Georgia Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle has appointed state Sen. Jack Murphy to serve as chairman of the Senate Horse Racing Study Committee.

The committee was created earlier this year by Senate Resolution 1242. It designates the study committee to have six members, including three senators, two residents and one member of the horse racing industry.

“Our state has significant amounts of pastureland and facilities that would allow for the breeding, raising, training and stabling of horses,” said Murphy, a Republican from Cumming who represents District 27.

“By more thoroughly researching the equine industry, we are potentially creating numerous jobs and providing Georgia with yet another economic boost.”

Thirty-eight other states currently allow horse racing.

Cagle described Murphy as one of the chamber’s “most thoughtful and respected members.”

“I have great confidence in his ability to chair this study committee and appreciate his willingness to exam this complicated issue with his trademark diligence,” he said.

In addition to the chairmanship, Murphy also serves as chairman of the Banking and Financial Institutions Committee. He is in his third term in the Senate.