AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

 

In recent years, the recreational and ecological value of Texas lakes has been threatened by harmful invasive aquatic species.  In light of the potentially devastating nature of invasive aquatic species in public waters, it is important to educate the public about how to prevent these species from penetrating lakes currently unaffected.   

 

H.B. 597 requires boater education courses and equivalency examinations administered by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to include information about how to prevent the spread of invasive species. 

 

H.B. 597 amends current law relating to boater education and examinations on preventing the spread of exotic harmful or potentially harmful aquatic plants, fish, and shellfish.

 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

 

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

 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

 

SECTION 1.  Amends Section 31.108, Parks and Wildlife Code, by adding Subsection (a-1), to require that a boater education course or equivalency examination under this section (Boater Education Program) include information on how to prevent the spread of exotic harmful or potentially harmful aquatic plants, fish, and shellfish, including department-approved methods for cleaning a boat, a boat's motor, fishing and other equipment, and a boat trailer.

 

SECTION 2.  Requires that the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department boater education courses and equivalency examinations include information on  how to prevent the spread of exotic harmful or potentially harmful aquatic plants, fish, and shellfish as required by Section 31.108(a-1), Parks and Wildlife Code, as added by this Act, on or before January 1, 2014.

 

SECTION 3.  Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2013.