Bill > HB238

This bill expands the Texas Animal Health Commission's authority to control and eradicate pests in addition to diseases affecting livestock, domestic animals, and domestic fowl. The bill systematically amends multiple sections of the Agriculture Code to include "pests" alongside "diseases" in various provisions, giving the commission broader powers to address pest-related challenges. Key changes include allowing the commission to establish quarantines for pest infestations, require reporting of pest incidents, regulate animal movements to prevent pest spread, and mandate testing and identification of pest-infested animals. The bill also updates language around disposal of carcasses, animal identification programs, and veterinary reporting requirements to encompass both diseases and pests. Veterinarians and animal owners will now be required to report pest infestations similar to disease outbreaks, and the commission can take actions like ordering slaughter or movement restrictions for animals infested with pests. The bill aims to provide the Texas Animal Health Commission with more comprehensive tools to protect animal health and agricultural interests by explicitly including pest control within its regulatory scope.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=892&Bill=HB238