A fledgling group of owners and breeders in New York has launched a new effort to study a variety of issues affecting the safety of Thoroughbred horses, including whether some of the state’s racetracks should install alternative racing surfaces.

The new committee of Empire Racing Associates, which is trying to position itself to be involved as possible partners in a new franchise when the New York Racing Association franchise ends next year, wants to study if Thoroughbred tracks–with the exception of Saratoga–should consider using new materials such as Polytrack or Tapeta to help protect horses.

“We are committed to advocating for the finest racing and training surfaces in the world,” Jeffrey Tucker, an owner and breeder who will head the new committee, said in a written statement released May 10. “With evolving innovations in racing surfaces and rail systems, we owe it to the horses, owners, trainers, and riders to provide the safest tracks possible on which to compete. Our commitment to the humane treatment of horses demands that their health and welfare be of the highest priority.”

The group’s equine welfare committee will look at other horse safety and welfare issues, such as Thoroughbred retirements