Bill

HB 1081

83(R) - 2013
Agriculture & Livestock

Vote Recommendation

Yes
  • Neutral
  • Positive
  • Neutral
  • Positive
  • Neutral

Author(s)

Mary Gonzalez

Bill Caption

Relating to a study regarding the prohibition of dairy farming in certain areas of the state.

Fiscal Notes

Estimated Two-year Net Impact to General Revenue Related Funds for HB1081, Committee Report 1st House, Substituted: a negative impact of ($52,492) through the biennium ending August 31, 2015. The bill would make no appropriation but could provide the legal basis for an appropriation of funds to implement the provisions of the bill.

Bill Analysis

Summary: Since an outbreak of bovine tuberculosis in 2001, dairy farming has been banned in El Paso County. It is the only county in the country with such a ban. HB 1081 would commission a study to evaluate whether or not it is safe to begin dairy farming there again. The study would have to be completed by September, 2014.

Analysis: HB 1081 does is a step in the right direction that may serve to remove a regulation that prevents an entire industry from being active in El Paso County. It is unlikely that the ban will be lifted without a study demonstrating that dairy farming is safe in El Paso County. Because of its potential to remove regulations, to limit government, and to restore property rights to people who wish to use their land for dairy farming, we support HB 1081.