House Bill No. 276 amends the Texas Agricultural Code to improve the management of parasitic insects and diseases affecting livestock, domestic animals, and domestic fowl. The bill requires county commissioners' courts to assist in protecting these animals from communicable diseases and parasitic insects, regardless of their presence in the county. It mandates the Texas Animal Health Commission to adopt rules for controlling and eradicating these threats, including effective disposal methods for infected carcasses and regulations on livestock movement. The bill also emphasizes confidentiality regarding biosecurity information while allowing for its release under specific circumstances, such as for law enforcement or public health protection.

Additionally, the bill updates existing laws on quarantines related to livestock and poultry diseases, specifically including parasitic insects. It grants the commission authority to quarantine affected areas and regulate the movement of potentially infected animals and articles. The executive director of the commission is given the power to establish quarantines and ensure public notification of restrictions. The bill enhances reporting requirements for veterinarians regarding disease diagnoses, introduces penalties for improper disposal of infected carcasses, and mandates the commission to adopt rules to prevent the spread of these health threats. The act will take effect immediately upon a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

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