H.B. No. 3724 amends the Parks and Wildlife Code to regulate the placement of cultivated oysters in natural oyster beds, private oyster beds, and coastal waters. The new Section 75.01045 allows individuals to place cultivated oysters in these locations only with written authorization from the department. Additionally, the department is required to adopt best management practices for this authorization process.

The bill also modifies Section 75.0106(b) to clarify 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 in the placement of cultivated oysters to ensure proper management 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)