THE SPEAKER: The House come to order. Members, please register. Have all registered? The quorum is present. The House and gallery please rise for the invocation. The Chair recognizes Representative Murphy to introduce the Pastor of the Day.
REPRESENTATIVE JIM MURPHY: Thank you, Mr. Speaker, members and distinguished guests in the gallery, it's an honor and privilege today to introduce the Pastor of the Day, Father Layheart, S.J. Father Layheart is president for the State College of Preparatory in Houston, one of our two Jesuit schools in Texas. I'm a proud alumnus for State Jesuit, which is celebrating its fiftieth anniversary this year. I do want to acknowledge Jerard Onterio from the Speaker's Office, jim Pitts from Dallas Jesuit and fellow alumni. The Jesuit order of priests formally known as the Society of Jesus, was established in 1540 by Ignacious Loyola. Known for their missionary work and particularly their focus on education, the Jesuits have fifty-nine high schools in the U.S. along with twenty-eight colleges and universities. Dan became a Jesuit in 2001, after serving as a vice president and CFO of Gonzalga College High School. Ordained in 1994, Father Layheart received his Bachelor's Degree from Georgetown, went on to get a Masters in Divinity at the Western School of Theology, a Masters in Education at Boston College and a Masters in Business Administration from Stanford University. I think we can use him here today. Joining us today at the podium are Representative Hochberg, who is actually in his district, and Representative Callegari who has had two sons and several grandsons go through State Jesuit. Joining us today on the Feast of Saint Patrick, would you join me with a warm welcome for our Pastor of the Day, Father Dan Layheart.
PASTOR OF THE DAY: Good morning. We gather this morning together on the wonderful feast of Saint Patrick and in the presence of God to ask his blessings on each of us, on our work, our communities our state and our nation. So let us pray. Good and gracious God, as we come together today, we ask you to send your spirit among us. Fill us with a desire to do your will in all our endeavors. Help us to care for those who are most vulnerable, the sick, the poor, the elderly. Fill us with a spirit of cooperation and collaboration. May all our work here with others, may it also be for your greater glory. May we work with those, even with whom we may disagree and may those with sacred works today. Truly serve those who have trusted this assembly with the responsibility to govern. Fill us with your wisdom to seek answers to difficult problems. Guide the deliberations of this assembly today, Lord. May the work of those men and woman gathered here this morning bring honor and glory to your name. May they be true servants of our people, may they be true servants of you. And as we ask for your blessing on us, we ask you to remember that the needs of our country at this challenging time, and in particular to watch out for the safety of our young men and women who serve in our armed forces. May their work bring about your peace that is so needed in the world today. We ask all these things through the intersession of Saint Patrick, and in your name, oh Lord, our creator and our redeemer. Amen.
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Aliseda to lead us into pledge.
REPRESENTATIVE JOSE ALISEDA: Members and audience, and as an immigrant to this country, it is truly an honor to lead you in the pledge to our country and our state's flag. Please join me. (Pledge of allegiance read.) (Texas pledge read.)
THE SPEAKER: Excuse Representative Eiland because of important family business, on the motion of Representative Tracy King. Is there any objection? The chair hears none. So ordered. Representative Aliseda moves to suspend to read the House referral of the bills until the end of the today's business. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Chair recognizes Representative Howard to introduce our Doctor of the Day.
REP. DONNA HOWARD: Thank you, Mr. Speaker and Members. I'm very happy to be able to introduce you our Doctor of the Day, Kelly Alberta. He's actually in charge of the Family Medicine Residency Program, and we know how important it is right now that we are trying to provide for residency slots so that we can keep these good doctors in Texas. He actually did his residency elsewhere, but he came back for fellowship. So we are fortunate to have him here with us today and please help me welcome Dr. Alberta.
THE SPEAKER: Excuse Representative Castro because of important business in the district, on the motion of Representative Vo. Members, Is there any objection? Motion is granted.
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Legler for a motion.
REP. KEN LEGLER: Members, I would like to give you my attention or your attention myself here. I want a take a moment to recognize a young lady who is came from El Paso to be an intern in my office in her spring break, and I would like to introduce her. Lucy Benny. She's over here on the south side of the gallery. Lucy, thank you. She's spent the entire spring break with me. I don't know what your punishment was but I'm sorry. Thank you for coming.
THE SPEAKER: Chair announces the signing of the following in the presence of the House:
CLERK: HCR28. HCR10.
THE SPEAKER: Members, we're about to begin resolutions. Chair recognizes Representative Darby.
REP. DREW DARBY: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Members, I move to suspend all the necessary rules to take up and consider HR686.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Chair lays out House Resolution 686. Clerk will read the Resolution.
CLERK: HR686 by Darby. WHEREAS, The Lone Star State lost an accomplished native son with the passing of novelist and journalist Elmer Kelton of San Angelo on August 22, 2009, at the age of 83; and WHEREAS, Born on April 29, 1926, at Horse Camp in Andrews County, Elmer Stephen Kelton was descended from cowboys and ranchers --
THE SPEAKER: Members, this is a Memorial Resolution. Please take your seats and your conversations outside the rail. Clerk will continue.
CLERK: -- his great-grandfather came to West Texas in the 1870s with a covered wagon and a string of horses, and his father, Robert William "Buck" Kelton, was the foreman and eventual manager of the McElroy Ranch in Crane and Upton Counties; and WHEREAS, Elmer Kelton was the oldest of four sons and, by his own admission, the worst cowboy of the bunch; he decided at an early age that if he couldn't be a cowboy, he would at least write about them, and he was encouraged in this endeavor by his mother, Neta Beatrice "Bea" Kelton, a former schoolteacher; he entered The University of Texas at Austin at the age of 16 and enrolled in journalism classes; and WHEREAS, In the mid-1940s, Mr. Kelton served in Europe as an infantryman during the final months of World War II; while stationed in Austria, he met his future wife, Anni Lipp, whom he married in 1947; he went on to earn his bachelor's degree in journalism from UT the following year; and WHEREAS, Mr. Kelton was the farm-and-ranch editor for the San Angelo Standard-Times from 1948 to 1963; he later spent five years as associate editor of Sheep and Goat Raisers' Magazine and more than two decades as editor of Livestock Weekly before retiring in 1990; and WHEREAS, His career as a Western writer began in 1948, when he sold a story to Ranch Romances magazine for $50; he published his first novel, Hot Iron, in 1955, and writing mainly in his spare time, he went on to author or contribute to more than 60 books including several volumes of Western art, a memoir, Sandhills Boy and many works of fiction; and WHEREAS, Insightful portrayals of West Texans, Mr. Kelton's novels were admired by readers and critics alike for their keen attention to detail, moral complexity, and psychological realism; he wasn't interested in writing simplistic Western characters who were "seven feet tall and invincible," he once said, adding, "my characters are five-eight and nervous"; and WHEREAS, In The Time It Never Rained, he vividly evoked the struggles of a rancher during a devastating drought in the 1950s; in The Good Old Boys, which was made into a television movie directed by and starring Tommy Lee Jones, he told the story of an aging cowboy grappling with changing times at the turn of the 20th century; and WHEREAS, Often bestsellers, his books also won numerous accolades; seven of his titles earned the Spur Award from the Western Writers of America, and three received Western Heritage Awards from the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum; Mr. Kelton himself was honored with both the Owen Wister Award for lifetime achievement and the Lone Star Award for Lifetime Achievement from the Larry McMurtry Center for Arts and Humanities at Midwestern State University; in 1995, he was voted the best Western writer of all time by members of the Western Writers of America; and. WHEREAS, Throughout a long and prolific career, Mr. Kelton enjoyed the love and support of his wife of 62 years as well as their three children, Gary, Stephen, and Kathy; moreover, his family included four grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, and a great-great-granddaughter; and WHEREAS, Elmer Kelton wrote with deep reverence and compassion about the people and landscape he loved; whether he was evoking the stark beauty of the high plains or the pride and dignity of hardworking people, he celebrated a rich culture and left a lasting legacy that will endure as long as the wind blows over West Texas; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the life and accomplishments of Elmer Kelton; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for his family and that when the Texas House of Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Elmer Kelton.
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Darby.
REP. DREW DARBY: Members, today we commemorate the life and work of Elmer Kelton. A man who, to San Angelo people remember for his real world experience during his tenure as San Angelo Standard Times, Sheep and Goat Raisers Magazine and Livestock Weekly. This native son of West Texas also captured our imaginations, penning dozens of novels depicting hard-working and the rich culture of West Texas and her people. No matter the praise of Mr. Kelton earned in his career, he always maintained a calm humility. In fact, when he was approached by the Callegari library about placing a statute of him in the building's western literature section he accepted only on one condition. They were not allowed to put him on a horse. I'm a rider, Kelton said, not a cowboy. Mr. Kelton may have been unimpressed about himself but the same cannot be said by the rest of us. In 1996 the Western Riders of America selected Elmer Kelton as one of the best western riders of all time, placing him head of such a legendary figures as Zane Gray, Louis LaMoore, Aby Gutherie, and Larry MacMurtry. Legends are made of humble men and Elmer Kelton is truly a Texas legend. Joining us today is son, Steve Kelton, on the dais. We welcome Steve today and I would therefore I would move, members, that the -- that this motion be adopted.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. Resolution is adopted. Representative Lewis and Representative Hardcastle move that all members' names are added. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered.
THE SPEAKER: Madam Doorkeeper?
THE DOORKEEPER: Mr. Speaker, I have a messenger from the Senate at the door of the House.
THE SPEAKER: Admit the Honorable messenger.
MESSENGER: Mr. Speaker, I'm directed by the Senate to inform the House that the Senate has taken the following action: The senate has passed the following measures.
THE SPEAKER: Representative Hardcastle moves that Representative Darby's remarks be reduced and placed in writing in the journal. Is there any objection? Hearing none. So ordered. Mr. Creighton on the House. Mr. Creighton?
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Flynn for a resolution.
REP. DAN FLYNN: Thank you, Mr. Speaker and members, today is a great day here in the Capitol. We are going to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Texas State Guard. And before we have the resolution, I would like for you to bring your attention to the podium, where we have Major General John Nichols, who is the new Adjutant General for the State of Texas. We have Major General Peters, who is the Commander of the Texas State Guard. Brigadier General, Charles Miller, who is the Chief of Staff of the Texas State Guard. Colonel Don Prince, who is the commander of the Texas State Guard Air Division. And Colonel Hamilton who is the G3 for the Texas State Guard. It's a great honor to have these gentlemen here with us today and for we do like to -- Mr. Speaker, I'd like to suspend all necessary rules to take up and consider House Resolution 570 celebrating the seventieth anniversary of the Texas State Guard.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So adopted. Chair lays out House Resolution 570. The clerk will read the resolution.
CLERK: HR570 by Flynn. WHEREAS, The Texas State Guard is celebrating the 70th anniversary of its founding in 2011; and WHEREAS, Originally called the Texas Defense Guard, this branch of the Texas military forces was authorized by the Defense Act (House Bill 45), which was signed into law by Governor Pappy O'Daniel on February 10, 1941; created to take the place of the National Guard units being mobilized for the war effort, the Texas State Guard has since evolved into a rapidly deployable emergency action force that is ready to respond at a moment's notice to natural and man-made disasters; this capability is in keeping with its mandate to provide a mission-ready volunteer force for service to the Lone Star State; and WHEREAS, The individual units of the Texas State Guard are the 4th and 5th Air Wings, the Maritime Regiment, the Texas Medical Brigade, and six regional regiments: The 1st, nicknamed the Alamo Guards, the 2nd, called the Austin Greys, the 4th, known as the Panther City Fencibles, the 8th, Terry's Texas Rangers, the 19th Parson's Brigade, and the 39th, the Roughnecks; and WHEREAS, The volunteer nature of the Texas State Guard makes it a highly cost-effective and efficient force; members serve in an unpaid capacity, unless called to active duty, and because they are locally based throughout the state they can respond to emergencies within two hours of notification; the valiant men and women who belong to the state guard together provide an estimated 40,000 days per year of uncompensated community service and disaster training; and WHEREAS, For seven decades, the Texas State Guard has helped ensure the safety and well-being of the residents of the Lone Star State, and its long history of service, often rendered in demanding and dangerous conditions, is indeed deserving of recognition; now therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Texas State Guard and extend sincere gratitude to its members; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the Texas State Guard as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Flynn.
REP. DAN FLYNN: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move adoption. And what I would also like to make sure all the members know, nine members of the Texas House are members of the Texas Guard, and we should be very proud of them. I move adoption.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. motion is adopted. Representative Bernam move that all members' names be added. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered.
THE SPEAKER: Representative Bernam moves that Representative Flynn's remarks be placed in writing and placed in the journal. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Mr. Creighton.
THE SPEAKER: Could I have your attention, please? Chair recognizes Representative Davis from Dallas. Members, if I could have your attention, please? Chair recognizes Representative Davis from Dallas.
REP. DAVIS: Thank you. Mr. Speaker and members, I'd like to ask you to join me and the colleagues from Dallas as we salute and congratulate the Government student interns. This session during spring break we've had the pleasure of having Mountview College from the Dallas Community College District sponsor government student interns for a few days during their spring break so that they can learn about the process. They've been in many of our offices from Dallas county, they've had firsthand experience in getting knowledge of the process and listening and finding out various issues that are facing the citizens across our state and gaining valuable work experience doing what would most people are doing during the spring break. So we'd ask you to you join us in congratulating them and thanking them for their efforts. At my office we have Ms. Jasmine Salsado, if you'll just wave your hands so people will know who you are. Representative Aliseda had a student, Mr. Manuel Faust; Representative Eric Johnson had Ms. Natalie Martinez; Representative Stephanie Carter had Ms. Teresa Pena; Representative Barbara Caraway had Mr. Ricardo Carrelez: Representative Helen Giddings had Mr. Davis Gutierrez; and Cindy had Ms. Christina Ortiz. Members, if you would join me in welcoming these interns who were working in their spring break in learning more about their government and the Texas House of Representatives. Joining me also, the colleagues from the respective offices that they have worked in and they might want to have remarks. So if you join me in welcoming them and thanking them --
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Mallory Caraway.
REPRESENTATIVE BARBARA MALLORY CARAWAY: S peaker and members of the House, we also have Eastville College here. Are you in the chamber, also? I'd also like to recognize Elmer Benitez, who was in my office as an intern as part of this spring break internship and to also congratulate you on a job well done. And thank you for sharing all of your talents to your statehouse and my office. Thank you.
THE SPEAKER: Members, may I have your attention? Chair recognizes Representative Carter.
REP. STEFANI CARTER: I just want to give a big thanks for your joining my office for this week and we are sad to see you go. Thank you so much.
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Alonzo.
REPRESENTATIVE ROBERTO ALONZO: Okay. Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Members, Mr. Speaker, Members, I too join in thanking the students from our area to come and visit the Capitol. They could have been in spring break at South Padre Island or in Spain, but they chose to come to the Capitol and join us as we work through many of the issues. And I want to thank specifically the intern that I had in my office, from my district, he's a President of Student Body Association of the college. He's been involved in many, many issues that affect our community, especially Dream Mac. And I thank him for coming. I know that our House thanks him as well. And I would like for you to give him a big round of applause. Please give thanks to Manny Faust from Dallas, Texas. -- the Student Body Association. Manny. Okay. (Spanish: Un quarto aplouso). And, before I leave, I want to also thank the President of the Jr. Mountview Community College, Dr. Filix Samone, for letting these young folks visit us.
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Giddings.
REP. HELEN GIDDINGS: Thank you very much. Mr. Speaker and Members, I want to take this opportunity to recognize the intern in District 109 office, from Mountview College, David Gutierrez. Thank you, David.
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Aliseda.
REPRESENTATIVE JOSE ALISEDA: Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend all necessary Rules to take up and consider House Resolution 527 honoring Bee County day at the Capitol.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Chair lays out House Resolution 527. Clerk will read the resolution in full.
THE CLERK: HR527 by Aliseda. WHEREAS, Many proud residents of Bee County are gathering at the State Capitol to celebrate Bee County Day on March 17, 2011; and WHEREAS, Officially organized on January 25, 1858, Bee County was named for Barnard E. Bee, Sr., a South Carolina attorney soldier, and statesman who joined the Army of the Republic of Texas and served as secretary of war under Sam Houston; recovered artifacts indicate that the area was originally inhabited 6,000 to 10,000 years ago; the first permanent European settlers arrived in the early 19th century, and 11 Bee County landowners were among the signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence; and WHEREAS, Located in the South Texas Plains vegetation region Bee County covers 866 square miles that slope gently toward the Gulf Coast; with the region's open expanses of grasslands, the local economy is dominated by farming and ranching but also welcomes oil and gas extraction and agribusiness; in 1954, the first U.S. Navy all-jet base opened at the Naval Auxiliary Air Station in Beeville the county seat, and still contributes a significant amount to the region's economy; other towns in the county include Skidmore, Blue Berry Hill, Pettus, Tuleta, Tynan, Pawnee, Normanna, and Mineral; and. WHEREAS, Bee County is blessed with an array of cultural and historical attractions for residents and visitors to explore; art enthusiasts may delight in the educational programs and exhibits of the Beeville Art Museum, which is funded by the Joe Barnhart Foundation and housed in the historic Esther Barnhart House; in addition, Beeville has successfully revitalized its downtown district and has been named a Texas Main Street City by the Texas Historical Commission; Coastal Bend College--Beeville offers occupational as well as academic classes for its students and has one of the only public, fully functioning glassblowing facilities in the state; and WHEREAS, The residents of Bee County may take great pride in their heritage and contributions to the Lone Star State, and it is a pleasure to pay tribute to the county and its citizens on this special day; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby recognize March 17, 2011, as Bee County Day at the State Capitol and extend to those visiting today sincere best wishes for an enjoyable stay in Austin.
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Aliseda.
REPRESENTATIVE JOSE ALISEDA: Mr. Speaker and members, it is my honor to recognize the members from Bee County to the capitol today. On the dais we have Bee County Judge David Silva, County Commissioner Dennis Dewitt, Sheriff Carlos Calisels, and Chief Deputy Alden Southmade. We have also have the rest of the delegation in the gallery. Please rise and welcome them to the Texas House. I move for passage.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Representative Hughes moves to add all members' names. Any objections? Chair hears none. So ordered.
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Villarreal.
REP. MIKE VILLARREAL: Thank you Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the BCFS, the global health and services organization that has changed a lot of lives of countless families facing disaster around the world. They are celebrating their sixty-seventh anniversary. They have been a key partner of the State of Texas in times of emergency, Hurricane Katrina and Rita and countless other situations. We appreciate all that they do and welcome them to their House. Members, please join me in recognizing BCFS. I'd like to suspend all necessary rules to take up and consider HR894.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. Rules are suspended. Chair lays out HR 894. The clerk will read the resolution.
CLERK: HR894 by Villarreal. WHEREAS, Texas-based BCFS is celebrating the 67th anniversary of its founding in 2011; and WHEREAS, Due in large measure to the vision and compassion of its leadership through the years, BCFS has become a global health and human services organization that has changed the lives of countless children, families, and communities facing disasters around the world; and WHEREAS, This same vision and commitment to service has led BCFS to become a key partner with the State of Texas during times of emergency, such as Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Dolly, Gustav, Ike and Alex, as well as in response to the H1N1 flu virus and the FLDS incident in West Texas; and WHEREAS, Whether at home in Texas, in Haiti following the 2010 earthquake, or in Sri Lanka following the 2004 tsunami, the emergency management and response expertise of BCFS has always sprung into action whenever called on; and WHEREAS, In addition to responding to crises, the organization serves adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities at a campus where they can gain the skills necessary to thrive as part of their community; moreover, BCFS provides comfort to young victims of abuse or neglect, counseling for those who are struggling with tragedy or trauma, medical treatment for the impoverished, guidance for youth who lack families or support networks as they transition into adulthood, and help for those seeking to expand their family through the process of fostering or adopting; and WHEREAS, For nearly seven decades, BCFS has given vital assistance and hope to society's most vulnerable, and the organization continues to stand resolute in its commitment to answer the call of Texans and those in need around the world; now therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby commemorate the 67th anniversary of the founding of BCFS and recognize the invaluable contributions the group has made to citizens of the Lone Star State and beyond; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for BCFS as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Villarreal.
