Bill > SB1930

This bill modifies how proceeds from saltwater fishing stamp sales are used by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Currently, the law requires stamp sale net receipts to be spent on coastal fisheries enforcement and management. The bill changes this to give the department more flexibility, allowing stamp funds to be spent only for coastal fisheries management, with specific allowable uses that include: (1) repairing, maintaining, renovating, and constructing saltwater fish hatcheries and related facilities; (2) restoring and enhancing saltwater fish habitats; (3) developing shoreline-based projects to improve saltwater angler access; and (4) purchasing licenses through authorized buyback programs. The bill also specifies that these changes will only apply to stamp receipts collected on or after the effective date, which is September 1, 2025, meaning receipts collected before that date will continue to be governed by the previous law. The modifications aim to provide more targeted and strategic use of saltwater fishing stamp revenues for marine conservation and recreational fishing infrastructure.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Business and Industry

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB1930