The bill amends the Agriculture Code to enhance the Texas Animal Health Commission's authority in managing and eradicating pests and diseases affecting livestock and domestic animals. Key provisions include the ability for the commission to protect animals from pests regardless of their county presence, establish rules for the disposal of carcasses from infected or infested animals, and require the registration of feral swine holding facilities for pest control. The commission's authority is further expanded to include actions against non-communicable pests and diseases, as well as the implementation of testing and inspections for animals and animal products to prevent disease spread.

Additionally, the bill emphasizes the importance of timely reporting of diseases and pest infestations, mandating veterinarians and diagnostic laboratories to report such occurrences within 24 hours. It introduces penalties for non-compliance with quarantine regulations and empowers the commission to quarantine areas and regulate the movement of animals and commodities that may carry diseases or pests. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen animal health management in Texas by improving collaboration among agencies and ensuring effective responses to potential threats from diseases and pests.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()
House Committee Report: Agriculture Code 161.003, Agriculture Code 161.004, Agriculture Code 161.007, Agriculture Code 161.009, Agriculture Code 161.041, Agriculture Code 161.0411, Agriculture Code 161.0412, Agriculture Code 161.0415, Agriculture Code 161.0416, Agriculture Code 161.0417, Agriculture Code 161.043, Agriculture Code 161.044, Agriculture Code 161.048, Agriculture Code 161.0525, Agriculture Code 161.054, Agriculture Code 161.0541, Agriculture Code 161.0542, Agriculture Code 161.055, Agriculture Code 161.056, Agriculture Code 161.057, Agriculture Code 161.058, Agriculture Code 161.0603, Agriculture Code 161.061, Agriculture Code 161.0615, Agriculture Code 161.062, Agriculture Code 161.063, Agriculture Code 161.065, Agriculture Code 161.101, Agriculture Code 161.112, Agriculture Code 161.116, Agriculture Code 161.135, Agriculture Code 161.140, Agriculture Code 161.141 (Agriculture Code 161)