Honorable Charles Perry, Chair, Senate Committee on Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs
FROM:
Ursula Parks, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
SB1911 by Perry (Relating to the medical treatment and care of animals by certain persons in animal shelters and releasing agencies.), As Introduced
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
The bill would amend portions of the Health and Safety Code relating to animal shelters and releasing agencies. The bill would allow an animal shelter or releasing agency to administer certain nonprescription vaccines or medicines upon taking possession of an animal, and would allow the vaccines or medicines to be administered by a veterinarian or an authorized agent. The bill would require a protocol be developed by a veterinarian and the animal shelter or releasing agency to authorize an agent in order for an agent to administer the vaccine or medicine.
It is assumed that duties and responsibilities associated with implementing the provisions of the bill could be accomplished utilizing existing resources.
Local Government Impact
According to the Texas Municipal League, the bill would significantly increase costs to the cities for operation of animal shelters.
The City of Dallas reported a total cost of $960,000 for an additional 8 veterinarian and 8 technicians to comply with the provisions of the bill.
The City of Houston and the City of El Paso reported no fiscal impact.
According to the Texas Association of Counties, Palo Pinto County does not operate an animal shelter; they contract with the City of Mineral Wells. According to the city, the bill would have a significant fiscal impact of $82,000 per year to comply with the provisions of the bill. Revenue from fees is about $30,000 annually.
Source Agencies:
554 Animal Health Commission, 578 Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners