LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, the Senate will come to order, and the secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Madam Secretary. Members, a quorum is present. Would all those on the floor rise. And in the gallery. Ladies and gentlemen, if you don't mind, to rise for the invocation this morning to be delivered by Father Jamie Matthias, Crystal Ray Church here in Austin. Father.

PASTOR: Let us pray. All powerful God, we thank You for the many gifts You continue to shower upon us for the gifts of life and health of family and friends and of the great responsibility of shepherding the people of this great state. We ask You to bless us today as we begin this legislative session, enlighten us that we might act wisely to ensure the brightest possible future for the people of our state. We ask this in Your name. You who live and reign forever and ever. Amen.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Father. Ladies and gentlemen, please be seated. Thank you so much. Thank you kindly. Members, Senator Whitmore moves to dispense with the reading of yesterday's journal. Is there objection from any member? The Chair hears no objection. So ordered. The Chair recognizes Senator Nichols to introduce the doctor for the day.

SENATOR NICHOLS: Thank you, Mr. President and members. It is my privilege to spouse Dr. Keith Miller who is serving as our doctor of the day today. He lives in Center, Texas and also served as doctor of the day in 2009. He a graduate of University of Arkansas Medical School where he did his residency as a member of the Texas Academy of Family Physicians and sits on the Baylor University Development Council. With him is Brett Shirley who is a fourth year medical student. Please, members, join me in welcoming Dr. Keith Miller to the floor and Brett Shirley.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Senator Duncan, I'm going to recognize you, but, ladies and gentlemen, every time I visit with teachers and I speak with teachers the first thing I do is I start off and I say bless your hearts for what you do and I end by saying bless your hearts for what you do. Chair recognizes -- the Chair lays out Senate Resolution No. 573 by Senator Duncan. The secretary will read the resolution.

PATSY SPAW: Senate Resolution 573 recognizing March 21st through the 25th, 2011 as Texas Retired Teachers Week. By Duncan.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Chair recognizes Senator -- Chair recognizes Senator Duncan to explain the resolution.

SENATOR DUNCAN: Thank you, Mr. President, members. Members, in the gallery today there are those who made it possible for each and every one of us on this floor to be here today and these are our retired teachers of the state of Texas. And you have recognized them over the years in your legislative decisions. Texas has one of the most healthy retirement systems for our retired teachers, and it's because of the decisions that you've made. The Texas Retired Teachers Association represents retired public education employees who work to protect current and future public education retirees. It was founded in 1953, Senator Jackson, about the time you were born, as a matter of fact, if I remember correctly. And it's the largest association for school and higher education employees. It ranks number one in the nation with nearly 70,000 members. And I believe about 30,000 of them are in the gallery right now. TRTA volunteers have given more than million hours in voluntary service and $10 million in funding. They promote life long learning by providing more than 500 books to children, to the children's book project. Retiree annuity payments from the Teacher Retirement System of Texas have exceeded 6 billion directly creating more than 90,000 jobs in the state of Texas. Members, on the floor we have as our guest, Mary Sexton, who is a TRTA member from Lubbock, Texas. Mary, raise your hand. Herbert Norris, TRTA State Association president; Mary Delphiier, TRTA State Association vice president; Mary Jane Hamilton, TRTA State Association second vice president; and Tim Woolly who is the executive director, whom you all know. So welcome them to the Texas Senate. Mr. President, I move adoption of Senate Resolution 573.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator Duncan, and thank you for bringing this resolution. A number of senators would like to speak. The Chair recognizes Senator Lucio on the resolution.

SENATOR LUCIO: Thank you very much, Mr. President. Mr. President, members, Senator Duncan, thank you for bringing this very important resolution to the floor today. A very important day because today we recognize the backbone of our society, our retired teachers. What we have here -- what we have here in the gallery represents hundreds and hundreds of years of teaching the children of our great state. They have literally taken us by the hand over the years, and they have guided us through to where we are today. They are the brick builders of opportunities, and we will not forget you this session, we promise you. Thank you.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Chair recognizes Senator Eltife to speak on the resolution.

SENATOR ELTIFE: Thank you, Mr. President and members. And, Senator Duncan, I want to thank you for bringing this resolution to the floor and I want to thank you for your hard work on the Teacher Retirement System. You have done an outstanding job over the years, and we appreciate you. I would also like to take the time to recognize the retired teachers that are here from my district. Many of them taught me and I know, members, you think they probably prefer combat pay for that but they not only taught me, they nurtured me, they helped me grow up. Coming from a single parent home, many of them spent their money helping me with my projects, and I'm here to tell you I will never ever forget the impact you had on my life and -- to all of you, to all of the retired teachers of this state. Thank you for what you have done for our children and this state and may God bless you and this state should never forget the promises we have made to you. Thank you for being here.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Chair recognizes Senator Hinojosa on the resolution.

SENATOR HINOJOSA: Thank you, Mr. President, members. I too want to congratulate Senator Duncan on SR573. Let me tell you, I make hundreds of speeches but every time that I speak for teachers I get nervous. I think they're grading my English, my presentation. But I have to tell you this, teachers made a whole difference -- a lot of difference in my life. I can remember my teacher Ms. Willford, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Scooter. Ms. Wolfer, my English teacher, made me from a C plus student to an A plus student in English. So I am today because of my teachers who took time to teach me the difference between the CH and the SH sound (making noises). And I also would like to recognize a part of my delegation from (inaudible) County with Texas Retired Teachers Association group which includes Jim Wells and the western part of (inaudible) County. I also have a delegation in Corpus Christi with the Retired Teachers Association and as well as members on (inaudible) Retired Teachers Association and thank you so much for taking care of our children and taking care of our senators and taking care of our state. Thank you.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Chair recognizes Senator Zaffirini on the resolution.

SENATOR ZAFFIRNI: Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President and members, it is also my pleasure to rise and support Senate Resolution 573 by Senator Duncan and to say to all the teachers that I appreciate all of your work not only now but in the future because I know that you have built on your many years of service to the school children and their families but that you also continue to work for them day and night. I especially appreciate your book project, and today I invite all the senators and lieutenant governor to join me in contributing to your book collection. I have given books to you. My contributions today for the Santa (inaudible) Country retired teachers include the Three Little Habalenas, a bilingual book, the Cat in the Hat Dictionary, which I have given to every Senator and it's bilingual, and (inaudible). Today I am presenting to the San Petreta teachers this wonderful book (inaudible) Goes Cruising and this even more wonderful book You Are Mine, I Love You. But again I invite the lieutenant governor and every Senator to contribute to your book collection for the students as an expression of our appreciation to you for everything you have done, everything you are doing and everything you will do. And it's my pleasure to ask the teachers from my district, especially those from Santa Petreta County retired teachers to please stand and be recognized and welcome to the Texas Senate.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator. The Chair recognizes Senator Patrick to speak on the resolution.

SENATOR PATRICK: Thank you, Mr. President. And, Senator Duncan, thank you for bringing this forth. My wife is a retired teacher and with her blonde hair and blue eyes, she looks great in red. So I'm glad that's the color, as all of you do today. You know, as Senator Hinojosa said all of us, including yourselves, remember the names of those people who taught you in a particular class. I can remember Ms. Hanson from the second grade, Mr. Condon from the 5th. I remember Ms. Truitt who said I'd never make it in journalism, so I was determined to make it. You inspire our future. You inspired us today with your passion and your enthusiasm. This is a long session with many difficult decisions to make. But you have lifted all of our spirits by being here today with your enthusiasm, and that's why you're great teachers because the students saw it in the classroom. Texas is the leader in this nation today, I would argue in the world today, the world looks to America, America looks to Texas. And the reason Texas is strong today is because the adults who are leading our state today were students in your classroom at one time. You're responsible for our success today, and the teachers who come after you will be responsible for the future of this great state. There is not a more noble profession than teaching a child and lifting a child up and teaching them to read and showing them they can achieve their dreams. And you all are responsible for it and you should be very proud. I'm very proud of all of you and our delegation from Harris County. So thank all of you for being here and thank you for what you have done in your life, your commitment, your commitment for our future. Thank you.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: The Chair recognizes Senator West to speak on the resolution.

SENATOR WEST: Thank you very much, Mr. President. And I want to say welcome to all of the retired teachers in the state of Texas to the Texas State Senate. You know, each and every one of you decided to get into the teaching profession because it paid a lot of money. No. You got into the teaching profession because you care. That's the reason that you got into the teaching profession in the first place. Your presence here today mandates that the Senate of the State of Texas and the House of Representatives understands and appreciates that but for you, we would not be in this position that we're in today as legislators. But for you. Your presence here today has gotten our attention. How can you tell whether you've gotten our attention? Based on the number of speeches that are being made today. That's how you can tell. But the question is what happens when you leave? We need to make certain that as we weather the storms of the financial crisis that we're in, that we don't forget our retired teachers. Senator Patrick mentioned a few moments ago about each and every one of us can point to a teacher that was -- made an impression on our life. There was a teacher in Dallas County, Dallas Independent School District at Pearlsea Anderson Junior High School in the 7th grade. Notice I can point you to the grade. And that teacher's name was Gloria White. She was beautiful. Oh, just gorgeous. And as a result of that, every syllable that she spoke, I was on the edge of my seat. And guess what course she was teaching me, government. And as a result of the lessons I've learned, the board of education that she sometime had to put on us, I'm here today. If I had the opportunity, I would not only give each and every one of you the attention that you need on our budget, but also would give you that proverbial apple from students who care about you've done for us over our lifetime. Thank you very much for being here.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: The Chair recognizes Senator Seliger to speak on the resolution.

SENATOR SELIGER: Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Senator Duncan, for bringing up this resolution today. As a very practical matter this body is a product of Texas teachers. The lessons that we learned, maybe the lessons that we didn't learn, was because teachers worked at teaching us. Every one of us is a product of Texas schools. There's a fine lady in Border, Texas by the name of Wilma Jean, my third grade teacher. And I don't know whether I was really small or she was really tall, but she was imposing and she hovered over my desk for the longest time. It was back when they taught percentages as ratios and proportions, if you remember. And she sat over -- stood over my desk and said, Kel Seliger, you are going to learn this, I'm going to stay here until you learn it. Along came 7th grade and I did. But all of our memories, most of us, a lot of the best memories took place in Texas schools under the watchful eyes of Texas teachers. I hope that the work that you see in this Capitol and the House and Senate is a testimony to your effort and your dedication. As you walk around the Capitol, you generally find that even as busy as we are that if you want to see your representative or Senator, you probably don't have a really big problem. It's because we owe you the things that we've learned, the things that you use, the things that we try to direct to the betterment of the state of Texas. You can be assured that even though times are tough, and so many people feel a sense of privation, nobody more than Texas teachers, that this body is dedicated to doing what we can to see to it that Texas teachers feel from the state of Texas the appreciation that your dedication has earned over all the years. Thank you for being here today.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: I'm going to recognize the Chair, our chairwoman of our education committee, a former teacher herself, Senator Shapiro.

SENATOR SHAPIRO: Thank you very much, Mr. President. I appreciate it. I could not pass up a moment to talk to all of you. When we sit around the table here at the Capitol and we talk about education as our No. 1 priority, we mean education as a No. 1 priority for teachers and retired teachers, both. And as you have heard, I am -- thank you, Mr. President -- I am a very proud former teacher. And I listened to the things that are being said and you can be rest assured as we go through this process, your voice is being heard. Not just in the gallery but all the time. I do want to -- I do want to give a shout out to our Senator Duncan who has worked very hard on all of our TRS programs and to the members of the finance committee who have always looked out for you. These are very tough times, but as I look at my family, I have nine grandchildren, nine. I look back on my years as a teacher and I look forward on my nine grandchildren and their education and it is because of you that I can look forward with anticipation of good education, good teachers to follow as we begin this long hall down the education road. Education is our first priority. Thank you for everything that you've done to make it that.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Senator Shapiro, I think you are being overly modest. I want to be delicate in how I say this, but I'm very proud, ladies and gentlemen, of the men and women in the Texas Senate on Senate finance. Again, I'm not trying to contrast anything, but we have a substantial larger amount of investment in the Senate budget on public education and for you all than our colleagues next door. Let's help encourage them. The Chair recognizes Senator Uresti to speak on the resolution.

SENATOR URESTI: Thank you, Mr. President and members. In the audience good morning. I am in awe as I look around and I see all of our good friends that are here in this beautiful Capitol and I see one of my Spanish teachers from Macallum High School, Ms. Soto. I remember Ms. Dorian my typewriting teacher from a few years ago. Mr. Slack, my government teacher. And the things that they taught me, the discipline that they taught me, that they instilled in me still lives with me today and I would submit to our retired teachers this morning that you could still teach the legislature a few things. And let me say in front of all of you that I am the person that I am today because of each and every one of you. Thank y'all for being here this morning.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: The Chair recognizes Senator Birdwell to speak on the resolution.

SENATOR BIRDWELL: Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, members. Thank you, Senator Duncan, for bringing this resolution to us here on the floor. Thank you, retired teachers, for joining us here today. I just wanted to say thank you to you as a member of the profession of arms, we share something in common with those in the teaching professions. You don't sign up for it because you're going to make a ton of money doing it, you sign up because you love it. And one of the things that I very much appreciate about what you have done in the classroom over several decades of your service is you reinforce the values of those parents that have taught their young men and women, their young children that would eventually become the young men and women that I would serve with in the United States Armed Forces to love country, to love their state. And thank you for enforcing those values or reinforcing those values in the classroom because it's not just a service you do to this state, it's a service you do to this great nation. Thank you for being here today.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, thank you. I'm going to call on Senator Duncan to close.

SENATOR DUNCAN: Thank you, Mr. President, members. I move adoption of Senate Resolution 573.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, you heard the motion by Senator Duncan. Is there objection from any member? Hearing no objection, the resolution is adopted. Members, the following message from the governor. The secretary will read the message.

PATSY SPAW: To the Senate of the 83rd Legislature Regular Session, I ask the advice, consent and confirmation of the Senate with respect to the following appointments. To be members of the Texas Public Finance Authority: Mark W. Ideman, Austin; Billy M. Atkinson, Jr., Sugarland; Robert Thomas Roddy, Jr., San Antonio. To be a member of the One Call Board: J.S. Sideman, Houston. To be members of the Upper Colorado River Authority: Jeffe Harmon-Roberts, Robert Lee; Hymen B. Sauer, El Dorado; Hugh J. Sone, III, San Angelo. And to be judge of the Court of Criminal Appeals Place 8: Elsa Ocala, Houston. Respectfully submitted, Rick Perry, governor of Texas. To nominations.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Madam Secretary. Members, if there's no objection, I'd like to postpone the reading and referral of bills until after today's session. Is there objection from any member? Chair hears no objection from any member, it's so ordered. Members, the Chair lays out Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 28 and 29 by Senator Watson. The secretary will read the resolutions.

PATSY SPAW: Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 28 commending Dr. Joe O. Gonzales, principal of Austin Can Academy and SCR29 recognizing the teachers, staff, administrators and community partners of Austin Can Academy. Both by Watson.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you. The Chair recognizes Senator Watson to explain the resolutions.

SENATOR WATSON: Thank you very much, Mr. President. Members, I am really honored and pleased for us to welcome today in the west gallery just above the clock there Dr. Joe Gonzales who is the principal of the Austin Can Academy. He's joined by Dr. Yolanda Cruz Wilder, the superintendent of Texas Can Academies; Mr. Kevin Cunningham, a social studies teacher; Mr. Ryan Hutchinson, a development officer; Joe Rodriguez and Kimberly Smith, two of the students. And they're also joined by Mr. Clay Zippioni with AMD here in Austin. Folks, Austin Can Academy is a dropout recovery charter school that serves at risk students on Austin's east side and under the leadership of Dr. Gonzales Austin Can Academy has raised accountability scores across the board and has dramatically increased graduation rates and college enrollment for its graduates. A former dropout and son of migrant workers, Dr. Gonzales began his career in education as a bus driver and a janitor. After continuing his education he went on to become superintendent of the McAllen and San Angelo school districts and he came out of retirement to lead Austin Can for the past four years. Please join me, members, in recognizing Dr. Gonzales as he retires this spring after 49 years in education and join me in recognizing the Austin Can Academy its students and teachers for their hard work and dedication. Would you please stand, Dr. Gonzales, and those that are here with Austin Can Academy? Dr. Gonzales, thank you very much for your service. Mr. President, I'm proud to move passage of Senate Concurrent Resolutions No. 28 and 29.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator Watson. Thank you, ladies and gentlemen, for being here, superintendent. Members, you heard the motion by Senator Watson. Is there objection from any member? Chair hears no objection, and SCR28 and 29 are adopted. The Chair lays out Senate Resolution No. 132 by Senator Ogden. The secretary will read the resolution.

PATSY SPAW: Senate Resolution No. 132 declaring Wednesday March 23rd, 2011, as Hutto Day at the State Capitol. By Ogden.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Chair recognizes Senator Ogden to explain the resolution.

SENATOR STEVE OGDEN: Members, I'm especially pleased to join the citizens of Hutto in celebrating their day at the State Capitol as well as the centennial anniversary of Hutto's incorporation. Hutto was first established in 1855 by a Swedish settler JE Hutto. And Senator West, you may be interested to know this, the town was originated by a freed slave named Adam Organe and incorporated in 1911. It's situated in the rich black farmland of southeastern Williamson County. Hutto has small town charm along with easy access to big city living. When I was first elected to represent Hutto, I think the population was around 650. Now I think it's over 17,000. Is that right? It's easily one of the fastest growing cities in the state. It offers an exceptional school district, a growing parks system, expanded retail opportunities and a dynamic and educated work force. Members, please join me in sending best wishes to the citizens of Hutto for a memorable day at the State Capitol. And welcome our floor guests Debbie Holland, who's mayor pro-tem; Doug (inaudible) of Hutto ISD Board of Trustees; Glenn Ruby, president of the Williamson County Service Educational District No. 3 board of commissioners; Byron Borchers, former chairman of the board of the Hutto Area Chamber of Commerce; Ann Cano, Hutto Economic Development Corporation board of directors. Please help me welcome these fine citizens, and I move adoption of Senate Resolution 132.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator Ogden. Members, you've heard the motion by Senator Ogden. Is there objection from any member? The Chair hears no objection, and the resolution is adopted. Mr. Doorkeeper.

MR. DOORKEEPER: Mr. President, there is a message from the House.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Admit the messenger.

MESSENGER: Mr. President, I'm directed by the House to inform the Senate the House has taken the following action, the House has passed the following measures. HB314 by Hardcastle relating to the --

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: The Chair recognizes Senator Nichols for an introduction.

SENATOR NICHOLS: Thank you, Mr. President. Members, today on the south corner of the gallery we have representatives from the Texas Forest Association. The association has more than 3,000 members who grow, manage, harvest, and process forest products. They support policies to encourage reforestation, ensure proper management practices and stabilize forest ownership. Forest industry is a very important part of the Texas economy and employs more than 78,000 people with a payroll of 4.4 billion. Today we -- each of you should be receiving a seedling tree delivered to your office in honor of Texas Forestry Day. Mr. President and members and guests, please join me in welcoming the Texas Forestry Association. Employees, stand up.

SENATOR OGDEN: Chair recognizes Senator Nelson for an introduction.

SENATOR NELSON: Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President and members. I have a very special group of constituents visiting us here today. Right up in the gallery, the Ropes and Ranch Women's Club. And I do happen to know that many of them are retired teachers. The Rope and Ranch Women's Club is part of the Rope and Ranch retirement community located just south of downtown Denton. This group makes a positive difference through their monthly support of the Denton County Food Center, Friends of the Family, a domestic violence shelter for survivors. In addition to its ongoing projects, the Rope and Ranch Women's Club donated $17,000 to several other charities in the Denton area. I appreciate all they do for our community. And, members, I hope you'll help me welcome them to the Texas Senate. They're right up here. Would you all stand, Rope and Ranch Women's Club. Welcome to the Texas Senate. Appreciate you all. Thank you, Mr. President.

SENATOR OGDEN: Chair recognizes Senator Estes for an introduction.

SENATOR ESTES: Thank you, Mr. President and members. I have two introductions, if I may be recognized. May I have your attention, members. Today we have the Parent Association of the Retarded of Texas. They're here to be recognized on their outstanding work on behalf of persons with mental retardation. The organization is made up of volunteers who preserve, expand and improving services for persons with mental retardation and is well known for the support they provide our state schools. Members, please join me in welcoming our guests to the Senate gallery. Please stand. Mr. President, I have another one. May I?

SENATOR OGDEN: Senator Estes is recognized for another introduction.

SENATOR ESTES: Thank you, Mr. President and members. Members, please give me your attention on this special resolution. On the south Capitol grounds there's a monument to honor the firemen who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Today the members of this organization are gathering to recognize and honor the tireless and heroic actions of the members of the Texas Fire Service. In the name of one courageous volunteer firefighter who died in the line of duty is being unveiled the volunteer firefighters monument on the State Capitol grounds. The State Firefighter and Fire Marshals Association of Texas is the oldest and largest fire service organization in this state and represents 19,800 individual members. Members, I know you joined me in expressing our admiration and appreciation for the dedication and sacrifices so often demonstrated by our firefighters and fire marshals who serve all across our state. So please join me in welcoming to the Senate gallery representatives of the State Firemens and Fire Marshals Association. Please stand. Thank you, Mr. President.

SENATOR OGDEN: Chair lays out the following resolution. The secretary will read the resolution. By Deuell.

PATSY SPAW: Senate Resolution No. 171 declaring Wednesday March 23rd, 2011, as Sunnyvale Day at the State Capitol. By Deuell.

SENATOR OGDEN: Chair recognizes Senator Deuell on the resolution.

SENATOR DEUELL: Thank you, Mr. President, members. It's an honor to welcome some of my constituents in town today. They're from Sunnyvale, that's in the east part of Dallas County. It's a vibrant community that blends suburban living and country charm. It's a great, great community. It's growing as you would expect in that area. And on the floor today we have Lawrence Boyd who's president of the Sunnyvale 4A Development Corporation, Terri Shatter secretary of the Sunnyvale 4A Development Corporation, David Carlisle treasurer of the Sunnyvale 4A Development Corporation, David Byrd, the mayor of Sunnyville. We also have delegations somewhere in one of the galleries, I don't know which. But please help me welcome my friends from Sunnyvale in Dallas County. I move adoption.

SENATOR OGDEN: Senator Deuell moves adoption of the resolution. Is there objection to the adoption of the resolution? Chair hears none, the resolution is adopted. Senator West. Chair lays out the following resolution. The secretary will read the resolution by West.

PATSY SPAW: Senate Resolution 564 recognizing March 20th through March 26th, 2011, as Early College High School Week. By West.

SENATOR WEST: Thank you very much, Mr. President and members. I stand to recognize and welcome students, teachers and staff from Early College High Schools around Texas as they celebrate Early College High School Week March 20th through the 26th, and more specifically Early College High School Day at the State Capitol. Early College High Schools blend high school and college curriculum into a simultaneous educational experience that gives traditionally under served students the chance to earn up to 60 hours of college credit while they finish high school. And by the time they finish, they should have an associates degree. Texas is home to 44 Early College High Schools and five blended Early College High Schools. Texas Science Technology Engineering and Mathematic Academies serving some 10,000 students across the great state of Texas. As a pioneer in opening Early College High School, Texas has been a leader in shaping the development of the nationally early college incentive. We have representatives from four college -- Early College High Schools from central Texas, Rappaport Academy, Legacy, Travis and Judson. Present at the Capitol today representing 44 schools across the state. I have three of these schools in my district. Cedar Hill Collegiate, Catherine Gilliam Collegiate and Trinity Garza Early College High School. Students, staff and teachers, please stand. I believe they're in the south gallery. And let's recognize them, Mr. Chairman and members.

SENATOR OGDEN: Senator West moves adoption of Senate Resolution 564. Is there objection to the adoption of the resolution? The Chair hears none, the resolution is adopted.

SENATOR WEST: Thank you, Mr. President.

SENATOR OGDEN: Members, would you employees take your seats, we have a memorial resolution. Chair lays out the following resolution. The secretary will read the resolution by Harris.

PATSY SPAW: Senate Resolution 392. Whereas the Senate of the State of Texas joins the citizens of Arlington in mourning the loss of long-time mayor and civic icon Tom Vandergriff who died December 30th, 2010, at the age of 84; and whereas Tom Vandergriff played a vital role in transforming Arlington from a small town to a thriving city that is home to major industry and a key destination for sports and recreation; and whereas born January 29th, 1926, in Carollton, Mr. Vandergriff a 1943 graduate of Arlington High School, where he was voted most likely to succeed. He went on to attend Northwestern University and Southern Methodist University before earning a degree from southern California; and whereas Mr. Vandergriff entered public life at the young age of 23 as president of the Arlington Chamber of Commerce, he learned that General Motors was seeking to build a new assembly plant and ran as mayor to better represent Arlington's interest in acquiring this important position to its economy. Thanks to his untiring efforts, General Motors chose Arlington as the site for its new facility. And whereas Mr. Vandergriff served as mayor for 26 years and was active in bringing numerous recreational attractions to the city. He was instrumental in the creation of Six Flags over Texas and he successfully courted the Washington Senators who relocated to Arlington and became the Texas Rangers. And whereas, he oversaw the fundraising campaign to build Arlington Memorial Hospital and served as Chair of its board for more than years. He also worked to expand Arlington State College into the four year institution that became the University of Texas at Arlington. And he was instrumental in the formation of the North Central Texas Council of Governments, serving as its first president and as a board member for 15 years. And whereas, Mr. Vandergriff served to term in the United States House of Representatives and later won the election of Tarrant County judge, a position he held until his retirement. His longstanding commitment to public service has served as an example to all who had the privilege of knowing him; and whereas, he was a man of vision, strength and untiring energy and he gave generously to others. His dedication to his hometown and his ability to relate to people from all walks of life played an important part in creating the legacy of leadership for which he will long be remembered. And whereas, he was a devoted husband, father and grandfather and his family and friends will forever cherish treasured memories of his life and his many accomplishments. Now, therefore be it resolved that the Senate of the State of Texas 82nd Legislature hereby extend sincere condolences to the family and friends of Tom Vandergriff, to his children: Victor Vandergriff, Vanessa Waters, Valerie Skelton and Vivica Vandergriff. His sister, Virginia Daring. And his five grandchildren. And be it further resolved that when the Texas Senate adjourns this day it do so in memory of Tom Vandergriff. By Harris.

SENATOR OGDEN: Chair recognizes Senator Harris on the resolution.

SENATOR HARRIS: Thank you, Mr. President. I believe the Vandergriffs were just introduced to all of us. They -- Tommy Vandergriff was without exception the finest man I have ever known. Mr. Vandergriff was always a gentleman no matter what the circumstance, no matter how heated things may have gotten. Thanks to Tom Vandergriff, that was read to you, so many great things happened to Arlington. The Vandergriff family had the Chevrolet dealerships, the Buick dealership. And when Tommy Vandergriff became president of the Chamber of Commerce of Arlington, think about it, at the age of 23. He then went on, when word was that General Motors was going to build a new plant. And at the age of 25 he was elected to be the mayor of Arlington. Tom Vandergriff then in turn pushed and because of undying effort, the General Motors plant was built in Arlington. Thanks to that plant, you got to remember, we were, at that point, five, maximum 6,000 people and all of a sudden you have the General Motors plant. We're talking about employing 10,000, 15,000 people at a time. And just enough heard of economic development for Arlington. Tom Vandergriff, thanks to him and his undying effort, we now have the Texas Rangers and that literally was a deal where he went up and sweated out the owner of the Washington Senators and was able to move major league baseball not to Fort Worth or Dallas, but to Arlington, Texas. Tom Vandergriff served 26 years as mayor. Tom Vandergriff served as a U.S. congressman, Tom Vandergriff was Tarrant County judge from 1991 through 1997. As you can see, it was a constant life of service to the people of Arlington, to turn to the people of Tarrant County. Now, as I said, Tom Vandergriff was always a total gentleman. Now, there were times particularly when he was county judge where he and I would be called in together to help negotiate something, something like with Tex DOT. Tom Vandergriff had a eloquent deep voice and Tom would stand there, explaining very reasonably all the needs and why this road project should be done. And again his baritone voice continued to express the virtues. And the Tex DOT guy on the occasion that I'm thinking about said no. So at that point it was my turn, and I was not the gentlemanly scholar that Tom Vandergriff was. I could honestly say Tom Vandergriff was a true idol of mine. Tom Vandergriff really was a genuine person, genuine person who served the people of Arlington. Whenever -- and he was an inspiration to me to get into public office. After I was elected, Tom Vandergriff would introduce me at events and so on and Tom Vandergriff always was the announcer for our high school football games. And Tom when he -- like I say, when he would introduce me, he would always tell whatever group it was that in every game, I got calls against me by the referees for unnecessary roughness and then, in fact, there were more unnecessary roughness penalties against me than all of the rest of our team added together and the other team added together and -- but again, he is the man that will be dearly missed. I mean, I could stand here and go on and on about all of his accomplishments. But the biggest thing is Tom Vandergriff loved Arlington and he showed that love by all the great and wonderful benefits he brought to Arlington. Mr. President, I believe there's others.

SENATOR OGDEN: Chair recognizes Senator Davis.

SENATOR DAVIS: Thank you, Mr. Chair and. Thank you, Senator Harris. What a beautiful recognition of Tom Vandergriff. I rise to add my remarks to those of my Senate colleague in appreciation for the life of Tom Vandergriff. I had the privilege of attending his memorial service as did hundreds and hundreds of people in our community. And I know I was struck, as everyone else who was there was struck, by the uncredible love and respect that poured out from every person who spoke on his behalf at that service. I don't know that I've ever heard a person remembered as beautifully as Tom Vandergriff was and so justifiably. Senator Harris talks about so many of the accomplishments that he made in his professional life, and I know you all of course, and as you reminded us in the memorial service, have so many powerful memories of him and his personal life. It was amazing to me, understanding all that he did in his public role to hear from his children and his grandchildren repeatedly that this person was always there. Always there and never missed an event that was important to you in your lives and it really says something about him. I have a personal story about him I want to share with you. When I was a brand new baby city council member in Fort Worth and Tom Vandergriff was our county judge, I called him just full of fire one day because I was very upset after having received a phone call from one of my low income neighborhoods who had just been besieged by bars in their community, and they had gone to object to an alcohol license being granted to another bar there. And they had to pay a fee in order to come and be heard on the objection. And I called Judge Vandergriff and said, I just think that's ridiculous. Why are we charging people to come and have their voices heard on objecting to these permits and we talked for a long time about it. He wasn't able to give me an answer, unfortunately, that would change that particular rule and explained to me why that was the case. But I could tell that when we hung up he didn't feel happy about having to say that. Within a few days I received in city council office a personal check from Tom Vandergriff to that neighborhood association for the cost that they had paid for that hearing, and he never said a word about it. It was just a check. And I'm sure that there are people throughout our community who could tell a story like that. So many people did at his memorial service. But I wanted to share that with you today so that you understand there are probably thousands of these stories that you've never heard that really signify and symbolize who he was as a human being. We appreciated the mark he made on all of our lives and all of our communities so very, very much. And we will forever miss his velvet voice, his sparkling eyes and his incredible heart. Thank you.

SENATOR OGDEN: Chair recognizes Senator Shapiro.

SENATOR SHAPIRO: Thank you, Mr. President and members. I didn't know that the Vandergriff family was going to be here today. So I've been trying to jot down some notes. I could probably write a book. I am so touched by all the beautiful words that Senator Davis and Senator Harris had. But I have to tell you that when you listen to the resolution, they're just words. And what the resolution doesn't tell you is Tom Vandergriff's heart. This was a man among men. This was an individual that I have known for 30 years. That I can honestly tell you it affected my life from the minute I met him. The day I met him was at the North Texas Council of Governments, he was the past president. And I said to myself, One day I'm going to grow up to be like Tom Vandergriff. He was just that kind of human being. I'm here to tell you no one will ever grow up to be Tom Vandergriff. There's only one Tom Vandergriff, and he stays in our hearts and our minds on a regular basis. I, too, Senator Davis, was honored to be at that memorial service, and it truly was an honor. It was a celebration, it was a beautiful and wonderful celebration of one human being's life and how he could affect so many people. I think, as you reflected, I think on the time that I talked to Mr. Vandergriff, and I know you all claim him as Arlington's most important and wonderful citizen, but you forgot there was a point in time when Mr. Vandergriff actually represented Plano, Texas as our congressman. Now, try this one on. In Plano, Texas he was a Democrat and I begged him, I begged him to change parties. Can't do it, can't do it. I just can't do it. That was Tom Vandergriff's answer. And I respected him for that. I truly respected him for that, but I knew he was going to be defeated. Several years later he called me on the phone and he said, Well, you were right. I am not ready to hang it up yet and I do want to still serve again in public service. So he decided to become a Republican and run for county judge and he did and he was there for years and years and years. It's Tom Vandergriff the man, it's Tom Vandergriff the human being and Tom Vandergriff, my friend, that I stand up and honor and celebrate today with all of you because he was one hell of a person. And I am much better today having known and been a part of his life as he has been such a great and important part of mine. Thank you for bringing this forward. I appreciate it and I stand in honor of Tom and his family and his life. Thank you.

SENATOR OGDEN: Chair recognizes Senator West.

SENATOR WEST: Thank you very much, Mr. President and the Vandergriff family. I rise with my other colleagues to pay tribute to a great Texan, a great man, a great father. I also was there at the memorial services and was moved like I've never been moved before by the outpouring of the community and the participation of the family. Victor, you and I have known one another through NCTA and I look forward to continuing the relationship with the Vandergriff family. But let me take just this one moment. You're looking at a man that graduated from Willmer Hutchins High School and was given the opportunity to go to college because I could play a little football over at UT Arlington. Tom Vandergriff not only did all of the things that we're talking about here today, but with that voice he was also the voice of the Arlington Mavericks. He would be the commentator for the football games, but I can recall coming on campus, little boy from Wilmer Hutchins, look at UT Arlington at that time saying, Wow, where am I? Your father, welcoming some of the athletes, because he cared about UT Arlington, he cared about UT Arlington as he did the other institutions that were being built in Arlington and he cared about the students there, he cared about the athletes. Being able to meet him at that time and get to know him during the course of my matriculation through UT Arlington was a great asset. My belief in Tom Vandergriff was solidified in my role as an attorney, and I was defending high school football coaching in Arlington and that coach said, I want to call Tom Vandergriff, Senator Harris, to be a character witness for me. It was not a criminal case, it was not a criminal case. He called your father, your father showed up and he attested to the character of that coach. So what does that say to me? What that says is sometimes you have friends that will show up when it's convenient, your father showed up when a friend was in trouble and attested to the character of that person. I think what we're doing here today is attesting to how we feel about, felt about your father. We will miss his physical presence but the lessons that he has taught, the lives that he has touched, will be an indelible impression in perpetuity. So I want to say thank you, Vandergriff family, for allowing us to share your father and your father being a part of the very foundation that many of us stand on here today. Thank you, Mr. President.

SENATOR OGDEN: Chair recognizes Senator Harris to close.

SENATOR HARRIS: Thank you, Mr. President. In my name, Senator Shapiro's name, Senator Davis, Senator West's name, I make a motion that the Senate adopt this resolution, Mr. President.

SENATOR OGDEN: Would all those in favor of the resolution please rise? The resolution is adopted. Senator Seliger. That concludes the morning call. Senator Watson. Senator Watson recognized for a motion to suspend the regular order of business on committee substitute to Senate Bill 329.

SENATOR WATSON: Thank you very much, Mr. President and members. Mr. President, I move to suspend the Senate's regular order of business to take up and consider at this time the committee substitute to Senate Bill 329 which establishes a producer take back program for television recycling in Texas. Members, this has been a two session effort to come up with an agreed to bill for television recycling program and this committee substitute, I believe, has achieved that goal. Mr. President, I move suspension of the rules.

SENATOR OGDEN: Senator Watson moves suspension of the regular order of business to take up and consider committee substitute to Senate Bill 329. Is there objection? Hearing none, the rules are suspended. The Chair lays out on second reading Senate Bill 329. The secretary will read the caption.

PATSY SPAW: Committee substitute to Senate Bill 329 relating to the sale, recovery, and recycling of certain television equipment.

SENATOR OGDEN: Senator Watson is recognized for a motion.

SENATOR WATSON: Mr. President, I move passage of committee substitute to Senate Bill 329 to engrossment.

SENATOR OGDEN: Senator Watson moves passage to engrossment of committee substitute to Senate Bill 329. Is there objection? Chair hears none, bill's passed to engrossment. Senator Watson is recognized for a motion to suspend the constitutional three day rule.

SENATOR WATSON: Mr. President, I move to suspend the constitutional three day rule that bills be read on three several days.

SENATOR OGDEN: Secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

SENATOR OGDEN: There being 29 ayes and two nays, the three day rule is suspended. The Chair lays out on third reading and final passage committee substitute to Senate Bill 329. The secretary will read the caption.

PATSY SPAW: Committee substitute to Senate Bill 329 relating to the sale, recovery and recycling of certain television equipment.

SENATOR OGDEN: Senator Watson is recognized for a motion.

SENATOR WATSON: Mr. President, I move final passage of committee substitute to Senate Bill 329.

SENATOR OGDEN: The secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

SENATOR OGDEN: There being 30 ayes and one nay, the bill is ly passed.

SENATOR WATSON: Thank you very much, Mr. President. Thank you, members.

SENATOR OGDEN: Congratulations on two years worth of effort.

SENATOR WATSON: I appreciate that. Thank you, Mr. President.

SENATOR OGDEN: The end was quick. Senator Van de Putte is recognized for a motion to suspend the regular order of business on Senate Bill 24.

SENATOR VAN DE PUTTE: Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President and members, I move to suspend the Senate's regular order of business to take up and consider at this time the committee substitute to Senate Bill 24. Members, this Senate Bill is the culmination of the hard work from the statewide Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force that was created last session and housed under Attorney General Greg Abbott's office. The task force was formed to develop the policies and procedures to assist in the prevention and the prosecution of human trafficking crimes and to identify those methods.

SENATOR OGDEN: Members, could we have a little order while Senator Van de Putte explains her bill.

