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HB 2482

Relating to a prohibition on chronic wasting disease containment zones and surveillance zones established by the Parks and Wildlife Commission or the Parks and Wildlife Department.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Pat Curry

HB 2482 prohibits Texas Parks and Wildlife from establishing disease containment zones, eliminating primary tools to prevent chronic wasting disease spread among deer and elk populations.

Referred to Culture, Recreation & Tourism
#animals(i0035) #health--otherdiseases&medicalconditions(i0383) #parks&wildlifecommission(v1564) #parks&wildlifedepartment(v0045) #parks&wildlife--general(i0585) #parks&wildlife--hunting&fishing(i0560)
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Bill Summary · HB 2482

Legislative bill overview

HB 2482 prohibits the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission and Department from establishing or maintaining chronic wasting disease (CWD) containment zones and surveillance zones. The bill would eliminate regulatory tools currently used to manage the spread of this fatal deer disease through geographic restrictions and monitoring requirements.

Why is this important

Chronic wasting disease is a highly contagious, always-fatal neurological disease affecting deer and elk populations. CWD containment and surveillance zones are primary management strategies used nationwide to prevent disease spread to new areas and wildlife populations. Eliminating these zones could allow unchecked disease expansion, affecting both wildlife ecosystems and hunting-dependent economies in affected regions.

Potential points of contention

  • Wildlife management authority: The bill removes established public health tools from wildlife agencies, potentially conflicting with their statutory mandate to protect wildlife resources and manage disease
  • Interstate disease spread: CWD crosses state borders; unilateral elimination of Texas containment zones could accelerate transmission to neighboring states and complicate regional disease management efforts
  • Economic impacts: Deer hunting generates billions in Texas revenue; uncontrolled CWD spread could devastate herd populations, hunting seasons, and rural economies dependent on wildlife tourism
  • Scientific basis: The restriction contradicts peer-reviewed research showing zone management significantly slows disease progression compared to no intervention

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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