forwarded to the USTA Board of Directors for consideration at its annual meeting, where final decisions on rule changes will be made.
Members with questions about the proposal process or who need assistance drafting rule language may contact T.C. Lane at tc.lane@ustrotting.com or Michele Kopiec at michele.kopiec@ustrotting.com.
Rule change proposals must be received no later than the closing of business on Friday, Aug. 28, 2026, and may be submitted by mail, email, or fax:
U.S. Trotting Association
6130 S. Sunbury Road
Westerville, OH 43081
Email: memberservices@ustrotting.com
Fax: 844-229-1338