Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I've been paying so much attention to HB 251 and HB 1546 in the Texas legislature, I've been remiss in checking on HB 1788 - the proposed legislation regarding the non-lethal capture of reptiles and ampibians with the herp stamp added to the hunting license. When I checked it a minute ago, it says it was supposed to be heard in committee today! But, I've been watching the committee meeting since about 9pm, when 251 began being heard, and I've not heard anything about 1788. Surprisingly, I haven't seen it mentioned on here or any of the other reptile forums I frequent, either. So, I wonder if anyone was able to make it to discuss (personally, I'm for it) the bill?

http://www.legis.state.tx.us/tlodocs/82R/schedules/html/C4302011041314001.HTM

The hearing started at about 6pm (we were waiting since 1pm) with six of us there and five of us spoke. No one spoke against the bill. We felt it went well but time will tell. Hopefully they will vote on this next week.
-----
Tim Cole
www.austinherpsociety.org
www.AustinReptileExpo.com/
www.AustinReptileService.net
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<
Conservation through Education

The bill passed favorably in Committee with amendments addressing a cap on the stamp and I believe to include the roadway.
-----
Tim Cole
www.austinherpsociety.org
www.AustinReptileExpo.com/
www.AustinReptileService.net
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<
Conservation through Education

HB1788 did pass the House and Senate and is moving forward.

There have been some amendments such as not allowing collecting from the paved road but the shoulder and right of way only. Spotlighting from a motor vehicle is not allowed. The cost of the stamp will be $10.

It still needs to be signed by the Governor.
-----
Tim Cole
www.austinherpsociety.org
www.AustinReptileExpo.com/
www.AustinReptileService.net
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<
Conservation through Education