Business and Professions Code section 19517

(a)

The board, upon due consideration, may overrule any steward’s decision other than a decision to disqualify a horse due to a foul or a riding or a driving infraction in a race, if a preponderance of the evidence indicates any of the following:

(1)

The steward mistakenly interpreted the law.

(2)

New evidence of a convincing nature is produced.

(3)

The best interests of racing and the state may be better served.

(b)

However, any decision pertaining to the finish of a race, as used for purposes of parimutuel fund distribution to winning ticketholders, may not be overruled. Furthermore, any decision pertaining to the distribution of purses may be changed only if a claim is made in writing to the board by one of the involved owners or trainers, and a preponderance of the evidence clearly indicates to the board that one or more of the grounds for protest, as outlined in regulations adopted by the board, has been substantiated. The chairperson of the board may issue a stay of execution pending appeal from a steward’s decision if the facts justify the action.

Source: Section 19517, https://leginfo.­legislature.­ca.­gov/faces/codes_displaySection.­xhtml?lawCode=BPC§ionNum=19517.­ (updated Jan. 1, 1995; accessed Dec. 29, 2025).

Green check means up to date. Up to date

Verified:
Dec. 29, 2025

§ 19517's source at ca​.gov