Texas House Bill HB2343

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/3/25
• Out of House Committee: 5/12/25

Caption

Relating to required notice regarding shrimp in restaurants and certain prohibitions on purchasing and serving imported shrimp.

Impact

The introduction of HB 2343 will significantly impact state laws concerning food services in public institutions. By banning imported shrimp, it aims to support local fishing industries and promote consumer awareness of food sources. The legislation necessitates changes in contract procedures within state agencies and school districts, ensuring alignment with the new regulations. This could lead to shifts in the food supply chains utilized by these entities, affecting suppliers and market dynamics.

Summary

House Bill 2343 aims to regulate the use of shrimp in food services provided by state agencies and school districts in Texas. Specifically, the bill prohibits these entities from serving imported shrimp or foods containing imported shrimp. It mandates that any contracts entered into for food service must contain provisions precluding the use of imported shrimp. The bill further emphasizes the importance of labeling domestic wild shrimp and ensuring customers are informed about the shrimp they are consuming, thus enhancing transparency in food sourcing.

Sentiment

The general sentiment around HB 2343 appears to reflect a proactive approach towards consumer health and the promotion of local seafood. Supporters of the bill are likely to argue that it helps protect local economies and ensures higher standards of food safety. While the bill may garner support from local fisherman groups and advocates for food safety, there could also be criticisms regarding its potential limitations on food variety and the challenges it may impose on procurement processes for public institutions.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the implications for the availability and pricing of shrimp served in school districts and state agencies following the implementation of this law. Critics may voice concerns about the impacts on cost and the potential reduction in supply diversity, while proponents will emphasize the benefits of local sourcing and consumer rights. Furthermore, mechanisms for compliance and enforcement of the notice requirements in restaurants could also become a subject of discussion among the stakeholders involved.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Health And Safety Code

• Chapter 436. Aquatic Life
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 437. Regulation Of Food Service Establishments, Retail Food Stores, Mobile Food Units, And Roadside Food Vendors
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: New Section