AUSTIN — Today, Senate Bill 1766 passed the Texas Legislature. This bill exempts small scale and beekeeping hobbyists who annually produce less than 2,500 pounds of honey from the Texas Department of State Health Services licensing requirements.

"The beekeeping industry in our state may be one of the smallest agriculture industries, but it plays a vital role our food production," said Senator Creighton. "Currently, there's no distinction in our state law between hobbyists and large honey producers or whether the honey is sold directly to the consumer, retail or wholesale. Senate Bill 1766 will provide that distinction and lighten the regulatory hand placed on small scale and beekeeping hobbyists across the state."

"I'm happy to have been the House Sponsor for Senate Bill 1766," remarked Representative Metcalf. "In recent years Texas has seen unparalleled growth in small scale and hobby beekeepers. This bill will cut down on burdensome and unnecessary regulations for small honey producers across the state."

"Beekeeping in Texas plays a vital and often overlooked role in ensuring Texans have a viable food source," said Senator Nichols. "I am proud that many beekeepers call Senate District 3 home and look forward to continuing to protect their interests in Austin."

"Texas needs to do all it can to promote and protect our local bee colonies and beekeepers," said Senator Kolkhorst. "That's why the buzz is so strong on Senate Bill 1766 this session, and that's why I'm proud to have co-authored this important legislation."

Every third bite of food consumed by the average Texan is made as a result of honey bee pollination. Our state has about 125 commercial beekeepers and has seen a significant increase in beekeeping hobbyists in the past decade from 15,000 to 20,000.

Senate Bill 1766 was authored by Senators Brandon Creighton (R-Conroe), Robert Nichols (R-Jacksonville), Lois Kolkhorst (R-Brenham), and was sponsored in the House by Representative Will Metcalf (R-Conroe).

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