S.B. No. 1215 amends the Parks and Wildlife Code to regulate the placement of cultivated oysters in specific locations, including natural oyster beds, private oyster beds, and coastal waters. The new section, 75.01045, allows individuals to place cultivated oysters in these areas only with written authorization from the department. Additionally, the department is required to adopt best management practices for the authorization process.

The bill also modifies existing language in Section 75.0106(b) by removing the prohibition against placing cultivated oysters in private oyster beds and adding the requirement for authorization under the new section. This change aims to ensure that the placement of cultivated oysters is managed effectively and sustainably, with oversight from the relevant authorities. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Parks and Wildlife Code 75.0106 (Parks and Wildlife Code 75)
Senate Committee Report: Parks and Wildlife Code 75.0106 (Parks and Wildlife Code 75)
Engrossed: Parks and Wildlife Code 75.0106 (Parks and Wildlife Code 75)
House Committee Report: Parks and Wildlife Code 75.0106 (Parks and Wildlife Code 75)
Enrolled: Parks and Wildlife Code 75.0106 (Parks and Wildlife Code 75)