BILL ANALYSIS

S.B. 1693

By: Fallon

Culture, Recreation & Tourism

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Communist regimes over the course of history have deprived their own citizens of the freedoms of religion, speech, and association. Recognizing the victims of these regimes will serve as a reminder of the suffering that so many endured, and continue to endure, in the name of communist ideology. S.B. 1693 seeks to honor these victims by designating November 7 as Victims of Communism Day in Texas.

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. 1693 amends the Government Code to designate November 7 as Victims of Communism Day in memory of the more than 100 million people who died and countless others who suffered under communist regimes. The bill authorizes the day to be regularly observed by appropriate ceremonies and activities.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2019.