BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center                                                                                                      S.B. 1737

                                                                                                                                            By: Lucio

International Relations & Trade

4/5/2005

As Filed

AUTHOR'S/SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

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 this state 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.  However, Chapter 112, Health and Safety Code, limits the use of foundation funds to the Texas side of the border.

As proposed, S.B. 1737 amends current law to allow the foundation flexibility in the use of available revenues for areas adjacent to the United States-Mexico border.  The bill also updates the process for filling vacancies on the foundation's board of directors.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

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

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Amends Section 112.003, Health and Safety Code, to delete the restriction that the Border Health Foundation (foundation) finance health programs only in this state from funds raised from specific entities.  Makes a conforming change.

SECTION 2.  Amends Section 112.004, Health and Safety Code, to specify that the foundation's board of directors are initially appointed by the Texas Board of Health.  Requires subsequent vacancies to be filled by a vote of the board of directors of the foundation.

SECTION 3.  Effective date:  upon passage or September 1, 2005.