Bill > HB1269

This bill establishes a new plant disease and pest prevention grant program administered by the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service (referred to as the "extension service"). The program will award up to 20 grants annually to researchers associated with Texas institutions of higher education. To be eligible, applicants must submit letters of support from their institution, a community representative, and a state elected official representing the research area. The extension service will create a selection committee to choose grant recipients based on potential benefit to the state and will aim to ensure regional diversity. The grants can only be used to study plant disease and pest prevention. A dedicated "plant disease and pest prevention fund" will be created within the state's general revenue fund, which can receive money from gifts, grants, donations, and legislative appropriations. The fund will be used exclusively for awarding these research grants. Grants must be awarded and funds distributed by September 1st of each year, and there is no limit on the number of researchers who can be associated with a single grant. The bill would take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas legislature, or otherwise on September 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1269