Ruidoso Downs officials are increasing drug testing at the track.
Track officials say they upped the number of horses tested during opening weekend, and they are proposing additional testing for next week's Rainbow Futurity and Rainbow Derby trials.
Track officials say the increased testing on opening weekend that began May 25 resulted in positive illegal drug tests on several horses that were saddled by a small number of trainers.
The New Mexico Racing Commission last week adopted new rules that include heavier penalties for drug cases. They take effect July 31. The action comes on the heels of a New York Times report that described New Mexico as having the worst horse safety record in the United States.