TX HB3831

Eliminates the requirement for physical ear tags on breeder deer, making electronic identification devices (such as button tags or implants) the sole required method of identification by March 31 of the year following birth

Electronic identification devices must be USDA-approved with a 15-digit animal identification number beginning with 840; button tags must attach to the ear, while implants cannot be placed in edible muscle

Requires the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to maintain a database of electronic identification device numbers, which must be entered and correspond with each deer's unique identifier for valid identification

Mandates deer breeders immediately replace any electronic identification device that becomes dislodged, damaged, or removed by non-human means

Breeder deer must still receive an ear tattoo (green or black, using #300 or 5/16 inch letters/numbers) matching their electronic ID before being removed from a facility; changes apply only to deer born on or after September 1, 2025