HBA-JEK S.B. 757 77(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


Office of House Bill AnalysisS.B. 757
By: Jackson
State Affairs
5/6/2001
Engrossed



BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

The 76th Legislature designated February 19th of each year as State of
Texas Anniversary Remembrance Day (STAR Day) to honor the anniversary of
Texas joining the Union and James Pinckney Henderson becoming the first
governor of the State of Texas in 1846.  STAR Day is regularly observed
with patriotic programs in the public schools and other places to
commemorate the annexation of this state and to inspire a greater
appreciation for Texas history.  Senate Bill 757 creates the State of Texas
Anniversary Remembrance Day Medal to recognize Texans who have displayed a
commitment to public service and to the principles of duty, honor, faith,
and devotion to country and family in an exemplary fashion. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the opinion of the Office of House Bill Analysis that this bill does
not expressly delegate any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, department, agency, or institution. 

ANALYSIS

Senate Bill 757 establishes the State of Texas Anniversary Remembrance Day
Medal (medal).  The bill requires the medal to be awarded to a resident of
the state who has displayed a commitment to the pioneer service principles
of duty, honor, faith, and devotion to country and family in an exemplary
fashion and who has made outstanding contributions in pioneering the
development, growth, and progress of this state through the individual's
work in public service.  The bill establishes the State of Texas
Anniversary Remembrance Day Medal Committee (committee) and sets forth
provisions regarding the composition and operation of the committee.  The
bill also sets forth the terms and provides for the appointment of
committee members.  The bill requires members of the committee to serve
without pay.  The governor shall appoint the initial members as soon as
possible after September 1, 2001. 
 
The bill authorizes an individual to submit recommendations to the
committee for review and approval of possible recipients of the medal.
The bill prohibits the committee from awarding more than five medals in any
one calendar year, except in exceptional circumstances.  S.B. 757 also
prohibits the committee from awarding more than 10 medals for achievement
attained or service rendered before September 1, 2001.  
S.B. 757 sets forth provisions relating to the design and manufacture of
the medal, and requires the governor to present the medal to a recipient in
an appropriate ceremony.  The bill requires the State of Texas Anniversary
Remembrance Day Foundation to be responsible for the funding of the medals
through pledges, gifts, donations, or endowments from private sources on
the foundation's behalf. 

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2001.