REP. MIKE VILLARREAL: Move adoption.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Representative Farias move to add all members' names. Is there any objection, Chair hears none. So ordered. Chair recognizes Representative Gallego.
REP. PETE GALLEGO: Thank you. Mr. Speaker and members, I move to suspend all necessary rules to take up and consider House Resolution Number 913. House Resolution 913 is a resolution on Uvalde County Day here in the Capitol.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Chair lays out House Bill 913. Clerk will read the resolution.
CLERK: HR913 by Gallegos. WHEREAS, Proud residents of Uvalde County are gathering in Austin to celebrate Uvalde County Day at the State Capitol on March 16, 2011; and WHEREAS, The area was once a hunting ground of the Comanche Tonkawa, and Lipan Apache peoples; a Spanish mission was established in the region in 1762, and in 1790 Juan de Ugalde, the governor of Coahuila, won a decisive victory over the Apaches; the site of the battle was named in honor of the governor, and an altered spelling of his name--Uvalde--was later applied to the county; and WHEREAS, Permanent settlers began to arrive in the 1850s, and Uvalde County was established in 1856; a rough-and-tumble frontier area during and after the Civil War, the county became a ranching center in the late 1800s and was also renowned for its honey, which took first prize at the Paris World's Fair in 1900; today, the county's economy continues to be based on agribusiness, includingfarming and the raising of livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats; and WHEREAS, Four spring-fed rivers, the Nueces, Leona, Sabinal and Frio, have cut ruggedly beautiful canyons through the region's rolling hills; the county draws hunters from around the state with its abundance of deer, quail, doves, and turkey, while swimmers campers, bird-watchers, and other outdoors enthusiasts enjoy the scenic delights of Garner State Park; and WHEREAS, Founded in the 1850s, the city of Uvalde is the county seat and is home to a number of attractions; the Aviation Museum at Garner Field houses World War II memorabilia and aircraft in an original army airfield hangar, and the Briscoe Art and Antique Collection displays works collected by former Texas governor Dolph Briscoe and his wife; in addition, the town hosts performances by the Sahawe Indian Dancers, who help preserve the Native American cultural practices of the Southwest with their popular dance performances; and. WHEREAS, Celebrating their rich history even as they work to build a bright future, the citizens of Uvalde County may take great pride in the contributions that this unique region has made to the Lone Star State; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby recognize March 16, 2011, as Uvalde County Day at the State Capitol and extend to the visiting delegation sincere best wishes for a memorable and meaningful stay in Austin.
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Gallego.
REP. PETE GALLEGO: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Members, I want you to know I have the privilege of representing one of the most diverse and most beautiful districts, I think, in Texas. From Farrar, West Texas and Guadalupe Mountains, all the way to one county away from San Antonio. But the county, one of the counties that are most diverse from all of that is Uvalde County. I think if you have not had an opportunity to visit it, it is phenomenal. It has got five rivers. It's got very diverse terrain, a great tourism community and, frankly, it's just one of the most beautiful places in Texas. And so today we have with us from Uvalde County, several guests. Let me introduce the County Judge of Uvalde County, Bill Mitchell. He is accompanied by the Sheriff Charley Minicki*, Smith, who is the Mayor of Uvalde. Kelly Garrett, who's the president of their Chamber of Commerce. And Raul Flores, who is a member of their County Chambers Court. There's also a delegation from Uvalde County here in the east gallery, so I ask that you help me welcome them and I move adoption of the resolution.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Representative Hilderbran and Representative King move to add all members' names to the motion -- to the resolution. Any objections? Hearing none. So ordered. Chair recognizes Representative Gallego.
REP. PETE GALLEGO: Mr. Speaker and members, in the east gallery we have several folks from Uvalde, their former City Manager I see, and others. If y'all would please stand and let us welcome you to the Texas House of Representatives. Thank you for being here, all of you, from Uvalde.
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative King.
REP. KING: Mr. Speaker, members, I move to suspend all necessary rules to take up and consider a Memorial Resolution, HR139.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Members, this is a memorial resolution. Please take your seats or take your conversations outside the rail. Chair lays out HR139. Clerk will read the Resolution.
CLERK: HR139 by King of Parker. WHEREAS, Memories of a life filled with joyful times and meaningful accomplishments remain to comfort the family and friends of Mundy Ingalls Peale, Jr., of Lake Kiowa, who passed away on July 8, 2009, at the age of 74; and. WHEREAS, Born in Evansville, Illinois, on August 23, 1934 Mundy Peale was a 1956 graduate of Princeton University, where he majored in economics and received the prestigious Triade Trophy the highest honor in Ivy League wrestling; he went on to earn a degree from the Harvard Business School in 1961 and also served in the United States Air Force as a pilot and radar intercept officer; and WHEREAS, Mr. Peale married the former Pat Crawford in 1957 and the couple enjoyed a rewarding union that continued for 51 years; they were blessed with three children, Mundy, Lalon, and Danielle, and with the passing years their family grew to include seven grandchildren; and WHEREAS, This respected business executive began his career with the Ford Motor Company in 1961 as a cost analyst, and during his tenure with the company he held several supervisory positions and worked in locations around the globe; in 1979, he became the vice president and controller for the Rockwell International Electronics Operations and Avionics & Missiles Group, and he later was vice president of corporate finance for the company's central region; after serving as the chief financial officer for Marlow Industries from 1993 to 1996, he helped create the company United Space Alliance, which partnered with NASA in carrying out manned space operations; he held the title of chief financial officer at the time of his retirement in 1998; and WHEREAS, Though he made his home in a variety of locations as a result of his career, Mr. Peale was always involved in community affairs; a member of Rotary International and a supporter of the Boy Scouts of America, he also played an active role in the churches he attended, helping with financial matters, teaching Sunday school and assisting building committees; in his leisure time, he loved to golf, play tennis, and travel, and he took great satisfaction in devoting himself to his family; and WHEREAS, Honorable, humble, and widely admired, Mundy Peale lived a caring and purposeful life, and he will forever be remembered with great affection by those who were privileged to share in his love and friendship; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the memory of Mundy Ingalls Peale, Jr., and extend sincere condolences to the members of his family: to his wife, Pat; to his children, Mundy Ingalls Peale III Lalon Crawford Peale, and Danielle Peale Rook; to his grandchildren, Mundy Peale IV, Jon Peale, Hannah Rook, Hunter Rook Hayden Rook, Holden Rook, and Julia Peale; to his sisters, Sandra Farwell Eike and Betsey Peale Hardman; and to his other relatives and friends; and, be it further. RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for his family and that when the Texas House of Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Mundy Ingalls Peale, Jr.
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative King.
REP. KING: Mr. Speaker, members, in moving adoption I also stand here with Representatives Hardcastle and Phillips and anyone who's ever run for office, been in business, or even driven a number of times through Cook County, had to get to know Mundy and Pat Peale. And we wanted to just take a minute today, as a body, to thank his family for his great service, for his business and political affairs. We have a lot of the family here today. And I'm going to introduce them and ask them to stand up. They are in the gallery behind, directly, behind us. To my front son, Mundy Peale the second, is Mundy here? Great. Please stand up. His wife Eva; his son, John David; and Mundy the fourth. We see a pattern there. His son Leland Peale, Leland; and his daughter Danielle Rook and her husband Brent Rook and their kids Hannah, Hunter, Haiden, and Holden, a little pattern there. And, of course, our dear friend, Pat, Mundy's wife of fifty-one years. And we just honor you and recognize you and your family today and you have our greatest love and sympathy from Larry and Rick and all of us in the House for Mundy's passing. We have the greatest confidence that you will see him again. And, thank you. With that I would move adoption.
THE SPEAKER: Members, this is a Memorial Resolution. With that, please rise. Resolution is unanimously adopted. Chair recognizes Mr. Phillips.
REP. PHILLIPS: Members, I just want to thank you for letting us recognize Mundy. Mundy was a great Texan, great patriot and, obviously, wonderful husband. You know, those of us who have the chance, we often get to go to services, but the funeral service for Mundy was a quite a testament to his life. Those that are overcrowded, you know that people come and care about him. And so it's a great honor to have his family today so the State of Texas can recognize him, his life, and the legacy he left with you. Thank you for coming today.
THE SPEAKER: Representative Hardcastle and Representative Phillips to move all members' names to the resolution. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. Chair recognizes Representative Callegari for an announcement.
REP. BILL CALLEGARI: Members, I would like for you to help me recognize visitors from my district. Teresa and James Wick. Would you stand up, please? Teresa's mother of my aide, Rebecca, and her brother John is here today. So thanks for coming to the Capitol and welcome here. Thank you.
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Munos.
REPRESENTATIVE SERGIO MUNOS: Mr. Speaker and members, I move to suspend all necessary rules to take up and consider HR674 Anna Villanueva on her accomplishments.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Chair lays out HR 674. Clerk will read the Resolution in full.
