BILL ANALYSIS
By: Talton
Culture, Recreation, & Tourism
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE
In each generation of Americans, a select group of brave, devoted men and women have become peace officers, dedicating their lives to the protection and safekeeping of their fellow citizens and serving our nation and this great state despite ever-present dangers and risks to their personal safety.
Recognizing the often unsung contributions of these civil servants, the 87th United States Congress and President John F. Kennedy designated May 15 and the week within which May 15 occurs as Peace Officers' Memorial Day and National Police Week, respectively. Proud traditions since 1962, these observances remind all citizens of the duties and sacrifices of law enforcement officers. Texans have long revered their solemn obligation to commemorate the officers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, including the more than 110 Texas peace officers who have died in the line of duty since 1996, and the many officers who have become disabled while protecting the public welfare.
The 77th Texas Legislature venerated these officers and their families by requiring the state flag to be flown at half-staff on Peace Officers' Memorial Day, and it is appropriate that the legislature again call on all Texans to honor the nearly 69,000 active law enforcement officers in Texas and their fallen colleagues in observance of Peace Officers' Memorial Day and National Police Week.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.
ANALYSIS
The 80th Legislature of the State of Texas directs that the state flag be displayed at half-staff each year on May 15, Peace Officers' Memorial Day, in accordance with Section 3100.065 of the Government Code.
The bill further has the legislature call on all Texans to observe National Police Week.