Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB115

Filed
11/10/14  
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 

Caption

Relating to the criteria for awarding the Texas Purple Heart Medal to members of the armed forces wounded or killed at Fort Hood on November 5, 2009.

Impact

The enactment of HB 115 effects changes within the criteria outlined in Texas's Government Code regarding military awards. It provides clarity on who qualifies for the state-level recognition of the Purple Heart Medal, thus strengthening the state's commitment to honoring its service members. By including the specific instance of the attack on Fort Hood, the bill acknowledges the unique circumstances faced by those who served during that period, ensuring they receive appropriate recognition for their sacrifices.

Summary

House Bill 115 amends the criteria for awarding the Texas Purple Heart Medal. Specifically, it stipulates that the medal shall be awarded to service members who were either inducted into federal service from the Texas National Guard and meet the criteria for the federal Purple Heart, or who were wounded or killed at Fort Hood on November 5, 2009. This bill is a legislative effort to acknowledge the sacrifices made by military personnel, particularly in light of the tragic events that occurred at Fort Hood during that time.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 115 appears to be positive, as there were no opposing votes recorded during the legislative process, indicating a common agreement among lawmakers regarding the importance of honoring military service members. Support for the bill was likely buoyed by a collective recognition of the need to memorialize and honor those affected by the Fort Hood incident, which resonates deeply within communities and military families alike.

Contention

While the summary does not indicate significant contention or resistance to HB 115 during the legislative process, the bill does inherently raise discussions about the criteria for military honors and how they are defined. Topics such as inclusivity for various military personnel and broader recognitions for other acts of valor may emerge in future discussions as stakeholders continue to evaluate honorific practices related to military service in Texas.

Companion Bills

TX SB488

Identical Relating to the criteria for awarding the Texas Purple Heart Medal to members of the armed forces wounded or killed at Fort Hood on November 5, 2009.

TX SB964

Relating to the criteria for awarding the Texas Purple Heart Medal to members of the armed forces wounded or killed at Fort Hood on November 5, 2009.

Previously Filed As

TX HB5262

Relating to the criteria for awarding the Texas Purple Heart Medal.

TX HB90

Relating to benefits for certain members of the Texas military forces and survivors of members of the Texas military forces.

TX HB4421

Relating to qualifications for and limitations on awarding the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor.

TX HB1928

Relating to supplemental pay for members of the Texas military forces suffering an economic hardship as a result of serving on military duty.

TX SB424

Relating to supplemental pay for members of the Texas military forces suffering an economic hardship as a result of serving on military duty.

TX SB155

Relating to benefits for certain members of the Texas military forces and survivors of members of the Texas military forces.

TX HCR115

Directing the governor of the State of Texas to posthumously award the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor to U.S. Army Master Sergeant Mike C. Pea.

TX HR90

Congratulating U.S. Army Staff Sergeant (Ret.) John Footman on his official receipt of the Bronze Star Medal with Valor Device and the Purple Heart for service in the Vietnam War.

TX SB2316

Relating to service requirements of certain current or former members of the Texas National Guard, the Texas Air National Guard, or a reserve component of the armed forces of the United States for tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education.

TX HCR112

Directing the governor of the State of Texas to posthumously award the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor to U.S. Army Sergeant Major Jerry L. Bell.

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CA AB361

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