BILL ANALYSIS

 

 

                                                                                                                                           H.B. 2417

                                                                                                                                      By: Swinford

                                                                                                                     Agriculture & Livestock

                                                                                                       Committee Report (Unamended)

 

 

 

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

 

The Fuel Ethanol and Biodiesel Production Incentive Program was established under the Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office.  The program is currently being managed by the Department of Agriculture through a Memorandum of Understanding with the Office of the Governor.  This bill will transfer all responsibilities, administration, and oversight to the Department of Agriculture.

 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

 

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does grant additional rulemaking authority to the state officer, department, agency or institution.

 

ANALYSIS

 

HB 2417 transfers the Fuel Ethanol and Biodiesel Production Incentive Program from the Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office to the Department of Agriculture and provides for the transfer of assets, duties, functions, and monies to the Department of Agriculture.  The bill also provides that the incentive program rules will continue until changed by the Department of Agriculture.  HB 2417 also states that "Office" is in reference to the Department of Agriculture in chapter 16 of the Agriculture Code.

 

EFFECTIVE DATE

 

September 1, 2007