SRC-ARR, JJJ H.B. 1517 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center H.B. 1517 76R8148 WP-FBy: Solis, Jim (Lucio) Border Affairs - Special 5/12/1999 Engrossed DIGEST In its July 1998 publication, Bordering on the Future, the Office of the Comptroller predicts a loss of jobs along the border in the apparel industry, and recently, Levi Strauss & Co. has started to make this predicted trend a reality. On February 22, 1999, Levi Strauss announced that it is closing both of its plants in the border region. H.B. 1517 would establish provisions regarding a study and strategic plan concerning the development of the apparel industry in the border region. PURPOSE As proposed, H.B. 1517 establishes provisions regarding a study and strategic plan concerning the development of the apparel industry in the border region. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. DEFINITION. Defines "border region." SECTION 2. STUDY OF APPAREL INDUSTRY; STRATEGIC PLAN. Requires the Texas Department of Economic Development (department) to conduct a study of the apparel industry in the border region. Requires the department to meet with certain employees in the apparel industry in the border region at least once in order to identify segments of the apparel industry that can be developed in the border region. Prohibits the cost of the study from exceeding $50,000 and from being paid from amounts appropriated by the department. SECTION 3. REPORT. Requires the department to submit a detailed written report, including any recommended legislative action, to the governor, lieutenant governor, and speaker of the house of representatives, not later than November 1, 2000. SECTION 4. Effective date: September 1, 1999. SECTION 5. Emergency clause.