BILL ANALYSIS


                                                         S.J.R. 2
                                                       By: Harris
                                                   Administration
                                                          2-16-95
                                     Committee Report (Unamended)
BACKGROUND

Currently, Texas has the ability to make appropriations for
statues, monuments, and paintings which are considered to have
historical value.  Films, videotapes, and audiotapes are not
included as historical items which the legislature may procure. 
The legislature does not have the power to accept gifts or purchase
historical items on behalf of the state of Texas.

PURPOSE

As proposed, S.J.R. 2 requires the submission to the voters of a
constitutional amendment authorizing the legislature to make
appropriations for preserving and perpetuating memorials and to
accept gifts of historical value on behalf of the state.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not grant any
additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or
agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1. Amends Section 39, Article XVI, Texas Constitution, as
follows:

     Sec. 39.  Authorizes the legislature to make appropriations
     for preserving and perpetuating memorials of the history of
     Texas, by means of monuments, statues, paintings, films,
     videotapes, audiotapes, and documents of historical value. 
     Authorizes the legislature to accept gifts of items of
     historical value and contributions to purchase items of
     historical value on behalf of the state.
     
SECTION 2. Requires this constitutional amendment to be submitted
to the voters at an election to be held November 7, 1995.  Sets
forth the required language for the ballot.