Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB2318

Filed

Out of House Committee

4/7/09

Voted on by House

4/24/09

Out of Senate Committee

5/12/09

Voted on by Senate

5/20/09

Governor Action

6/19/09

Bill Becomes Law

Enrolled

5/23/09

Passed

6/19/09

Caption

Relating to the fuel ethanol and biodiesel incentive program of the Department of Agriculture.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2318 will modify existing provisions in the Agriculture Code, creating a more structured framework for supporting biofuel production in Texas. It is poised to encourage agricultural investment and facilitate the growth of the biodiesel and fuel ethanol sectors within the state. By offering grants based on production volume and imposing fees, the bill could lead to increased financial viability for producers, spur production activities, and promote sustainable practices in agriculture.

Summary

House Bill 2318 focuses on enhancing the fuel ethanol and biodiesel incentive program managed by the Texas Department of Agriculture. The bill aims to provide financial incentives for the production of fuel ethanol, renewable methane, and biodiesel, which are significant components in the push for renewable energy sources. The legislation outlines the criteria for producers to qualify for grants, sets fees related to production, and establishes reporting requirements for producers regarding their monthly outputs and imports.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its role in promoting renewable energy, there are concerns about its financial implications, specifically how grants and fees will be managed in terms of sustainability. Stakeholders may debate the sufficiency of funding mechanisms to support the program in the long term, given the specified limits on production grants. Additionally, the exact impact of these incentives on the market and local agricultural practices could be a point of contention among industry participants and regulatory bodies.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB5250

Relating to fees on and grants for fuel ethanol, renewable methane, biodiesel, and renewable diesel.

TX HB2226

Relating to state and municipal motor fuel taxes; providing civil penalties; creating criminal offenses; requiring occupational licenses; authorizing the imposition of taxes; providing for increases and decreases in the rates of taxes.

TX SB246

Relating to the regulation of motor fuel metering devices and motor fuel quality.

TX HB2763

Relating to an exemption from motor fuel taxes for certain fuel used by a rural transit district to provide public transportation.

TX HB3589

Relating to the transfer of the administration of school nutrition programs from the Texas Department of Agriculture to the Texas Education Agency.

TX HB654

Relating to the exemption of hospitals from the diesel fuel tax.

TX HB1523

Relating to the establishment of a program administered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs and certain county housing authorities to incentivize landlords to accept tenants participating in the housing choice voucher program.

TX SB104

Relating to the creation of a small non-road engine purchase incentive program under the Texas emissions reduction plan.

TX SB1421

Relating to the effect of nuisance actions, other actions, and governmental requirements on certain agricultural operations.

TX HB1750

Relating to the applicability of certain city requirements to agricultural operations.