The bill, H.B. No. 253, proposes the establishment of the Institute for Animal Health Research and Response at Texas A&M University. It amends Section 61.003(6) of the Education Code to include the new institute as part of the Texas A&M University System. The bill also introduces Section 86.83, which outlines the institute's purpose, management, and operational framework. The institute will focus on studying animal diseases and parasitic insects, developing prevention strategies, and evaluating treatment methods in collaboration with the Parks and Wildlife Department and the Texas Animal Health Commission.

Additionally, the bill grants the institute the authority to employ personnel, construct necessary facilities, and accept funding from various sources. It specifies that the board of regents of The Texas A&M University System will oversee the institute, which will operate under the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Importantly, the implementation of the provisions in this section is contingent upon legislative appropriations, allowing the board some flexibility in funding if specific appropriations are not made. The act is set to take effect 91 days after the conclusion of the legislative session.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 61.003 (Education Code 61)