Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2993

Filed

3/14/25

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to the Texas presidential library promotion program and fund.

Impact

This legislation is expected to enhance the preservation and presentation of presidential history in Texas. It establishes a dedicated fund within the general revenue fund, allowing for the deposit of appropriated money, interest earnings, and private donations. Funds can be utilized for various purposes outlined in the bill, fostering a more robust infrastructure for these cultural institutions. The support provided through this program is also intended to enrich the educational opportunities available to the public in relation to Texas' presidential history.

Summary

SB2993 proposes the establishment of the Texas Presidential Library Promotion Program and Fund, which aims to support and promote the state's presidential libraries, specifically the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum, the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum, and the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. The bill recognizes the importance of these libraries as historical and educational resources that attract visitors and contribute to the state's cultural and economic landscape. The program will provide financial support for renovations and enhancements of exhibits, as well as marketing efforts to raise public awareness and increase tourism to these libraries.

Contention

Debates surrounding SB2993 may arise regarding the allocation of state resources towards specific cultural institutions versus other pressing needs within the state. While supporters argue that promoting Texas' presidential libraries will enhance tourism and education, critics could question the prioritization of funding for these projects over other areas such as education or healthcare. Additionally, there may be concerns about the effectiveness and transparency of the fund's administration, particularly in terms of ensuring that the allocated resources are used appropriately and yield significant returns in public engagement and tourism.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

Chapter 442. Texas Historical Commission
- Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX HB5616

Identical Relating to the Texas presidential library promotion program and funding for the program.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4885

Relating to programs established and funded under the Texas emissions reduction plan.

TX SR174

Recognizing February 15, 2023, as Orange and Maroon Legislative Day.

TX HR206

Recognizing February 15, 2023, as Orange and Maroon Legislative Day at the State Capitol.

TX HB4419

Relating to the promotion of film and television production in this state, including the eligibility of film or television productions for funding under the major events reimbursement program, the creation of a film events trust fund and a film production tax rebate trust fund, the establishment of virtual film production institutes, and the designation of media production development zones.

TX HB1515

Relating to the continuation and functions of and certain programs subject to rules adopted by the Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office.

TX HB900

Relating to the regulation of library materials sold to or included in public school libraries.

TX SB2194

Relating to promoting racial equity in the hiring and promotion of faculty members by public institutions of higher education.

TX HB2476

Relating to the adoption of a veterans' land bank program by the Texas State Affordable Housing Corporation.

TX SB344

Relating to the creation of the Texas Health Insurance Exchange and premium assistance and cost-sharing reduction programs; authorizing a fee.

TX SB194

Relating to the creation of the Texas African American Heritage Commission.