SRC-AXB S.B. 483 76(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   S.B. 483
76R5362  MXM-FBy: Duncan
State Affairs
2/22/1999
As Filed


DIGEST 

Currently, Section 3(ff), Texas Flag Code (Article 6139c, V.T.C.S.), sets
forth provisions for the dignified burning of a Texas state flag upon its
retirement.  However, there is no standard ceremony used prior to burning
the flag.  S.B. 483  significantly expands and clarifies the official
guidelines for a flag retirement ceremony. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, S.B. 483 expands and clarifies procedures regarding the
approved retirement ceremony for a Texas flag. 

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 Article 6139c, Revised Statutes, Texas Flag Code, by
adding Section 6, as follows: 

Sec. 6.  (a)  Provides that a state flag be destroyed by burning in a
dignified way when its use as an emblem for display, has ended. 

(b)  Provides that a flag retirement ceremony be conducted with honor and
respect, befitting the traditions of Texas.  Encourages a flag retirement
to be a public ceremony  and proceed under the direction of certain persons
of patriotic inclinations. 

(c)  Sets forth responsibilities of both uniformed and nonuniformed
individuals during a flag retirement ceremony. 

(d)  Provides that the colors of a Texas flag may be separated immediately
before a retirement ceremony for individual dedication. 

 (e)  Sets forth language for the official retirement ceremony encouraged
for public use. 
 
SECTION 2.  Amends Sections 3(ff) and (gg), Article 6139c, Revised
Statutes, Texas Flag Code, by deleting Subsection (ff) regarding the
dignified destruction of the state flag.  Redesignates Subsection (gg) as
(ff). 

SECTION 3.Emergency clause.
  Effective date:  upon passage.