SRC-TNM S.J.R. 15 75(R)BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research CenterS.J.R. 15
By: Harris
Administration
1-20-97
Committee Report (Unamended)


DIGEST 

Currently, Texas has the ability to make appropriations for statutes,
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 or purchase historical items on behalf of the state. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

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 accepts 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 4, 1997.  Sets forth the
required language for the ballot. 



SUMMARY OF COMMITTEE CHANGES

There were no committee changes.