Texas House Bill HB3373

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 3/3/23
• Out of House Committee: 4/27/23
• Voted on by House: 5/6/23

Caption

Relating to the administration, implementation, and enforcement of federal produce safety standards by the Department of Agriculture.

Impact

One of the significant impacts of HB3373 is that it aligns Texas state law with federal produce safety requirements. By ensuring the Department of Agriculture handles the implementation at the state level, it hopes to reduce confusion and enhance compliance among farmers. Furthermore, it restricts the department from imposing additional regulations beyond those established federally, preventing unnecessary burdens on farms. This reception of federal guidelines is fundamental as it positions Texas farmers to operate under uniform standards, which is crucial for both local and national markets.

Summary

House Bill 3373 focuses on the administration, implementation, and enforcement of federal produce safety standards as set forth by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The bill authorizes the Texas Department of Agriculture to be the key regulatory agency responsible for ensuring compliance with these standards. It lays out specific provisions regarding how farmers can communicate with the department to establish the applicability of these standards, which includes the choice to use remote methods for information submission. This simplification aims to facilitate farmer engagement while also maintaining safety standards.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB3373 appears to be generally positive, especially among agricultural sectors advocating for streamlined regulations. Supporters highlight the bill's potential to aid farmers by simplifying compliance and enhancing food safety. However, there may be a degree of concern regarding the adequacy of oversight and the department’s capacity to manage enforcement effectively without additional state-imposed regulations that could protect local agricultural interests.

Contention

Notable points of contention may arise around the balance of regulating produce safety without overstepping local farming practices or imposing undue constraints. Some stakeholders might argue that while federal standards provide a baseline for safety, they may not adequately account for unique local agricultural conditions. This bill effectively centralizes authority by funneling interactions and compliance measures through the state agency, raising questions about the representation and input from smaller farms and local producers.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Agriculture Code

• Chapter 91. General Grades And Packs Of Fruits And Vegetables
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