Legislative Intern

Job description

The Voice of Texas Agriculture. Company Name: Texas Farm Bureau | Department: Government Affairs Texas Farm Bureau is a membership organization that is committed to successfully advancing the public policy interests of farmers and ranchers. The intern will work in the Texas Farm Bureau State Legislative Office (located in Austin, Texas) during the 2027 Regular Session of the Texas Legislature. In this role, they will work closely with the Government Affairs team to support legislative initiatives that advance Texas agricultural producers and rural communities. In doing so, they will gain valuable experience in the legislative process and see the impact of membership organizations. The intern will also have the opportunity to assist with the Texas Agriculture Council (TAC) throughout the legislative session, enabling them to maximize networking opportunities and develop lasting professional connections within Texas' legislative and agricultural advocacy communities. TAC is a collaborative network of agricultural advocacy organizations that coordinates policy and advocacy efforts and facilitates information sharing on issues affecting the agricultural community. This role provides an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the state legislative process. Creating an opportunity for exposure to public policy, state government, and advocacy, while building professional skills. MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND AUTHORITY Researching high-profile legislative and policy issues shaping the future of Texas agriculture. Tracking legislation and monitoring committee hearings, legislative meetings, and policy developments at the Texas Capitol. Creating briefing materials, presentations, and advocacy resources used to engage legislators, stakeholders, and agricultural leaders. Writing bill summaries, policy briefs, and legislative communications, including content for Texas Farm Bureau's weekly Austin Newsletter. Utilizing legislative tracking tools and databases to provide real-time updates and support strategic advocacy efforts. Providing support to the Texas Agriculture Council (TAC) by coordinating and preparing materials for weekly meetings, managing logistics, and scheduling guest speakers. The guest speakers include but are not limited to members of the Legislature, legislative staff, stakeholders, and industry professionals. Maintaining TAC legislative bill tracking reports and assisting with the implementation of TAC action items. Preparing materials for weekly TAC meetings and special events, promoting agricultural issues and priorities among legislators and staff Performing other duties as assigned. MINIMUM POSITION REQUIREMENTS Availability to be in Austin, Texas during the duration of the regular session of the 90th Texas Legislature (January 12, 2027-June 4, 2027). Practical knowledge of production agriculture and rural issues Current undergraduate student or recent graduate Good organizational skills Ability and willingness to learn and extend skills Good oral and written communication skills Interest in public policy issues, including but not limited to agriculture, property rights, environmental regulations, water policy, preferred PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS Repeated use of PC, telephone, and office machines. Extended periods of sitting and concentrating. Occasional bending, twisting, crouching, pulling, pushing and reaching in an office environment. Occasional lifting and moving items weighing up to 30 lbs. WORKING CONDITIONS Occasional long, irregular work hours. Travel as required. Work to be conducted in office environment owned or leased by company Texas Farm Bureau is an Equal Opportunity Employer (M/F/D/V).