Texas 83rd Legislative Session Update: HB 535
http://www.legis.state.tx.us/
House Bill No. 535 is proposing that state bidders promote the purchase of and give preference to specifically cited local venders, including all agricultural product purchases. The bill is advocating for preference of goods that are from service-disabled veterans who are Texas citizens. This is only if the goods are of equal quality and price as the alternatives. Agricultural products grown in Texas are also to be given mandated preference over out of state goods and produce.
The term “agricultural products” includes many other specified non-food items, like textiles. These “state bidders” mentioned are intended to mean businesses that have a physical presence in Texas, or have their primary place of business in the state. House Bill No. 535 was passed on April 23rd of 2013.