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Bill

HB 238

Relating to the power of the Texas Animal Health Commission to control or eradicate pests.

89th Legislature, 2nd Called Session (2025) Introduced by Trent Ashby and 5 co-sponsors

HB 238 expands Texas Animal Health Commission's pest control authority to better protect livestock and agriculture from disease-carrying and economically damaging pests.

Committee report sent to Calendars
#animalhealthcommission #texas(v0000) #agriculture(i0020) #animals(i0035) #blood&medicaltests(s0470) #countygovernment--general(i0096) #crimes--miscellaneous(i0200) #environmentalquality #texascommissionon(v0334) #permits(s0011) #pesticides&herbicides(s1080) #publicnotice(s0264) #veterinarians(s0072)
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Bill Summary · HB 238

Legislative bill overview

HB 238 expands the Texas Animal Health Commission's (TAHC) authority to control or eradicate pests that threaten livestock and agricultural operations. The bill grants the TAHC enhanced powers to implement pest management strategies across the state, potentially including regulatory measures and intervention methods.

Why is this important

Pest infestations can cause significant economic damage to Texas's substantial agricultural and livestock industries, affecting food production costs and rural livelihoods. Clarifying and strengthening the TAHC's authority helps the state respond more effectively to emerging pest threats and disease vectors that could spread rapidly across herds and crops.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of authority: The definition of which pests fall under TAHC jurisdiction and what "control or eradicate" encompasses could be disputed, potentially affecting property rights or land management practices
  • Implementation costs and burden: Expanded TAHC powers may require funding for enforcement, inspections, and pest management programs that could be passed to agricultural producers or taxpayers
  • Private property rights: Pest control measures may involve TAHC access to private land or mandatory participation in eradication programs, raising concerns about property owner autonomy and compensation

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

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