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.