BILL ANALYSIS

S.B. 961

By: Rodríguez

Defense & Veterans' Affairs

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Interested parties remember the Battle of Iwo Jima as one of the bloodiest battles of World War II, lasting over a month and costing the lives of thousands of Americans. The parties note that there is not currently an official state holiday that recognizes the heroism of the Americans who fought at Iwo Jima. S.B. 961 seeks to honor the memory of the courageous men and women of the U.S. armed forces who participated in the successful capture of the island of Iwo Jima.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

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

S.B. 961 amends the Government Code to establish February 19 as Iwo Jima Day in memory of the heroism and courage of the men and women of the U.S. armed forces who participated in the successful capture of the island of Iwo Jima beginning February 19, 1945. The bill authorizes the regular observance of Iwo Jima Day through appropriate activities in public schools and other places.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2015.