78R2028 BDH-D

By:  Armbrister                                                   S.B. No. 498



A BILL TO BE ENTITLED

AN ACT

relating to state agricultural policy regarding bison.                        
	BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:                        
	SECTION 1.  Chapter 2, Agriculture Code, is amended by 
adding Section 2.005 to read as follows:
	Sec. 2.005.  POLICY: BISON.  The agricultural policy of this 
state must recognize that bison:
		(1)  are wild animals indigenous to this state;                        
		(2)  are distinct from cattle, livestock, exotic 
livestock, and game animals; and
		(3)  may be raised and used for:                                       
			(A)  commercial purposes; or                                          
			(B)  the purpose of preserving the bison species.                     
	SECTION 2.  This Act takes effect immediately if it receives 
a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as 
provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution.  If this 
Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this 
Act takes effect September 1, 2003.