Texas Senate Bill SB1779

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/20/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/30/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/12/09

Caption

Relating to the establishment of the official citrus producers' pest and disease management corporation; providing penalties.

Impact

The bill aims to enhance pest and disease management by designating specific zones that allow for localized control efforts tailored to the unique challenges of each area. It will empower the Texas Citrus Pest and Disease Management Corporation to levy assessments on producers in these zones, funds which will be specifically allocated to pest control initiatives and operational costs. This financial mechanism seeks to stabilize the citrus industry by ensuring adequate resources are available to combat pests that threaten crop yields, thereby protecting the livelihoods of Texas citrus producers.

Summary

SB1779 establishes the Texas Citrus Pest and Disease Management Corporation, a quasi-governmental entity aimed at addressing threats from the Asian citrus psyllid and citrus greening disease. This initiative comes in light of significant pest control challenges faced by the citrus industry, necessitating cooperative efforts between producers and state authorities. The bill underscores the need for integrated pest management strategies to effectively manage these agricultural threats while simultaneously supporting the sustainability of the citrus industry in Texas. To facilitate these efforts, the corporation will be tasked with conducting suppression programs tailored to various citrus-growing zones.

Contention

While the bill has the potential to significantly improve pest management for citrus growers, there are concerns among stakeholders about the mandatory assessments and participation requirements. Some producers may view the assessments as an additional financial burden, particularly against the backdrop of fluctuating market conditions. Additionally, the delineation of pest management zones and the authority granted to the commissioner to impose regulations and require participation could raise questions about local control and the fairness of assessment distribution. Critics may argue that the needs of smaller producers might not be adequately represented, leading to disparities in the burden of costs and program participation among citrus growers.