CLERK: HR674 by Munos. WHEREAS, The path from migrant farmworker to respected educator has been a long and arduous one, but Anna B. Villanueva of Alton has made just such a journey, inspiring all who knew her along the way with her perseverance and commitment to excellence; and WHEREAS, Born on May 21, 1983, to Javier and Maria Villanueva, Ms. Villanueva spent much of her youth picking fruit and vegetables with her parents and five siblings; when she was in the seventh grade, her family was featured in a documentary about life as a migrant farmworker, and 12 years later, the special "America Now: Children of the Harvest," followed up on the lives of the Villanuevas; and WHEREAS, With the support of her family, Ms. Villanueva made education a priority in her life and did well in high school; she went on to graduate from Michigan State University with a bachelor's degree in sociology, specializing in Chicano/Latino studies, and earned a certificate of academic excellence and Dean's List recognition; moreover, she became a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars and was a Ronald E. McNair/Summer Research Opportunity Program Scholar; and WHEREAS, After graduation, Ms. Villanueva entered the Alternative Certification Program at The University of Texas--Pan American College of Education, where she earned a 3.9 grade point average; since 2005, she has worked as an educator, first at Castro Elementary School in the Mission Consolidated Independent School District and more recently at Juan N. Seguin Elementary School in the La Joya Independent School District; and WHEREAS, Ms. Villanueva was recognized for her outstanding achievements in 2010 when she was invited to make the closing remarks at the national conference on migrant education; highly regarded by her peers, she is also a member of the National Association for Chicana and Chicano Studies, the Hidalgo County Young Democrats, and the Michigan State University Alumni Association; moreover, she is an active participant in CAMP, the Michigan State University College Assistance Migrant Scholars Program; and WHEREAS, The first member of her family to graduate from college, Ms. Villanueva learned the value of hard work and a strong support system early on, and she is now able to provide guidance and inspiration to countless young Texans seeking to follow their dreams; now, therefore, be it. RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby congratulate Anna B. Villanueva on her remarkable accomplishments and on serving as an encouraging role model for others; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for Ms. Villanueva as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Munos. REPRESENTATIVE SERGIO MUNOZ, JR.,: I move adoption.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. Resolution is adopted. Representative Gonzalez moves to add all members' names. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Mr. Munos. REPRESENTATIVE SERGIO MUNOZ, JR.,: Mr. Speaker and members, thank you and please help Representative Gonzalez and myself welcome family from Mission, Texas here to the Capitol. Here behind me. We have Ms. Vian Nueva, Ms. Solice, her husband; Ms. Gloria Flores her mother-in-law; And her sister Ms. Abigail Nueva. Can you please join me in giving a round of applause and welcoming them to their Capitol? Now I would just like to say that it's an honor to have her here today in the House of Representatives, because she represents a success story, an American dream come true. She worked hard, studied hard and has become a success story of the American family. And her remarkable story was made possible because of family determination and the state and country which has laid a foundation for the Anna Villanueva to be great. Thank you, Anna, for making us proud.
THE SPEAKER: Mr. Murphy. Chair recognizes Representative Murphy.
REPRESENTATIVE JIM MURPHY: Thank you, Mr. Speaker and members. I move to suspend all necessary rules to take up and consider House Resolution 786.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion Is there any objection? Chair hears none. Chair lays out House Resolution 786. Clerk will read the resolution in full.
CLERK: HR786 by Murphy. WHEREAS, Each year, St. Patrick's Day is celebrated on March 17, and this occasion provides an opportunity to honor the origins of the event and to highlight the many contributions that individuals of Irish descent have made to the Lone Star State; and WHEREAS, Born into a wealthy Romano-British family in the 4th century, St. Patrick was kidnapped at the age of 16 by Irish raiders and taken captive to the Emerald Isle; according to his writings divine intervention allowed him to escape, and he entered the priesthood soon after; he later returned to Ireland and spent nearly 30 years teaching the island's residents about his faith thereby becoming the principal champion of Irish Christianity in legend and folklore; St. Patrick's Day, which commemorates the day of his death in 461, has become a celebration of Irish heritage around the world, and in recent decades the government of Ireland has made the observance a centerpiece of its efforts to showcase the country and its culture; and WHEREAS, One of the earliest Irish residents of Texas was Hugh O'Connor, who served as governor of the Spanish territory from 1767 to 1770; natives of Ireland also played a central role in the settlement of Texas in the early 1800s, including impresarios James McGloin, John McMullen, and James Power, who brought dozens of Irish families to South Texas and the Gulf Coast; and. WHEREAS, All three of these men participated in the Texas Revolution, as did Irishmen such as John Joseph Linn, Francis Moore, Jr., and Thomas William Ward; a dozen individuals from the Emerald Isle died defending the Alamo, and 100 Irish-born troops helped win the independence of Texas in the decisive Battle of San Jacinto; and WHEREAS, The number of immigrants from Ireland grew dramatically in the mid-1800s, and several prominent Irish natives made their mark during that period; Samuel McKinney was an early president of Austin College, Father Michael Sheehan established the first Catholic church in Austin and became one of the first full-time Catholic chaplains in the U.S. Army, and Peter Gallagher served as a Texas Ranger and helped organize Pecos County; later in the 19th century, Irishman John William Mallet served as the first faculty chairman at The University of Texas at Austin, and artist Henry Arthur McArdle produced many famous paintings inspired by Texas history, some of which now hang in the State Capitol; and WHEREAS, With the passing decades, additional people from Ireland found a new home in Texas, and they and the descendents of previous immigrants have had an enduring influence on the state's lifestyle and development; today, Irish culture is celebrated in formal programs such as the Center for Irish Studies at the University of St. Thomas in Houston, as well as in statewide St. Patrick's Day celebrations, and it is appropriate to join with thousands of other residents in recognizing the significant role that Irish Americans have played in the story of the Lone Star State; now, therefore, be it. RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the state's vital Irish heritage and extend Happy St. Patrick's Day wishes to all Irish Americans.
THE SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Mr. Murphy who is up here with the Irish Caucus.
REPRESENTATIVE JIM MURPHY: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. This is an unofficial Irish Caucus and I want to make sure you know these members. We have Representative Diane Patrick. We have Eddie McLucio, Hube Shawn and, of course, Sylvester O'Turner returning from a previous session. And Ruth McClendon Jones is with us here as well. So with this, members, as we celebrate Saint Patrick's Day, and with these members by taking part in honoring one of the cultures that enrich Texas. There are many cultures that have enriched Texas, each one has a value, each one provides an important contribution for making our state what it is. And we have certainly many, many people who have worked hard to make this state. I do want to thank the Caucus Counsel for that voluminous resolution today. Many of you have the shamrock on today, and that is something that Saint Patrick used to teach the Holy Trinity to the people when he came to in Ireland as a missionary. And so as we talk about today all the things that may separate us, that make us unique, as people of Texas, as Texans, we all celebrate something that is unique and important and brings us together. And today we are all Irish. And I want to say happy Saint Patricks Day. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of all of us in the Irish Caucus, I move passage.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Representative O'Vo moves to add all members' names. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered.
THE SPEAKER: Members, we're ready to begin consideration of congratulatory and memorial calendars. The following congratulatory resolutions have been withdrawn: HR24, HR25 and HR63. The following congratulatory resolutions have been previously adopted: HR806, HR807 and HR786. Chair lays out the following resolutions. Clerk will read the resolutions.
CLERK: HCR100 by Branch, commemorating the one-hundredth anniversary of the founding of the university system. HR665 by Veasey, commemorating Texas grandparents for raising their grandchildren. HR688 by Isaac, by commemorating Channel and her service on the Texas Board of Professional Engineers. HR690 by Marquez, honoring Rose Medina Thomas Black, A-Z Towing and Recovery, Arrow towing the Fire Department, A&B Unlimitied and Sons and Electric responding to the February 2011 winter storm. HR 693 by Carter, welcoming members of Dallas county council of Republican Woman's to the state Capitol on March 2011. HR commending the one hundredth service of the founding of HR696 by honoring Gade County for its contributions; and the HR698 for service of the community. HR 701 by Rodriguez by congratulating Fidencio Duran by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County. HR 702 by Rodriguez Raul Salinas was posthumously recognized by theAustin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County. HR 703 by Rodriguez congratulating Susana R. Almanza was recognized by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County. HR 704 by Rodriguez paying tribute to Eva Carrillo de Garcia was posthumously recognized by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County. HR 705 paying tribute to Dr. Alberto Gonzalo Garcia was posthumously recognized by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County. HR 706 paying tribute to Daniel C. Camacho was posthumously recognized by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County. HR 707 by Rodriguez paying tribute to Tomas Guedea, Sr., was posthumously recognized by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 708 by Rodriguez paying tribute to the Tomas Guedea, Sr., was posthumously recognized by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 709 by Rodriguez paying tribute to Arturo Lopez Aleman was posthumously recognized by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 710 by Rodriguez paying tribute to the life of Lorraine C. Camacho was posthumously recognized by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 711 by Rodriguez paying tribute to life of Roy Lozano was posthumously recognized by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 712 by Rodriguez paying tribute to the life of Emma Galindo was posthumously recognized by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 713 by Rodriguez congratulating Ramon Galindo on her selection by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 714 by Rodriguez congratulating Maggie Rivas-Rodriguez on her selection as the Austin history center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American firsts trailblazer of Austin and Travis county; HR 715 by Rodriguez congratulating Juan Cotera on his election by the Austin history