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.