88R2727 SCP-D
 
  By: Raymond, Lopez of Bexar H.B. No. 542
 
 
 
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
 
AN ACT
  relating to a study on state land use to facilitate health and
  wellness for veterans.
         BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
         SECTION 1.  STUDY REGARDING STATE LAND USE FOR VETERANS. (a)
  In collaboration with the General Land Office, the Texas Historical
  Commission, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Texas
  Veterans Commission shall conduct a study to identify and assess
  the use of state land, including state parks, for the purpose of
  facilitating health and wellness for veterans.
         (b)  In conducting the study, the Texas Veterans Commission
  shall:
               (1)  identify barriers that limit opportunities to
  supplement the delivery to veterans of services for health and
  wellness through the use of outdoor recreation on state land; and
               (2)  develop recommendations to better facilitate the
  use of state land for promoting wellness and facilitating the
  delivery of health care and therapeutic interventions for veterans.
         SECTION 2.  REPORT TO LEGISLATURE. Not later than November
  1, 2024, the Texas Veterans Commission shall submit to the
  governor, lieutenant governor, speaker of the house of
  representatives, and appropriate standing committees of the
  legislature with jurisdiction over veterans' issues a report on the
  results of the study conducted under Section 1 of this Act and any
  recommendations of the commission related to the study, including
  any statutory changes necessary to authorize the use of state land
  for the health and wellness of veterans.
         SECTION 3.  EXPIRATION. This Act expires September 1, 2025.
         SECTION 4.  EFFECTIVE DATE.  This Act takes effect
  immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members
  elected to each house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas
  Constitution.  If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for
  immediate effect, this Act takes effect September 1, 2023.