The National Thoroughbred Racing Association Safety and Integrity Alliance considers the presence of a "safety steward" at Southern California a superior best practice, but whether others create such a position depends on financial resources.

Luis Juaregui, a retired jockey who became a steward in California in 2006, serves as the safety steward, a position paid for by the California Horse Racing Board, a state agency. California law calls for the hiring of a steward to oversee compliance with safety standards.

Juaregui outlined his responsibilities Oct. 19 on the second and final day of a professional education seminar offered by the NTRA Safety and Integrity Alliance. His duties are closely aligned with the alliance code of standards, which has been adopted by alliance-accredited tracks in Southern California.

"This (position) can help every racing commission," Juaregui said. "I know there are budget cuts (around the country), but it’s important. It’s a good program for young stewards in all jurisdictions