BILL ANALYSIS


                                                         S.B. 550
                                                        By: Nixon
                                                Natural Resources
                                                         02-22-95
                                     Committee Report (Unamended)
BACKGROUND

Current law does not provide express authority, with certain
limited exceptions, to the Railroad Commission of Texas to accept
or receive gifts, grants, or money from private or federal sources
in support of its programs.  This authority is generally reserved
for state agencies.

PURPOSE

As proposed, S.B. 550 authorizes the Railroad Commission of Texas
to receive and administer gifts, grants, and donations.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not grant any
additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or
agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Title 112, V.T.C.S., by adding Article 6447i, as
follows:

     Art.  6447i.  GIFTS, GRANTS, AND DONATIONS.  Authorizes the
     Railroad Commission of Texas to apply for, request, solicit,
     contract for, receive, accept, and administer gifts, grants,
     and donations of money or other assistance from any source to
     carry out any commission purpose or power.
     
     SECTION 2.     Emergency clause.
           Effective date: upon passage.