Bill Information:
HB 862 (Ramon Ramero, Jr.) https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=87R&Bill=HB862
SB 682 (Cesar Blanco) https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=87R&Bill=SB682
Relating to the regulation of migrant labor housing facilities.
Summary Timeline:
HB 862 filed by Rep. Romero, Jr. and SB 682 filed by Senator Blanco are similar bills dealing with the regulation of migrant labor housing facilities. Some of the larger beekeeping operations in Texas hire seasonal workers under H-2A visas. These beekeepers provide federally inspected housing for their workers. We have spoken with Rep. Romero and Senator Blanco to express concerns about Texas requiring registration and inspection in addition to the federal oversight.
Why it matters to TBA?
Some commercial & migratory beekeepers in Texas hire seasonal workers under H-2A visas. These beekeepers provide federally inspected housing for their workers.
Update as of May 19, 2021:
HB 862 was on the General Calendar in the House but not reached by the deadline. Companion bill SB 682 did not receive a hearing in the Senate Water, Agriculture, & Rural Affairs Committee. These bills are not going any further this session.
Additional Resources:
https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/agriculture/h2a