John S O'Brien, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB2189 by Elkins (Relating to the regulation of handfishing.), As Engrossed
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend portions of the Parks and Wildlife Code so that an individual with a valid fishing license freshwater fishing stamp is legally allowed to handfish in public freshwater. Handfishing is defined as fishing for catfish by the use of hands only, without the use of other fishing equipment. The bill would provide that the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission may adopt rules related to handfishing. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department reports that it is assumed the vast majority of those that would handfish engage in other angling activity requiring a fishing license (plus applicable stamps). Accordingly, this analysis assumes there would be no net change in fishing licenses purchased and no significant fiscal implication to TPWD or the state. The bill would take immediate effect if the bill receives two-thirds the vote of all members in both houses. Otherwise, the bill would take effect September 1, 2011.
Local Government Impact
No fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.