AQHA Registration Rule Changes Discussed
The AQHA Stud Book and Registration Committee discussed 14 proposed rule changes during the AQHA convention, March 28-31.
According to a press release from the American Quarter Horse Association, “The AQHA Stud Book and Registration Committee discussed 14 proposed rule changes. The only rule change recommended by the Stud Book Committee–and approved by the members and board of directors–is:
- Review proposal to amend REG112.5.1 and REG113.3 to allow the owner of a frozen semen permit to sign an application for frozen embryo permit, and subsequently a breeder’s certificate to register a foal. This rule change will go into effect January 1, 2026.
According to the AQHA, the Stud Book Committee also approved implementing an annual audit reporting process for international affiliates with an approved stud book, and recommended that a task force be appointed to evaluate a method for mare owners to report embryos collected each year.
Two proposed changes to increase the limits on use of frozen semen and embryos were not adopted. Current rules, established in 2015, limit the use of frozen semen from stallions born in 2015 or later to two years after the horse is deceased or becomes sterile, and limit the use of frozen embryos from a mare to two years after she is deceased or spayed. Horses foaled prior to 2015 have no limits placed on the use of frozen semen or frozen embryos.
There were no rule changes approved this year by the Nominations and Credentials Committee, according to the press release.
“Per the Association’s bylaws, the board of directors have the final authority when it comes to AQHA’s bylaws and rules of registration. Rule-change recommendations from all the other standing committees were reviewed and approved by the board of directors. Those recommendations go to the AQHA Executive Committee for review, modification and/or approval at its May meeting.”
Any AQHA member can submit a rule change proposal for consideration. Following the 2025 convention, a rule change proposal form will be published on the AQHA website. For a rule change to be considered at the 2026 convention, it must be submitted by December 31, 2025. Rule change proposals will be put before the appropriate committee, discussed by committee members, and AQHA members in attendance are given opportunity to comment during the meeting.
