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Bill

SB 384

Relating to making a donation to the operation game thief fund when applying for a hunting or fishing license.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Sarah Eckhardt and 3 co-sponsors

Texas allows hunters and anglers to voluntarily donate to Operation Game Thief poaching enforcement fund during license applications, effective September 2025.

Effective on 9/1/25
#gifts&donations(s0122) #parks&wildlifedepartment(v0045) #parks&wildlife--hunting&fishing(i0560) #parks&wildlife--licenses(i0565) #statefinances--management&control(i0748)
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Bill Summary · SB 384

Legislative bill overview

SB 384 allows Texas hunters and anglers to make voluntary donations to the Operation Game Thief fund when applying for or renewing hunting and fishing licenses. The bill became law on May 15, 2025, and takes effect September 1, 2025. This creates an optional donation mechanism integrated into the existing license application process.

Why is this important

Operation Game Thief is Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's program that funds investigations into wildlife crimes like poaching and illegal hunting. By enabling donations at point-of-license purchase, the bill provides a convenient funding stream for enforcement without mandatory fees. This could increase wildlife law enforcement resources while relying on voluntary participation from the hunting and fishing community.

Potential points of contention

  • Effectiveness of voluntary funding: Critics may question whether optional donations will generate sufficient, predictable revenue compared to dedicated fees or appropriations for wildlife enforcement
  • Administrative burden: Implementation requires changes to licensing systems and may create minimal operational costs that could offset donation proceeds
  • Equity concerns: The funding model relies on voluntary contributions from license holders rather than general revenue, potentially creating uneven geographic or temporal funding for statewide enforcement efforts

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

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