Texas House Bill HB4109

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the exclusion of certain small public grain warehouses from regulation.

Impact

If enacted, HB4109 would significantly impact how small grain warehouses are regulated in Texas. By exempting warehouses below the specified storage capacity from state regulation, it could foster an environment for growth among small agricultural businesses. Proponents of the bill argue that the reduction of regulatory constraints allows these entities to focus resources on improving their operations rather than on compliance. This change aims to support local economies and promote agricultural activities, particularly benefiting smaller farmers and producers who rely on these facilities for storage.

Summary

House Bill 4109 proposes amendments to the Agriculture Code, specifically focusing on the regulatory framework surrounding public grain warehouses. The bill seeks to exclude small public grain warehouses, defined as those with a storage capacity of 10,000 bushels or less, from certain regulations currently enforced by the state. The intent behind this amendment is to alleviate regulatory burdens on smaller operators within the grain warehousing industry, enabling them to operate more freely and competitively in the market.

Contention

Despite the potential benefits, the bill may also face criticism regarding the implications of reduced oversight in the grain storage sector. Critics of the measure might express concerns that exempting small warehouses from regulation could lead to issues surrounding food safety, quality assurance, and accountability. The absence of state oversight might raise questions among stakeholders about the traceability and safety standards of the grain stored in these facilities, potentially impacting consumer confidence and market integrity.