Texas Senate Bill SB776

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the establishment of an agriculture and rural ombudsman office.

Impact

The introduction of SB776 will amend Chapter 482 of the Government Code and is anticipated to streamline the regulatory processes faced by agricultural businesses. The office created under this bill will be responsible for addressing inquiries about regulations, providing contact information for relevant local and state officials, and ensuring that agricultural enterprises are treated fairly in the regulatory process. This support may significantly benefit rural economies as the agriculture sector often encounters complex regulatory landscapes that can hinder growth and operations.

Summary

Senate Bill 776 proposes the establishment of an Agriculture and Rural Ombudsman Office within the Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office. This office aims to assist agriculture businesses and those located in rural areas by providing various services related to local, state, and federal regulations. By having a dedicated ombudsman, the bill seeks to facilitate better communication between agricultural businesses and the necessary regulatory bodies, thereby ensuring that these businesses receive timely support and information pertinent to their operations.

Contention

While the bill aims to bolster the agriculture sector, it has sparked discussions regarding the potential effectiveness of such an office. Proponents argue that establishing an ombudsman is crucial for navigating bureaucratic hurdles and that it will improve the livelihood of farmers and rural businesses. Opponents, however, may raise concerns about the allocation of state resources and whether this office will be adequately empowered to make a tangible difference. Additionally, the requirement for the office to maintain confidentiality of certain records brings a layer of complexity regarding transparency and trust between agricultural producers and regulatory bodies.