By: Kolkhorst, Flores S.B. No. 1215
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to the placement of a cultivated oyster in a natural oyster
bed, a private oyster bed, or coastal waters.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Chapter 75, Parks and Wildlife Code, is amended
by adding Section 75.01045 to read as follows:
Sec. 75.01045. PLACEMENT OF CULTIVATED OYSTERS IN CERTAIN
LOCATIONS WITH DEPARTMENT APPROVAL. (a) A person may place a
cultivated oyster in a natural oyster bed, a private oyster bed, or
coastal waters if the department authorizes the placement in
writing.
(b) The department shall adopt best management practices
for authorizing the placement of cultivated oysters under this
section.
SECTION 2. Section 75.0106(b), Parks and Wildlife Code, is
amended to read as follows:
(b) No person may place a cultivated oyster in a natural
oyster bed, a [or] private oyster bed, or coastal waters, except as
authorized by Section 75.01045.
SECTION 3. This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.