Bill

SB 987

84(R) - 2015
Senate Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs
Senate Agriculture, Water & Rural Affairs

Vote Recommendation

Yes
  • Positive
  • Positive
  • Positive
  • Positive
  • Positive

Author(s)

Judith Zaffirini

Bill Caption

Relating to the regulation of dangerous wild animals.


Fiscal Notes

No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.

Bill Analysis

SB 931, if passed, would make two changes to the Health and Safety Code regarding dangerous wild animals (Section 822.102). One change, purely clerical, is to change referenced to the American Zoo and Aquarium Association to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (the organization recently changed its name). The second, more substantive change, is to include the Zoological Association of America in the list of exempted organizations under this section.

Currently, there are twelve parties which are exempted from the provisions to register with municipalities and other local authorities regarding dangerous wild animals. The substantive portion of SB 931 would add the Zoological Association of America to this list.

Vote Recommendation Notes

We believe that regulatory regimes (independent of whether they should exist in the first place) should be as amenable as possible. SB 931 is a step in that direction which would allow individuals and organization to more easily apply for exemptions from the regulatory regime. Notably, this is not a loophole to ignore responsibility. The Zoological Association of America still bears responsibility from its members for compliance. Due to its loosening of the regulatory regime and its supporting freer markets, we support SB 987.