Texas House Bill HB3664

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a program for marketing, promotion, research, and education efforts regarding Texas wine; authorizing assessments.

Impact

If enacted, HB 3664 would significantly change how the Texas wine industry operates by establishing a structured framework for funding promotional initiatives and research through assessment referendums. Vineyard growers and wineries would have a chance to vote on the maximum assessment amount that could be levied upon them, thereby giving them a voice in the funding of efforts aimed at improving the wine industry. This funding could be applied toward various activities, including marketing campaigns and educational programs, which are essential for the growth and recognition of Texas wine.

Summary

House Bill 3664 aims to establish a comprehensive program dedicated to marketing, promoting, researching, and educating the public about Texas wine. The proposed legislation would empower the Texas Wine Foundation to oversee these efforts and allow vineyard growers and wineries to contribute financially through assessments. The bill emphasizes the importance of utilizing existing wine industry infrastructure to maximize effectiveness while working to enhance the visibility and reputation of Texas wine in both national and international markets.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 3664 appears to be generally supportive among wine industry stakeholders, who recognize the potential benefits that enhanced marketing and promotion could bring to their businesses. However, there are concerns regarding the financial impact on smaller vineyards and wineries, especially those with limited sales volumes. The bill's reliance on a referendum to establish assessments could also lead to apprehension among producers unsure about how these fees will affect their bottom lines.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise from how assessments are determined and collected. The vote-weighting system based on the production volume of wine grapes may lead to concerns among smaller producers who feel that their voices could be overshadowed by larger entities in the industry. Furthermore, there may be debate surrounding the allocation of funds generated from assessments, particularly ensuring that smaller wineries can benefit equitably from marketing and promotional activities initiated by the foundation.