Texas Senate Bill SB1901

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the safety of the fresh fruit and vegetables produced in this state.

Impact

The bill establishes the Texas Department of Agriculture as the lead agency for coordinating food safety efforts within the fresh fruit and vegetable sector. It mandates the department to assist producers and packers in addressing food safety issues and to collaborate with various state institutions and private industry to implement training and awareness programs. These programs will focus on sound agricultural practices, proper food handling procedures, and the prevention of both accidental and deliberate outbreaks of foodborne disease.

Summary

SB1901 addresses the safety of fresh fruits and vegetables produced in Texas, recognizing the significant contribution of the agricultural industry to the state's economy—over $103 billion annually. The bill emphasizes the importance of food safety as a top priority, citing the potential detrimental effects of contamination, whether accidental or intentional, on consumer confidence and the economy. The legislation aims to increase awareness of food safety practices among growers and packers, particularly in light of rising concerns since the events of September 11, 2001.

Contention

While the bill has gained support for prioritizing food safety in the state’s agricultural sector, some stakeholders have expressed concerns about the potential burden of new regulations on small farmers and businesses. The emphasis on state-led initiatives could be seen as a move towards increased state oversight, which some argue may lead to complications for local producers who already have established practices. The effectiveness of the proposed training and education programs and their outreach to smaller agricultural entities may also become a point of contention, as stakeholders debate the adequacy and applicability of these standards across diverse agricultural operations.