SENATOR VAN DE PUTTE: Thank you, Mr. President. Members, this task force was developed to form the policies and the procedures, to assist in the prevention and the prosecution of human trafficking crimes and identifying those methods to assist human trafficking victims. Earlier this year the 2011 Texas Human Trafficking Prevention Task Force report included many legislative recommendations that will advance our state's effort to combat this modern day form of slavery. This human trafficking bill and the recommendations incorporated in this bill are those that were unanimously approved by all 47 task force members. Now, members not all of the recommendations are in Senate Bill 24. We put in those recommendation that would not have a fiscal note, Mr. President. And you will see some single shot bills later on in the legislative session that deals with those things that may have a fiscal note. But the bill that you see before you enhances our definition for human trafficking and appropriate penalties, particularly for those who would traffic a child and increases the child protection provisions. It gives our district attorneys and our county attorneys those tools that they need and it also makes sure that we begin to treat these victims not as criminals but as, particularly with our children, that they are treated as victims. Members, I am so very thankful to Attorney General Abbott for the 270 plus members who attended task force meetings throughout this interim that we had and particularly the work that was included for the 47 task force members. Mr. President, I move to suspend the Senate's regular order of business to take up and consider committee substitute to Senate Bill 24.

SENATOR OGDEN: Senator Hinojosa, for what purpose?

SENATOR HINOJOSA: To ask the author a question.

SENATOR OGDEN: Will the author yield for a question?

SENATOR VAN DE PUTTE: I do yield.

SENATOR OGDEN: Senator Hinojosa.

SENATOR HINOJOSA: Senator, I want to thank you for all the work you have done on human trafficking. It's a very serious problem that we have all along the border, and one of the things that I found out from talking to prosecutors and police investigators and other law enforcement people is that under this statute, the way it's written, it's very difficult to prosecute people who are involved in human trafficking. And I was forced to make sure that we try to minimize number of elements that had to be proven in court to be able to prosecute. Does your bill do that?

SENATOR VAN DE PUTTE: Yes, Senator. And, in fact, we enhanced the definitions. Many people confuse human smuggling with human trafficking, and smuggling deals with mainly the transport of persons. Either locally or persons that are undocumented. But trafficking, for the most part, although the perception's there that these are folks are coming to have a better life and they get caught in this deceitful web, the truth of the matter is that most human trafficking victims are children and they are either runaways or what some prosecutors call the throw away kids. So they are either children that are Texans or come from other states. But it is very difficult to distinguish that. You could say that trafficking victims, it's for the purpose of a profit, for forced labor or forced sex trade. And the bill has clear definitions for both the forced labor of persons and children and the forced labor of adults, but it also deals with the sex trafficking. Those that would -- compelling prostitution of a child, those sorts of things because, unfortunately, the CD crime. But I think what you're talking about is those people that would transport and either transport for a fee or not, and it is very difficult. But this mainly deals with trafficking and not particularly smuggling or transport.

SENATOR HINOJOSA: And actually, Senator, you're correct about that. Human trafficking is compared to human smuggling, and we have a very serious problem along the border with human smuggling. And the statutes are very weak in terms of prosecution. And I have a bill that I hope to correct that, to give law enforcement a little bit more authority and more tools to be able to prosecute. People who smuggle, called coyotes there along the border, they smuggle humans not only to Texas but our country. But I like your bill, thank you for the hard work you've done on this issue and, of course, I intend to support it.

SENATOR VAN DE PUTTE: Thank you, Senator. I appreciate that. And this is now the fifth session that I have human trafficking bills. And each session we get it a little stronger, we understand the problem. You know, ten years ago, Senator, when I first brought the first bill to the Senate floor, people were amazed. And I got to tell you that in just last year we had over 139 rescued children, these are children who are being trafficked for the sex trade industry and that's in our state. And so what we want to do is say, you know, Texas is open for business and that we're very proud of. But this business is a business of greed and of profit. And what the recommendations in this bill does is get harsher and appropriate penalties for those that would profit from trafficking of persons.

SENATOR HINOJOSA: I really would like to work with you during the interim. See how this changes work in terms of trying to help out the prosecution in this type of crime and necessary sort of a tie up some loose ends. But thank you anyway for your work.

SENATOR VAN DE PUTTE: Thank you, Senator.

SENATOR OGDEN: Senator Van de Putte moves suspension of the regular order of business to take up and consider committee substitute to Senate Bill 24. Is there objection? Hearing none, the rules are suspended. The Chair lays out on second reading committee substitute to Senate Bill 24. The secretary will read the caption.

PATSY SPAW: Committee substitute to Senate Bill 24 relating to prosecution, punishment and certain criminal and civil consequences of offenses involved in the trafficking of persons.

SENATOR OGDEN: Senator Van De Putte is recognized for a motion.

SENATOR VAN DE PUTTE: Thank you, Mr. President. I move passage of committee substitute of Senate Bill 24 to engrossment.

SENATOR OGDEN: Is there objection? Hearing none, committee substitute to Senate Bill 24 is passed to engrossment. Senator Van de Putte is recognized for a motion to suspend the constitutional three day rule.

SENATOR VAN DE PUTTE: I move to suspend the constitutional rule that bills be read on three several days.

SENATOR OGDEN: Secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

SENATOR OGDEN: There being 30 ayes and one nay, three day rule is suspended. The Chair lays out on third reading and final passage, committee substitute to Senate Bill 24. The secretary will read the caption.

PATSY SPAW: Committee substitute to Senate Bill 24 relating to prosecution, punishment, and certain criminal and civil consequences of offenses related to trafficking of persons.

SENATOR OGDEN: Senator Van de Putte is recognized for a motion.

SENATOR VAN DE PUTTE: Thank you, Mr. President. And before I move final passage of the committee substitute, I wanted to take this opportunity to thank my colleagues and particularly the staff at the Attorney General's Office for their work in the task force. I especially want to recognize Denise Donnelly of the AG's office. Members, Ms. Donnelly will be retiring very soon with 23 years of service to the Attorney General's Office, and the highlight of her career and the work she has done has been in the area of human trafficking. Members, I have her as a staff member on the floor, and I'd like to ask her to be recognized of the hard work that she's done. She's been the primary staffer of this, and we want to congratulate her on her 23 years, wish her well and understand that it is so much that we do in particular in conjunction with our state agencies, but in particular with the Attorney General's Office has been because of the great staff. And so with recognition of Denise Donnelly's work on this great issue, I move final passage of the committee substitute to Senate Bill 24.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator Van de Putte. Members, you have heard the motion by Senator Van de Putte. The secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: There being 31 ayes and no nays, the committee substitute to Senate Bill 24 is finally passed. Congratulations.

SENATOR VAN DE PUTTE: Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you, members.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: The Chair lays out the following resolution, Senate Resolution No. 615 by Senator Seliger. The secretary will read the resolution.

PATSY SPAW: Senate Resolution 615 declaring Wednesday March 23rd, 2011, as Salad Day at the State Capitol. By Seliger.

SENATOR OGDEN: Chair recognizes Senator Seliger to explain the resolution.

SENATOR SELIGER: Thank you, Mr. President and members. This is a time of day when we normally and have for many, many years thought of two all beef patties, pickles, onions, lettuce, cheese, sauce, on a sesame seed bun. Not so today because today is Salad Day. Being sponsored by Texas McDonalds owner/operators, some of whom are in the gallery here. And I'll ask you to stand. It's nice to have my mother-in-law here today, welcome. Today Texas McDonald's owners/operators will serve salads to the public while providing information about McDonald's system positive impact on the state's economy. Texas' McDonald's owners/operators represent an economic presence in all of our communities. A total of 1,145 McDonalds restaurants operate in Texas employing nearly 55,885 Texans. McDonalds Texas owners/operators contribute significantly to the state by returning much to the revenues they generate to local economies. In 2010 the McDonald systems spent more than $1.2 billion in Texas returning more than 45 cents of every dollar to local Texas economies. Not only do the local restaurants contribute to the economy but the business is a source for many McDonalds' quality ingredients. In 2010, the McDonald system purchased more than $230 million worth of Texas grown ingredients like cheese, onions, flour and beef. There are 16 Ronald McDonald House charities chapters in Texas, and they provide grants to children's causes and organizations throughout Texas. Since its inception in 1988, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Great North Texas has granted more than $4 million to local children's causes. Please join me in welcoming Texas McDonald's owners/operators to the State Capitol and extending best wishes for a successful Salad Day 2011.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator Seliger. Members, you have heard the motion by Senator Seliger. Is there objection from any member? The Chair hears no objection from any member, and the resolution is adopted. The Chair recognizes Senator Estes for a motion to suspend the Senate's regular order of business to take up and consider a committee substitute to Senate Bill 248.

SENATOR ESTES: Thank you, Mr. President and members. Mr. President, I must have to suspend the constitutional order of business and Senate's regular order of business to take up and consider at this time committee substitute to Senate Bill 248. Members, over the past two years, 16 grain elevators some full of corn, sorum, wheat and grains abruptly went bankrupt or failed. I'm sad to report that as of last weekend looks like another Texas grain elevator will be closing its doors in response to those unfortunate events. The Texas Department of Agriculture developed a grain warehouse task force representing all stakeholders in the industry to discuss reforms needed to prevent future failures. The provisions of this bill are crafted based on the task force recommendations. This bill provides enhanced protections for Texas grain producers by increasing bonding requirements for Texas grain houses, securing additional enforcement authority for the Texas Department of Agriculture. Members, every year hard working farmers battle weather and economy they expect to trust that when the grain is deposited, it will be measured and stored in accordance with the law. So, Mr. President, I move to suspend.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator Estes. Senator Birdwell, for what purpose do you rise, sir?

SENATOR BIRDWELL: Thank you Mr. President. To ask the bill sponsor, Senator Estes --

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Will Senator Estes yield?

SENATOR ESTES: I will be happy to yield to Senator Birdwell.

SENATOR BIRDWELL: Thank you, Senator Estes. Thank you, Mr. President. Senator Estes, I applaud you for getting out in front of this issue, and I'm sad to learn that in my own district the latest grain warehouse investigation has occurred in Ellis County. Are you able to share any information that you know about this investigation and how the farmers in my district may be impacted as well as across the state?

SENATOR ESTES: Well, thank you for the question, Senator Birdwell. Unfortunately all we know right now is what's been released publicly by the Department of Agriculture. And based on the complaint TDA began its investigation on March 16th and they found discrepancies in the warehouse records. And as a result of these discrepancies, this facility's been shut down and it's been sealed by the department, it's no longer licensed. So at this time grain may not be moved in or out of this facility, and that's about all that we know at this time.

SENATOR BIRDWELL: Okay. Thank you. And there's one other question, if I may, Senator Estes. How would your bill before the Senate today impact the farmers in my area that have grain stored in that facility right now?

SENATOR ESTES: And I appreciate that question. Really, there's no regulation that we can have that would completely prevent all risk in the state license facilities, but my hope is that with increased financial obligations, the provisions of this bill would weed out some of the bad actors and this bill would give the Department of Agriculture the tools they need to share information with local law enforcement and provide farmers with additional relief through increased bond payouts. So, of course, on the other side of this problem, there's 319 grain companies in Texas. So I hope that you will join me in guaranteeing that TDA maintains fundings for investigators and auditors who are out in the field inspecting these businesses.

SENATOR BIRDWELL: Thank you, Senator Estes. I look forward to supporting this bill to help those that have put their trust in the grain elevators to make sure that they get a return on their investments. Thank you.

SENATOR ESTES: Thank you, Senator.

SENATOR BIRDWELL: Thank you, Mr. President.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you. Members, you heard the motion by Senator Estes. Is there objection from any member? Chair hears no objection from any member, and the rule is suspended. Chair lays out on second reading committee substitute to Senate Bill 248. The secretary will read the caption.

PATSY SPAW: Committee substitute to Senate Bill 248 relating to the regulation of public grain warehouse operators.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Chair recognizes Senator Estes for a motion.

SENATOR ESTES: Thank you, Mr. President. I move passage to engrossment.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, you heard the motion by Senator Estes. Is there objection from any member? Chair hears no objection from any member, and committee substitute to Senate Bill 248 passes to engrossment. Chair lays out -- the Chair recognizes Senator Estes for a motion to suspend the constitutional rule that bills be read on three several days.

SENATOR ESTES: So moved, Mr. President.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, you heard the motion by Senator Estes. The secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: There being 30 ayes and one nay, the rule is suspended. The Chair lays out on third reading and final passage, committee substitute to Senate Bill 248. The secretary will read the caption.

PATSY SPAW: Committee substitute to Senate Bill 248 relating to regulation of public grain warehouse operators.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Chair recognizes Senator Estes for a motion.

SENATOR ESTES: Thank you, Mr. President. I move final passage of committee substitute Senate Bill 248.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, sir. Members, you heard the motion by Senator Estes. The secretary will call the role.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: There being 30 ayes and no nays, the committee substitute to Senate Bill 248 is finally passed.

