Texas House Bill HB3952

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to registration and regulation of dangerous wild animals; providing penalties, creating and affecting criminal offenses, and authorizing fees.

Impact

The bill fundamentally updates Subchapter E of Chapter 822 in the Health and Safety Code. It broadens the definition of 'dangerous wild animals' to include a list of specific species while also excluding certain entities such as research facilities from its requirements. This new classification necessitates that owners of these animals obtain a certificate of registration and comply with specified care and housing conditions to minimize risks associated with potentially dangerous wildlife in residential areas. Failure to adhere to these regulations can lead to civil penalties, reinforcing the bill's goal of public safety.

Summary

House Bill 3952 addresses the registration and regulation of dangerous wild animals within Texas, implementing new protocols and outlining penalties for non-compliance. The bill serves to clarify definitions related to dangerous wild animals, specifying which species fall under this category, and designating the Department of State Health Services as the chief regulatory body. By instating these guidelines, the bill aims to enhance public safety and ensure responsible animal ownership while maintaining consistency in enforcement across the state.

Contention

While proponents argue that HB 3952 will protect both public safety and animal welfare, critics may raise concerns regarding the feasibility of compliance for individual animal owners, particularly those who may not have extensive resources. Some opposition could stem from perceived government overreach, suggesting that the requirements may impose undue burdens on responsible owners of exotic pets or small sanctuaries. Therefore, although the bill represents an important regulatory step, dialogue around its implementation and possible exemptions for certain groups may emerge in legislative discussions.