89R17543 TBO-F
By: King H.C.R. No. 101
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, The cattle industry has long been a cornerstone of
Texas' agricultural economy, contributing billions of dollars
annually, providing thousands of jobs, and sustaining the state's
vibrant ranching culture; and
WHEREAS, Steak products, particularly prime cuts like the
tomahawk rib-eye steak, stand as one of the most prominent foods
associated with Texas, a status that reflects the importance of
beef production to the state's history and development; and
WHEREAS, During the late 19th century, rapidly growing urban
centers in the northern and western United States significantly
increased the demand for beef, spurring the era of cattle drives;
Texas ranchers, seeking profitable markets, organized
long-distance drives to transport cattle to railheads and
facilitate the shipment of beef to meet the nation's needs; and
WHEREAS, Today, Texas is the leading producer of beef in the
United States with over 12.2 million head of cattle, more than
double the number in the second-ranking state; the beef industry is
vital to the state's economy, with cattle production accounting for
a significant portion of agricultural output and bringing in
millions of dollars in agricultural export revenue each year; and
WHEREAS, Texas is the birthplace of many iconic culinary
traditions, including those tied to cattle drives, chuck wagons,
and steak houses, all of which have cemented steak as an integral
part of the state's culture and cuisine; the food service industry
is the largest private employer in the state, providing over 1.46
million jobs, including many in steak houses and dining
establishments where high-quality beef remains a central part of
the menu; and
WHEREAS, The tomahawk rib-eye steak is a cut of rib-eye steak
that has an unusually long rib bone attached and is thought to
resemble a tomahawk in shape; and
WHEREAS, Many of the tomahawk rib-eye steaks enjoyed by
diners, both historically and in the present day, came from cattle
that were raised on the sprawling ranches of Texas and should,
therefore, be recognized as products of the Lone Star State; and
WHEREAS, Designating the tomahawk rib-eye steak as the
official State Steak of Texas would be a fitting tribute to the
legacy of Texas as the nation's beef leader, and it would reflect
the importance of steak to the state's identity; now, therefore, be
it
RESOLVED, That the 89th Legislature of the State of Texas
hereby designate the tomahawk rib-eye steak as the official State
Steak of Texas; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the tomahawk rib-eye steak be recognized as a
symbol of Texas' enduring agricultural heritage, the state's
economic vitality, and the contributions of the ranchers, farmers,
and chefs who have shaped the state's iconic food culture; and, be
it further
RESOLVED, That the Texas Legislature recognize the central
role of the beef industry in driving economic growth, employment,
and cultural pride in Texas; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Texas Legislature direct the Texas
Department of Agriculture to promote the tomahawk rib-eye steak as
part of the state's ongoing efforts to support Texas beef and
agricultural products; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That the Texas secretary of state forward an
official copy of this resolution to the commissioner of the Texas
Department of Agriculture.