Senate Bill No. 1247 aims to consolidate and simplify the regulations surrounding nonresident hunting licenses in Texas. The bill amends several sections of the Parks and Wildlife Code, specifically focusing on the terminology and requirements for nonresident hunting licenses. Notably, it introduces the term "nonresident general hunting license" and removes references to "nonresident special hunting licenses." The bill stipulates that nonresidents must acquire a nonresident general hunting license to hunt certain game, including mule deer, white-tailed deer, turkey, pronghorn antelope, desert bighorn sheep, and alligator. Additionally, it allows nonresidents to obtain multiple five-day hunting licenses during a license year, while also establishing a fee structure for these licenses.

The bill also repeals several existing provisions that are deemed redundant or unnecessary, streamlining the licensing process for nonresidents. The effective date for the changes proposed in this bill is set for September 1, 2025. Overall, S.B. No. 1247 seeks to create a more coherent framework for nonresident hunting licenses, making it easier for nonresidents to understand and comply with Texas hunting regulations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Parks and Wildlife Code 41.003, Parks and Wildlife Code 42.005, Parks and Wildlife Code 42.0141, Parks and Wildlife Code 42.0143, Parks and Wildlife Code 42.0175, Parks and Wildlife Code 42.022, Parks and Wildlife Code 49.010 (Parks and Wildlife Code 41, Parks and Wildlife Code 42, Parks and Wildlife Code 49)
Senate Committee Report: Parks and Wildlife Code 41.003, Parks and Wildlife Code 42.005, Parks and Wildlife Code 42.0141, Parks and Wildlife Code 42.0143, Parks and Wildlife Code 42.0175, Parks and Wildlife Code 42.022 (Parks and Wildlife Code 41, Parks and Wildlife Code 42, Parks and Wildlife Code 49)