Relating to the designation of a segment of U.S. Highway 80 as the Sergeant Travis E. Watkins Memorial Highway.
Impact
The bill seeks to amend Chapter 225 of the Transportation Code by adding Section 225.091, which delineates the specific section of highway. Upon passage, the Texas Department of Transportation is tasked with designing and constructing markers that will formally indicate the memorial designation along the highway. This act will not interfere with or replace any other existing designations of that stretch of road.
Summary
Senate Bill 139, introduced by Senator Eltife, aims to designate a section of U.S. Highway 80 as the 'Sergeant Travis E. Watkins Memorial Highway.' This designation is intended to honor Sergeant Watkins for his service, reflecting a tradition of commemorating significant individuals through naming public infrastructure. The section affected by this bill runs from U.S. Highway 271 in Gregg County to the eastern municipal boundary of Big Sandy in Upshur County, Texas.
Contention
While the intent behind SB 139 appears to be straightforward and largely symbolic, there are always considerations regarding the allocation of state resources for such memorial projects. Potential discussions may arise regarding the appropriateness of using state funds for these initiatives and whether there are already sufficient honors in place for veterans and service members. However, during its passage, there was no documented opposition, highlighting a general consensus on the importance of recognizing military service.
Voting_history
SB 139 was presented for a third reading in the House on April 25, 2013, where it received overwhelming support with a vote tally of 136 yeas and 0 nays. This reflects a strong bipartisan approval for the bill, indicative of the respect and support for military personnel within the legislative body.