Committee advances water task force bill and milk‑processor trust measure

The House Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources approved two bills during the meeting: House Bill 2172, which would establish a water program task force to evaluate state water programs and funding and report to the legislature and governor; and House Bill 2254, a measure requiring certain milk processors to hold payments in trust for milk producers until full payment is received.

House Bill 2172 - Motion: “I move that we pass HB 2,172 as amended favorable for passage,” moved by Representative Neely and seconded by Featherston. - Amendment: The committee accepted an amendment that reduced voting membership and made several membership clarifications; the amendment was moved, seconded by Representative Moseley, and carried by voice vote. - Outcome: Committee passed HB 2172 as amended by a voice vote. The chair recorded “Aye” and the bill was reported out of committee as amended.

House Bill 2254 - Motion: “I move that we pass HB 2,254 favorable for passage,” moved by Representative Neely and seconded by Representative White. - Technical amendment: A technical amendment to correct a cross‑reference in the definition of “milk producer” was offered, adopted and carried by voice vote. - Outcome: Committee passed HB 2254 as amended by a voice vote and reported the bill favorable for passage.

No roll‑call tallies were recorded in the committee transcript; the record shows voice votes with the chair announcing the outcome. Several other bills were mentioned for future committee work or assignment of carriers but were not voted on during this session.