BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 661

By: Herrero

Culture, Recreation & Tourism

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The achievements of Dr. Hector P. Garcia, a medical doctor, war veteran, civil rights leader, and presidential confidante, left an undeniable impact on the State of Texas, the nation, and the world.  In a time of deep social unrest, he confronted discrimination as it affected Mexican Americans' civil rights through peaceful protest and legal recourse.  Dr. Garcia saw the deprivation of Mexican Americans' rights and fought for half a century to reverse those injustices.

Dr. Hector P. Garcia worked tirelessly throughout his life for the rights of Hispanics and veterans who were being denied educational, medical, and housing benefits.  In order to unify those efforts, Dr. Garcia founded the civil rights organization American GI Forum in 1948.  As a World War II hero, he earned a Bronze Star with six battle stars. Additionally, in 1984, Dr. Garcia was the first Mexican American to be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest honor given to a civilian, by President Ronald Reagan.  His service and accomplishments in life were many and included some of the most memorable occasions in recent Texas history.

H.B. 661 creates a recognition day in honor of Dr. Garcia to ensure that his sacrifices, contributions, and legacy are preserved for future generations.  The bill does not create a mandatory day off for Texas students and workers, but incorporates lessons learned from Dr. Garcia's efforts on behalf of civil rights and veteran causes into Texas' classrooms.  The proposed day sought for recognition is the third Wednesday in September, in the middle of Hispanic Heritage Week, and it would be committed to teaching the lessons of Dr. Hector P. Garcia.

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

H.B. 661 amends the Government Code to designate the third Wednesday of September as Dr. Hector P. Garcia Day and to require that day to be regularly observed by appropriate ceremonies and activities in public schools, communities, and other places.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2009.