Texas Senate Bill SR43

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Recognizing the induction of the Justiss Ranch into the states's Family Land Heritage Program.

Impact

SR43 reinforces the importance of family-run agricultural operations in Texas, which play a crucial role in the state's economy and cultural heritage. By featuring the Justiss Ranch, the resolution not only honors the family's efforts in managing the land but also serves to inspire and encourage future generations to maintain similar agricultural practices. The bill reflects the state's recognition of the significant role such family operations have in contributing to food production and sustaining local communities.

Summary

Senate Resolution No. 43 (SR43) recognizes the Justiss Ranch's significant contribution to Texas's farming legacy. The ranch has been acknowledged as a participant in the Family Land Heritage Program, a Texas Department of Agriculture initiative that honors farms and ranches operated by the same family for over a century. This resolution highlights the long-standing agricultural practices of the Justiss family, which began when John W. Justiss acquired the ranch in 1868. The resolution celebrates the continuous operation of the ranch by the family and their dedication to preserving their agricultural heritage.

Contention

While the resolution has garnered support by providing a platform to celebrate family farming and heritage, it may also spark discussions around the challenges that modern family farms face in maintaining their operations. These challenges include issues such as urban encroachment, changing agricultural policies, and economic pressures from larger agricultural corporations. Advocates of family farming might leverage the visibility provided by such resolutions to highlight these issues and to push for supportive policies.