BILL ANALYSIS
By: Lucio
Border and International Affairs
Committee Report (Unamended)
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
The 78th Legislature, Regular Session, 2003, created the Border Health Foundation (foundation), a non-profit corporation, to raise money from other foundations, governmental entities, and other sources to finance health programs in the tate in areas adjacent to the border with Mexico. Texas currently receives federal funding through the foundation to work with Mexico to address health issues of mutual concern. In addition, the foundation's funds are limited to use on the Texas side of the border.
Senate Bill 1737 allows the foundation flexibility in the use of available revenues for areas adjacent to the Texas-Mexico border and updates the process for filling vacancies on the foundation's board of directors.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.
ANALYSIS
SECTION 1 Amends Section 112.003, Health and Safety Code, to remove the restriction that the Border Health Foundation (foundation) finance health programs only in Texas in areas adjacent to the Mexico border. Requires the foundation to engage in outreach and publicity efforts to potential partners throughout the Texas-Mexico border area.
SECTION 2 Amends Section 112.004, Health and Safety Code, to provide that the foundation is governed by a board of five directors. Requires vacancies to be filled by a vote of the board of directors of the foundation from individuals recommended by the Texas Department of Health.
SECTION 3 The bill takes effect immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of all members elected to each house. Otherwise, the bill takes effect September 1, 2005.
EFFECTIVE DATE
The bill takes effect immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of all members elected to each house. Otherwise, the bill takes effect September 1, 2005.