SENATOR ESTES: Thank you, Mr. President and members.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you. The Chair recognizes Senator West for a motion to suspend the Senate's order of business to take up and consider SJR9.

SENATOR WEST: Thank you very much, Mr. President. Mr. President and members, I move to suspend the Senate's regular order of business to take up and consider at this time SJR9. It has companion legislation that we will also take up hopefully right after this particular SJR. Members, what this SJR does and what the accompanying legislation does, SB144, is give the governor the ability to consider a pardon of a person who has successfully completed deferred adjudication community supervision. We passed both of these measures last session and the constitutional SJR failed, it failed in the House for a lack of consideration. The governor vetoed both bills and in his veto he said currently only one person who has been convicted of a crime is eligible for clemency consideration. A person who has received a judgment of deferred adjudication does not convict a person leaving -- a person to receive a lesser form of punishment ineligible to receive clemency. And the governor said this is not right or equitable. So hopefully we can get this bill through the legislative process and get it to the governor's desk for consideration. I move to suspend the regular order of business.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator West. Members, you have heard the motion by Senator West. Is there objection from any member? The Chair hears no objection from any member, and the rule is suspended. The Chair lays out on second reading SJR9. The secretary will read the caption.

PATSY SPAW: SJR9 proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the governor to grant a pardon to certain persons.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Chair recognizes Senator West for a motion.

SENATOR WEST: Move passage of SJR9 to engrossment.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, you've heard the motion by Senator West, is there objection from any member? Chair hears no objection from any member, and SJR No. 9 passes to engrossment. The Chair recognizes Senator West for a motion to suspend the constitutional rule that bills be read on three several days.

SENATOR WEST: So moved.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, you have heard the motion by Senator West. The secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: There being 30 ayes and one nay the rule is suspended. The Chair lays out on third reading and final passage SJR No. 9. The secretary will read the caption.

PATSY SPAW: SJR No. 9 proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the governor to grant a pardon to a person who successfully completes a term of deferred adjudication, community supervision.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Chair recognizes Senator West for a motion.

SENATOR WEST: Move final passage of SJR9 for Senator Ogden and myself.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, you have heard the motion. You've heard the motion on behalf of Senator Ogden and yourself, yes. The secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: There being 31 ayes and no nays, SJR No. 9 is finally passed.

SENATOR WEST: Thank you, Mr. President.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: The Chair recognizes Senator West for a motion to suspend the Senate's regular order of business to take up and consider Senate Bill 144.

SENATOR WEST: Thank you very much, Mr. President and members. At this time I move to suspend the Senate's regular order of business to take up and consider at this time Senate Bill 144. Members, this is the companion legislation I spoke of as we were considering SJR9. What this will do will is give the governor of the state of Texas, if the voters decide to approve the constitutional amendment, the legal authority to consider clemency in situations where individuals have received deferred adjudication. I move to suspend the regular order of business.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, you've heard the motion by Senator West. Is there objection from any member? Chair hears no objection, and the rule is suspended. Chair lays out on second reading to Senate Bill 144. The secretary will read the caption.

PATSY SPAW: Senate Bill 144 relating to allowing a person who has successfully completed the term of deferred adjudication, community supervision to be eligible for a pardon.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: The Chair recognizes Senator West for a motion.

SENATOR WEST: I move passage to engrossment, passage to engrossment of Senate Bill 144.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members you, have heard the motion by Senator West. Is there objection from any member? The Chair hears no objection from any member, and Senate Bill 144 passes to engrossment. The Chair recognizes Senator West for a motion to suspend the constitutional rule that bills be read on three several days.

SENATOR WEST: So moved.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, you heard the motion by Senator West. Secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: There being 30 ayes and one nay, the rule is suspended. The Chair lays out on third reading and final passage Senate Bill 144. The secretary will read the caption.

PATSY SPAW: Senate Bill 144 relating to the allowing of a person who successfully completes the term of deferred adjudication, community supervision to be eligible for a pardon.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: The Chair recognizes Senator West for a motion.

SENATOR WEST: Mr. President and members, I move final passage of Senate Bill 144.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Is this for Senator Ogden too?

SENATOR WEST: It's for Senator Ogden also, and Senator Huffman also.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: You've heard the motion by Senator West. The secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: There being 31 ayes and no nays, Senate Bill 144 is finally passed. Senator Hegar, are you ready? The Chair recognizes Senator Hegar for a motion to suspend the constitutional rule -- excuse me. The Chair recognizes Senator Hegar to suspend the Senate's regular order of business to take up and consider Senate Bill 524.

SENATOR HEGAR: Thank you, Mr. President and members. Senate Bill 524 under current law and only with Tex DOT's approval, the Victoria County Navigation District may issue oversize, overweight permits for the transportation of goods on certain state highways within Victoria, about a 4-mile stretch. Senate Bill 524 has been worked out with Tex DOT to issue permits on an additional eight mile stretch. This is in collaboration with the Port of Victoria as well as Caterpillar since they're going to have a brand new manufacturing facility, and we can move these heavy escalators down the road just for a 12-mile period. There's fees that's included that would cover the cost of this. And I would move to suspend the Senate's regular order of business to take up and consider Senate Bill 524.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, you have heard the motion by Senator Hegar. Is there objection from any member? The Chair hears no objection from any member, and the rule is suspended. The Chair lays out on second reading Senate Bill 524. The secretary will read caption.

PATSY SPAW: Senate Bill 524 relating to issuance of certain permits for the movement of overside or overweight vehicles.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: The Chair recognizes Senator Hegar for a motion.

SENATOR HEGAR: Move passage to engrossment.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, you've heard the motion by Senator Hegar. Is there objection from any member? The Chair hears no objection from any member, and Senate Bill 524 passes to engrossment. Chair recognizes Senator Hegar for a motion to suspend the constitutional rule that bills be read on three several days.

SENATOR HEGAR: Thank you, Mr. President, move to suspend the three day rule to hear Senate Bill 524.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator Hegar. Members, you've heard the motion by Senator Hegar. The secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: There being 30 ayes and one nay, the rule is suspended. The Chair lays out on third reading and final passage Senate Bill 524. The secretary will read the caption.

PATSY SPAW: Senate Bill 524 relating to the issuance of certain permits for the movement of oversize or overweight vehicles.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Chair recognizes Senator Hague for a motion.

SENATOR HEGAR: Move final passage.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator. Members, you've heard the motion by Senator Hegar. The secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: There being 31 ayes and is no nays, Senate Bill 524 is finally passed. Congratulations. I am hoping, Senator Shapiro, you can explain this bill to me. The Chair recognizes Senator Shapiro for a motion to suspend the Senate's regular order of business to take up and consider a committee substitute to Senate Bill 181.

SENATOR SHAPIRO: Thank you, Mr. President and members. And, Mr. President, would you like me to explain it before or after? Thank you, Mr. President. Committee substitute to Senate Bill 181 requires the Texas Water Development Board in consultation with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the Water Conservation Advisory Council to develop a standard formula, or what we call a metric, for calculating and reporting municipal water use. This bill sets forth minimum standards to guide the agencies in developing this metric. It requires that the agencies develop a metric using a utility's water use and conservation within various water use sectors including residential, industrial, commercial, and institutional sectors. And it also requires that the Water Development Board and the TCEQ use these metrics in evaluating certain plans, programs and service base of water code for improved consistency. It also brackets any cities who have less than 3,300 utility connections to avoid imposing an unfunded mandate on smaller municipalities and water utilities. It's strictly to standardize water conservation throughout the state of Texas.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator Shapiro. Members, you've heard the motion by Senator Shapiro. Is there objection from any member? Chair hears no objection from any member, and the rule is suspended. Chair lays out on second reading committee substitute to Senate Bill 181. The secretary will read the caption.

PATSY SPAW: Committee substitute to Senate Bill 181 relating to the calculation and reporting of water usage by municipalities and water utilities.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: The Chair lays out Floor Amendment No. 1 by Senator Shapiro. The secretary will read the amendment.

PATSY SPAW: Floor amendment No. 1 by Shapiro.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Chair recognizes Senator Shapiro to explain Floor Amendment No. 1.

SENATOR SHAPIRO: Thank you, Mr. President and members. This amendment was actually brought to me by the San Antonio Water System, and they would like to add to our bill on Floor Amendment No. 1 a requirement that nonrevenue water use be included in the method of calculating and an explicit statement that a method of calculating total water use must be developed by these agencies. It's my understanding that nonrevenue water includes leaky pipes, lost or unmeasurable water just to make sure that it's all in the calculation. And I move adoption of Floor Amendment No. 1.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Senator Watson, for what purpose? Okay. Senator Hegar, for what purpose do you rise?

SENATOR HEGAR: Just for a clarification.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Will Senator Shapiro yield?

SENATOR SHAPIRO: I certainly will.

SENATOR HEGAR: I'm sorry, I just was listening on the back, so would the calculation include the leaking water?

SENATOR SHAPIRO: Yes.

SENATOR HEGAR: Oak. Thank you, Senator.

SENATOR SHAPIRO: You're welcome.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Senator Hinojosa, for what purpose do you rise, sir?

SENATOR HINOJOSA: To ask the author a question.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Will Senator Shapiro yield?

SENATOR SHAPIRO: Yes.

SENATOR HINOJOSA: Senator Shapiro, I voted for this bill. It's a good bill to have uniform water use. But your amendment talks about, I guess, pipe leakage. Is that what we're talking about?

SENATOR SHAPIRO: Right.

SENATOR HINOJOSA: How do you measure those type of losses? Is it an estimate or --

SENATOR SHAPIRO: Only thing I can tell you is that the San Antonio Water Commission or Water System actually brought this to us. And what they wanted to add was to ensure that all water whether it was sold, lost, or unaccounted for. Now, how they find that calculation is beyond me, but they know more about water than I do. I just want to make sure that when you measure the total amount that you report, that if you find leakages and you recognize that there has been a leakage, that you include that in your calculation.

SENATOR HINOJOSA: I guess, just a guess on my part. I would assume they measure the water that goes out and then whatever they bill and then they deduct what they've billed, when the water went out, it shows how much water was lost. I assume that, I don't know.

SENATOR SHAPIRO: I'm assuming that as well.

SENATOR HINOJOSA: Okay. Thank you.

SENATOR SHAPIRO: Thank you.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, Senator Shapiro moves the adoption of Floor Amendment No. 1. Is there objection from any member? Chair hears no objection from any member, and Floor Amendment No. 1 is adopted. Chair recognizes Senator Shapiro for a motion.

SENATOR SHAPIRO: Thank you, Mr. President and members. I move passage to engrossment on committee substitute to Senate Bill 181 as amended.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, you heard the motion by Senator Shapiro. Is there objection from any member? The Chair hears no objection from any member, and committee substitute to Senate Bill 181 as amended passes to engrossment. Chair recognizes Senator Shapiro for a motion to suspend the constitutional rule that bills be read on three several days.

SENATOR SHAPIRO: So moved.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, you heard the motion by Senator Shapiro. The secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: There being 30 ayes and one nay, the rule is suspended. Senator Watson, did you wish to --

SENATOR WATSON: Yeah I just want to speak on the bill.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Well, wait just a moment. The Chair lays out on third reading and final passage the committee substitute to Senate Bill 181 as amended. The secretary will read the caption.

PATSY SPAW: Committee substitute to Senate Bill 181 relating to calculation and reporting of water usage from municipalities from state water and utility services for other purposes.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Chair recognizes Senator Watson to speak on the bill.

SENATOR WATSON: Thank you, Mr. President. Senator Shapiro, what I want to do is I want to say thank you for shepherding this bill. We had talked about this some time ago before the session and I'm proud to be a coauthor of this with you because it's important where we're headed in terms of our water planning in this state, and you've done very good work on this.

SENATOR SHAPIRO: Thank you. I appreciate that very much. And thank you for your help. And I believe Senator Seliger was also helpful and the offices have also worked on this. I think it's high time that we also have this bill. Thank you. Move final passage of committee substitute to Senate Bill 181 at this time.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator Shapiro. Members, you've heard the motion by Senator Shapiro. The secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: There being 31 ayes and no nays, a committee substitute to Senate Bill 181 as amended is finally passed.

SENATOR SHAPIRO: Thank you, Mr. President and members.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: The Chair recognizes Senator Hegar for a motion to suspend the Senate's regular order of business to take up and consider Senate Bill 390.

SENATOR HEGAR: Thank you, Mr. President, members. Senate Bill 390 is a bill that passed originally in the 78th Legislative section giving the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission the authority to create a stamp that would be required for most anglers fishing in freshwater. The funds generated from the sale of the stamp were dedicated to the repair, maintenance, renovation and replacement of freshwater fish hatcheries. The stamp (inaudible) an estimate of roughly $6 million annually. The purpose of Senate Bill 390 is to repeal a portion that was put in where the stamp was set to expire September 1 of 2014. So this bill would repeal the Sunset date of that stamp. All the fishing, different associations are in support of the bill because there are hatcheries that still need to be maintained and repaired and this bill would allow us the funds to maintain (inaudible) repairing the fisheries for this industry. And I would move to suspend the Senate's regular order of business to take up and consider Senate Bill 390.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator. Members, you've heard the motion by Senator Hegar. Is there objection from any member? Chair hears no objection from any member, and the rule is suspended. Chair lays out on second reading Senate Bill 390. The secretary will read the caption.

