In January 2026, equestrian groups adopted the Katie Pledge to prevent abuse after 18-year-old Katie Simpson's 2025 murder.

In January 2026, major equestrian organizations endorsed the Katie Pledge, a sweeping initiative launched after the 2025 murder of 18-year-old Katie Simpson, to combat abuse and improve safety in the equine industry. The effort, led by The Katie Trust and former law enforcement, calls for standardized training, background checks, and advocacy protocols to protect young people. The tragedy revealed how predators exploited emotional bonds between youth and horses, prompting a unified push for systemic reforms, including mandatory reporting and oversight, to prevent future harm.