SRC-JBJ S.B. 1327 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.B. 1327 76R3729 MCK-DBy: Gallegos State Affairs 4/7/1999 As Filed DIGEST Currently, the Texas Historical Commission (commission) provides leadership and coordinates services regarding archeological and historic preservation. In providing assistance, the commission may not offer more than $20,000 for a project without the approval of the advisory board of the commission. S.B. 1327 would require the commission to implement a program to promote tourism for heritage and cultural attractions in the state and to delete the prohibition against spending more than $20,000. PURPOSE As proposed, S.B. 1327 requires the Texas Historical Commission to promote tourism for heritage and cultural attractions. 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 442.005, Government Code, by adding Subsections (t) and (u), to require the Texas Historical Commission (commission) to promote tourism for heritage and cultural attractions in the state. Sets forth requirements for the program. Authorizes the commission to maintain its historical sites and structures, use its resources to develop the sites, and accepts advertisements in selected agency publications at a rate that offsets development and production costs. SECTION 2. Amends Section 442.015(b), (c), and (f), Government Code, to authorize the commission to use money in the Texas preservation trust fund account for planning and educational activities leading to the preservation of certain historic property. Deletes text providing that the commission may not provide financial assistance in an amount over $20,000 for a project without the approval of the advisory board of the commission. SECTION 3.Effective date: September 1, 1999. SECTION 4.Emergency clause.