BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center	S.C.R. 23
87R13715 TBO-D	By: Schwertner
	Administration
	4/6/2021
	As Filed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

Residents and friends of the United States will mark the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding on July 4, 2026, and America 250 is working tirelessly to organize and facilitate the observance of this milestone. Established by the Semiquincentennial Commission Act of 2016, America 250 is a federal commission that collaborates with affiliates at the local, territorial, state, tribal, regional, national, and international levels; the initiative strives to educate, engage, and unite Americans throughout a commemorative period that ranges from 2020 to 2027, and its efforts will culminate in the Fourth of July events of 2026.

As of December 1, 2020, eight states have established organizations to support America 250 by planning and implementing programs that honor the history and culture of the United States, including public art displays, museum exhibitions, and educational curriculums, and the commission expects the widest participation to occur through state and local projects like these. Since the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, Americans have treasured the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, and Texas can pay tribute to these important values by joining in the celebration of the United States' 250th anniversary.

RESOLVED

That the 87th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby create an America 250 state commission and work jointly with the federal America 250 commission to help celebrate the semiquincentennial of the United States.

That the commission will include any federal designees residing in the state as well as a member or designee of each of the following commissions and departments: the Office of the Governor, Economic Development and Tourism; the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission; the State Board of Education; the Bullock Texas State History Museum; and the Texas State Library and Archives Commission.

That the commission be funded solely through donations and federal funds and that it be abolished on December 31, 2026.