SRC-AXB S.B. 73 76(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   S.B. 73
76R1869 CLG-DBy: Truan
Border Affairs
2/16/1999
As Filed


DIGEST 

Currently, the majority of Texas' university school systems have video
teleconferencing technology in place.  Small businesses could benefit from
the use of this equipment to establish international trade relationships
and find innovative ways to conduct business.  This bill will require the
International Trade and Technology center at the University of Texas-Pan
American to develop and implement a video teleconferencing pilot program. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, S.B. 73 requires the International Trade and Technology center
at the University of Texas-Pan American to develop and facilitate a video
teleconferencing pilot program to assist small businesses with
international trade relationships. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

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

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  PILOT PROGRAM.  Requires the International Trade and Technology
Center (center) at the University of Texas-Pan American to develop a video
teleconferencing pilot program to assist small businesses in the
establishment of international trade relationships.  Sets forth guidelines
regarding the development of the pilot program relating to usage fees,
design, and timetables. Authorizes the center to obtain available federal
foundation funds or private funds. 

SECTION 2.  REPORTS.  Requires the center to submit an initial and
subsequent report concerning the effectiveness of the pilot program by
January 15, 2001, and January 15, 2003, respectively. 

SECTION 3.  Effective date:  September 1, 1999.  Requires the center to
establish the pilot program required by this Act by January 1, 2000. 

SECTION 4.  Provides that this Act expires September 1, 2004.

SECTION 5.  Emergency clause.