Bill > HB4538

This bill establishes a new funding mechanism for removing derelict vessels from Texas waterways by creating a dedicated account and specifying how vessel registration fee revenues will be allocated. Specifically, the Parks and Wildlife Department will now transfer 5% of the amounts collected from a certain registration fee source to a new "derelict vessels and structures account" at the General Land Office (GLO) each month. The GLO can use these funds exclusively for removing and disposing of abandoned or hazardous vessels and structures in waterways. The account can also receive additional money through gifts, grants, or bequests, and any unused funds will roll over to the next fiscal year. The bill allows the department to continue transferring up to 10% of the same registration fee source to the state parks account, and the new account provides a dedicated funding stream to address the environmental and safety concerns posed by abandoned vessels in Texas waters. The provisions will take effect on September 1, 2025.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4538