PATSY SPAW: Senate Bill 390 relating to the continuing issuance of freshwater fishing stamps by Parks and Wildlife Department.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: The Chair recognizes Senator Hegar for a motion.

SENATOR HEGAR: Move passage to engrossment.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, you've heard the motion by Senator Hegar. Is there objection from any member? Chair hears no objection from any member, and Senate Bill 390 passes to engrossment. The Chair recognizes Senator Hegar for a motion to suspend the constitutional rule that bills be read on three several days.

SENATOR HEGAR: Move to suspend the constitutional rule that bills be read on three separate days.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, you've heard the motion by Senator Hegar. The secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: There being 30 ayes and one nay, the rule is suspended. Chair lays out on third reading and final passage Senate Bill 390. The secretary will read the caption.

PATSY SPAW: Senate Bill 390 relating to the issuance of freshwater fishing stamps by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Madam Secretary. Chair recognizes Senator Hague for a motion.

SENATOR HEGAR: Thank you, Mr. President. Move final passage of Senate Bill 390.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator Hegar. Members, you've heard the motion by Senator Hegar. The secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: There being 31 ayes and no nays, Senate Bill 390 is finally passed. Congratulations. Sorry about the way I sound. The Chair recognizes Senator Hegar for a motion to suspend the Senate's order of business to take up and consider Senate Bill 801.

SENATOR HEGAR: Thank you, Mr. President and members. Matagorda Sea Wall Commission located in Palacias, Texas in Senate District 18 was created in 1983, and the board is composed of three board members. The commission's power relate to the maintenance, construction of structure improvement of the sea wall, levies, flood ways, drainage, on the beach and renourishment, erosion project. Senate Bill 801 would extend the powers of the special district to allow it to establish, correct and maintain recreational facilities for the public use of adjacent to the sea wall in Matagorda County in Senate District 18, and I would move to suspend the Senate's regular order of business to take up and consider Senate Bill 801.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator Hegar. Members, you have heard the motion by Senator Hegar. Is there objection from any member? Chair hears no objection from any member, and the rule is suspended. Chair lays out on second reading Senate Bill 801. The secretary will read the caption.

PATSY SPAW: Senate Bill 801 relating to authority of the sea wall commission of Matagorda County to maintain recreational facilities near the sea wall.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Chair recognizes Senator Hegar for a motion.

SENATOR HEGAR: Thank you, Mr. President. Move passage to engrossment.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator. Members, you've heard the motion by Senator Hegar. Is there objection from any member? Chair hears no objection from any member, and Senate Bill 801 passes to engrossment. Chair lays out on -- the Chair recognizes Senator Hegar for a motion to suspend the constitutional rule that bills be read on three several days.

SENATOR HEGAR: Thank you, Mr. President. Move to suspend the constitutional rule that bills be heard on three separate days.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, you heard the motion by Senator Hegar. The secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: There being 30 ayes and one nay, the rule is suspended. The Chairs out on third reading and final passage Senate Bill 801. The secretary will read the adoption.

PATSY SPAW: Senate Bill 801 relating to the authority of the sea wall commission in Matagorda County to build and maintain recreational facilities near the sea wall.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Chair recognizes Senator Hegar for a motion.

SENATOR HEGAR: Thank you, Mr. President. I move final passage of Senate Bill 801.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator Hegar. Members, you have heard the motion by Senator Hegar. The secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: There being 31 ayes and no nays, Senate Bill 801 is finally passed. Congratulations. Members, the following report from the nominations committee. The Chair recognizes Senator Deuell to explain the report.

SENATOR DEUELL: Thank you, Mr. President, members. I move to confirm the nominees that are on your committee action report placed on your desk. These nominees were confirmed at the Monday March 21st meeting.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator Deuell. Members, are there any requests to sever? Senator Deuell moves that the nominees favorably reported from the nominations committee be confirmed. The secretary will call the roll.

PATSY SPAW: Birdwell, Carona, Davis, Deuell, Duncan, Ellis, Eltife, Estes, Fraser, Gallegos, Harris, Hegar, Hinojosa, Huffman, Jackson, Lucio, Nelson, Nichols, Ogden, Patrick, Rodriguez, Seliger, Shapiro, Uresti, Van de Putte, Watson, Wentworth, West, Whitmire, Williams, Zaffirini.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: There being 31 ayes and no nays, the nominees are confirmed. Thank you, Senator Deuell. Members, the president's desk is clear. Do we have announcements? Chair recognizes Senator Shapiro for an announcement.

SENATOR SHAPIRO: Thank you very much, Mr. President. I move to suspend the Senate rules 11.10 and 11.18 so the Senate Committee on Education can meet upon adjournment of the Senate to vote out the following pending bills: Senate Bill 49 by Zaffirini, Senate Bill 290 by Watson, Senate Bill 596 by Shapiro, Senate Bill 597 by Shapiro, Senate Bill 778 by Williams, et al., and Senate Bill 949 by Ellis.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: And are you and Senator Ogden still going to be able to meet with me afterwards?

SENATOR SHAPIRO: Yes, sir.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Just for a few. No? Yes?

SENATOR SHAPIRO: Can I make it at like 2:00 o'clock instead of 1:30? Please.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Sure. Members, you heard the motion by Senator Shapiro to suspend the rules 11.10 and 11.18 to take up and consider various bills at our desk. Is there objection from any member? Chair hears no objection, and the motion is adopted. Chair recognizes Senator Zaffirini for an announcement.

SENATOR ZAFFIRNI: Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President and members, earlier I would have sponsored and offered to you for consideration Senate Resolution 572 honoring McMullin County. Unfortunately, my constituents are delayed, but they are with us today and I want you to know a little bit about this district that includes McMullin County and my constituents are celebrating McMullin County Day. With us today in the gallery, I'd ask them to rise and be recognized, as I call out their names. County Judge James Teal, County Commissioner Murray Swain, our school board president Walt Franklin and our superintendent Dave Underwood. Please join me in welcoming these fine constituents to the Texas Senate.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you so much, Senator Zaffirini. The Chair recognizes Senator Eltife for an announcement.

SENATOR ELTIFE: Thank you, Mr. President and members. I'm giving notice that the local and uncontested calendar for tomorrow March 24th at 8:30 a.m. A copy of the calendar has been furnished to each of you. The bills and resolutions will be considered on a second and third reading in the order listed. Mr. President, I also move to suspend Senate Rule 11.13 so that committees may meet during the reading and referral of bills and during the local and uncontested calendar.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator Eltife. Members, you have heard the motion by Senator Eltife to suspend the Senate Rule 11.13 so committees can meet during the reading and referral of bills and local calendar. Is there objection from any member? Chair hears no objection from any member, and the motion is adopted. Chair recognizes Senator West for an announcement.

SENATOR WEST: Thank you very much, Mr. President. Members, the Senate government -- Senate committee on Intergovernmental Relations will reconvene at 1:45 in E1.028.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator West. Chair recognizes Senator Ellis.

SENATOR ELLIS: Mr. President, two announcements. And a motion. I want to announce I have a dear friend from South Africa on the floor Matt Sequalle and his son from South Africa, the first time in America, visiting us today and would you just please give them a round of applause? Mr. President, I want to move to suspend the 24-hour posting rule in accordance with Senate Rules 11.10 and 11.18 in order to allow the governmental organization committee to meet at my desk upon adjournment to vote. Hopefully vote out Senate Bill 655. It's a Railroad Commission Sunset bill which was previously heard in public hearing.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Senator Ellis, thank you. Members, Senator Ellis moves to suspend the Senate rule 11.10 and 11.18 to enable the government organizations committee to meet at his desk and vote out several bills which have been previously heard. Is there objection from any member? The Chair hears no objection from any member, and the motion is adopted.

SENATOR ELLIS: Thank you, Mr. President, and we'll met at my desk upon adjournment.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Thank you, Senator Ellis. The Chair recognizes Senator Jackson for an announcement.

SENATOR JACKSON: Thank you, Mr. President, members of the economic development committee, we will have our meeting here on the Senate floor at 2:00 o'clock. 2:00 o'clock this afternoon.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: At 2:00 o'clock. Members are there any additional announcements? Hearing no additional announcements, the Chair recognizes the Dean of the Senate for a highly privileged motion.

DEAN OF THE SENATE: Thank you, Mr. President. I move that the Senate recess until 8:30 a.m. tomorrow so that we may consider a local and uncontested calendar at that time. At the conclusion of that calendar the Senate will adjourn until 10:00 a.m. Thursday March 24th. And also I move to recess pending the reading and referral of bills, and I do this on behalf of the members in memory of Tom Vandergriff.

LT. GOVERNOR DEWHURST: Members, you have heard the motion by the Dean of the Senate. Is there objection from any member? The Chair hears no objection, and the Senate will stand in recess until 8:30 a.m. tomorrow to consider the local calendar and upon conclusion of the local calendar, the Senate will stand adjourned until 10:00 a.m. tomorrow, Thursday, March 24th. Thank you.

