Texas Senate Bill SB2649

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 3/13/25

Caption

Relating to the creation of a statewide Chronic Wasting Disease plan.

Impact

The bill amends both the Parks and Wildlife Code and the Agriculture Code to include provisions specific to CWD. By creating a centrally coordinated plan, it seeks to streamline responses to the disease, minimizing risks to public health and agricultural interests. The plan will encapsulate effective management practices observed in other jurisdictions, providing Texas with a comprehensive framework to address the implications of CWD more effectively. Additionally, the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine will monitor the State's implementation of these strategies, promoting transparency and accountability within wildlife and agricultural management departments.

Summary

Senate Bill 2649 proposes the establishment of a statewide Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) plan aimed at improving management and control measures regarding this livestock disease within the state of Texas. The bill mandates an assessment by the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, evaluating existing CWD management strategies implemented by both the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife and the Texas Animal Health Commission since 2015. The purpose of this assessment is to compare Texas's practices with those of other state programs and national standards, ensuring that Texas adopts optimal strategies for managing CWD among deer populations.

Contention

While the bill's objective is to enhance chronic disease management, there may be areas of contention regarding budget allocations to fund such comprehensive strategies. Stakeholders might voice concerns over the potential impact on local wildlife organizations and private deer farms if implemented regulations and assessments prove too burdensome. Furthermore, questions may arise regarding the balance between state-level mandates versus local management practices, particularly if the new strategies conflict with established practices or hinder the operations of local hunting and wildlife communities.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Parks And Wildlife Code

• Chapter 11. Parks And Wildlife Department
  • Section: New Section

Agriculture Code

• Chapter 161. General Disease And Pest Control
  • Section: New Section