BILL ANALYSIS


                                                         S.B. 897
                                                         By: Sims
                                                Natural Resources
                                                         03-22-95
                                     Committee Report (Unamended)
BACKGROUND

In the last decade, there has been an increase in the diagnoses of
tuberculosis (TB) in humans, cattle, farmed deer and elk, and other
animals.  There has been little research on bovine TB and little
change in the research program over the past 60 years.  This has
resulted in a lack of knowledge among producers and animal health
providers about the nature of TB methods for control and
prevention.

PURPOSE

As proposed, S.B. 897 sets forth agencies, colleges, and services
required to jointly review the state's current programs to
research, control, and eradicate farm and ranch animal
tuberculosis.

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 Chapter 162, Agriculture Code, by adding Section
162.014, as follows:

     Sec.  162.014.  REVIEW OF CURRENT TUBERCULOSIS PROGRAMS AND
     IMPLEMENTATION OF IMPROVED PROGRAM.  (a) Sets forth agencies,
     colleges, and services (agencies) required to jointly review
     the state's current programs to research, control and
     eradicate animal tuberculosis in both traditional and
     nontraditional farm and ranch animals.
     
     (b) Provides that the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station
       is the coordinating agency for the study.
       
       (c) Requires the agencies to implement an improved program
       based on the review that is designated to research, control,
       and eradicate animal tuberculosis in farm and ranch animals. 
       Requires the agencies to agree on the elements of the
       improved program that will be implemented.  Prohibits the
       improved program from conflicting with current law.
SECTION 2. Emergency clause.
           Effective date: upon passage.