The bill proposes amendments to the Parks and Wildlife Code and the Natural Resources Code to facilitate the removal of derelict vessels from waterways in Texas. It allows the Parks and Wildlife Department to transfer a portion of the revenue from vessel registration fees to a newly established Derelict Vessels and Structures Account. Specifically, the department is required to transfer 5 percent of the collected fees to this account, while also allowing for a transfer of up to 10 percent to the state parks account. The bill modifies existing provisions by changing the percentage allocations and establishing a dedicated account for the removal and disposal of derelict vessels.

Additionally, the bill creates the Derelict Vessels and Structures Account within the general revenue fund, which will consist of transfers from the Parks and Wildlife Department and appropriated funds for vessel removal. The General Land Office is authorized to accept gifts and grants to support the account's purpose, and funds in the account can only be used for the removal and disposal of derelict vessels. Any unspent money at the end of a fiscal year will remain in the account for future use. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Parks and Wildlife Code 11.032 (Parks and Wildlife Code 11)