BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 2703

By: Raymond

Culture, Recreation & Tourism

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The bill author has informed the committee that a month spent by Texans on common ground in celebration of patriotism to the nation would help slow the growing decline of patriotism in this time of division in the country, would serve as a reminder that we are all Americans who are united by our similarities rather than divided by our differences, and would bring the people of Texas together despite their differences. H.B. 2703 seeks to promote patriotism and encourage a mutual regard for the values and principles upon which the nation was founded by designating July as American Patriotism Month.

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. 2703 amends the Government Code to designate July as American Patriotism Month to celebrate the United States of America, honor the values and principles on which it was founded, and recognize the following:

· the brave patriots who fought for the right of self-governance in the American War of Independence and those who volunteered to serve the country in every conflict fought since the country's founding;

· the founding fathers of the United States and the framers of the constitution;

· the astronauts who won the space race and walked on the moon, and the people who supported them;

· the civil rights leaders and activists who risked their lives to fight for equal rights for all Americans; and

· the resilience, patriotism, and unity shown by the American people after the September 11, 2001, terror attacks.

The bill requires American Patriotism Month to be regularly observed by appropriate ceremonies and activities that help citizens develop a sense of national pride and national identity.

EFFECTIVE DATE

On passage, or, if the bill does not receive the necessary vote, September 1, 2025.