Honorable Ryan Guillen, Chair, House Committee on Culture, Recreation & Tourism
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
HB3279 by Morrison (Relating to the uprooting of seagrass plants; creating an offense.), Committee Report 1st House, Substituted
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend the Parks and Wildlife Code relating to the uprooting of seagrass plants. Under bill provisions, an individual may not uproot or dig out any rooted seagrass through the use of a propeller unless the individual has been issued a commercial license or permit issued by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD); or as granted by the General Land Office though a coastal lease. Violation of bill provisions would be a Class C Parks and Wildlife misdemeanor. TPWD indicates any duties resulting in costs or any violations resulting in revenue under bill provisions are not anticipated to have a significant fiscal implication on the department.
The bill would take effect September 1, 2013.
Local Government Impact
No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.