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Bill

HB 4431

Relating to repealing the chapter of the Local Government Code related to zoological operation and maintenance boards.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Briscoe Cain

Repeals Texas statute governing county zoological boards, eliminating legal framework for zoo governance with no specified alternative structure or transition plan.

Referred to s/c on County & Regional Government by Speaker
#animals(i0035) #countygovernment--general(i0096) #publiclands #buildings&resources(i0630)
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Bill Summary · HB 4431

Legislative bill overview

HB 4431 would repeal Texas Local Government Code provisions that establish and govern zoological operation and maintenance boards—the legal framework for how counties manage zoo governance and operations. This eliminates the statutory authority for these specialized boards, potentially affecting how zoos in Texas are administered and overseen.

Why is this important

Zoos operate as significant public institutions providing education, conservation, and recreation. Repealing their governing statute could create legal uncertainty about zoo administration, potentially affecting operational continuity, funding mechanisms, employee status, and public-private partnerships at Texas zoos. Counties would need to establish alternative governance structures or find zoos operating without clear legal authority.

Potential points of contention

  • Institutional disruption: Zoos currently operating under these boards would face legal ambiguity; the bill provides no transition plan or alternative governance framework
  • Financial and operational impact: Unclear whether existing zoo contracts, employee protections, and funding mechanisms would remain valid after statutory repeal
  • Lack of explanation: The bill provides no legislative intent or rationale for why this specific statute should be eliminated, making stakeholder concerns difficult to address

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

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