center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American firsts trailblazer of Austin and Travis county; HR 716 by Rodriguez congratulating John Trevino, Jr., on his selection by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 717 by Rodriguez congratulating Fidel Estrada for his election by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 718 by Rodriguez congratulating Gloria Mata Pennington for the election by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 719 by Rodriguez congratulating Richard Moya for the election by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 720 by Rodriguez congratulating Arthur G. Cardenas for the selection by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 721 by Rodriguez paying tribute to life of Eustasio A. Cepeda was posthumously recognized by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 722 by Rodriguez congratulating Manuel Donley on the selection by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 723 by Rodriguez congratulating Gloria G. Moreno on the selection by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 724 by Rodriguez. Congratulating Mario Cruz on the selection by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 725 by Rodriguez paying tribute to the life of Margarita Munoz Simon by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 726 by Rodriguez. Congratulating Jorge Duron Guerra on the selection by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit, Mexican American Firsts; Trailblazer of Austin and Travis county. HR 727 by Rodriguez congratulating John Vasquez on the selection by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit, Mexican American Firsts Trailblazer of Austin and Travis county. HR 728 by Rodriguez congratulating Gustavo L. Garcia on his selection by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 729 by Rodriguez congratulating Rodolfo Mendez on the selection by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 730 by Rodriguez paying tribute to the life of Valentino M. Luna by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 731 by Rodriguez congratulating Gilbert C. Rivera on the selection by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 732 by Rodriguez congratulating Dr. Gonzalo Garza on the selection by the Austin History Center in conjunction with its exhibit Mexican American Firsts: Trailblazers of Austin and Travis County; HR 733 by Garza recognizing The Plan II Honors Program at The University of Texas at Austin celebrated the 75th anniversary of its founding in 2010; HR 734 by Flynn by congratulating Robert and Edna "Billie" Myrick of Greenville celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary on February 11, 2011; HR 738 by Raymond honoring Aurelia Lopez Gonzalez on the 90th birthday of an esteemed Texan special milestone on March 11, 2011; HR 739 by Burkett recognizing Sunnyvale Day at the State Capitol on March 23, 2011 at at the state Capitol. HR 742 by Caine congratulating Sybil McDonald McClendon, a valued member of theSulphur Springs community, celebrated her 88th birthday on February 6, 2011; HR 744 by Miles honoring Paula Harris for being chosen to serve as president of the Houston Independent School District Board of Education in 2011; HR 745 by Kolkhorst by congratulating Dr. Dana Gibson for being installed as the 13th president of Sam Houston State University at an investiture ceremony on March 8, 2011; HR 746 by Pitts congratulating Dr. Thomas R. Norris of McGregorn on his retirement as executive director of Education Service Center Region 12. HR 750 by Davis in Dallas commemorating the 2011, the Texas young Democrats for holding their 2011 convention in America South Central Regional Conference being held in Austin, April 1st through the 3rd, 2011. HR 752 by Schwertner congratulating Merlin and Delores Schwenk of Georgetown celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary. HR 753 by Button congratulating Ebby Halliday for celebrating her 100th birthday. HR 756 by Sheffield congratulating Lieutenant Colonel Deborah L. Van Dormolen of Salado for being named the 2010 Distinguished Military Retiree for Texas by the Fort Hood Retiree Council. HR 757 by Madden commemorating Mayor Gary A. Slagel on completing his public service. HR 766 by Marquez congratulating Tim Floyd for being the team's head coach on the University of Texas at El Paso basketball team. HR 767 by Marquez congratulating Arturo and Graciela Borrego of El Paso celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary. HR 768 by Marquez congratulating Omar Salgado for being the first player selected in the Major League Soccer 2011 SuperDraft. HR 769 by Marquez congratulating the swim team of Cathedral High School in El Paso in winning the 2010-2011 Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools Division 1 state championship. HR 774 by Castro congratulating Paul Huron IV of the Harmony Science Academy in San Antonio is compiling an impressive record of success in science fair competitions; HR 776 by Morrison congratulating Gus Kroos retired from his position as a unit director with H-E-B in Victoria. HR 778 by Munos congratulating The Mariachis Los Lobos band of Palmview High School won the class 5A championship at the High School All-State Mariachi Competition. HR 779 by Smith of Harris congratulating Charles Ganze on his retirement from the Gulf Coast Waste Disposal Authority. HR 782 by Sheffield honoring Keep Temple Beautiful (KTB) organization has significantly improved its community and for its service. HR 783 by Craddick Chevron has a notable 85-year history in the Permian Basin, and it recently reached the five billion barrel production milestone. HR 785 by Legg by commemorating the seventy five years of service by the Texas Bay Area Credit Union. HR 787 by Veasey. Congratulating The Reverend L. S. Wilson of Fort Worth on his 75th birthday. HR 788 by Hopson congratulating Katelyn Standley for making a verbal commitment to attend Stephen F. Austin State University and play for its softball team after she graduates from high school. HR 790 by Gooden recognizing March 14, 2011, as Cedar Creek Lake Area Day at the State Capitol. HR 795 by Veasey honoring The Eta Chapter of Eta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., in celebrating its 50th anniversary. HR 796 by Taylor of Collins honoring Sandi Stevens for her volunteer work in the community in the Dallas area. HR 797 by Taylor of Collin. Congratulating Jim Dunlap on his retirement as an instructor and curator at Holifield Science Learning Center in the Plano Independent School District. HR 798 by Taylor of Collins congratulating David Forinash of Plano is serving as the 2010-2011 drum major for The University of Texas at Austin Longhorn Band. HR 799 by Taylor of Collin recognizing Brad Shanklin is stepping down from the board of trustees of the Plano Independent School District at the end of his term. HR 800 by Taylor of Collin honoring Amy Chyao, a student at Plano East Senior High School, won the top prize at the 2010 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair and her acheivements. HR 801 by Taylor by Collin congratulating the Plain Senior High School School Debate Team for its success and its advancement to the Elite 8 of the 2010 to 2011 International Public Policy Forum. HR 802 by Taylor of Collin congratulating Jackie Hall of Plano on her retirement as executive director of the Assistance Center of Collin County. HR 803 by Taylor of Collin. Honoring LaShon D. Ross department city manager for her service to citizen of The City of Plano. HR 804 by Taylor of Collin honoring Rounok Joardar of Plano West Senior High School in earning one of only six first-place awards at the National Junior Science and Humanities Symposium. HR 805 by King of Taylor honoring the Sons of Abilene for providing the Texas Legislature with special Bibles embossed with the state seal, many of which are used by the members of the House Bible Study group. HR 810 by Marquez congratulating The boys' basketball team from Bowie High School in El Paso closed out the 2010-2011 regular season with a 66-59 victory over Chapin High School. HR 811 by Marquez commemorating The first annual Neon Desert Music Festival that is taking place in El Paso on April 30, 2011. HR 812 by White recognizing The Texas Forestry Association for sponsoring a seedling giveaway at the State Capitol on March 23, 2011.
THE SPEAKER: Members, the question is on the adoption of the congratulatory resolutions read by the clerk. Is there objection? Chair hears none. All the congratulatory resolutions are adopted. Members, we are about to go on the Memorial Calendar. Members, would you please take your seats? If you have conversations please move your conversations outside the rail. Members, please take your seats. The following Memorial Resolutions have been previously adopted: HR686. Chair lays out the following Memorial Resolutions. The Clerk will read the resolutions.
CLERK: HCR73 by Hughes. In memory of Gean Glacier of Gilmer. HR692 by Woolley in memory of Nancy Gene Dale Palm of Houston. HR755 by Castro in memory of U.S. Army Specialist Omar Soltero of San Antonio. HR758 by Pitts. In memory of Ruth Peerburden of Waxihashi. HR759 by Branch, paying tribute to the fallen heros at the Battle of Alamo. HR730 by Hunter, in memory of Edward Galvan in Corpus Christi. HR765 by Gallego, in memory of Robert Palm of Alpine. HR772 by Dutton, in memory of James Edward Bars of hundred. HR789 by Hopson, in memory of Floyd W. Stifer, a former Jacksonville Chief of Police, City Council Member.
THE SPEAKER: Members, the question is on the adoption of the Memorial Resolutions read by the clerk. Members, these are Memorial Resolutions. All those in favor please rise. The Memorial Resolutions are unanimously adopted. That concludes our calendars. Thank you. Mr. Menendez, Mr. Miles, and Mr. Creighton. Chair recognizes Representative Miles for an introduction.
REPRESENTATIVE BORRIS MILES: Madam Speaker and members, could you join me in welcoming Pastor Nash and the members of his congregation from the Saint Paul Missionary from my district, 146? He has brought over a hundred kids here today to the Capitol to find out how we work here in the Capitol. Pastor Nash, if you would please rise, along with your members of the group? Members, would you please help me in giving them a round of a applause? Hopefully you enjoy the day at your Capitol. This is your Capitol so please enjoy your day and learn all you can today.
THE SPEAKER: Is Mr. Creighton on the floor of the House? Is Mr. Coleman on the floor of the House? Members, if you have any announcements please bring them down in the front. Chair recognizes Representative Farrar and her page for today, Mr. Soto.
REPRESENTATIVE JESSICA FARRAR: Mr. Speaker and members, we've an announcement that the Democratic Caucus will meet, upon adjournment, in the Old Spring Courtroom.
THE SPEAKER: Mr. Branch, would you please come down? The Chair recognizes Representative Branch for a motion.
REPRESENTATIVE DAN BRANCH: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Members, I request permission for the Commission on State Sovereignty Select to meet while the House is in session during the reading and referral of bills on March the 17th, 2011. The location will be E2.010, to consider previously posted bills. Thank you.
THE SPEAKER: Members, is there any objections? If not, so ordered. The Chair recognizes Representative Coleman for a motion.
REPRESENTATIVE GARNET COLEMAN: Thank you, Mr. Speaker and members. I request for permission -- Thank you, Mr. Speaker and members, I request permission for the Committee on Current Affairs to meet while the House is in session during the reading and referral of bills today, 3/17/11, in E2.916, to consider the posted agenda.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? If not, so ordered. Chair recognizes Representative Callegari.
REPRESENTATIVE BILL CALLEGARI: Members, I'd like to move that the Committee of Governing Efficiency to reform during the House is in session during the readings and referrals of bills today, E104, to consider pending business and previously posted agenda.
