BILL ANALYSIS
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Senate Research Center |
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AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
Interested parties note that a Gold Star Mother is a woman whose life has been abruptly changed by the news that her son or daughter has been killed while serving in the United States armed forces. In the face of immeasurable sorrow, these mothers can serve as inspiration to all patriotic Americans. The beloved son or daughter, a person who was willing to put himself or herself in harm's way in defense of freedom, and the surviving mother, who has been left behind to address her loss with courage, grace, and fortitude, exemplify the best in America.
According to the parties, the gold star concept began during the United States' involvement in World War I when families displayed flags bearing a blue star for each military service member. A surviving mother stitched a gold star over the blue one to honor a son or daughter who died in military service. In 1936, the United States began observing Gold Star Mother's Day on the last Sunday of September. H.B. 194 seeks to honor Gold Star Mothers in Texas.
H.B. 194 amends current law relating to creating a recognition day in honor of Gold Star Mothers.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Subchapter C, Chapter 662, Government Code, by adding Section 662.061, as follows:
Sec. 662.061. GOLD STAR MOTHER'S DAY. (a) Provides that the last Sunday in September of each year is Gold Star Mother's Day in recognition of mothers whose sons and daughters died while serving in the United States armed forces.
(b) Requires that Gold Star Mother's Day be regularly observed by appropriate ceremonies.
SECTION 2. Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2015.