TITLE: Relating to the study and approval of lethal pesticides for feral hog control.

SUMMARY: Relating to the study and approval of lethal pesticides for feral hog control.

FULL TEXT:
AN ACT relating to the study and approval of lethal pesticides for feral hog control. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Subchapter C, Chapter 76, Agriculture Code, is amended by adding Section 76.048 to read as follows: Sec. 76.048. FERAL HOG TOXICANTS; STUDY REQUIRED. (a) Notwithstanding any other law, the department may not register, approve for use, or allow the use of a lethal pesticide, including warfarin, for feral hog control in this state unless a study under Subsection (b) recommends the pesticide be registered for that use. (b) A state agency or institution of higher education may perform a scientific study of potential feral hog control measures in this state. The study must: (1) include controlled field trials; (2) examine the potential use of warfarin or other lethal pesticides for feral hog control; (3) assess the negative impacts to wildlife, agricultural interests, and property owners of the control measures included in the study; and (4) assess the environmental consequences of the control measures included in the study. (c) A state agency or institution of higher education shall publish the findings, recommendations, and results of a study under Subsection (b) in the Texas Register. (d) A state agency or institution of higher education that performs a study under Subsection (b): (1) is subject to Chapter 552, Government Code, in connection with the study; and (2) shall hold public hearings to obtain input from the public and appropriate stakeholders. SECTION 2. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution.