Texas House Bill HB2527

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/7/09
• Voted on by House: 4/23/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/4/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/12/09
• Governor Action: 5/23/09
• Enrolled: 5/14/09
• Passed: 5/23/09

Caption

Relating to the regulation of commercial fertilizer.

Impact

As a result of this centralization, the bill significantly alters the landscape of agricultural regulation within Texas. The primary intention of HB2527 is to streamline regulations, potentially reducing confusion for operators of ammonium nitrate facilities and the agricultural sector in general. By enforcing a unified standard, the bill aims to facilitate compliance for businesses that may have previously navigated a patchwork of local regulations, which could vary significantly from one municipality to another.

Summary

House Bill 2527 focuses on the regulation of commercial fertilizers in Texas, specifically targeting the application and oversight of ammonium nitrate. The bill seeks to amend the Agriculture Code by adding a new provision that clearly states any local ordinances concerning the regulation of commercial fertilizer are preempted by state law. This means that local governments will no longer have the authority to impose additional regulations or rules regarding the production, sale, or distribution of commercial fertilizers, thus centralizing control under state jurisdiction.

Contention

However, the bill has generated discussions regarding the implications for local governance and control. Critics argue that preempting local ordinances undermines the ability of communities to address specific agricultural issues pertinent to their local ecosystems and public safety. The move to prohibit local regulations could be perceived as a disregard for local needs and preferences, particularly in areas where local rules may have successfully mitigated risks associated with fertilizer use. The contention revolves around balancing state efficiency with local authority and the impacts of such centralization on localized agricultural practices.