Bill

HB 3227

85(R) - 2017
House Agriculture & Livestock
Senate Agriculture, Water, & Rural Affairs
Read Bill & Check Bill Status
House Agriculture & Livestock
Senate Agriculture, Water, & Rural Affairs
Agriculture
Health
Safety

Vote Recommendation

No
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Negative
  • Neutral

Author(s)

Tracy King

Sponsor(s)

Eddie Lucio Jr.

Bill Caption

Relating to the administration and enforcement of produce safety standards by the Department of Agriculture; authorizing an administrative penalty.

Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

Under current law, the Department of Agriculture is the lead agency for education and training regarding the safety of fresh fruits and vegetables and is authorized to provide assistance to federal agencies. HB 3227 would require the enforcement of federal produce safety standards, require coordination and planning with nongovernmental organizations, and would authorize the imposition of administrative fees up to $5,000 for violations of United States Department of Agriculture 

Vote Recommendation Notes

This bill infringes on the principle of limited government by requiring the state to enforce federal produce safety standards and by adding a $5,000 penalty for violations of those federal standards. For these reasons we oppose HB 3227.

Organizations Supporting

Texas Citrus Mutual