Texas House Bill HB3977

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/20/09
• Voted on by House: 5/7/09

Caption

Relating to the capture and transport of certain deer; providing a penalty.

Impact

This legislation amends existing laws under the Parks and Wildlife Code to create a structured approach for managing deer populations in areas where they are deemed to exceed local capacity. By setting a formal process for trapping and transporting surplus deer, the bill aims to balance wildlife management with public safety and community needs. It also seeks to minimize risks associated with deer overpopulation, which can include vehicle collisions and habitat damage.

Summary

House Bill 3977 addresses the capture and transport of surplus white-tailed deer within Texas. The bill allows individuals, political subdivisions, or property owners' associations to apply for permits that will authorize the trapping and subsequent transport of these deer, provided that an overpopulation situation is confirmed on the property. The Department of Parks and Wildlife is responsible for issuing these permits, which must include specific instructions regarding the destination of the trapped deer as well as the intended purpose for their transport.

Conclusion

Overall, HB3977 aims to provide a framework for managing surplus white-tailed deer populations effectively while ensuring compliance with humane standards. However, it also opens up discussions about wildlife management practices, responsibility of local entities, and the balance between human activities and wildlife conservation.

Contention

Notably, the bill specifies that permits cannot be granted if there are no suitable destinations for the captured deer, which may lead to controversial decisions regarding animal welfare and management. Critics may contend that the transport protocols and potential impacts on deer populations have not been adequately addressed, especially concerning the humane treatment of the animals during the trapping process. Additionally, the timetable for trapping operations is limited to specific months unless a health threat is presented, necessitating careful oversight.