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 such placements to ensure proper oversight and environmental protection.

The bill also modifies existing regulations by removing the prohibition against placing cultivated oysters in private oyster beds while maintaining the requirement for department authorization. This change aims to streamline the process for oyster placement while ensuring that it is conducted responsibly and under the guidance of the department. 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)