Texas House Bill HB2842

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/14/25
• Out of House Committee: 4/9/25
• Voted on by House: 4/30/25
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/19/25
• Voted on by Senate: 5/21/25
• Governor Action: 6/22/25

Caption

Relating to the control by lethal means of white-tailed deer in certain areas.

Impact

The implications of HB 2842 on state laws include changes to how wildlife management is handled, particularly regarding white-tailed deer. By streamlining the process for obtaining permits to utilize lethal means for population control, the bill effectively enables more proactive measures against overpopulation and related issues. The requirement for entities to demonstrate that recreational hunting is not feasible may influence local wildlife management practices moving forward, potentially altering the responsibility and roles of various stakeholders in managing deer populations.

Summary

House Bill 2842 addresses the control of white-tailed deer populations in Texas, specifically allowing for lethal methods in certain situations where these animals pose a threat to public safety or agricultural interests. The bill amends various sections of the Parks and Wildlife Code to facilitate the issuance of permits for such control measures. It emphasizes that entities, such as political subdivisions and property owners’ associations, must provide evidence of the need for lethal control before receiving authorization from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be mixed. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary response to increasing deer populations that threaten public safety and agricultural integrity. Supporters highlight the need for effective management to prevent adverse outcomes. Conversely, there are concerns from some environmental advocates about allowable lethal methods and the potential impacts on the ecosystem. This has led to debates over the balance between wildlife protection and human safety, with some calling for more humane methods of population control.

Contention

Notable points of contention center on the ethics and practicality of lethal wildlife control. Critics question whether sufficient safeguards are in place to ensure that such measures are warranted and ethically conducted. Additionally, the implementation of the proposed rules around permit issuance and inspection processes may raise concerns regarding oversight and accountability. The bill's passage could lead to significant changes in how wildlife management is perceived and executed in Texas.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Parks And Wildlife Code

• Chapter 43. Special Licenses And Permits
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 1515
  • Section: 152
  • Section: 153
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 1515
  • Section: 152
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 1515
  • Section: 152
  • Section: 153
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 1515
  • Section: 152
  • Section: 153
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 1515
  • Section: 152
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 1515
  • Section: 152
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 1515
  • Section: 152
  • Section: 153

• Chapter 62. Provisions Generally Applicable To Hunting
  • Section: 006
  • Section: 006
  • Section: 006