SRC-ARR H.B. 2547 76(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   H.B. 2547
By: Williams (Bernsen)
Education
5/11/1999
Engrossed


DIGEST 

In 1985, the 68th Legislature enacted legislation creating the
Geo-Technology Research Institute to assist in the development of the Texas
oil and gas industry. The charter of the institute may need to be expanded
to address environmental and information technology challenges facing
today's oil and gas industry. H.B. 2547 sets forth requirements for the
operation of the Geo-Technology Research Institute.  

PURPOSE

As proposed, H.B. 2547 sets forth requirements for the operation of the
Geo-Technology Research Institute.  

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

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

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Section 149.002, Education Code, to provide that the
Geo-Technology Research Institute (institute) is located at the Houston
Advance Research Center, a research consortium that includes the University
of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M, Rice University, and the University of
Houston.  

SECTION 2. Amends Section 149.004, Education Code, to require the institute
to conduct basic and applied research and analysis in geoscience, rather
than geophysics, geo-technology, and related fields, including the
implementation of technological advances and development of integrated
databases. Requires research of the institute to be made available to state
agencies, rather than the General Land Office and Railroad Commission,
other public bodies and officials, industry, and private citizens, rather
than groups. Deletes text regarding discovery of new reserves and
development of technology. 

SECTION 3. Amends Sections 149.005(a) and (c), Education Code, to authorize
the institute to receive certain funds. Provides that the use of state
funds is limited to expenditures for basic and applied research and
analysis, excluding construction costs.  

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