LOUISVILLE, KY - Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear has wielded his executive authority to implement a regulation allowing only government veterinarians to administer race-day drugs to horses.

The action Thursday comes days after the proposed regulation's fate seemed to be stymied after state lawmakers raised objections. An interim legislative committee found the proposal deficient.

Beshear said in a letter that it's in the racing industry's interest to let the regulation take effect.

The governor's action was praised by state Sen. Damon Thayer. The Georgetown Republican says it sends the message that Kentucky will be at the forefront of efforts to change perceptions about the use of drugs in horse racing.

The regulation also would set lower amounts of some medications, including anti-inflammatory drugs, that could be given to horses within days before they race.