Consolidating these processes would reduce the regulatory burden on business, improve compliance, and save tax dollars. The compatible nature of these application and inspection processes would ease their integration. The information required on the retail fish dealers' license process is already collected on the TDH food retailer application. Asking food retailers to identify in-store fish markets would eliminate the need for a separate application process. Removing the September 1 statutory renewal and allowing the date to be set by TPWD rule would provide the flexibility needed to fully integrate the renewal process.
Inspections are also compatible.
Both agencies inspect store paperwork to determine whether food is from an approved source. TPWD still could perform special inspections as needed, but standard inspections would be integrated. TDH would refer potential violations of state wildlife protection programs to TPWD for enforcement action. By transferring TDA's responsibilities for inspections of egg retailers and pharmacy scales to other agencies, TDA's appropriations can be adjusted to save tax dollars. Applicable statutes should be changed to ensure these efforts continue.