In a move that’s sending shockwaves through Texas’ conservation and outdoor communities, House Bill 4938 has been introduced by Rep. Pat Curry (R-Waco) — a bill that would abolish the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) altogether. If passed, this legislation would mark a seismic shift in how the Lone Star State manages its land, wildlife, and outdoor recreation.
Under the proposal, the duties of TPWD would be split among three separate agencies:
- General Land Office (GLO): Would take over management of state parks, wildlife areas, fish hatcheries, and historic sites.
- Department of Agriculture (TDA): Would handle native plants, conservation efforts, and regulation of hunting and fishing.
- Department of Public Safety (DPS): Would assume law enforcement duties, including oversight of game wardens and boating safety.
According to Chron.com, “Under the new law, the General Land Office would take over duties related to regulating parks, natural areas, wildlife management areas, fish hatcheries, historic sites, or other public land. The Department of Public Safety would take over duties related to law enforcement, such as game wardens, enforcement of water safety, and regulation of boating vessels.”
While Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has made it clear that he’s not officially endorsing the bill, he does see potential upside. “There is a lot of cost savings by consolidation,” Miller told the outlet. “You have a legal team instead of two legal teams. One IT department instead of two IT departments…”
Rep. Curry’s motivation stems from long-standing friction between private landowners, particularly deer breeders, and TPWD’s regulation policies — especially around the containment of chronic wasting disease (CWD). Curry, who is also a deer breeder, argues the department’s oversight is excessive and stifling to small land-based businesses.
However, the backlash has been swift. Hunters, anglers, outdoor enthusiasts, and even law enforcement officials have raised alarms about dismantling an agency that manages 89 state parks and serves over 9 million visitors annually.
TPWD, for its part, issued a careful but proud response to KTXS: “Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is proud of the important role our agency plays in managing Texas land and waters… and outdoor recreation.”