PART 17. TEXAS STATE SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION BOARD
CHAPTER 517. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
SUBCHAPTER A. CONSERVATION ASSISTANCE
Introduction
The Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board adopts amendments to §517.3, concerning the use of conservation assistance funds. The amendment is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the Texas Register on September 6, 2024, (49 TexReg 6967) and will not be republished.
Justification for Rule Action
The amendment clarifies the allowable use of conservation assistance funds appropriated from the general revenue fund and other sources. Specifically, the rule defines the conditions under which soil and water conservation districts may use these funds to reimburse indirect administrative expenses incurred through travel for official district business.
How the Rule Will Function
The adopted rule provides soil and water conservation districts with guidance on the permissible use of conservation assistance funds for indirect administrative expenses. It limits reimbursement to mileage and lodging costs incurred while attending meetings or events sponsored by the State Board or a local district, ensuring these expenses do not exceed the maximum allowable rates established by the General Appropriations Act for state travel. This enhances transparency and consistency in fund usage.
Summary of Comments
No comments were received regarding the proposed amendment.
Statutory Authority
The amendments are adopted under the Agriculture Code, Title 7, Chapter 201, §201.020, which authorizes the State Board to adopt rules necessary for performing its functions under the Agriculture Code.
No other statutes, articles, or codes are affected by this amendment.
The agency certifies that legal counsel has reviewed the adoption and found it to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.
Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on November 26, 2024.
TRD-202405769
Heather Bounds
Government Affairs Specialist
Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board
Effective date: December 16, 2024
Proposal publication date: September 6, 2024
For further information, please call: (254) 773-8225
Introduction
The Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board (TSSWCB) adopts amendments to §517.10, concerning deadlines for claims for conservation assistance funds. The amendment is adopted without changes to the proposed text as published in the Texas Register on September 6, 2024, (49 TexReg 6968) and will not be republished.
Justification for Rule Action
The amendment establishes clear deadlines for soil and water conservation districts to submit claims for conservation assistance funds, ensuring efficient processing and proper allocation of resources. Exceptions to these deadlines may be granted by the State Board or the Executive Director with the Board's approval, allowing flexibility in unique circumstances.
How the Rule Will Function
The adopted rule provides guidance to districts on the timely submission of claims for conservation assistance funds. It ensures accountability and streamlines the administration of funding programs by setting firm deadlines and defining conditions under which exceptions may be granted. This will enhance the efficiency and consistency of the claims process.
No comments were received regarding the proposed amendment.
Statutory Authority
The amendments are adopted under the Agriculture Code, Title 7, Chapter 201, §201.020, which authorizes the State Board to adopt rules necessary for performing its functions under the Agriculture Code. No other statutes, articles, or codes are affected by this amendment. The agency certifies that legal counsel has reviewed the adoption and found it to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.
The agency certifies that legal counsel has reviewed the adoption and found it to be a valid exercise of the agency's legal authority.
Filed with the Office of the Secretary of State on November 26, 2024.
TRD-202405771
Heather Bounds
Government Affairs Specialist
Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board
Effective date: December 16, 2024
Proposal publication date: September 6, 2024
For further information, please call: (254) 773-8225