Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB574

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 

Caption

Relating to the creation of the State Cemetery preservation trust fund.

Impact

The legislation enhances state laws regarding the conservation and maintenance of historical sites, particularly cemeteries that hold significant cultural and historical value. By setting aside funds specifically for this purpose, SB574 ensures an organized approach to preservation that can address maintenance needs promptly and effectively. It also establishes a framework for acquiring adjacent land to facilitate the expansion of the cemetery, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach toward historical site management within the state.

Summary

SB574 aims to establish the State Cemetery Preservation Trust Fund, which will be administered by the State Cemetery Committee. This fund is intended to preserve and maintain the State Cemetery through the allocation of funds from both appropriations and revenues generated from specific sales. The creation of this trust fund is seen as a proactive measure to ensure that the cemetery, which serves as a vital historical site for Texas, receives the necessary attention and resources for its upkeep and expansion.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB574 is primarily positive, as it reflects a commitment to preserving Texas's historical and cultural heritage. Lawmakers and stakeholders involved in historical preservation are likely to view this initiative favorably, as it acknowledges the importance of the State Cemetery while providing necessary funding mechanisms. However, there could be underlying tensions regarding the prioritization of state funds and how this trust fund may be managed in relation to other heritage sites across Texas.

Contention

Notably, the bill may face contention around the allocation of funds and prioritization for cemetery maintenance versus other state needs. Some concerns could arise regarding transparency in the fund's management and how effectively it will address the potential backlog of preservation requirements. The mechanism for transferring funds from property sales to this trust fund, as mandated by the bill, may also raise questions about oversight and the adequacy of resources provided for ongoing maintenance and improvement projects.

Companion Bills

TX HB1545

Identical Relating to the creation of the State Cemetery preservation trust fund.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1333

Relating to the creation of the Texas state buildings preservation endowment fund, including the transfer to the fund of the unencumbered balances of certain other funds.

TX HB3050

Relating to the creation of the Texas state buildings preservation endowment fund, including the transfer to the fund of the unencumbered balances of certain other funds.

TX HB5168

Relating to the repeal of a conflicting provision of code related to the establishment of the state cemetery preservation trust fund.

TX HB3461

Relating to the creation and re-creation of funds and accounts, the dedication and rededication of revenue and allocation of accrued interest on dedicated revenue, and the exemption of unappropriated money from use for general governmental purposes.

TX HB4419

Relating to the promotion of film and television production in this state, including the eligibility of film or television productions for funding under the major events reimbursement program, the creation of a film events trust fund and a film production tax rebate trust fund, the establishment of virtual film production institutes, and the designation of media production development zones.

TX HB3961

Relating to the eligibility of a district judge or former district judge for burial in the State Cemetery.

TX SB1084

Relating to the eligibility of a district judge or former district judge for burial in the State Cemetery.

TX HCR55

Authorizing the burial of Guy Herman in the State Cemetery.

TX HB2732

Relating to cemeteries in certain municipalities.

TX HB2449

Relating to the creation of the Dallas Municipal Management District; providing authority to issue bonds; providing authority to impose assessments and fees.

Similar Bills

VA HB809

Historical African American cemeteries and graves; Isle of Wight, Prince George, and Surry Counties.

VA HB727

Historical African American cemeteries and graves; qualified organization, eligibility for funding.

VA SB23

Historical African American cemeteries and graves; qualified organization, eligibility for funding.

VA SB76

Historical African American cemeteries and graves; qualified organization.

VA HB140

Historical African American cemeteries; changes date of establishment for qualification of funds.

VA SB477

Historical African American cemeteries; changes date of establishment for qualification of funds.

VA SB1062

African American cemeteries and graves; appropriations by DHR.

VA HB2244

African American cemeteries and graves; appropriations DHR.