BILL ANALYSIS

 

 

                                                                                                                                              S.B. 393

                                                                                                                                 By: Patrick, Dan

                                                                                                                           Government Reform

                                                                                                       Committee Report (Unamended)

 

 

 

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

 

Currently, the state does not officially recognize the private citizens who donate their time and resources to serve the institution of democracy by supporting Texas' election process.  Chapter 662, Government Code, designates several recognition days including Sam Rayburn Day, Former Prisoners of War Recognition Day, Columbus Day, and Father of Texas Day.

 

As proposed, S.B. 393 establishes "Volunteers for Democracy Day" as the second Tuesday in January of each year.  This bill allows members of the Texas Legislature to recognize precinct chairs and other election volunteers on the first day of a legislative session.

 

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

 

This bill amends the Government Code to designate the second Tuesday in January of each year as Volunteers for Democracy Day in honor of the precinct chairs and other election volunteers.  The bill requires Volunteers for Democracy Day to be regularly observed by appropriate ceremonies.

 

EFFECTIVE DATE

 

September 1, 2007.