AUSTIN – The House Agriculture & Livestock Committee has submitted a detailed list of 11 possible interim study ideas to Speaker Joe Straus. Straus is expected to review the recommendations prior to formally assigning interim committee study charges in October.

Since the Texas Legislature meets during odd-numbered years, legislators spend non-session years studying important issues and formulating legislation. Each of the House’s substantive legislative committees will be assigned a number of topics to study within their respective jurisdictions. Committees will hold meetings allowing members to hear invited expert testimony and ask questions. Committee staff will then produce a written report detailing the committee’s findings and recommending possible legislative remedies to the 82nd Legislature.

“Interim studies are a very important part of the legislative process,” said State Rep. Yvonne Gonzalez Toureilles. “It’s a time for us as lawmakers to sit back, listen and learn about some of the concerns and challenges faced by our state’s agriculture, livestock and rural stakeholders. Many times, these interim committee studies result in specific legislation intended to address the committee’s findings.”

Interim study recommendations submitted by Chairwoman Toureilles on behalf of the Agriculture and Livestock Committee ranged from evaluating the extent and economic impact of feral hogs on the state’s agricultural and livestock operations to identifying barriers limiting the state’s ability to prevent and respond to plant diseases and pests.