Bill > SB114

This bill establishes new requirements for postmortem testing of deer for chronic wasting disease (CWD), a fatal neurological condition that affects deer and other cervids. Specifically, the bill mandates that all postmortem deer testing for CWD must be conducted exclusively by the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory, and the test results must be interpreted by at least two employees of that laboratory. Chronic wasting disease is a serious wildlife health concern that can potentially spread through deer populations, and this bill aims to standardize and centralize the testing process to ensure consistent and reliable diagnostic procedures. The provisions will take effect on September 1, 2025, giving state agencies and laboratories time to prepare for the new testing requirements. By designating a single, specialized laboratory to handle all CWD testing, the bill seeks to improve the accuracy and uniformity of disease surveillance in Texas deer populations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB114