SRC-JXG S.C.R. 37 76(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   S.C.R. 37
By: Duncan
Administration
3/9/1999
As Filed


DIGEST 

Currently, the Texas Legislature appoints a commission to select a poet
laureate during each session. The first Texas State Poet Laureate was
established in February 1932. This tradition allows the state to recognize
individuals for their achievements and representation of Texas through
poetry and works of art that immortalize the spirit of the age and the
cultural heritage by which they were inspired. Bestowing titles on
outstanding poets in this state is a worthy tribute and serves as an
encouragement to other talented Texas poets. The Legislature of the State
of Texas designates a Poet Laureate who has exhibited exceptional ability
in capturing the beauty of this state, some facet of its history, or the
proud spirit of its people. S.C.R. 37 would create a committee to research
and designate two Poets Laureate for the State of Texas. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, S.C.R. 37 submits the following resolutions:

That the 76th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby creates a special
committee to designate two  Poets Laureate for the State of Texas to serve
a term of one year, beginning November 1, 1999 and ending October 31, 2000,
and another beginning November 1, 2000 and ending October 31, 2001. 

That the committee is composed of three members of the senate to be
appointed by the lieutenant governor and three members of the house of
representatives to be appointed by the speaker of the house. Requires the
lieutenant governor and speaker of the house to each designate a cochair
from among their appointees to call committee meetings, and the committee
to subsequently meet at the call of the cochairs.  

That each committee member may nominate no more than two poets for each
year, and from the list of nominees, the committee members elect a Poet
Laureate. Prohibits a member from voting for their nominees in the
election. 

That persons designated as poet laureates are superior and recognized
poets, who are citizens of the State of Texas.