Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2843

Filed
3/14/25  
Out of Senate Committee
4/24/25  
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to a study of the effectiveness of rules and policies implemented by the Parks and Wildlife Department to manage and contain chronic wasting disease and of cervid resistance to chronic wasting disease.

Impact

Should SB2843 be enacted, it would result in a structured research approach to understand better and potentially enhance current wildlife management strategies concerning CWD. Findings from the mandated study would inform lawmakers and stakeholders on the efficacy of existing policies and facilitate comparative analyses with other states' approaches. The bill effectively enhances the state's regulatory framework for wildlife disease management, promoting evidence-based policy adjustments that could curtail the spread of CWD among cervids, which is critical for maintaining healthy wildlife populations and protecting agricultural interests.

Summary

SB2843 focuses on addressing chronic wasting disease (CWD), a serious transmissible spongiform encephalopathy affecting cervids. The bill mandates a comprehensive study to evaluate the effectiveness of existing rules and policies employed by the Parks and Wildlife Department in managing and containing the disease. Additionally, it aims to assess the resistance of various cervid genotypes to CWD, leveraging the expertise of leading research institutions in Texas. This initiative underscores the importance of scientifically informed wildlife management and public health efforts in dealing with wildlife diseases.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB2843 appears to be supportive, particularly among conservationists and those concerned about wildlife health. There is a recognition of a need for comprehensive data and a scientific foundation to guide policy decisions regarding CWD management. However, there may be cautious voices concerning the effectiveness of state intervention and the systemic challenges in addressing wildlife diseases, reflecting a broader debate on environmental responsibility and governance.

Contention

While the bill is primarily based on scientific research and public input, contention may arise around the implementation and outcomes of the study. Stakeholders may have differing opinions on the state's ability to effectively manage wildlife diseases based on scientific findings, competition for resources, and potential regulatory changes influenced by the study's conclusions. Some local or interest groups might express concerns regarding how the findings might affect their operational practices or governance over wildlife management.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Agriculture Code

  • Chapter 1. General Provisions
    • Section: New Section

Finance Code

  • Chapter 1. General Provisions
    • Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX HB5458

Identical Relating to a study of the effectiveness of rules implemented by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department governing the management of chronic wasting disease and of cervid resistance to chronic wasting disease.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2791

Relating to costs associated with ante-mortem testing of breeder deer for chronic wasting disease.

TX SB634

Relating to prior authorization for prescription drug benefits related to the treatment of chronic and autoimmune diseases.

TX SB1150

Relating to prior authorization for prescription drug benefits related to the treatment of chronic and autoimmune diseases.

TX HR236

Commending Dr. Francis H. Wright Jr. for his service as the presiding officer of the Chronic Kidney Disease Task Force.

TX HB638

Relating to access to certain investigational drugs, biological products, and devices used in clinical trials by patients with severe chronic diseases.

TX SB773

Relating to access to certain investigational drugs, biological products, and devices used in clinical trials by patients with severe chronic diseases.

TX HB185

Relating to the inclusion of chronically absent students as students at risk of dropping out of school and the collection and reporting of data regarding those students.

TX HB4468

Relating to the inclusion of chronically absent students as students at risk of dropping out of school and the collection and reporting of data regarding those students.

TX HB46

Relating to the inclusion of chronically absent students as students at risk of dropping out of school and the collection and reporting of data regarding those students.

TX SB1888

Relating to the inclusion of chronically absent and truant students as students at risk of dropping out of school and the collection and reporting of data regarding those students.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.