Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1998

Caption

Relating to administrative penalties imposed by the Texas Animal Health Commission.

Impact

The changes instituted by SB1998 would allow for a more rigorous enforcement mechanism by the Texas Animal Health Commission. By raising the penalty limit, the bill aims to deter infractions and encourage adherence to crucial animal health regulations, ultimately promoting better health and safety standards in the agricultural sector. These revisions highlight the state's commitment to maintaining robust animal health protocols and could motivate compliance among those governed by these regulations.

Summary

SB1998 amends existing provisions in the Texas Agriculture Code regarding the administrative penalties imposed by the Texas Animal Health Commission. The bill increases the maximum penalty for violations from $1,000 to $5,000, which signifies a substantial enhancement in the financial repercussions that individuals and entities may face for noncompliance with regulations related to animal health. The provision emphasizes that each day a violation continues constitutes a separate violation, which could lead to escalating penalties for ongoing infractions.

Contention

While the bill appears to strengthen the enforcement capabilities of the Texas Animal Health Commission, it may also raise concerns among farmers and ranchers regarding the increased financial burden associated with potential penalties. Stakeholders may perceive the amendment as an overreach, fearing that the higher penalties could be disproportionately applied, especially in rural areas where compliance and educational resources may be limited. Thus, the bill opens discussions on balancing effective enforcement with fair and reasonable obligations for stakeholders in the agricultural community.

Companion Bills

TX HB3856

Same As Relating to administrative penalties imposed by the Texas Animal Health Commission.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2011

Relating to the authority of the Public Utility Commission of Texas to impose administrative penalties and enter into voluntary mitigation plans; increasing an administrative penalty.

TX HB4821

Relating to the authority of the Public Utility Commission of Texas to impose administrative penalties and enter into voluntary mitigation plans; increasing an administrative penalty.

TX HB4786

Relating to the imposition of administrative, civil, and criminal penalties for violating certain statutes under the jurisdiction of, rules or orders adopted by, or licenses, permits, or certificates issued by the Railroad Commission of Texas; increasing criminal penalties.

TX HB2459

Relating to the administration of violations and administrative penalties of the employment of children.

TX HB2843

Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.

TX HB88

Relating to workplace heat illness prevention, including the creation of a heat illness prevention advisory board; imposing administrative penalties.

TX HB2324

Relating to the regulation of certain health professionals and health facilities; providing civil and administrative penalties; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB895

Relating to the regulation of money services businesses; creating a criminal offense; creating administrative penalties; authorizing the imposition of a fee.

TX HB1568

Relating to the licensing and regulation of child swim instruction operators; requiring an occupational license; imposing penalties, including administrative penalties; authorizing fees.

TX SB765

Relating to the licensing and regulation of child swim instruction operators; requiring an occupational license; imposing penalties, including administrative penalties; authorizing fees.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.