BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 2660

By: Leman

Culture, Recreation & Tourism

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The 86th Legislature passed legislation regarding the transfer of the preservation, maintenance, and operation of the Star of the Republic Museum from Blinn College to the Texas Historical Commission. As a result of the partnership that was created with the passage of last session's bill, concerns arose in regards to the commission's ability to perform its duties relating to the maintenance of the museum as it is not explicit in statute that the museum, the land on which it is located, and the artifacts fall within the commission's jurisdiction. Over the past few years, the two entities have decided that the best path forward is to transfer all artifacts, structures, and land to the commission. H.B. 2660 seeks to address this issue by clarifying that the museum's artifacts, structure, and land are under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Texas Historical Commission.

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

H.B. 2660 repeals a Government Code provision establishing that Blinn College District maintains ownership of the Star of the Republic Museum, the land on which the museum is located, and the artifacts in the museum. The bill amends the Government Code to instead specifically grant the Texas Historical Commission jurisdiction over the museum's artifacts, structure, and land.

H.B. 2660 repeals Section 442.062(b), Government Code.

EFFECTIVE DATE

On passage, or, if the bill does not receive the necessary vote, September 1, 2021.