SRC-JJJ H.B. 2 76(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   H.B. 2
76R12265 BDH-FBy: Swinford (Ogden)
Natural Resources
5/5/1999
Engrossed


DIGEST 

Agriculture is a major component in Texas' economy, creating numerous job
opportunities for Texans.  Texas currently lacks a consistent statewide
policy addressing the agriculture industry, from production and processing,
and ensuring economic survival of agriculture industries and businesses.
H.B. 2 would establish conditions regarding agriculture and a state
agricultural policy.  
PURPOSE

As proposed, H.B. 2 establishes conditions regarding agriculture and state
agricultural policy. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, institution, or agency. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Provides that this Act shall be known as the Agriculture and
Rural Development Act of 1999. 

SECTION 2.  Amends Title 1, Agriculture Code, by adding Chapter 2, as
follows: 

CHAPTER 2.  STATE AGRICULTURAL POLICY
 
 Sec. 2.001.  DEFINITIONS.  Defines "agriculture."

 Sec. 2.002.  FINDINGS.  Sets forth the legislative findings.

Sec. 2.003.  POLICY.  Sets forth the considerations and areas to be
addressed by the agricultural policy of this state. 
 
SECTION 3.  Requires the legislature to conduct a comprehensive study of
the condition of agriculture, the state's current programs in support of
agriculture, and the role of the state in preserving the agricultural
industry.  Requires the study to be conducted in a manner determined by
certain government officials, agencies, and institutions of higher
education.   

SECTION 4.  Emergency clause.
  Effective date: upon passage.