By Julie Tomascik
Editor

Texas lawmakers will take a closer look at several issues impacting farmers and ranchers as part of the Legislature’s interim charges ahead of the next session.

The charges, issued by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Speaker of the House Dustin Burrows, outline the topics committees will study over the coming months.

Many of the charges align with ongoing concerns in agriculture, including water, land use, animal health and regulatory pressures.

“These interim charges give lawmakers the opportunity to dig deeper into the challenges facing agriculture,” Regan Beck, Texas Farm Bureau (TFB) director of Government Affairs, said. “It’s an important step in developing policy solutions that support farmers and ranchers and ensure a strong future for Texas agriculture.”

Water needs
Water availability and supply remain top concerns for Texas agriculture.

Lawmakers are tasked with studying water infrastructure, conservation strategies and policies tied to the state’s growing demand.

Ongoing drought conditions and increased competition for water resources continue to put strain on the state’s water resources.

That demand is expanding beyond traditional uses, too.

“Lawmakers will study how large-scale developments, including the rapid growth of data centers, are affecting local water availability, infrastructure and planning efforts, particularly in rural areas,” Beck said.

Interim charges also direct lawmakers to study groundwater regulation, including large-scale groundwater export projects that move water from rural areas to growing urban regions. Those proposals have raised concerns about future water availability for agriculture and rural communities.

Beck noted that TFB has emphasized the need for a balanced approach that supports both agricultural production and population growth.

Land use and property rights
The continued loss of agricultural land to development is another issue TFB is closely monitoring.

As Texas grows, farmland and ranchland are increasingly converted to residential and commercial uses. In addition to reduced acreage, farmers and ranchers face rising land values and increased pressure on property taxes. Those changes can make it more difficult to maintain or expand ag operations.

Interim charges, Beck said, will examine land use trends, property rights and policies that impact the ability of farmers and ranchers to operate.

“TFB continues to advocate for policies that protect private property rights, preserve working lands and reduce conflicts between agricultural operations and new neighbors,” he said.

Invasive species threats
Interim charges direct lawmakers to evaluate prevention and response efforts for invasive species, including the threat of New World screwworm.

Lawmakers will review the state’s preparedness levels, response planning, coordination among agencies and available tools to protect animal agriculture.

“Protecting animal health is critical to the stability of our food supply and rural economy,” Beck said. “We need strong, coordinated efforts to respond quickly and effectively to any threat.”

Regulatory environment, input challenges
Additional charges focus on regulatory oversight of agricultural programs and the broader regulatory environment.

That includes a review of funding and implementation of key programs, such as those administered through the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority (TAFA).

TFB is advocating for the re-appropriation of $100 million in funding for TAFA programs aimed at strengthening agricultural production in the Lone Star State.

Farmers and ranchers continue to face rising input costs and regulatory uncertainty at both the state and federal levels. Lawmakers will review how policies impact production agriculture and identify ways to improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary burdens.

TFB has consistently called for regulatory certainty and practical policies that allow farmers and ranchers to remain competitive.

Setting the stage for the next session

Committee findings and recommendations developed during the interim studies will help shape legislation in the next session.

TFB will remain engaged throughout the process, providing input and sharing the perspective of farmers and ranchers across the state.

“These discussions lay the groundwork for future decisions and policy,” Beck said. “It is important agriculture has a seat at the table throughout the process, and Farm Bureau will continue working with lawmakers to ensure agriculture’s voice is heard and the needs of rural Texas are addressed.”