The House Committee on International Relations & Economic Development

86th Legislature

February 21, 2020

9:00 a.m.

TX A&M International Univ., Laredo, TX (see below)

Pursuant to a notice posted on January 27, 2020, revised on February 20, 2020, the House Committee on International Relations & Economic Development met in a public hearing and was called to order by the chair, Representative Anchia, at 9:11 a.m.

The initial quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Anchia; Frullo; Larson; Perez; Raney; and Romero, Jr..

A quorum was present.

The Committee met at Student Center Ballroom (203A and B), Texas A&M International University, 5201 University Boulevard, Laredo, TX 78041

Representative Raymond was also in attendance.

The Committee met in a joint hearing with the committee on Transportation to hear invited testimony on the bold portion of the following interim charge:

Study the state's seaport infrastructure and the infrastructure at land ports of entry to facilitate international trade and economic growth. Examine seaport infrastructure and the auxiliary rail and roadway needs connected to each port as well as the port's ability to keep pace with oil and gas production. Make recommendations to maximize the economic flow of goods and products to and from seaports and study the feasibility and economic impact of dredging and widening Texas ports in order to remain competitive in international trade. Examine the infrastructure at international border ports of entry in Texas and identify transportation-related impediments to international trade that negatively impact the state. Make recommendations to reduce border wait times, facilitate economic growth, and expedite trade. (Joint charge with the House Committee on Transportation)

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

At 1:21 p.m., on the motion of the chair and without objection, the meeting was adjourned subject to the call of the chair.

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Rep. Anchia, Chair

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Jeff Madden, Clerk