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MFB Horse Council

“The purpose of a state horse council is to promote the interests of the entire industry through political action, public information and the development of a close working relationship among individuals and organizations who recognize the importance of the horse industry to the economic, social and cultural well-being of the state.”
– The American Horse Council

The Maine Farm Bureau Horse Council (MFBHC) was formed in 1995. MFBHC is a state horse council affiliated with the American Horse Council. Locally, our council is a branch of the Maine Farm Bureau Association. Both organizations are statewide, private, non-profit, grassroots organizations funded through membership dues.

Our mission is to preserve, promote and protect horses, horse-related activities and the equine industry in the state of Maine. Membership in MFBHC offers many benefits to the horse owner and the horse-related business owner. By joining, you will be working to protect your rights as a horse owner and business owners will have valuable marketing and networking opportunities. Our motto is “Strength in Numbers.” Only if we pull together as a united front can we be effective in protecting and promoting our interests in Maine.

What has the Horse Council done for you?

  • Drafted, sponsored and enacted an Equine Limit to Liability Law, which will help to protect all Maine horse owners from frivolous lawsuits.
  • Abolished the “hay tax” on hay sold for equine consumption. Maine horse owners no longer have to pay state sales tax on products used in agricultural production.
  • Stopped efforts to impose stable licensing laws.
  • Sponsored repeal of “Damage by Animals” law, which held horse owners liable for damage and/or personal injury caused by their horses, regardless of fault.
  • Sponsored amendment of “Landowner Liability” law to include horse-related activities, making private landowners more likely to allow you use of their land.
  • Helped stop efforts to allow Sunday hunting.
  • Worked to clarify existing horse trailer laws and regulations.

If you care about horses in Maine – do not wait….join today!

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