The bill, H.B. No. 2976, introduces a new subchapter to the Health and Safety Code that regulates the marketing and sale of catfish and similar fish by food service establishments in Texas. It defines "catfish" specifically as species from the family Ictaluridae, excluding those from the genera Pangasius, Clariidae, and Siluridae, such as Swai fish. Food service establishments are required to accurately represent their fish products; they may only label a product as catfish if it contains actual catfish and no similar fish. If a product contains a fish similar to catfish, it cannot be marketed as catfish and must clearly identify the type of fish on the menu or menu board.

Additionally, the bill establishes administrative and civil penalties for violations of these regulations. Food service establishments that fail to comply may face administrative penalties ranging from $250 to $750, depending on their gross annual food sales. Each day a violation persists counts as a separate violation, which can lead to cumulative penalties. The bill also allows for civil penalties to be imposed, with similar amounts based on the establishment's sales. The enforcement of these penalties can be pursued by the attorney general or local attorneys. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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