Bill > HB646

This bill allows hunters and landowners in Texas to use unmanned aircraft (drones) to locate and retrieve wounded or killed wildlife on private land, with two key conditions: the drone operation must comply with all Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) rules, restrictions, and required authorizations. The bill specifically adds a new section to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code that permits this activity, while preventing the Parks and Wildlife Commission from creating additional bureaucratic barriers by prohibiting them from requiring special departmental authorization for drone use in this context. The unmanned aircraft can be used to help hunters track and recover game animals that have been shot but not immediately retrieved, which can improve hunting efficiency and reduce the likelihood of wounded animals suffering or being lost. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, giving time for potential stakeholders to prepare for the new regulation.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB646