BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center	H.C.R. 23
87R6404 CW-D	By: Murr (Buckingham)
	Administration
	5/18/2021
	Engrossed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

In recent years, the Hill Country community of Llano has become known throughout Texas as a thriving center for the sport of barrel racing. The John L. Kuykendall Event Center and Arena attracts a multitude of competitors and fans to the city, and the Llano Chamber of Commerce estimates that the economic impact from barrel racing exceeds $1 million annually.

From 2016 to 2020, the number of barrel races held at the JLK Arena grew by 200 percent, with total annual race days increasing from 50 to 120. Approximately 150 events are slated to take place in 2021, and the venue is also used for practice sessions for several days each week.

Renowned as one of the safest barrel racing facilities in Texas, the JLK Arena has been honored with a Justin Boots Best Footing Award from the Women's Professional Rodeo Association in recognition of the exceptional ground conditions at its races. Over the past five years, there have been only two recorded incidents in which horses slipped and lost their footing in competition, a remarkable record for a rodeo venue.

Barrel racing is a source of pride and prosperity for the residents of Llano, and the city's efforts to showcase the sport are furthering the rich rodeo heritage of the Lone Star State.

RESOLVED

That the 87th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby designate Llano as the official Barrel Racing Capital of Texas. That, in accordance with the provisions of Section 391.003(e), Government Code, this designation remain in effect until the 10th anniversary of the date this resolution is finally passed by the legislature.