(a) In this section:
(1) “Computer-assisted remote hunting” means the use of a computer or any other device, equipment, or software, to remotely control the aiming and discharge of archery equipment, a crossbow, or a firearm to hunt an animal, including a bird.
(2) “Firearm” and “archery equipment” have the meanings assigned by Section 62.014.
(b) A person may not engage in computer-assisted remote hunting or provide or operate facilities for computer-assisted remote hunting if the animal being hunted is located in this state.
(c) For purposes of this section, facilities for computer-assisted remote hunting include real property and improvements on the property associated with hunting, including hunting blinds, offices, and rooms equipped to facilitate computer-assisted remote hunting.
(d) A person who violates this section commits an offense that is a Class B Parks and Wildlife Code misdemeanor, unless it is shown at the trial of the defendant that the defendant has been convicted one or more times before the trial date of a violation of this section, in which case the offense is a Class A Parks and Wildlife Code misdemeanor.
(e) It is an exception to the application of this section that a person provides only:
(1) general-purpose equipment, including a computer, camera, fencing, and building materials;
(2) general-purpose computer software including an operating system and communications programs; or
(3) general telecommunications hardware or networking services for computers, including adapters, modems, servers, routers, and other facilities associated with Internet access.
CREDIT(S)
Added by Acts 2005, 79th Leg., ch. 992, § 22, eff. June 18, 2005.