Texas Senate Bill SJR18

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 2/2/11
• Introduced: 1/31/11
• Refer: 1/31/11
• Report Pass: 2/2/11

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment relating to appropriations for the preservation and perpetuation of certain items of historical value; allowing the legislature and state agencies to accept on behalf of the state gifts of items of historical value and contributions to purchase such items.

Impact

If passed, this amendment would significantly impact the way Texas manages and preserves its historical items. By allowing the legislature to allocate funds for various forms of historical preservation, it opens the door for broader investment in Texas's cultural legacy. This could lead to a significant increase in projects focused on historical education, conservation efforts, and the modernization of how history is documented and celebrated. It solidifies the state's role in actively engaging with and preserving its historical narrative.

Summary

SJR18, proposed by Senator Eltife, aims to amend the Texas Constitution to facilitate the appropriation of funds for the preservation and perpetuation of certain items of historical value. The amendment would empower the legislature to make appropriations not only for physical items such as monuments and statues but also for digital formats including films and electronic documents that hold historical significance. Additionally, it grants the authority for both the legislature and state agencies to accept gifts or contributions for the purchase of such historical items, expanding avenues for funding and safeguarding Texas’s heritage.

Contention

Although the proposal seems largely beneficial, there may be contentions surrounding the allocation of state funds for these purposes. Critics could raise concerns over how appropriations will be decided, potentially fearing politicization in the selection of which historical items receive funding. Moreover, the acceptance of gifts may raise questions about the influence of private donations on public historical narratives and the potential for conflicts of interest in the preservation process. Ensuring transparency and public oversight in these appropriations will likely be a topic of debate among lawmakers and constituents alike.