Texas House Bill HB3782

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 5/9/11
• Introduced: 3/11/11
• Report Pass: 5/9/11

Caption

Relating to the management, breeding, and destruction of deer.

Impact

The bill makes significant changes to the existing laws regarding deer breeding and management. It requires deer breeders to conduct genetic testing to assess any potential disease risks as part of their compliance with state regulations. The Texas Animal Health Commission is granted the authority to order the destruction of deer deemed at risk for transmitting diseases, provided an epidemiological assessment supports the decision. This change aims to protect the broader ecosystem but raises concerns regarding the rights and operations of deer breeders, who may find these regulations burdensome or intrusive.

Summary

House Bill 3782 aims to establish comprehensive regulations surrounding the management, breeding, and potential destruction of deer within Texas. It amends several sections of the Parks and Wildlife Code to introduce new definitions, procedures for genetic testing, and protocols to control and prevent diseases among deer populations. These amendments empower the Texas Animal Health Commission to take necessary measures in the event of a disease outbreak that might threaten the health of neighboring wildlife and even humans. This legislation aligns with ongoing efforts to ensure the health and management of wildlife in the state, balancing the interests of both the animal health sector and deer breeders.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB3782 revolve around the balance of regulation and the rights of deer breeders. Proponents argue that the regulatory framework is necessary to prevent disease outbreaks that could have severe consequences on wildlife and public health. However, critics contend that the potential for destruction of livestock based on perceived risks could lead to unfair practices and questions about the transparency of the assessment process. The bill's introduction of genetic testing as a mechanism for risk assessment also raises ethical considerations about animal rights and the implications of genetic surveillance in wildlife management.