Representative Cody Reim announced on May 5 that a bill has been introduced to halt the removal of horses from the Salt River Horse Management Area in the Tonto National Forest for three years. The legislation, SB 1199 as amended by Reim, aims to protect the herd while a scientific study is conducted.
The issue matters because the current management group is set to reduce the Salt River herd by up to 150 horses this year. Advocates argue these horses are an important part of Arizona’s heritage and should not be removed based on population targets alone.
“The current management group is being forced to reduce the Salt River herd by as many as 150 horses, starting this year,” said Representative Reim. “These horses are a cherished part of Arizona’s heritage, and Arizonans have made it clear they do not want them rounded up and removed to satisfy arbitrary population targets. This bill protects the herd and keeps these horses where they belong.”
The proposed law would allow removals only for urgent medical needs or veterinary care during the pause period, not for general population control. An emergency clause added by Representative Pamela Carter would ensure protections take effect immediately if signed into law. Carter said, “The Department of Agriculture has acknowledged it can amend its contract with the management group at any time, including right now, to stop additional removals. Yet the Department has not offered to amend the contract. Immediate action is needed to preserve the herd. That is why I sponsored the emergency clause amendment so these protections can take effect immediately once the bill is signed.”
Reim also said he appreciates Senator Tim Dunn and Representative Lupe Diaz for their support in moving SB 1199 forward.
Carbone was elected as a Republican representative for Arizona’s 25th House District in 2023, succeeding Michelle Udall, according to azleg.gov.
