H.B. No. 1379 amends the Parks and Wildlife Code to clarify the authority of game wardens and other peace officers commissioned by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department regarding entry onto private property. The bill specifies that these officers may enter private land or water to enforce game and fish laws or conduct scientific investigations, but introduces new restrictions under Subsection (a-1). Under this new provision, officers are prohibited from entering private property unless they have obtained permission from the property owner, have probable cause of a criminal offense, are executing a warrant, determine an emergency exists, or are acting under another state or federal law exception to the warrant requirement.

The bill also states that the changes will only apply to entries made on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025, ensuring that any entries made prior to this date will be governed by the previous law. This transition clause allows for a clear distinction between the old and new regulations, providing legal continuity for actions taken before the new law takes effect.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Parks and Wildlife Code 12.103 (Parks and Wildlife Code 12)