The bill, H.B. No. 3724, amends the Parks and Wildlife Code to regulate the placement of cultivated oysters in natural oyster beds, private oyster beds, or coastal waters. A new section, 75.01045, is added, which stipulates that individuals may place cultivated oysters in these locations only with written authorization from the department. Additionally, the department is required to adopt best management practices for such placements.

Furthermore, the bill modifies Section 75.0106(b) by clarifying that no person may place a cultivated oyster in a natural oyster bed, private oyster bed, or coastal waters unless authorized by the newly established Section 75.01045. This change emphasizes the need for departmental oversight and management in the placement of cultivated oysters to ensure ecological balance and sustainability. 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)
House Committee Report: Parks and Wildlife Code 75.0106 (Parks and Wildlife Code 75)