(a) A person may not intentionally, knowingly, recklessly, or with criminal negligence release or allow the release from captivity of a snake covered by this subchapter.
(b) A person who violates any provision of the subchapter is subject to the penalties prescribed by Parks and Wildlife Code, §43.856.
(c) The provisions of Parks and Wildlife Code, Chapter 43, Subchapter V and this subchapter may be enforced by any Texas peace officer.
(d) It is a defense to prosecution under §55.652 of this title (relating to Permit Required) that the person charged produces in court an appropriate permit issued to the person and valid when the offense was committed.

Source Note: The provisions of this §55.657 adopted to be effective March 23, 2008, 33 TexReg 2543