THE NEWS THAT MATTERS

Federal Court Issues Injunction Ahead of the Celebration

by Shelbyville NOW

August 19,  2025
A federal judge has granted a preliminary injunction halting enforcement of key USDA inspection rules at the upcoming Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration in Shelbyville.

The injunction, issued on August 19, 2025, blocks the government from applying the controversial Scar Rule and the No-Showback Rule during this year’s event, which begins August 20.

The decision came after the Celebration Association and industry representatives challenged the USDA’s inspection process, arguing that the regulations were unfair, inconsistently applied, and damaging to both competitors and the show itself.

With the injunction in place, trainers, owners, and exhibitors will enter the 2025 Celebration under rules that many believe are clearer and more equitable. The ruling is being viewed as a major legal victory for the industry, one that underscores long-standing concerns about federal oversight and due process.

As the Celebration prepares to open, this decision restores confidence that the show can proceed without the burden of disputed regulations hanging over competitors.