THE SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? If not, so ordered. Members, are there any other announcements? If not, Representative Legler moves that the House stands adjourned pending the reading and referral of resolutions until 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 21st. The following bills on first reading and referral:
CLERK: HB1 by Pitts. Referred to Appropriations. General Appropriations Bill. HB 13 by Kolkhorst. Referred to Public Health. Relating to the Medicaid program and alternate methods of providing health services to low-income persons in this state. HB 1598 by Marquez. Referred to Public Health. Relating to the period of continuous eligibility for the medical assistance program. HB 1720 by John Davis of Harris. Referred to Energy Resources. Relating to energy savings performance contracts. HB 1738 by Woolley. Referred to Public Health. Relating to the eligibility of certain individuals for medical assistance on confinement in, placement in, detention in, or commitment to and release from certain facilities and other settings. HB 2368 by Parker. Referred to Public Health. Relating to copayments under the medical assistance program. HB 2478 by Perry. Referred to Public Health. Relating to the provision of nonemergency medical services to Medicaid recipients and reimbursement for those services. HB 2664 by Parker. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to the abolition of the Texas Facilities Commission and the transfer of its duties to the comptroller, General Land Office, and State Preservation Board. HB 2820. By Farias. Referred to Human Services. Relating to the establishment of a pilot program in Bexar County to provide an educational course to certain parents on the effects of child abuse and neglect. HB 2821 by Paxton. Referred to Business & Industry. Relating to posting notice of real property sale by electronic display. HB 2822 by Coleman. Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence. Relating to the penalty for and certain other civil consequences of engaging in disorderly conduct for a lewd or unlawful purpose. HB 2823 by Coleman. Referred to Homeland Security & Public Safety. Relating to educational and training requirements for certain peace officers on ethical decision making. HB 2824 by Zerwas. Referred to Culture, Recreation & Tourism. Relating to negotiations with the United Mexican States for purchase or lease of the New Orleans Greys flag flown during the Battle of the Alamo. HB 2825 by Otto. Relating to the investment management of the permanent university fund. HB 2826 by Murphy. Referred to Environmental Regulation. Caption: Relating to the issuance of a certificate for a municipal setting designation. HB 2827 by Hopson. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to coverage for certain pharmaceutical services by a workers' compensation insurance carrier. HB 2828 by Callegari. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to the offense of coercing a person to have or seek an abortion and informed and voluntary consent for an abortion; providing penalties. HB 2829 by McClendon. Referred to Business & Industry. Caption: Relating to requiring the disclosure of certain information to purchasers and renters of residential property in certain counties. HB 2830 by Huberty. Referred to Public Education. Caption: Relating to the development of a model individualized education program form by the Texas Education Agency. HB 2831 by Darby. Referred to Economic & Small Business Development. Caption: Relating to maximizing federal funding of extended unemployment benefits. HB 2832 by Smith, Wayne. Referred to Environmental Regulation. Caption: Relating to the idling of motor vehicles. HB 2833 by White. Referred to Agriculture & Livestock. Caption: Relating to the classification and care of working dogs. HB 2834 by Smithee. Referred to Insurance. Caption: Relating to insurer receivership. HB 2835 by Smithee. Referred to Insurance. Caption: Relating to the functions of insurance holding company systems. HB 2836 by Smithee. Referred to Insurance. Caption: Relating to the regulation of title insurance rates. HB 2837 by Smithee. Referred to Insurance. Caption: Relating to regulation of title insurance rates. HB 2838 by Smithee. Referred to Insurance. Caption: Relating to the regulation of title insurance rates. HB 2839 by Smithee. *Referred to Insurance. Caption: Relating to regulation of title insurance rates on a file and use basis. HB 2840 by Smithee. *Referred to Insurance. Caption: Relating to petitions for judicial review of orders on excessive or unfairly discriminatory residential property premium rates. HB 2841 by Gallego. *Referred to State Affairs. Caption: Relating to the authority of the Public Utility Commission of Texas to protect telecommunications network integrity from unauthorized or uncompensated use. HB 2842 by Gallego. Referred to Appropriations. Caption: Relating to Internet posting by the Legislative Budget Board of certain budget documents. HB 2843 by Madden. Referred to Public Education. Relating to the provision of additional opportunities for instruction through the state virtual school network. HB 2844 by Madden. Referred to Corrections. Relating to the supervision of certain people convicted of a criminal offense and to the organization and operation of certain correctional entities. HB 2845 by Madden. Referred to Corrections. Relating to the authority of a judge to impose a period of confinement in a county jail for a violation of a condition of community supervision. HB 2846 by Madden. Referred to Business & Industry. Relating to certain procedures and civil penalties under the Deceptive Trade Practices-Consumer Protection Act. HB 2847 by Madden. Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence. Relating to the use of video teleconferencing systems in certain criminal proceedings. HB 2848 by Smithee. Referred to Public Education. Relating to treatment under the public school finance system of a school district that imposes a maintenance and operations tax at a rate below the rate otherwise required for entitlement to state funding. HB 2849 by Simpson. Referred to Energy Resources. Relating to the rights of an owner of the surface estate in land in connection with mineral exploration and production operations; providing administrative and criminal penalties. HB 2850 by Mallory Caraway. Referred to Homeland Security & Public Safety. Relating to a prohibition on the sale or transfer of certain law enforcement vehicles before removal of certain equipment and insignia. Referred to Defense & Veterans' Affairs. Relating to deferral of certain surcharge payments for active duty military personnel. HB 2852 by Mallory Caraway. Referred to Urban Affairs. Relating to requiring signs at intersections with photographic traffic monitoring systems and photographic traffic signal enforcement systems. HB 2853 by Davis, John. Referred to Ways & Means. Relating to tax increment financing. HB 2854 by Truitt. Referred to Public Health. Relating to the employment of physicians by certain hospitals associated with nonprofit fraternal organizations. HB 2855 by Howard, Charlie. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to marriage education courses for certain couples filing for divorce on the grounds of insupportability. HB 2856 by Gallego. Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence. Relating to criminal asset forfeiture, the disposition of proceeds and property from criminal asset forfeiture, and accountability for that disposition; providing civil penalties. HB 2857 by Gallego. Referred to County Affairs. Relating to regulation of outdoor lighting in certain areas; providing a criminal penalty and for injunctive relief. HB 2858 by Gallego. Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence. Relating to the definition of emergency services personnel for purposes of the enhanced penalty prescribed for an assault committed against a person providing services in that capacity. HB 2859 by Gallego. Referred to Natural Resources. Relating to the creation of the Terrell County Groundwater Conservation District; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds. HB 2860 by Davis, Yvonne. Referred to Urban Affairs. Relating to public improvement districts designated by a municipality or county. HB 2861 by Davis, Yvonne. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to documents filed with a district, county, or court clerk. HB 2862 by Davis, Yvonne. Referred to Insurance. Relating to coverage of household residents under a personal automobile insurance policy. HB 2863 by Davis, Yvonne. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to the authority of certain legislative committees to investigate alleged violations of law by state officials, employees, and agencies. HB 2864 by Davis, Yvonne. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to the disclosure required by an officer of the executive branch on the nomination of an appointed officer. HB 2865 by Harper-Brown. Referred to Government Efficiency & Reform. Relating to the management of the state vehicle fleet. HB 2866 by Harper-Brown. Referred to Government Efficiency & Reform. Relating to the electronic submission of certain documents to the attorney general and the submission of certain documents by the attorney general; imposing certain fees. HB 2867 by Harper-Brown. Referred to Elections. Relating to the inclusion of financial information of a spouse or a dependent child on the financial statement required to be filed by certain public officers, candidates, and state party chairs. HB 2868 by Harper-Brown. Referred to Licensing & Administrative Procedures. Relating to the regulation of talent agencies. HB 2869 by Harper-Brown. Referred to Business & Industry. Relating to the powers and duties of certain master mixed-use property owners' associations. HB 2870 by Harper-Brown. Referred to Government Efficiency & Reform. Relating to the elimination of certain required reports prepared by state agencies and institutions of higher education. HB 2871 by Aliseda. Referred to Environmental Regulation. Relating to a disposal fee for motor vehicle tires. HB 2872 by Orr. Referred to Transportation. Relating to restrictions on the sale of certain motor vehicles at vehicle shows or exhibitions. HB 2873 by Perry | Zerwas | Kolkhorst | Shelton | Chisum. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to the creation of a state court to hear cases involving insurance and Medicaid fraud. HB 2874 by Geren. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to the regulation of Voice over Internet Protocol service. HB 2875 by Davis, Sarah. Referred to Elections. Relating to election practices and procedures pertaining to voters not included on the poll list. HB 2876 by Aycock. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to reimbursement by the state for attorney ad litem fees paid by counties in certain suits affecting the parent-child relationship. HB 2877 by Aycock. Last Action: 03/22/2011 H Scheduled for public hearing on . . . Relating to required sale or lease of unused or underutilized school district facilities to charter schools. HB 2878 by Berman. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to the creation of certain criminal offenses involving unauthorized aliens, to the forfeiture of property in relation to criminal offenses involving unauthorized aliens, and to the creation of a private cause of action for employing or contracting with unauthorized aliens. HB 2879 by King, Phil. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to the abolishment of the Texas Historical Commission and the transfer of its duties to the Parks and Wildlife Commission, the General Land Office, and the Texas State Library and Archives Commission. HB 2880 by Scott. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to the organization of the Court of Appeals for the Thirteenth Court of Appeals District and to the creation of the Fifteenth Court of Appeals District. HB 2881 by Scott. Referred to Transportation. Relating to state financing of public transportation. HB 2882 by Scott. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to subrogation of certain costs for services provided or paid by the Nueces County Hospital District; providing penalties. HB 2883 by Weber. Referred to Public Education. Relating to a disciplinary proceeding for a professional employee of a school district based on the employee's use of physical force against a student. HB 2884 by Solomons. Referred to Transportation. Relating to coordinated county transportation authorities; creating an offense. HB 2885 by Workman. Referred to Energy Resources. Relating to the regulation of liquid propane gas tanks on residential property. HB 2886 by Workman | Murphy. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to the establishment of a work program for certain persons not legally authorized to be in the United States; providing penalties. HB 2887 by Fletcher. Referred to Homeland Security & Public Safety. Relating to the disposition of forfeited property seized by the Texas Department of Public Safety in certain investigations of violations of the Texas Controlled Substances Act. HB 2888 by Munoz, Jr. Referred to Natural Resources. Relating to expedited release from a certificate of public convenience and necessity for water and sewer service for certain landowners. HB 2889 by Madden. Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence. Relating to the expunction of records and files relating to a person's arrest. HB 2890 by Simpson. