Texas Senate Bill SB777

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the terms of the public members of the Texas Holocaust and Genocide Commission.

Impact

The proposed amendments in SB777 will change how members are appointed to the Texas Holocaust and Genocide Commission, thereby impacting state laws regarding commission governance. This act stipulates that the governor will appoint members with terms expiring in the odd-numbered years as part of the restructured appointment schedule. The change aims to establish a clearer timeframe for member tenures and enhance the operational management of the commission.

Summary

SB777, titled 'An Act Relating to the Terms of the Public Members of the Texas Holocaust and Genocide Commission', seeks to amend the terms served by public members of this commission. Under the current provisions, public members serve staggered four-year terms, which this bill aims to modify. The governor, lieutenant governor, and speaker of the house are designated to appoint members with clear expiration dates, which are structured in such a way to ensure continuity and staggered appointments across the commission.

Contention

While the bill appears to streamline appointments, potential contention may arise regarding the distribution of appointments among the governor, lieutenant governor, and speaker of the house. Critics may argue about the balance of power in appointing commission members, suggesting it could lead to political influence over the commission's activities. Additionally, ensuring that the commission remains a non-partisan entity dedicated to Holocaust and genocide education and remembrance could be a significant concern among advocates and historians.