The bill, S.B. No. 1248, introduces a new section, 11.0305, to the Parks and Wildlife Code, which governs the disclosure of harvest report information submitted to the Parks and Wildlife Department. Under this new provision, information related to recreational harvests of various game and aquatic life cannot be disclosed unless authorized by this section or another specified section. The bill clarifies that the Government Code does not apply to this information, and it allows for disclosure to law enforcement agencies if a lawful subpoena is provided. Additionally, the department may share statistical data and compilations that do not identify individuals or specific locations related to the harvest.

The bill also outlines specific conditions under which the department can disclose information, including to individuals identified in the report, other governmental bodies for governmental purposes, or entities contracted with the department that have signed nondisclosure agreements. It emphasizes that the department cannot disclose information prohibited by other laws and provides immunity from civil liability for unintentional violations of this section. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and apply to disclosures made on or after that date, regardless of when the report was submitted.

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