H.B. No. 273 proposes the establishment of the Institute for Animal Health Research and Response as a component of Texas A&M University. The bill outlines the institute's management under the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension and grants it the authority to employ personnel, accept gifts or grants, and make plans for constructing necessary research facilities. Additionally, the institute is tasked with prioritizing certain diseases and parasitic insect infestations, studying their progression, analyzing genetic profiles of affected animals, and developing strategies for prevention and treatment in collaboration with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and the Texas Animal Health Commission.

The bill also stipulates that the Texas A&M University System will only implement the provisions of this Act if the legislature allocates specific funding for it. If such funding is not provided, the system may choose to implement the provisions using other available appropriations. The Act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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