Texas House Bill HB1819

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to liability for injuring a trespassing sheep or goat.

Impact

The implications of HB 1819 are significant for agricultural law in Texas, particularly in rural areas where encounters with trespassing livestock can lead to conflicts between property owners and livestock owners. The bill effectively reinforces existing standards regarding the responsibility of property owners to maintain adequate fencing, which is crucial in preventing livestock from causing damage. By extending legal liability in these cases, the bill seeks to protect the interests of livestock owners, thereby promoting greater accountability among property owners regarding fencing quality and maintenance.

Summary

House Bill 1819 addresses the issue of liability regarding the maiming, wounding, or killing of sheep and goats that trespass onto property. The bill amends Section 143.033 of the Agriculture Code, specifying that if a person with insufficient fencing injures or kills a trespassing sheep or goat, they may be liable to the animal's owner for damages. This reflects a broader legislative intent to clarify and potentially expand the protections afforded to livestock owners while managing trespass incidents on private property. The effective date for the new provisions stipulated by this bill is set for September 1, 2013.

Contention

Although the discussions around the bill appear to be largely procedural with minimal recorded opposition, it highlights the ongoing debates about agricultural responsibilities and property rights. Some advocates for animal welfare may view the bill as an important step in ensuring that livestock are treated fairly and safely, while critics might express concerns regarding the potential for overregulation or unintended consequences on property rights. Overall, the law shifts some focus back onto property owners and their obligations to ensure that animals are kept safe from harm while also addressing trespass issues.