87R1606 BEF-F
 
  By: White H.B. No. 543
 
 
 
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
 
AN ACT
  relating to the regulation of working animals by a political
  subdivision.
         BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
         SECTION 1.  The heading to Chapter 251, Agriculture Code, is
  amended to read as follows:
  CHAPTER 251.  EFFECT OF NUISANCE ACTIONS AND GOVERNMENTAL
  REQUIREMENTS ON CERTAIN [PREEXISTING] AGRICULTURAL OPERATIONS
         SECTION 2.  Chapter 251, Agriculture Code, is amended by
  adding Section 251.007 to read as follows:
         Sec. 251.007.  REGULATION OF WORKING ANIMALS. (a)  In this
  section, "working animal" means an animal used for the purpose of
  performing a specific duty or function, including entertainment,
  transportation, or education.
         (b)  Notwithstanding any other law, a political subdivision
  may not impose a governmental requirement that terminates, bans, or
  effectively bans by imposing an undue financial hardship, the job
  or use of a working animal or an enterprise that employs a working
  animal.
         (c)  A governmental requirement adopted by a political
  subdivision that violates Subsection (b) is void.
         SECTION 3.  Section 251.007, Agriculture Code, as added by
  this Act, applies to a governmental requirement adopted before, on,
  or after the effective date of this Act.
         SECTION 4.  This Act takes effect September 1, 2021.