NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

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(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Duplicates HB499

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Commission on Higher Education (CHE)

New Mexico Department of Agriculture (NMDA)

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

Senate Bill 484 enacts the Pink Bollworm Control Act to provide for the eradication of the cotton insect Pectinophora Gossypiella.

Significant Issues

According to NMDA, cotton is a $39 million dollar industry in New Mexico. Currently, pink bollworm infestations are causing damages in Dona Ana, Luna, Sierra, Eddy and Chaves counties. NMDA monitors infestations in New Mexico and other states and reports that pink bollworm eradication programs are successful in California.

NMDA reports the United States Department of Agriculture encourages eradication programs and is willing to provide federal assistance to states with legislative authority in place.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

NMDA indicates that costs can be absorbed by the current budget.

ADMINISTRATIVE IMPLICATIONS

NMDA is responsible for conducting public hearings, designating pink bollworm infested areas, budget preparation for hearings and referendums, holding referendums and providing technical support and advice for eradication plans.

DUPLICATION

This bill duplicates HB 499

OTHER SUBSTANTIVE ISSUES

According to NMDA, if the pink bollworm is not eradicated in New Mexico and surrounding cotton producing states achieve eradication, harvest equipment and raw cotton products grown in New Mexico may be subject to federal and state quarantines.

CTF/njw:prr