BILL ANALYSIS
Senate Research Center H.B. 1045
AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
Accidents claim the lives of thousands of children every year. For example, according to kidsandcars.com, as of December 18, 2006, there were 568 incidents involving children left unattended in or around motor vehicles, resulting in 205 fatalities. The Brain Injury Association of America estimates brain injuries are the leading cause of death and permanent disabilities among children nationally. Accidents and the injuries they cause result in increased health care costs, pain and suffering for Texas families, and many unnecessary deaths.
H.B. 1045 establishes the month of April as Child Safety Month and increases public awareness regarding preventative measures needed to protect children.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Subchapter D, Chapter 662, Government Code, by adding Section 662.103, as follows:
Sec. 662.103. CHILD SAFETY MONTH. (a) Provides that April is Child Safety Month in recognition of Texas children. Provides that establishing April as Child Safety Month will ensure that the children of Texas will grow up in a safe and supportive environment by promoting their protection and care through increased public awareness relating to certain safety issues.
(b) Authorizes Child Safety Month to be regularly observed by appropriate celebrations and activities in public schools and other places to promote the protection and care of children in Texas.
SECTION 2. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2007.