| Vote Recommendation | Economic Freedom | Property Rights | Personal Responsibility | Limited Government | Individual Liberty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral | Neutral |
Relating to certain programs to prevent vector-borne and zoonotic diseases in border counties; requiring an occupational license; authorizing a fee.
According to the Legislative Budget Board, no significant fiscal impact to the state is anticipated.
SB 1312 would provide for the issuance of a non-commercial applicator license authorizing the licensee to purchase and use certain mosquito pesticides in counties bordering Mexico. The Texas Department of Agriculture would be required to minimize fees and requirements to obtain the license and would be allowed to solicit and accept donations and grants.
The bill would also require the Department of State Health Services to study the needs of border counties related to vector-born and zoonotic diseases. The department would also be required to study strategies to mitigate and control vector-born and zoonotic diseases and to preform related public outreach.
Texas Action remains neutral on SB 1312. The state has a vested interest in preventing the spread of disease. We would prefer, however, that it be done without creating a new occupational license.