Relating to the continuation and functions of the Department of Agriculture and the Prescribed Burning Board and the abolition of the Texas-Israel Exchange Fund Board.
Impact
The proposed legislation aims to enhance the operational capabilities of the Department of Agriculture by streamlining the process through which financial assistance can be provided to agricultural businesses. The bill modifies the current structure of various agricultural boards, ensuring they can more effectively support and manage resources dedicated to agriculture in Texas. By abolishing the Texas-Israel Exchange Fund Board, the bill prioritizes internal state functions over international collaborative efforts, signaling a shift toward more localized management of agricultural affairs.
Summary
House Bill 3236 seeks to continue the functions of the Texas Department of Agriculture and the Prescribed Burning Board while abolishing the Texas-Israel Exchange Fund Board. The bill outlines amendments to existing laws governing agricultural finance, including provisions for interest rate reduction programs aimed at fostering agricultural enterprises in Texas. A significant point of the bill is the establishment of frameworks for lending institutions to participate in these programs, with specific definitions and requirements for eligibility.
Contention
One notable point of contention surrounding HB 3236 is the elimination of the Texas-Israel Exchange Fund, which has been a platform for agricultural innovation exchange between Texas and Israel. Critics may argue that this decision limits collaborative agricultural advancements that could be beneficial for Texas's water conservation and sustainability efforts, especially in the face of ongoing drought conditions. Supporters, on the other hand, may contend that focusing on state-funded agricultural initiatives will drive more relevant and immediate economic benefits for local producers.
Identical
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Department of Agriculture and the Prescribed Burning Board, the creation of the Texas Bioenergy Policy Council and Texas Bioenergy Research Committee, and the abolition of the Texas-Israel Exchange Fund Board; providing penalties.
Relating to the functions of the Texas Water Development Board and continuation and functions of the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas Advisory Committee.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department and the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Relating to the functions of the Texas Water Development Board and continuation and functions of the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas Advisory Committee.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, the functions of the office of independent ombudsman for the Texas Juvenile Justice Department, and the powers and duties of the office of inspector general of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Department of Agriculture and the Prescribed Burning Board, the creation of the Texas Bioenergy Policy Council and Texas Bioenergy Research Committee, and the abolition of the Texas-Israel Exchange Fund Board; providing penalties.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Department of Agriculture, the Prescribed Burning Board, and the Texas Boll Weevil Eradication Foundation and the abolishment of the Early Childhood Health and Nutrition Interagency Council.