Texas House Bill HB1806

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/1/11
• Introduced: 2/24/11
• Voted on by House: 4/18/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/3/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/9/11
• Governor Action: 5/21/11
• Report Pass: 5/3/11
• Enrolled: 5/10/11
• Passed: 5/21/11

Caption

Relating to fishing tournament fraud; providing penalties.

Impact

If enacted, HB1806 modifies the Parks and Wildlife Code to impose penalties that can range from Class A misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the value of the prizes involved in the tournament. Specifically, if a fraudulent act occurs in a tournament where prizes exceed $10,000, the penalty escalates to a felony charge. By establishing clear legal ramifications, the bill seeks to safeguard the interests of legitimate anglers and ensure a fair competitive environment, reflecting a broader commitment to wildlife conservation and enforcement.

Summary

House Bill 1806 addresses the issue of fraud in fishing tournaments in Texas, proposing a series of definitions and penalties aimed at maintaining the integrity of these events. The bill specifically categorizes certain deceptive actions relating to fish caught in tournaments as criminal offenses. Important definitions in the bill include 'fishing tournament' and outlines actions that constitute fraud, such as selling or altering fish to misrepresent weight or species. This framework aims to deter participants and sponsors from engaging in fraudulent behaviors that could undermine competitive fairness.

Contention

Discussion around HB 1806 may involve concerns regarding enforcement and clarity of the definitions. There could be a need for clarification on what constitutes fraud in various tournament settings, especially given the growing popularity of fishing competitions. Additionally, the bill's supporters might argue that such legislation is crucial to protect the state's natural resources and promote ethical sportsmanship. Conversely, critics may express worries about overregulation and potential backlash from the fishing community, particularly regarding the practicality of monitoring and enforcing such standards.