Honorable Ryan Guillen, Chair, House Committee on Culture, Recreation & Tourism
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB2150 by Nevárez (Relating to the classification of elk as exotic animals.), As Introduced
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend portions of the Parks and Wildlife Code relating to the classification of elk as exotic animals. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission by rule will make a determination that elk are wild animals subject to the provisions that apply to exotic animals, as defined.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) reports the bill provisions would not reflect a fiscal implication to the department. Currently, elk are listed as exotic animals/livestock in the Parks and Wildlife Code, as well as the Agriculture Code. The bill may create a conflict should the TPW Commission classify elk as a wild animal in the “non-game” category, as the Texas Animal Health Commission would still be managing elk producers as exotic under the Agriculture Code. Additionally, depending on amendments to the Texas Administrative Code, a non-game permit may or may not be needed. Should a permit be needed, TPWD estimates any revenue gain to the General Revenue-Dedicated Game, Fish and Water Safety Account No. 9 would be minimal.
The bill would take immediate effect if the bill receives two-thirds the vote in both houses. Otherwise, the bill would take effect September 1, 2013.
Local Government Impact
No fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.