LEGISLATIVE BUDGET BOARD

Austin, Texas

FISCAL NOTE, 81ST LEGISLATIVE REGULAR SESSION

March 30, 2009

TO:	Honorable Mark Homer, Chair, House Committee on Culture, Recreation & Tourism
FROM:	John S. O'Brien, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:	HB2680 by Thibaut (Relating to the retrieval and waste of game birds, game animals, fish, and oysters; providing a penalty.), As Introduced

No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

The bill would amend the Parks and Wildlife Code to include the "possession of" a game bird, game animal, or fish to the offense of knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal intent failing to keep the edible portion in an edible condition, as defined by the bill.  According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), under current provisions the offense only applies to a person "taking" a game bird, game animal, or fish.  Additionally, the bill would add oysters to the list of animals included in the offense.  TPWD indicates implementing bill provisions would have no fiscal implication to the department.  The bill would take effect September 1, 2009.

Local Government Impact

No fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.

Source Agencies:

802 Parks and Wildlife Department

LBB Staff:

JOB, TB, WK