PATSY SPAW: Senate Bill 846 by Patrick. Relating to the scope of practice of exam practice nurses at certain sites serving medically underserved populations. To Finance. Senate Bill 858 by Van de Putte. Relating to the regulation of practice dental hygiene. To Finance. Senate Bill 891 by Carona. Relating to certain investments by insurance companies and related organizations. To Economic Development. Senate Bill 961 by Uresti. Relating to the authority of physicians and physicians assistants to form certain entities. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1056 by Carona. Relating to regulation of the practice of therapeutic optometry. To Finance. Senate Bill 1143 by Uresti. Relating to orthotics and prosthetics. To Finance. Senate Bill 1260 by Ellis. Relating to the licensing of advance practice registered nurses. To Finance. Senate Bill 1264 by Uresti. Relating to the practice of podiatry. To Finance. Senate Bill 1319 by Lucio. Relating to home loans that are not federally regulated mortgage loans. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1320 by Lucio. Relating to trade practices in connection with executing and filing deeds in lieu of foreclosure. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1500 by Watson. Relating to liability for the death of a pet. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1541 by Watson. Relating to the inclusion of certain emissions reduction projects or activities in the cost of a transportation project. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1542 by Watson. Relating to a limited waiver of certain immunity for state and local government entities in certain employment lawsuits. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1543 by Wentworth. Relating to the authority of independent school districts to invest in corporate bonds. To Education. Senate Bill 1544 by Patrick. Relating to a determination on granting a false leave to a certified educator. To Education. Senate Bill 1545 by Patrick. Relating to the liability of a volunteer health care practitioner who conducts a physical examination. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1546 by Patrick. Relating to scheduling property taxes appeal hearings. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1547 by Patrick. Relating to foreclosure of certain property associations assessment liens. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1548 by Patrick. Relating to creation of DNA records for the DNA database system. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1549 by Rodriguez and Ellis. Relating to the eligibility of and requirements of applicable to certain persons for supplemental nutrition assistance. To Health and Human Services. Senate Bill 1550 by Rodriguez. Relating to the use of seclusion by community centers. To Health and Human Services. Senate Bill 1551 by Rodriguez. Relating to missing children and missing persons. To Jurisprudence. Senate Bill 1552 by Rodriguez. Relating to reimbursement for certain emergency services provided to persons enrolled in the Medicaid management care program. To Health and Human Services. Senate Bill 1553 by Rodriguez. Relating to criminal history record of information checks of certain employees. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1554 by Rodriguez. Relating to the designation of certain municipal housing authority employees as peace offices. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1555 by Rodriguez. Relating to the investment of a permanent university fund. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 556 by Rodriguez. Relating to requirements for a reapportionment of congressional district. To Redistricting. Senate Bill 1557 by Carona. Relating to the establishment of Texas Higher Performance School Consortium. To Education. Senate Bill 1558 by Carona. Relating to change order approval requirements for certain political subdivisions of the state. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1559 by Carona. Relating to requirements for certain arrangements or agreements of certain regional transportation authorities. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1560 by Ellis. Relating to liability of certain local emergency management or Homeland Security organizations. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1561 by Davis. Relating to state agency purchasing. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1562 by Williams. Relating to the designation of a segment of Texas State Highway 75 as the 75th Ranger Regiment Highway. Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1563 by West. Relating to methodology for the certification of funds to support satisfactory performance on certain state assessments. To Education. Senate Bill 1564 by Uresti. Relating to developmental education courses in the assessment of student readiness. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1565 by Ellis and Eltife. Relating to encouraging public participation by citizens by protecting a person's right to petition. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1566 by Uresti. Relating to the licensure of anesthesiologist assistants. To Finance. Senate Bill 1567 by Uresti. Relating to threshold amount at which public utilities are required to report a transaction. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1568 by Estes. Relating to shareholders' standing after mergers. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1569 by Estes. Relating to remediation of underground storage tanks. To Natural Resources. Senate Bill 1570 by Estes. Relating to sale of surplus leased land by a governmental entity. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1571 by Watson. Relating to information subject to public information law. To Open Government. Senate Bill 1572 by Watson. Relating to intelligence state standards and protected person information. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1573 by Watson. Relating to emergency services districts. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1574 by Watson. Relating to the use of money in a tax increment fund. To Economic Development. Senate Bill 1575 by Watson. Relating to authorizing certain brewers and manufacturers to sale beer and ale to ultimate consumers. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1576 by Ellis. Relating to requirements related to the reports of emission events. To Natural Resources. Senate Bill 1577 by Ellis. Relating to hotel occupancy tax on the price paid for a hotel room. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1578 by Williams. Relating to condition of a county to a freight rail district. To Transportation, Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1579 by Ogden. Relating to state fiscal matters relating to general government. To Finance. Senate Bill 1580 by Ogden. Relating to state fiscal matters related to Health and Human Services. To Finance. Senate Bill 1581 by Ogden. Relating to state fiscal matters related to public and higher education. To Finance. Senate Bill 1582 by Ogden. Related to fiscal matters relating to the judiciary. To Finance. Senate Bill 1583 by Ogden. Relating to state fiscal matters related to law enforcement and criminal justice. To Finance. Senate Bill 1584 by Ogden. Relating to state fiscal matters related to natural resources and the environment. To Finance. Senate Bill 1585 by Ogden. Relating to state fiscal matters regarding business and economic development. To Finance. Senate Bill 1586 by Ogden. Relating to state fiscal matters related to certain regulatory agencies. To Finance. Senate Bill 1587 by Ogden. Relating to the remittance and certain allocation of certain taxes to agencies. To Finance. Senate Bill 1588 by Ogden. Relating to the creation and recreation of funds and accounts in the state treasury. To Finance. Senate Bill 1589 by Ogden. Relating to directing payment after approval of certain miscellaneous claims and judgments against the state. To Finance. Senate Bill 1590 by Ogden. Relating to the Texas Economic Development Act. To Finance. Senate Bill 1591 by Duncan. Relating to the goal of installing additional capacity for generating landfill gas energy. To Natural Resources. Senate Bill 1592 by Wentworth. Relating to an expiration by a county burn ban. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1593 by Wentworth. Relating to admissibility of certain evidence obtained solely as a direct result of a request for emergency medical services for an overdose. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1594 by Wentworth. Relating to offers of settlement in civil cases. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1595 by Wentworth. Relating to species protection program for the Edwards Aquifer. To Natural Resources. Senate Bill 1596 by Wentworth. Relating to changes in participation in public utility agencies. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1597 by Wentworth. Relating to competitive bid requirements for public utility agencies that award construction contracts. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1598 by Carona. Relating to the inspection of affordable fire extinguishers. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1599 by Carona. Relating to the requirements for an insurance adjuster license. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1600 by Whitmire. Relating to the registration of peace officers, private security officers. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1601 by Seliger. Relating to the licensing and registration of chiropractors. To Finance. Senate Bill 1602 by Seliger. Relating to exemption from sale and use tax for certain agriculture items. To Finance. Senate Bill 1603 by Seliger. Relating to basis for apportioning annual per capita payments from the available school fund. To Education. Senate Bill 1604 by Seliger. Relating to weight limits on a vehicle loaded with certain agricultural products. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1605 by Seliger. Relating to the Texas low-level radioactive waste disposal compact commission. To Natural Resources. Senate Bill 1606 by Seliger. Relating to reporting requirements regarding groundwater withdrawals for water wells. To Natural Resources. Senate Bill 1607 by Carona. Relating to duties and responsibilities of certain county officials. To Jurisprudence. Senate Bill 1608 by Carona. Relating to operating a motor vehicle without a driver's license. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1609 by Carona. Relating to fees charged for the management and preservation of the county clerk's records. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1610 by Lucio and Williams. Relating to seat belt requirements for certain vehicles. To Transportation, Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1611 by Wentworth. Relating to the funding of projects and the boundaries of a municipal community rail district. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1612 by Ogden. Relating to the monitoring, oversight and funding of certain retirement systems. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1613 by Ogden. Relating to public meeting and information disclosure exemptions for public power utilities. To Open Government. Senate Bill 1614 by Van de Putte. Relating to payment of and disclosures related to certain ambulatory surgical center charges. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1615 by West. Relating to the creation of offense of electronic transmission of certain visual material depicting a minor. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1616 by West. Relating to collection, storage, preservation, retrieval and destruction of biological evidence. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1617 by Harris. Relating to discretionary transfer from a juvenile court to a criminal court of certain alleged offenses. To Jurisprudence. Senate Bill 1618 by Seliger. Relating to electronic reporting by certain state entities and to the review of continual report requirements. To Government Organization. Senate Bill 1619 by Duncan. Relating to the calculation of the daily average attendance of a public school student. To Education. Senate Bill 1620 by Duncan. Relating to an approval process for substitution of certain career and technology courses for mathematic and science courses. To Education. Senate Bill 1621 by Van de Putte. Relating to accomplishing veteran resource centers at certain institutions of Higher Education. To Veteran Affairs and Military Installations. Senate Bill 1622 by Van de Putte. Relating to secondary level English language learner's program for public school students. To Education. Senate Bill 1623 by Van de Putte. Relating to transfer of student of limited English proficiency out of a public school bilingual or special education program. To Education. Senate Bill 1624 by Hegar. Relating to Prairie View A&M University's eligibility to participate in research development fund. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1625 by Hegar. Relating to the administration, powers and duties and operations of Edwards Aquifer Authority. To Natural Resources. Senate Bill 1626 by Hegar. Relating to punishment for criminal mischief involving cattle, horses, and exotic livestock. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1627 by Hegar. Relating to creation and administration of a program to provide grants for certain elementary and secondary students. To Education. Senate Bill 1628 by Birdwell. Relating to a population of a county required to operate a juvenile justice alternative education program. To Jurisprudence. Senate Bill 1629 by Birdwell. Relating to applicability of provisions concerning bonds approval by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. To Natural Resources. Senate Bill 1630 by Birdwell. Relating to the regulation of residential appliance installation under the Texas Electrical Safety and Licensing Act. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1631 by Birdwell. Relating to the determination of resident status of students by public institution of higher education. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1632 by Birdwell. Relating to certain do-not-resuscitate orders and advanced directives. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1633 by Davis. Relating to the adoption of results by the Railroad Commission of Texas. To Natural Resources. Senate Bill 1634 by Davis. Relating to sealing of the records of juveniles who are the victims of human trafficking. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1635 by Davis. Relating to contributions to the fund for veterans assistance. Veterans Affairs and Military Installations. Senate Bill 1636 by Davis. Relating to collection, analysis and preservation of sexual assault or DNA evidence. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1637 by Davis. Relating to assisting foster children in obtaining and understanding the child credit report. To Health and Human Services. Senate Bill 1638 by Davis. Relating to the exception of certain personnel information from required disclosure under public information laws. To Open Government. Senate Bill 1639 by Davis. Relating to certain exceptions and permits granted by the Railroad Commission. To Natural Resources. Senate Bill 1640 by Davis. Relating to payment by the (inaudible) Water Authority for certain damages. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1641 by Davis. Relating to the location for conducting certain hearings of the Railroad Commission of Texas. To Natural Resources. Senate Bill 1642 by Davis relating to transferring primary authority for the adoption of the public school curriculum and textbooks from the state board of education to the commissioner of education. To Education. Senate Bill 1643 by Uresti. Relating to mandatory dismissal deadlines and extended jurisdiction in suits affecting the parent child relationship to which the Department of Family and Protective Services is a party. To Jurisprudence. Senate Bill 1644 by Uresti. Relating to the prescription of tamper-resistant opioid analgesic drugs. To Health and Human Services. Senate Bill 1645 by Uresti. Relating to the authority to create and operate a defense base management authority. To Veteran Affairs and Military Installations. Senate Bill 1646 by Uresti. Relating to the powers and duties of a defense base management authority. To Veterans Affairs and Military Installations. Senate Bill 1647 by Uresti. Relating to the payment of ad valorem taxes on mineral interests held by an entity other than the owner. To Finance. Senate Bill 1648 by Watson. Relating to the establishment of an academic health center by a university system. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1649 by Watson. Relating to a grant program to support the prosecution of certain crimes. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1650 by Watson. Relating to certain comprehensive development agreements of regional mobility authorities. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1651 by Watson. Relating to comprehensive development agreements of the Texas Department of Transportation that include the financing, design, and construction of a project. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1652 by Watson. Relating to the implementation of new technology and new processes for the purposes of budget transparency, fiscal responsibility, and open government. To Finance. Senate Bill 1653 by Watson. Relating to the format of the general appropriations bill. To Finance. Senate Bill 1654 by Watson and Harris. Relating to local government authority to develop public infrastructure and facilities. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1655 by Watson. Relating to the transparency and propagation of information regarding personal automobile and residential property insurance rates, policies, and complaints. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1656 by Watson. Relating to prohibition on certain underwriting and rating actions based on consumer inquiries. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1657 by Hinojosa. Relating to claims for and distribution of unclaimed land grant mineral proceeds. To Finance. Senate Bill 1658 by Hinojosa. Relating to the membership and duties of, and the investigations conducted by, the Texas Forensic Science Commission, the administrative attachment of the Texas Forensic Science Commission to the Department of Public Safety, and the accreditation of criminal laboratories by the Department of Public Safety. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1659 by Lucio. Relating to the provision of water and certain equipment by water supply or sewer service corporations for use in fire suppression and the liability of those corporations. To Natural Resources. Senate Bill 1660 by Lucio. Relating to certain unclaimed property of veterans and veterans' families. To Veterans Affairs and Military Installations. Senate Bill 1661 by Duncan. Relating to health organizations certified by the Texas Medical Board under Subchapter A, Chapter 162, Occupations Code. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1662 by West. Relating to the payment of certain costs associated with certain educational programs of Prairie View A&M University. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1663 by Ellis. Relating to the repeal of state sales tax and franchise tax refunds for certain ad valorem tax payers. To Finance. Senate Bill 1664 by Duncan. Relating to the powers and duties of and benefits available under the Employees Retirement System of Texas. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1665 by Duncan. Relating to the expiration of certain investment authority of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1666 by Duncan. Relating to the authority of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas to invest in hedge funds. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1667 by Duncan. Relating to the administration of and benefits payable by the Teacher Retirement System of Texas and to certain domestic relations orders. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1668 by Duncan. Relating to purchase of service credit in the Teacher Retirement System of Texas. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1669 by Duncan. Relating to the resumption of service by retirees under the Teacher Retirement System of Texas. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1670 by Duncan. Relating to the definition of "school year" for purposes of the Teacher Retirement System of Texas. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1671 by Duncan. Relating to the Teacher Retirement System of Texas. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1672 by Ellis. Relating to authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds for a library at Texas Southern University. To Finance. Senate Bill 1673 by Gallegos. Relating to the composition of the Texas Commission on Fire Protection and the disposition of certain fees collected by the commission. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1674 by Gallegos. Relating to the composition of the board of directors of certain tax increment financing reinvestment zones. To Economic Development. Senate Bill 1675 by Duncan. Relating to the inclusion in the results of an election of ballots that were mistakenly not counted. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1676 by Ellis. Relating to educational and training requirements for certain peace officers on ethical decision making. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1677 by Ellis. Relating to court costs imposed on conviction and deposited to the municipal court building security fund. To Jurisprudence. Senate Bill 1678 by Ellis. Relating to court costs imposed on conviction and deposited to the municipal court technology fund. To Jurisprudence. Senate Bill 1679 by Ellis. Relating to consideration of a bidder's principal place of business in awarding certain municipal contracts. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1680 by Ellis. Relating to certain evidence in a prosecution of fraud or theft involving Medicaid or Medicare benefits. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1681 by Ellis. Relating to the appointment of counsel and the rights of an accused and other requirements for the purposes of appellate proceedings or community supervision revocation proceedings. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1682 by Ellis. Relating to the creation of managed assigned counsel programs. To Jurisprudence. Senate Bill 1683 by Ellis. Relating to the eligibility of certain inmates for release on mandatory supervision. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1684 by Ellis. Relating to procedures applicable to an applicant entitled to habeas corpus under certain circumstances. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1685 by Ellis. Relating to the time for correcting an application for compensation for wrongful imprisonment that is denied. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1686 by Ellis. Relating to group health insurance coverage for persons wrongfully imprisoned. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1687 by Ellis. Relating to information on turnover among county jail personnel. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1688 by Ellis. Relating to the authority of the governor to grant one or more reprieves in a capital case. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1689 by Duncan. Relating to the process for refusing to renew an organization report for an operator that fails to plug an inactive oil or gas well. To Natural Resources. Senate Bill 1690 by Lucio. Relating to the consideration of and action on applications for financial assistance for water supply and sewer service projects in economically distressed areas. To Subcommittee on Flooding and Evacuation. Senate Bill 1691 by Lucio. Relating to the establishment of the rural housing land assemblage program. To International Relations and Trade. Senate Bill 1692 by Lucio. Relating to municipal and county budgets on the Internet. To Open Government. Senate Bill 1693 by Carona. Relating to periodic rate adjustments by electric utilities. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1694 by Williams. Relating to the use of a mobile tracking device without a court order in the course of a criminal investigation. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1695 by Williams. Relating to penalties for engaging in organized criminal activity. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1696 by Williams. Relating to an automatic license plate reader pilot program. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1697 by Williams. Relating to duties and restrictions regarding the special Texas Rangers. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1698 by Williams. Relating to reporting on the population of and the housing costs for certain inmates in county jails. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1699 by Williams. Relating to authorizing the use of an image verification system to determine whether an applicant for a driver's license or personal identification certificate is a fugitive from justice. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1700 by Williams. Relating to checkpoints to ensure the validity of licenses and financial responsibility of vehicle operators. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1701 by Williams. Relating to procedures for and evidence that may be presented at a criminal asset forfeiture hearing and to the forfeiture of substitute assets under certain circumstances. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1702 by Williams. Relating to the establishment of a task force to enhance the prosecution and tracking of money laundering in this state. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1703 by Williams. Relating to the declaration of local disaster. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1704 by Shapiro. Relating to educator preparation programs. To Education. Senate Bill 1705 by Lucio. Relating to temporary housing between academic terms for certain postsecondary students who have been under the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1706 by Lucio. Relating to certain comprehensive development agreements of regional mobility authorities. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1707 by Lucio. Relating to certain comprehensive development agreements of regional mobility authorities. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1708 by Lucio. Relating to certain comprehensive development agreements of regional mobility authorities. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1709 by Lucio. Relating to certain comprehensive development agreements of regional mobility authorities. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1710 by Lucio. Relating to certain comprehensive development agreements of regional mobility authorities. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1711 by Lucio. Relating to certain comprehensive development agreements of regional mobility authorities. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1712 by Jackson. Relating to providing notice of foreclosure to certain lien holders. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1713 by Whitmire. Relating to the use of the compensation to victims of crime fund to reimburse the reasonable costs of a forensic medical exam for family violence. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1714 by Duncan. Relating to certain actions against an employer by an employee who is not covered by workers' compensation insurance. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1715 by Duncan. Relating to regulation of the management and disposal of certain drinking water treatment residuals through underground injection. To Natural Resources. Senate Bill 1716 by Duncan. Relating to voidability of contracts procured through barratry and liability arising from conduct constituting barratry; providing a civil penalty. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1717 by Duncan. Relating to the operation and administration of the judicial branch of state government. To Jurisprudence. Senate Bill 1718 by Duncan. Relating to filling vacancies in appellate judicial offices by appointment, partisan elections for all judicial offices, and nonpartisan elections for the retention or rejection for all judicial offices. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1719 by Williams. Relating to certain comprehensive development agreements of the Texas Department of Transportation. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1720 by Duncan. Relating to state fiscal matters. To Finance. Senate Bill 1721 by Duncan. Relating to the exemption from the sales and use tax for tangible personal property or a taxable service that is resold or otherwise transferred. To Finance. Senate Bill 1722 by Hinojosa. Relating to the confidentiality of certain information pertaining to the State Commission on Judicial Conduct. To Jurisprudence. Senate Bill 1723 by Zaffirini. Relating to tuition and fee exemptions for certain military personnel and their spouses and dependent children for under-enrolled undergraduate classes at public institutions of Higher Education. To Veteran Affairs and Military Installations. Senate Bill 1724 by Zaffirini. Relating to conditions on the receipt of tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of Higher Education. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1725 by Zaffirini. Relating to a tuition exemption at a four-year public institution of Higher Education based on a student's academic performance and timely progress toward completion of a baccalaureate degree program. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1726 by Zaffirini. Relating to the development of measurable learning outcomes for undergraduate courses at public institutions of Higher Education. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1727 by Zaffirini. Relating to a fixed tuition rate program for certain students who transfer to a state university after completing an associate degree program. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1728 by Zaffirini. Relating to a requirement that developmental coursework required for entering undergraduate students at four-year public institutions of Higher Education be completed at a public junior college. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1729 by Zaffirini. Relating to the Texas Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (T-STEM) Challenge Scholarship program. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1730 by Zaffirini. Relating to requiring the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to create a tool to allow prospective students to compare institutions of Higher Education by certain criteria. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1731 by Zaffirini. Relating to requiring public junior colleges to offer an academic associate degree program. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1732 by Van de Putte. Relating to authorizing the adjutant general to establish post exchanges on state military property. To Veterans Affairs and Military Installations. Senate Bill 1733 by Van de Putte. Relating to the occupational licensing of spouses of members of the military. To Veterans Affairs and Military Installations. Senate Bill 1734 by Van de Putte. Relating to tuition and fee exemptions at public institutions of Higher Education for certain Texas military veterans. To Veteran Affairs and Military Installations. Senate Bill 1735 by Van de Putte. Relating to limited purpose subsidiary life insurance companies. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1736 by Van de Putte. Relating to the establishment of the College Credit for Heroes program. To Veteran Affairs and Military Installations. Senate Bill 1737 by Van de Putte. Relating to the use and accrual of leaves of absence for military training or duty for officers and employees of the state. To Veterans Affairs and Military Installations. Senate Bill 1738 by Harris. Relating to insurance premium and maintenance taxes, and payment of excess losses of the Windstorm Insurance Association. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1739 by Davis and Van de Putte. Relating to the use of the fund for veterans' assistance. To Veterans Affairs and Military Installations. Senate Bill 1740 by Fraser. Relating to the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1741 by Fraser. Relating to tree mitigation fees imposed by municipalities. To Natural Resources. Senate Bill 1742 by Fraser. Relating to the operation of plug-in electric motor vehicles. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1743 by Fraser. Relating to access by members of electric cooperatives to meetings of the boards of directors and certain information of the electric cooperatives. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1744 by Eltife. Relating to the certification of a certified capital company. To Economic Development. Senate Bill 1745 by Gallegos. Relating to enforcement by a local government of fire safety standards at certain child-care facilities. To Health and Human Services. Senate Bill 1746 by Gallegos. Relating to the conditions of employment for firefighters employed by fire departments created by an interlocal agreement between two or more political subdivisions of this state; providing penalties. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1747 by Gallegos. Relating to the conditions of employment for firefighters employed by certain emergency services districts; providing penalties. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1748 by Gallegos. Relating to the licensing and regulation of fire protection sprinkler technicians; providing a penalty. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1749 by Uresti. Relating to the admissibility of certain statements made by a child in a juvenile justice or criminal proceeding. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1750 by Uresti. Relating to a physician's authority to delegate prescribing acts to physician assistants. To Finance. Senate Bill 1751 by Uresti. Relating to calculation of the net resources of a person ordered to pay child support. To Jurisprudence. Senate Bill 1752 by Uresti. Relating to confidentiality of Class C misdemeanor records related to the conviction of a child. To Jurisprudence. Senate Bill 1753 by Duncan. Relating to the designation of the San Angelo State Supported Living Center as a forensic state supported living center. To Health and Human Services. Senate Bill 1754 by Van de Putte. Relating to the closed formulary for workers' compensation pharmaceutical benefits. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1755 by Van de Putte. Relating to the issuance of Distinguished Service Medal specialty license plates. To Veteran Affairs and Military Installations. Senate Bill 1756 by Uresti. Relating to the substitution by a pharmacist of certain opioid analgesic drugs. To Health and Human Services. Senate Bill 1757 by Uresti. Relating to the exemption from ad valorem taxation of property used by a charitable organization that promotes the academic development of boys or girls under the age of 18 years. To Finance. Senate Bill 1758 by Lucio. Relating to the provision of affordable housing in this state. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1759 by Lucio. Relating to the application process for single family housing loans offered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1760 by Lucio. Relating to notice of water and wastewater requirements before certain sales of certain residential properties. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1761 by Hinojosa. Relating to the name, organization, and powers of the Port of Corpus Christi Authority of Nueces County, Texas. To International Relations and Trade. Senate Bill 1762 by Hinojosa. Relating to state financing of public transportation. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1763 by Hernandez. Relating to the transfer of adult Education and literacy programs from the Texas Education Agency to the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1764 by Rodriguez. Relating to workers' compensation supplemental income benefits. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1765 by Rodriguez. Relating to rest breaks for employees of certain contractors with a governmental entity. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1766 by Rodriguez. Relating to the Texas Code of Military Justice. To Veteran Affairs and Military Installations. Senate Bill 1767 by Rodriguez. Relating to the appointment of the board of managers of the El Paso County Hospital District. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1768 by Williams. Relating to recovery of uncompensated hospital care costs. To Transportation and Homeland Security. Senate Bill 1769 by Rodriguez. Relating to the maintenance by certain hospitals of records regarding certain uncompensated care costs. To Health and Human Services. Senate Bill 1770 by Williams. Relating to contracts between advanced practice registered nurses and health maintenance organizations, preferred provider benefit plans or other insurers. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1771 by Williams. Relating to the provision of information by tax officials related to ad valorem tax rates. To Finance. Senate Bill 1772 by Williams. Relating to computation of the volume of components blended with taxable diesel for the exemption from motor fuels tax. To Finance. Senate Bill 1773 by Williams. Relating to the pilot program authorizing a property owner to appeal to the State Office of Administrative Hearings certain appraisal review board determinations. To Finance. Senate Bill 1774 by Williams. Relating to the procedure for the adoption of an ad valorem tax rate. To Finance. Senate Bill 1777 by Williams. Relating to the composition and appointment of the board of directors of a corporation to which the board of regents of The University of Texas System delegates investment authority for the permanent university fund or other funds under the control of the board of regents. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1778 by Williams. Relating to the creation and administration of a grant program to reward eligible students at elementary and secondary schools for continuing academic progress. To Finance. Senate Bill 1779 by Williams. Relating to reports and complaints filed with and notices provided by the Texas Ethics Commission. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1780 by Williams. Relating to delivering, dispensing or distributing a controlled substance; creating a penalty. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1781 by Whitmire. Relating to the conditions for release on bond of a defendant charged with certain intoxication offenses. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1782 by Ellis. Relating to regulation of health benefit plan issuers in this state. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1783 by Ellis. Relating to a warning notice posted outside of certain buildings that permit smoking; providing a penalty. To Health and Human Services. Senate Bill 1784 by Huffman. Relating to workers' compensation insurance coverage for certain workplaces; providing administrative penalties. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1785 by Patrick. Relating to the creation of the Texas Department of Health Professions to regulate certain health professions, the transfer of certain powers and duties to the department, and the abolishment of certain state agencies and other licensing entities. To Health and Human Services. Senate Bill 1786 by Patrick. Relating to the coverage by health benefit plans of expenses or procedures that violate certain religious convictions. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1787 by Patrick. Relating to the information provided by a peace officer before requesting a specimen to determine intoxication. To Criminal Justice. Senate Bill 1788 by Patrick. Relating to the development of a model individualized Education program form by the Texas Education Agency. To Education. Senate Bill 1789 by Patrick. Relating to platting requirements affecting subdivision golf courses in certain counties. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1790 by Patrick. Relating to distributing or prescribing abortion-inducing drugs; providing penalties. To Health and Human Services. Senate Bill 1791 by Patrick. Relating to requiring certain state retirees from the elected class to contribute toward the cost of health insurance. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1792 by Patrick. Relating to unenforceable restrictive covenants affecting residential homes. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1793 by Patrick. Relating to liability of certain public utilities that allow recreational use of land that the public utility owns, occupies, or leases. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1794 by Gallegos. Relating to the employment of physicians by hospital districts. To State Affairs. Senate Bill 1795 by Gallegos. Relating to the authority of certain local governmental entities in certain populous counties to appoint, contract for, or employ physicians. To Intergovernmental Relations. Senate Bill 1796 by Van de Putte and Rodriguez. Relating to the creation of the Texas Veterans Council. To Veteran Affairs and Military Installations. Senate Bill 1797 by Ellis. Relating to the operation of the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association. To Business and Commerce. Senate Bill 1798 by West. Relating to a presumption that certain retailers are engaged in business in this state for the purpose of the use tax. To Finance. Senate Bill 1799 by West. Relating to the student loan program administered by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board; authorizing the issuance of bonds. To Higher Education. Senate Bill 1800 by Seliger. Relating to the enforcement of the requirements regarding plugging of inactive oil or gas wells. To Natural Resources.

SENATOR HEGAR: Pursuant to a motion previously adopted the Senate stands adjourned until 10:00 a.m. tomorrow. (Adjourned.)