BILL ANALYSIS
By: Seliger
Defense Affairs & State-Federal Relations
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
Currently, there are seven medals which are awarded under the Adjutant General's office. The existing medals are the Texas Faithful Service Medal, Federal Service Medal, Texas Medal of Merit, Texas Outstanding Service Medal, Texas State Guard Service Medal, Texas Desert Shield/Desert Storm Campaign Medal, and Texas Humanitarian Service Medal. However, the Texas National Guard does not have a state award for combat service or a state award which is equivalent to the Purple Heart Medal. In addition, the Texas Cavalry Medal, created during World War II, is no longer awarded.
The Texas National Guard has set aside funds for the creation of military medals and awards. The creation of these new medals would honor those qualified individuals in the Texas National Guard for their service to their state and country.
As proposed, SB 955 creates a Texas Purple Heart Medal and a service ribbon which recognizes service in combat. It also brings back the Texas Cavalry Medal.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
Rulemaking authority previously granted to the adjutant general is modified in SECTION 1 (Section 431.134, Government Code) of this bill.
ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Section 431.134, Government Code to include that the adjutant general may adopt rules and regulations relating to the Texas Combat Service Ribbon, the Texas Purple Heart and the Texas Cavalry Medal. Sets forth certain criteria for said awards.
EFFECTIVE DATE
This Act takes effect immediately if it receives the necessary vote, otherwise it takes effect September 1, 2005.