SRC-ARR S.B. 133 76(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   S.B. 133
76R3251 WP-DBy: Brown
Natural Resources
2/15/1999
As Filed


DIGEST 

Currently, Texas law recognizes certain flora and fauna that serve to
symbolize the rich diversity of our state. The lightening whelk has been
the official state shell since 1987 due to its unique characteristics and
preference for the waters of the Gulf of Mexico. S.B. 133 prohibits the
retention of lightening whelk while trawling for shrimp, but does not
restrict any other activity associated with shell collecting. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, S.B. 133 relates to the retention of lightening whelks caught
in shrimp trawls. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, institution, or agency. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Section 77.0191, Parks and Wildlife Code, as follows:

Sec. 77.0191. New heading: RETENTION OF REDFISH, SPECKLED SEA TROUT, AND
LIGHTENING WHELKS.   Prohibits a person who uses a trawl for the purpose of
taking shrimp, on board a boat licensed under this chapter and if there is
a shrimp trawl on board, from retaining a redfish, speckled sea trout, or
lightening whelk caught in the trawl. Makes conforming changes. 

SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 1999.
           Makes application of this Act prospective. 

SECTION  3.  Emergency clause.