SRC-BWC S.C.R. 2 77(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   S.C.R. 2
By: Fraser
State Affairs
1/18/2001
As Filed


DIGEST  

The State of Texas traditionally has recognized a variety of official state
symbols as tangible representations of our state.  The bluebonnet, the
lightning whelk, and the armadillo are examples of some natural specimens
that serve to symbolize the Texas landscape.  The pecan tree was recognized
as the official state tree in 1919.  Pecans contain protein,
monounsaturated and polyunsaturated "healthy" oils, carbohydrates, fiber,
iron, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, and potassium, as well as Vitamins A, B,
C, and E and other antioxidants.  Scientific studies have also demonstrated
that pecans can lower cholesterol, significantly contributing to improved
cardiovascular health, while helping to reduce the risk of cancer.  The
pecan is grown commercially in more than 70 percent of the state's
counties, and Texas provides over a quarter of the nation's pecan crop.   

PURPOSE

As proposed, S.C.R. 2 submits the following resolution:

Establishes that the 77th Texas Legislature designates the pecan as the
Official State Health Nut of Texas.