Relating to the eligibility of an organization to receive surplus agricultural products under certain grants awarded by the Department of Agriculture.
Impact
The implications of HB 2002 are significant as it seeks to strengthen the support for food banks within Texas. By requiring stringent eligibility criteria, the bill aims to ensure that grants awarded by the Department of Agriculture are utilized effectively. This could potentially result in better management of surplus agricultural products, ultimately assisting more Texans suffering from food insecurity. Furthermore, the bill mandates that organizations receiving grants must also develop measurable goals and plans for evaluating their success, thus promoting accountability and efficiency in the use of public funds.
Summary
House Bill 2002 proposes amendments to the Texas Agriculture Code to modify the eligibility criteria for nonprofit organizations wishing to receive grants for the distribution of surplus agricultural products. Specifically, the bill stipulates that eligible organizations must have at least five years of experience in coordinating a statewide network that serves food banks and charitable organizations across Texas. The bill aims to enhance food security by streamlining the process for nonprofits to access surplus food resources, ensuring that they can provide assistance effectively to low-income individuals and communities in need.
Sentiment
Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 2002 appears to be positive, with broad support for efforts aimed at addressing food scarcity. Legislators expressed optimism that by fortifying the infrastructure for food distribution through food banks, this bill can make a tangible difference in the lives of underserved communities. However, there is a recognition of the challenges faced by smaller or newly established nonprofit organizations that may struggle to meet the proposed eligibility standards, leading to discussions about potential adjustments or support mechanisms for these entities.
Contention
Notable points of contention include the rigorous requirements placed on eligible organizations, which some argue could inadvertently exclude smaller nonprofits that are doing important work within their communities but lack the extensive operational history mandated by the bill. Critics have raised concerns about whether this threshold could reduce the diversity of organizations providing support and whether alternative forms of assistance could be implemented to ease these restrictions, allowing a broader range of nonprofits to compete for these essential resources.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Agriculture Code
Chapter 21. Grant Program For Distribution Of Surplus Agricultural Products
Relating to the eligibility of a school district or open-enrollment charter school to receive a grant from the Department of Agriculture to provide surplus agricultural products to certain students.
Relating to notifications by the Department of Agriculture of certain stop-sale orders applicable to plant products and the seizure or destruction of certain plant products.
Relating to the exemption from ad valorem taxation of property owned by a charitable organization that provides a meeting place and support services for organizations that provide assistance to persons with substance use disorders and their families.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.