Maryland Racing Commission notes
Frank Vespe
January 15, 2026
The investigation that led to the suspension of two Maryland veterinarians is “still ongoing,” Maryland Racing Commission executive director Chris Merz told the Commission at Wednesday’s monthly meeting.
Rumors have swirled as to where the investigation might lead next and who might get wrapped up in it.
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The investigation is spearheaded by the federally created Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA), which is responsible for adopting and enforcing drug rules. In provisionally suspending Maryland vets Dr. Nick Meittinis and Dr. Adam Lockard, partners in the Maryland Veterinary Group, HISA alleged both that the doctors were in possession of expired prohibited substances and that they were currently (or had recently been) providing trainers a “steroid paint” which contained three banned substances.
A hearing is expected in the next few weeks.
On Jan. 15, the Maryland Racing Commission issued its own rulings prohibiting both men from accessing properties under the jurisdiction of the Commission, including Laurel Park.
At the Wednesday meeting, Maryland Jockey Club (TMJC) president Bill Knauf called the suspensions “certainly unfortunate,” adding that the company wants “a clean sport.”
But he added that drug testing and suspensions are the purview of HISA and not of TMJC.
“We take our cues from them,” he said. “That is their job, to regulate. It’s not our job.”
The discussion of the suspensions came shortly after the Commission approved for 2026 its voluntary agreement with HISA, which allows Commission personnel to perform certain tasks, such as collecting and having tested equine blood samples, on behalf of HISA.
The Commission also gave final signoff on an update to its claiming price rules.
Under the updated rule, a horse that is claimed must run back for a tag of at least 25% more than it was claimed for during the first 20 days after being claimed. For the following 10 days, it must run for at least the price it was claimed for. Thereafter, it may run for any price. The purpose of the change, according to the notice of proposed action, is “to make the claiming rule more modern and in line with surrounding racing jurisdictions.”
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