The bill, H.B. No. 3479, amends Section 201.0225 of the Agriculture Code to establish the Rio Grande vegetative management program. This program is designed to manage not only Carrizo cane but also other noxious vegetation that obstructs border security along the Rio Grande River. The language changes reflect a shift from a focus solely on eradicating Carrizo cane to a broader management approach that addresses various types of vegetation affecting border security.

The bill will take effect immediately if it secures a two-thirds majority vote from all elected members in both houses of the legislature. If it does not achieve this necessary vote, the bill will become effective on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Agriculture Code 201.0225 (Agriculture Code 201)