S.B. No. 503 aims to establish an electronic registry for livestock marks and brands in Texas, enhancing the current identification methods for livestock owners. The bill amends several sections of the Agriculture Code, allowing owners of cattle, hogs, sheep, or goats to use various identification methods, including electronic devices. It mandates that these identification methods be recorded with the county clerk, who will maintain an electronic record and provide a copy to the Texas Animal Health Commission. The bill also introduces a new subchapter that outlines the creation of a publicly accessible electronic registry, which will not disclose personal identifying information to the public but will allow law enforcement access to such information for official purposes.

Key amendments include the requirement for livestock owners to record their identification methods with the county clerk and the establishment of an electronic registry by the Texas Animal Health Commission. The bill specifies that the commission will create a searchable online registry and adopt rules for electronic recording and information sharing. Additionally, it clarifies that a person is presumed to control an animal if they have recorded a mark or brand for it. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and the Texas Animal Health Commission is tasked with implementing the necessary rules following the bill's passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Agriculture Code 144.001, Agriculture Code 144.041, Agriculture Code 144.042, Agriculture Code 144.044, Agriculture Code 161.002 (Agriculture Code 144, Agriculture Code 161)
Senate Committee Report: Agriculture Code 144.001, Agriculture Code 144.041, Agriculture Code 144.042, Agriculture Code 144.044, Agriculture Code 161.002 (Agriculture Code 144, Agriculture Code 161)
Engrossed: Agriculture Code 144.001, Agriculture Code 144.041, Agriculture Code 144.042, Agriculture Code 144.044, Agriculture Code 161.002 (Agriculture Code 144, Agriculture Code 161)