BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 559

By: White

Culture, Recreation & Tourism

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

While most Texas residents 90 years old or over are exempt from needing a license to fish, it has been suggested that waiving the resident fishing license fee for a resident who is 85 years old or over would make these licenses available to more Texans who currently rely on a limited income such as social security or retirement. This waiver would help to encourage more of Texas' senior citizens to better enjoy their retirement and help to promote an active lifestyle. H.B. 559 provides for this waiver.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 559 amends the Parks and Wildlife Code to require the Parks and Wildlife Commission to waive the resident fishing license fee for a resident who is 85 years old or over.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2021.