Texas House Bill HCR36

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Caption

Urging Congress to ensure that the survivors and surviving families of the Sutherland Springs mass shooting receive compensation equivalent to the relief provided to those impacted by similar incidents.

Impact

If passed, HCR36 would put pressure on the U.S. Congress to allocate resources for the survivors and families in a manner similar to previous incidents like the shootings at Emanuel A.M.E. Church in Charleston and Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. The resolution is positioned to raise awareness about the disparities in support from the government for different mass shooting victims, advocating for equitable treatment for Sutherland Springs survivors, which reflects a broader call for justice and assistance for communities grappling with the aftermath of gun violence.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 36 (HCR36), introduced by Representative Guillen and sponsored in the Senate by Senator Zaffirini, calls upon Congress to ensure that the survivors and families of those affected by the 2017 mass shooting in Sutherland Springs receive compensation comparable to that given to victims of similar tragic events. The resolution emphasizes the ongoing struggles faced by the 46 survivors and the families of the 26 lives lost, who continue to deal with physical and emotional pain requiring extensive medical care and support. HCR36 seeks to address what the authors describe as inequitable treatment in the aftermath of the Sutherland Springs shooting in relation to compensations provided to other mass shooting victims.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HCR36 has been marked by an overwhelming sense of empathy and urgency. Legislators and advocates alike have expressed strong support for the resolution, underscoring the need to stand with the victims and their families. There has been a recognition of the long-term impact of such tragedies that necessitates adequate governmental support. The discourse in committee hearings highlighted emotional testimonials and advocates for the survivors, indicating a collective resolve to rectify perceived injustices in how different tragedies are handled by federal policies.

Contention

While there has been broad support for HCR36, notable concerns have emerged regarding the effectiveness of resolutions versus concrete legislative actions. Critics may question the resolution’s capacity to influence congressional action effectively, and whether it will lead to meaningful change in compensatory measures for these victims. There is also an underlying concern about the appropriateness and equity of compensations across various mass shooting incidents, raising questions about how victims and their families are recognized and supported by the government.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Agriculture Code

• Chapter 1. General Provisions
  • Section: New Section

Finance Code

• Chapter 1. General Provisions
  • Section: New Section