Senate Agriculture, Forestry & Economic Development Committee adopts rules at organizational meeting

The Senate Agriculture, Forestry & Economic Development Committee met for an organizational session and adopted its committee rules by voice vote. Chair Ronald Caldwell opened the meeting and said there were no bills on the agenda, then led member introductions and invited staff to identify themselves.

"I'm Ronald Caldwell, chair of AG," Caldwell said, noting he represents Senate District 10 and that his districts large rice acreage means "you'll hear things coming up about rice during the session." Vice Chair Matt Stone, who said he has worked in the forest industry for 43 years, introduced himself and noted that forestry is covered by the Department of Agriculture. Other senators introduced their districts and industry backgrounds, including references to poultry and small-scale specialty farming.

The committee discussed its jurisdiction beyond traditional agricultureincluding oil and gas, tourism and economic developmentand Caldwell said he expects some economic development measures to return to the committee for discussion, citing potential bills from Big River related to rebar plants. Committee staff legislative analyst John Jones introduced himself and noted this is his second session staffing the committee.

Members also discussed arranging outside tours to view industry facilities. Caldwell said such tours (lumber mills, plywood mills and the newly regulated marijuana growing facilities) fall within the committees purview and stressed procedural requirements: the committee must provide notice to the Bureau of Legislative Research (BLR), with a minimum 24-hour notice required and members typically giving about three weeks to plan.

When asked about adopting rules, members reviewed the standard committee rules provided in their folders. Caldwell emphasized adherence to attendance and voting procedures: "It takes 5 members to sign a bill out and sign a yes vote," he said, explaining that the committee follows those attendance rules closely. Senator Ben Gilmore moved to adopt the rules and Senator Dave Wallace seconded; Caldwell called for the ayes and the rules were approved by voice vote. The transcript does not record a roll-call tally.

The meeting ended after a brief logistical exchange about scheduling and BLR notice requirements. Chair Caldwell adjourned the session with no further business.

The committee did not consider or vote on any bills at this meeting; the discussion focused on organization, rules and planning for future hearings and site visits.