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to an employee's transportation and storage of certain firearms or ammunition while on certain property owned or controlled by the employee's employer. HB 2891 by Sheets. Referred to Elections. Relating to the provision of a voter's fingerprints with a mailed ballot. HB 2892 by Sheets. Referred to Transportation. Relating to prima facie speed limits. HB 2893 by Isaac. Referred to Natural Resources. Relating to the Ranch at Clear Fork Creek Municipal Utility District No. 1; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds; granting a limited power of eminent domain. HB 2894 by Torres. Referred to Defense & Veterans' Affairs. Relating to discount programs for members of the armed services provided by toll project entities. HB 2895 by Miller, Doug. Last Action: 03/22/2011 H Scheduled for public hearing on . . . Relating to rate proceedings before a regulatory authority regarding water utility rates. HB 2896 by King, Tracy O. Referred to Homeland Security & Public Safety. Relating to duties of law enforcement involving damaged fences and to compensation to property owners for property damage resulting from vehicular pursuit. HB 2897 by Naishtat. Referred to Transportation. Relating to the driver safety courses for individuals under the age of 25 and to the driving course requirements for those individuals when receiving deferred adjudication of certain traffic offenses. HB 2898 by Morrison. Referred to Higher Education. Relating to the issuance of tuition revenue bonds for the University of Houston-Victoria. HB 2899 by Hartnett. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to decedents' estates. HB 2900 by Hartnett. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to guardianships. HB 2901 by Miller, Doug. Referred to Ways & Means. Relating to the priority of a lien for funds advanced by the transferee of an ad valorem tax lien. HB 2902 by Zerwas. Referred to Land & Resource Management. Relating to the release of extraterritorial jurisdiction by certain general-law municipalities. HB 2903 by Zerwas. Referred to Public Health. Relating to the program of all-inclusive care for the elderly. HB 2904 by Zerwas. Referred to Public Health. Relating to the administration of a centralized Texas organ donation registry. HB 2905 by Branch. Referred to Higher Education. Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of higher education for certain military personnel, veterans, and dependents residing in this state. HB 2906 by Branch. Referred to Higher Education. Relating to the amount of a tuition equalization grant. HB 2907 by Branch. Referred to Higher Education. Relating to the requirements for and procedures governing tuition equalization grants. HB 2908 by Branch. Referred to Higher Education. Relating to providing graduate medical education positions for Texas medical school graduates. HB 2909 by Branch. Referred to Higher Education. Relating to increasing awareness in this state of the importance of higher education. HB 2910 by Branch. Referred to Higher Education. Relating to agreements between the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and certain organizations for increasing degree completion rates. HB 2911 by Branch. Referred to Higher Education. Relating to guaranteed student loans and alternative education loans. HB 2912 by Branch. Referred to Higher Education. Relating to the administration of certain supplemental student loan programs and the issuance of private activity bonds by qualified nonprofit corporations. HB 2913 by Munoz, Jr. Referred to Higher Education. Relating to the operation of dropout recovery programs by certain public junior colleges in partnership with school districts. HB 2914 by Frullo. Referred to Government Efficiency & Reform. Relating to the study of efficiency, productivity, and cost-effectiveness in state agency operations. HB 2915 by Frullo. Referred to Public Education. Relating to the requirements for a driver education instructor license. HB 2916 by Davis, John. Referred to Appropriations. Relating to the administration of certain housing and energy assistance programs. HB 2917 by McClendon. Referred to Transportation. Relating to the optional county fee for the county road and bridge fund. HB 2918 by McClendon. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to debt collection for unpaid child support against student financial assistance proceeds. HB 2919 by Reynolds. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to state bar rules adopted or amended by the supreme court. HB 2920 by Reynolds. Referred to Urban Affairs. Relating to the authority of a governing body of a Type C General Law City to adopt an ordinance to determine the manner of when commissioners run for elected office. HB 2921 by Lewis. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to the power of the office of the attorney general to make certain examinations and inquiries. HB 2922 by Smithee. Referred to Insurance. Relating to the refund of excessively or unfairly discriminatory premiums paid for certain personal lines of insurance. HB 2923 by Huberty. Referred to State Sovereignty, Select. Relating to state sovereignty over curriculum standards, assessments, and student information. HB 2924 by Taylor, Larry. Referred to Insurance. Relating to contractual limitations periods in property insurance policies. HB 2925 by Farias. Referred to Pensions, Investments & Financial Services. Relating to the extension of consumer credit to certain members of the Texas National Guard and armed forces of the United States and their dependents; providing a penalty. HB 2926 by Farias. Referred to Public Education. Relating to reporting by school districts for purposes of the Public Education Information Management System (PEIMS) of data on students who drop out or otherwise leave public school. HB 2927 by Farias. Referred to Ways & Means. Relating to the system for appraising property for ad valorem tax purposes. HB 2928 by Farias. Referred to Defense & Veterans' Affairs. Relating to privileged parking for recipients of the Silver Star Medal specialty license plate. HB 2929 by Elkins. Referred to Licensing & Administrative Procedures. Relating to the sale of salvage motor vehicles and the regulation of salvage vehicle dealers; providing a civil penalty. HB 2930 by Woolley. Referred to County Affairs. Relating to contracting for and making purchases with proceeds from a commissary for the use of inmates in the jails of certain counties. HB 2931 by Woolley. Referred to Pensions, Investments & Financial Services. Relating to debt cancellation agreements. HB 2932 by Castro. Referred to Public Education. Relating to college preparatory courses offered by school districts for local course credit. HB 2933 by Castro. Referred to Insurance. Relating to the collection of data related to health benefit plan claims for the treatment of a child's serious mental illness. HB 2934 by Castro. Referred to Pensions, Investments & Financial Services. Relating to optional annuity increases and annual supplemental payments for certain retirees and beneficiaries of the Texas Municipal Retirement System. HB 2935 by Castro. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to the appointment of a court reporter by a criminal law magistrate in Bexar County. HB 2936 by Castro. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to the administration of district courts in Bexar County. HB 2937 by Lewis. Referred to Homeland Security & Public Safety. Relating to access to the criminal history record information of certain individuals by public or private institutions of higher education and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. HB 2938 by Strama. Referred to Energy Resources. Relating to a grant program for certain natural gas motor vehicles. HB 2939 by King, Tracy O. Referred to Natural Resources. Relating to the annual reporting of groundwater use in activities related to the exploration or drilling for or production of oil or gas by owners or operators of oil and gas wells. HB 2940 by King, Tracy O. Referred to Public Health. Relating to the form of death certificates and fetal death certificates. HB 2941 by Zerwas. Referred to Higher Education. Relating to the intercollegiate athletics fee at Prairie View A&M University. HB 2942 by Workman. Referred to Natural Resources. Relating to the creation and financing of the Lakeway Regional Medical Center Defined Area in Travis County Water Control and Improvement District No. 17; providing authority to impose a tax and issue bonds. HB 2943 by Coleman. Referred to Ways & Means. Relating to property taxing entities' bond and debt reporting requirements to the Bond Review Board. HB 2944 by Coleman. Referred to County Affairs. Relating to Internet availability of bonds and other debt obligations issued by local governments. HB 2945 by Coleman. Referred to County Affairs. Relating to the promotion of efficiencies in and the administration of certain county services and functions. HB 2946 by Coleman. Referred to Insurance. Relating to group health benefit plan coverage for loss or impairment of speech, language, or hearing. HB 2947 by Coleman. Referred to County Affairs. Relating to the exception of an audit working paper of a hospital district from required disclosure under the public information law. HB 2948 by Lozano. Referred to Transportation. Relating to the designation of certain highways as part of the Purple Heart Trail. HB 2949 by Cook. Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence. Relating to the administration of the collection improvement program. HB 2950 by Lozano. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to the limitation of liability of certain landowners. HB 2951 by Larson. Referred to Transportation. Relating to the sunset review of regional mobility authorities. HB 2952 by Cain | Chisum. Referred to Ways & Means. Relating to municipal, county, and school district and other special district budgets. HB 2953 by Cain. Referred to Government Efficiency & Reform. Relating to the state agency concurrence required before certain federal regulatory action is imposed on regulated business entities in this state. HB 2954 by Cain. Referred to Appropriations. Relating to eliminating longevity pay for state employees and judicial officers and authorizing merit pay for certain state employees. HB 2955 by Legler. Referred to Economic & Small Business Development. Relating to liability for obtaining improper unemployment compensation benefits. HB 2956 by Legler. Referred to Economic & Small Business Development. Relating to the recovery of fraudulently obtained unemployment benefits or of taxes or fees owed to the state. HB 2957 by Davis, John. Referred to Homeland Security & Public Safety. Relating to due process for certain law enforcement officers. HB 2958 by Paxton. Referred to Ways & Means. Relating to the effect of a change in the state sales and use tax base on certain ad valorem tax rates of certain taxing units and the dedication of revenue attributable to the expansion of the state sales and use tax base to ad valorem tax relief. HB 2959 by Price. Referred to Elections. Relating to the required transfer of records to a new county chair of a political party; providing a penalty. HB 2960 by Darby. Referred to Transportation. Relating to farm vehicles and vehicles controlled and operated by farmers. HB 2961 by Darby | Ritter | Chisum | Strama | Crownover. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to the creation of a program for the development of solar energy industry in this state. HB 2962 by Bohac. Referred to Natural Resources. Relating to the revocation or amendment of a certificate of public convenience and necessity for water or sewer service. HB 2963 by Crownover. Referred to Energy Resources. Relating to permit review timelines of the surface mining and reclamation division of the Railroad Commission of Texas. HB 2964 by Naishtat. Referred to County Affairs. Relating to the powers of certain hospital districts regarding district properties and facilities. HB 2965 by Naishtat. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to the powers and duties of an attorney ad litem appointed for a parent in certain suits affecting the parent-child relationship. HB 2966 by Naishtat. Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence. Relating to the confidentiality of certain communications and records made or collected in reference to certain sexual assault survivors. HB 2967 by Naishtat. Referred to County Affairs. Relating to the authority of the Travis County Healthcare District to make capital or financial contributions to charitable organizations. HB 2968 by Naishtat. Referred to Public Health. Relating to birth records of adopted children. HB 2969 by Oliveira. Referred to Land & Resource Management. Relating to authorizing the sale of certain real property held by certain state agencies. HB 2970 by Oliveira. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to the abolition of the Texas Facilities Commission and the transfer of its duties to the General Land Office. HB 2971 by Smith, Todd. Last Action: 03/22/2011 H Scheduled for public hearing on . . . Relating to the confidentiality of documents evaluating the performance of public school teachers and administrators. HB 2972 by Smith, Todd. Referred to Ways & Means. Relating to the municipal street maintenance tax. HB 2973 by Hunter. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to encouraging public participation by citizens by protecting a person's right to petition, right of free speech, and right of association from meritless lawsuits arising from actions taken in furtherance of those rights. HB 2974 by Hunter. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to encouraging public participation by citizens by protecting a person's right to petition, right of free speech, and right of association. HB 2975 by Hunter. Referred to Public Health. Relating to the treatment of tick-borne diseases. HB 2976 by Hunter. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to the recording of proceedings and the issuance of a warrant to take physical custody of a child in certain suits affecting the parent-child relationship; creating an offense. HB 2977 by Hunter. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to electronic communications during a public meeting; creating an offense. HB 2978 by Hunter. Referred to County Affairs. Relating to the applicability of open meetings requirements to certain meetings of the governing board of a county hospital or county hospital authority. HB 2979 by Hunter. Referred to County Affairs. Relating to county authority to provide certain exemptions to restrictions on outdoor burning. HB 2980 by Hunter. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to the assessment of litigation costs in certain actions under the public information law. HB 2981 by Hunter. Referred to Transportation. Relating to the operation on a highway or street of a motor vehicle that is drawing a boat or personal watercraft in or on which a person is riding; providing a penalty. HB 2982 by Orr. Referred to Pensions, Investments & Financial Services. Relating to the composition of the Finance Commission of Texas. HB 2983 by Creighton. Referred to Natural Resources. Relating to the qualification of supervisors of a fresh water supply district. HB 2984 by Smith, Wayne. Referred to Environmental Regulation. Relating to the remediation of underground storage tanks and the fee on delivery of certain petroleum products. HB 2985 by Parker. Referred to Transportation. Relating to certain comprehensive development agreements of the Texas Department of Transportation. HB 2986 by Parker. Referred to Elections. Relating to political expenditures made by labor organizations; providing civil and criminal penalties. HB 2987 by Parker. Referred to Environmental Regulation. Relating to establishing an account for the purchase or operation of emissions monitoring devices in certain counties. HB 2988 by Parker. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to prohibiting abortion except when medically necessary. HB 2989 by Deshotel. Referred to Business & Industry. Relating to establishing the Workplace Fraud Prevention Act; providing penalties. HB 2990 by Deshotel. Referred to Homeland Security & Public Safety. Relating to the electronic storage of personal identification information obtained from driver's licenses or personal identification certificates. HB 2991 by Deshotel. Referred to Business & Industry. Relating to the reasonable relation of qualified transactions to particular jurisdictions. HB 2992 by Miles. Referred to Government Efficiency & Reform. Relating to planning and administration of the state's historically underutilized business program. HB 2993 by Miles. Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence. Relating to offenses involving violating the civil rights of a person in custody and engaging in improper sexual activity with a person in custody; providing certain enhanced penalties. HB 2994 by Miles. Referred to Agriculture & Livestock. Relating to the creation, operation, and funding of the urban farm microenterprise support program. HB 2995 by Miles. Referred to State Affairs. Relating to an exemption for urban farms from payment for wastewater service. HB 2996 by Miles. Referred to Agriculture & Livestock. Relating to the creation of the Texas Urban Agricultural Innovation Authority. HB 2997 by Miles. Referred to Agriculture & Livestock. Relating to the creation and funding of the urban farming pilot program and the creation of the Select Committee on Urban Farming. HB 2998 by Miles. Referred to Ways & Means. Relating to ad valorem tax relief for urban farms and green roofs. HB 2999 by Lewis. Referred to Higher Education. Relating to a fixed tuition rate program for certain students who transfer to a state university after completing an associate degree program. HB 3000 by Thompson | Anchia | Weber | Christian | Gallego. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to creating the offense of continuous trafficking of persons; providing a penalty and other civil consequences. HB 3001 by Thompson. Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence. Relating to the electronic monitoring of certain high-risk sex offenders; providing a penalty. HB 3002 by Hughes. Referred to Natural Resources. Relating to certain conservation and reclamation districts exempted from filing a full audit. HB 3003 by Hughes. Referred to County Affairs. Relating to the issuance of an identification card to certain individuals to permit entrance into certain county buildings without passing through security services. HB 3004 by Nash. Referred to Pensions, Investments & Financial Services. Relating to prepaid funeral benefits contracts and the prepaid funeral contract guaranty fund. HB 3005 by Paxton. Referred to Insurance. Relating to exemptions to persons required to hold a limited property and casualty license. HB 3006 by Bonnen. Referred to Public Education. Relating to the minimum number of days of service for public school educators and the required number of days of instruction for public school students. HB 3007 by Bonnen. Referred to Public Education. Relating to eliminating the requirement that a school district assess the physical fitness of students. HB 3008 by Bonnen. Referred to Public Education. Relating to the salary paid to certain professional employees of public schools. HB 3009 by Bonnen. Referred to Public Education. Relating to removal of the requirements concerning random testing for illegal steroids of high school students participating in athletic competitions sponsored or sanctioned by the University Interscholastic League. HB 3010 by Bonnen. Referred to Public Education. Relating to the schedule for administration of state-administered assessment instruments in public schools. HB 3011 by Giddings. Referred to Business & Industry. Relating to prohibiting the use or retention of zip codes obtained by businesses in verifying the identity of customers; providing a civil penalty. HB 3012 by Giddings. Referred to Ways & Means. Relating to the exemption from the sales tax for certain school art supplies during limited periods. HB 3013 by Giddings. Referred to Licensing & Administrative Procedures. Relating to the renewal of an expired cosmetology operator license. HB 3014 by Oliveira. Referred to Ways & Means. Relating to the tax exemption for permanent hotel residents. HB 3015 by Oliveira. Last Action: 03/10/2011 H Filed. Relating to the Texas Economic Development Act. HB 3016 by Oliveira. Last Action: 03/10/2011 H Filed. Relating to energy aggregation by counties in certain areas. HB 3017 by Smithee. Referred to Insurance. Relating to the prohibited use of discretionary clauses in certain health maintenance organization and insurance contracts. HB 3018 by Gutierrez. Referred to Public Education. Relating to a policy of a school district concerning possession of a paging device by a student. HB 3019 by Gutierrez. Referred to Elections. Relating to the option to vote a paper ballot. HB 3020 by Gutierrez. Referred to Business & Industry. Relating to rest breaks for employees of certain contractors with a governmental entity. HB 3021 by Creighton. Last Action: 03/22/2011 H Scheduled for public hearing on . . . Relating to best practices for credit services organizations. HB 3022 by Flynn. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to the appointment of a bailiff for the 196th District Court. HB 3023 by Smithee. Referred to Insurance. Relating to the institution of a formal delinquency proceeding against the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association. HB 3024 by Smithee. Referred to Insurance. Relating to the Fair Access to Insurance Requirements (FAIR) Plan Association. HB 3025 by Branch. Referred to Higher Education. Relating to measures to facilitate the transfer of students within the public higher education system and the timely graduation of students from public institutions of higher education. HB 3026 by Weber. Referred to Public Education. Relating to home-rule school districts. HB 3027 by Weber | Hilderbran | King, Phil | Chisum. Referred to Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence. Relating to the application of foreign laws and foreign forum selection in this state. HB 3028 by Weber | Hughes. Referred to Public Education. Relating to activities by the University Interscholastic League involving sports officials. HB 3029 by Smith, Wayne. Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence. Relating to the conditions for release on bond of a defendant charged with certain intoxication offenses. HB 3030 by McClendon. Referred to Transportation. Relating to the funding of projects in the boundaries of an intermunicipal commuter rail district. HB 3031 by McClendon. Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence. Relating to granting certain persons convicted of a felony deferred adjudication community supervision. HB 3032 by McClendon. Referred to Transportation. Relating to the Texas rail relocation and improvement fund. HB 3033 by Naishtat. Referred to Pensions, Investments & Financial Services. Relating to retirement under public retirement systems for employees of certain municipalities. HB 3034 by McClendon. Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence. Relating to the authority of certain magistrates to issue certain search warrants. HB 3035 by Alvarado. Referred to Urban Affairs. Relating to the grievance procedure for firefighters and police officers in certain municipalities. HB 3036 by Alvarado. Referred to Ways & Means. Relating to the municipal street maintenance sales tax. HB 3037 by Chisum. Referred to Environmental Regulation. Relating to contested case hearings for environmental permits. HB 3038 by Chisum. Referred to Business & Industry. Relating to unenforceable restrictive covenants affecting residential homes. HB 3039 by Chisum. Referred to Ways & Means. Relating to exempting from ad valorem taxation certain real property used to provide housing to certain persons with disabilities. HB 3040 by Chisum. Referred to Business & Industry. Relating to lender notice of default to contractors regarding a construction loan or financing agreement for an improvement to real property and related procedures for suspending contractors' performance. HB 3041 by Kleinschmidt. Referred to Public Health. Relating to certain procedures for dispensing narcotic drugs by prescription. HB 3042 by Kleinschmidt. Referred to Licensing & Administrative Procedures. Relating to the creation of an instant-ticket lottery game with revenue dedicated to providing grants for breast cancer research, education, and patient treatment and support. HB 3043 by Eissler. Referred to Public Education. Relating to an alcohol awareness component of the science curriculum used in public schools. HB 3044 by Eissler. Referred to County Affairs. Relating to the regulation of certain activities on a public highway or road, the right-of-way of a public highway or road, or a parking lot. HB 3045 by Lucio III. Referred to Pensions, Investments & Financial Services. Relating to the regulation of the location of pawnshops in certain counties. HB 3046 by Lucio III. Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence. Relating to monitoring the retention, preservation, and disposition of physical evidence gathered in a criminal investigation. HB 3047 by Lucio III. Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence. Relating to the powers of a criminal law hearing officer in Cameron County. HB 3048 by Lucio III. Referred to Pensions, Investments & Financial Services. Relating to currency exchange. HB 3049 by Lucio III. Referred to Transportation. Relating to the designation of a portion of State Highway 499 as the Colonel Bill Card, Jr., Boulevard. HB 3050 by Lucio III. Referred to Homeland Security & Public Safety. Relating to the seizure of contraband by law enforcement agencies. HB 3051 by Pickett. Referred to Human Services. Relating to the provision of child care by certain facilities exempt from child-care licensing requirements. HB 3052 by Lozano. Referred to Higher Education. Relating to authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds for capital projects at Texas A&M University - Kingsville. HB 3053 by Paxton. Referred to Human Services. Relating to efficiency in the delivery of health and human services. HB 3054 by Pena. Referred to Elections. Relating to disclosures for certain political advertising. HB 3055 by Pena. Referred to Elections. Relating to the penalty for providing false information on an application for a ballot to be voted by mail. HB 3056 by Pena. Referred to Criminal Jurisprudence. Relating to the forfeiture of contraband used in the commission of certain offenses. HB 3057 by Pena. Referred to Elections. Relating to the distribution of voter registration applications by volunteer deputy registrars; creating an offense.
THE SPEAKER: The House stands adjourned until 11:00 o'clock on Monday pending reading and referral of bills.
