Bill > SB503

This bill updates Texas' livestock mark and brand recording system by establishing an electronic registry managed by the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC). The bill expands the types of animal identification methods that can be recorded to include not just traditional earmarks and brands, but also electronic devices and other generally accepted identification methods. County clerks will now be required to create electronic records of livestock marks and brands and deliver electronic copies to the TAHC within 30 days of recording. The TAHC will develop a publicly searchable online registry that protects owners' personal identifying information while allowing law enforcement to access those details. The bill also modifies existing law to allow owners to authorize agents to record marks and brands on their behalf and updates the requirement for livestock owners to record or rerecord their marks and brands every 10 years, with the next recording deadline set for September 1, 2031. Additionally, the bill adds a provision that recording a mark or brand for an animal creates a presumption of animal control for legal purposes. The electronic registry is set to be implemented with rules adopted by the TAHC, and the bill will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB503