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 bill introduces a new section, 75.01045, which 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 language in Section 75.0106(b) by clarifying that no person may place cultivated oysters in the specified locations without authorization from the newly established Section 75.01045. This change emphasizes the need for regulatory approval and aims to enhance the management of oyster cultivation in Texas. 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)