The New York Racing Association has taken a zero-tolerance stance on horse slaughter. NYRA CEO Charles Hayward announced the decision on Thursday.

“We are fully committed to protecting our sport’s equine athletes,” said Hayward. “This policy sends the message that horse slaughter will not be tolerated and that those participating in this practice, either knowingly or for lack of due diligence, will not be welcome at Aqueduct, Belmont Park, or Saratoga.”

The new policy language is quite specific, and the punishment severe: