88R2727 SCP-D
By: Raymond, Lopez of Bexar H.B. No. 542
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to a study on state land use to facilitate health and
wellness for veterans.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. STUDY REGARDING STATE LAND USE FOR VETERANS. (a)
In collaboration with the General Land Office, the Texas Historical
Commission, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Texas
Veterans Commission shall conduct a study to identify and assess
the use of state land, including state parks, for the purpose of
facilitating health and wellness for veterans.
(b) In conducting the study, the Texas Veterans Commission
shall:
(1) identify barriers that limit opportunities to
supplement the delivery to veterans of services for health and
wellness through the use of outdoor recreation on state land; and
(2) develop recommendations to better facilitate the
use of state land for promoting wellness and facilitating the
delivery of health care and therapeutic interventions for veterans.
SECTION 2. REPORT TO LEGISLATURE. Not later than November
1, 2024, the Texas Veterans Commission shall submit to the
governor, lieutenant governor, speaker of the house of
representatives, and appropriate standing committees of the
legislature with jurisdiction over veterans' issues a report on the
results of the study conducted under Section 1 of this Act and any
recommendations of the commission related to the study, including
any statutory changes necessary to authorize the use of state land
for the health and wellness of veterans.
SECTION 3. EXPIRATION. This Act expires September 1, 2025.
SECTION 4. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Act takes effect
immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members
elected to each house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas
Constitution. If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for
immediate effect, this Act takes effect September 1, 2023.