Relating to the establishment of the office of food system security and resiliency in the Department of Agriculture and the management of the Texas food system security and resiliency planning council.
Impact
The establishment of this office is expected to have a significant impact on state laws relating to agriculture and food access. The new office will address the challenges of food system disruptions and is intended to provide a structured approach to enhance food resilience in the state. With requirements for regular legislative recommendations on improving food security, the office will facilitate closer collaboration among state agencies, municipalities, and local governments, thereby strengthening community involvement in food systems.
Summary
Senate Bill 2936, also referred to as the Food System Security and Resiliency Act, aims to establish an Office of Food System Security and Resiliency within the Texas Department of Agriculture. This new office is tasked with coordinating state resources and programs to ensure effective support for food access industry professionals, promoting local agricultural products, and developing regional food security plans. By implementing measures to bolster food access points and local markets, the bill seeks to foster a resilient food distribution system across Texas.
Contention
The discussions surrounding SB 2936 reflect varied perspectives on food regulation and local control. Proponents argue that the office's establishment would ensure a more robust and coordinated approach to food system management in Texas, addressing vulnerabilities highlighted during disruptions such as the COVID-19 pandemic. However, concerns have been raised about the centralization of authority and the potential risks of sidelining local initiatives tailored to specific community needs. Critics emphasize the importance of local governance in addressing unique agricultural challenges and ensuring equitable food access.
Identical
Relating to the establishment of the office of food system security and resiliency in the Department of Agriculture and the management of the Texas food system security and resiliency planning council.
Relating to homeland security, including the creation of the Texas Homeland Security Division in the Department of Public Safety, the operations of the Homeland Security Council, the creation of a homeland security fusion center, and the duties of state agencies and local governments in preparing for, reporting, and responding to cybersecurity breaches; providing administrative penalties; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to measures to address public safety threats in this state presented by transnational criminal activity, including by establishing the Texas Homeland Security Division and the Border Security Advisory Council, and to compensate persons affected by those threats.