I am forwarding this announcement from the Sunset Advisory Commission regarding their review of the TAHC.  Carla Everett



The mission and performance of the Texas Animal Health Commission is currently being reviewed by the Legislature as required under the Texas Sunset Act. The Act provides that the Sunset Commission, composed of legislators and public members, periodically evaluate a state agency to determine if the agency is still needed, and what improvements are needed to ensure that state funds are well spent. Based on the recommendations of the Sunset Commission, the Texas Legislature ultimately decides whether an agency continues to operate into the future.

The Sunset review involves three steps. First, Sunset Commission staff will evaluate the Texas Animal Health Commission and, in March 2006, will issue a report recommending solutions to problems found. The Sunset Commission will then meet to hear public testimony on the agency and the recommendations of the Sunset staff. This meeting will likely be scheduled for spring 2006. Please refer to our Web site or call our office for updated meeting schedule information. Based on public input and the Sunset staff report, the Sunset Commission will adopt recommendations for the full Legislature to consider when it convenes in January 2007.

Through the Sunset review, every Texan has the opportunity to suggest ways in which the mission and operations of the Texas Animal Health Commission can be strengthened. If you would like to share your ideas about the agency, please contact Meredith Whitten of the Sunset staff. Suggestions are preferred by Thursday, December 1, 2005, so they can be fully considered by the Commission staff.

Information about the Sunset process, including information on Sunset Commission meetings, can be found at: http://www.sunset.state.tx.us.