JOE STRAUS: House will come to order. Members, please register. Roll call. Have all registered? Have all registered? Quorum is present. The House and gallery please rise for the invocation. The Chair recognizes Representative Bonnen to introduce our Pastor of the Day.

REPRESENTATIVE DENNIS BONNEN: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. It is a privilege for me to have a good friend of mine here today, and a religious leader in my district. Pastor Walker has served the congregation of the Gulf Coast Christian Center in West Columbia for now over fifteen years. He also serves as a Mayor Pro Tem for the City of West Columbia in my district, and he is joined here by his wife, Laura, who is off to the side. And he's the father of three beautiful children, and he has also honored us by allowing his son, Joshua, and his daughter, Julia, are also here today on each side of the floor as honorary pages. So, Pastor Walker, thank you for joining us and lead us in prayer.

PASTOR WALKER: Good morning, I bring greetings from the City of West Columbia, the First Capital of the Republic of Texas. I would like to thank my friend, Representative Bonnen, for having me, and I'd like to commend the House for honoring God each morning. And, as we do that, will you join me as we pray? Dear Jesus, I come to you today and thank you for the opportunity to stand in this place and honor your name, your name is great and we praise you for your grace and your mercy. I thank you for your forgiveness and strength. We call on you today for your comfort, your direction and your blessing. We pray for you to lead, guide, bless and speak to our leaders in this House. We pray for your divine instruction and wisdom as decisions are made here that will affect us, our children and our children's children. Your word tells us that wisdom is available from you to anyone who asks and today, Lord, I ask for that wisdom to be poured out in this place. I thank you for our leaders and representatives. We know that all authority is set in place by God. Your word tells us that the heart of the king is in the hands of the Lord. Your word also tells us that all things work together for good, for those who are called according to your plan, and we know that what you say is true. We pray blessing over these leaders and their families. We pray for health and strength to be multiplied to them as they serve us here. Today I speak blessing and favor over our great state and its wonderful people. I call our businesses, our industry, our state and local government and our economy blessed, in the mighty name of Jesus. I thank you, Jesus, for Texas and her history of greatness, leadership, fearlessness and favor and ask that you continue to bless her and influence wealth and honor. I pray and give thanks for protection and provision for each Texas family. I lift up our hurting and those in need to you, and ask for your mercy and love to shine on them. Thank you for our educators and our organizations that minister, protect and grow our children and families. Thank you for our servicemen and our first responders who tirelessly protect and serve us. We ask for strength for our churches and pastors as they lead and reach out to the people that God has charged them to be in relationship with. Your word tells us if we humble ourselves and ask that you will heal our land. And today I ask humbly that you heal this land. For all of us to you and your love. Thank you for your blessing and your strength. In the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

JOE STRAUS: Chair recognizes Representative Frullo to lead us in the pledge.

REPRESENTATIVE JOHN FRULLO: Good morning members and honored guests, welcome to your House on this beautiful Ash Wednesday. If you'll please join me in saying the Pledge to our great flags. (Whereupon, the pledges to the flags were recited.)

MR. SPEAKER: Excuse Representative Scott because of illness, on the motion of Representative Burkett. Is there objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Representative Furlough moves to suspend reading and referral of House bills until the end of today. Is there objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Chair recognizes Representative Gooden to introduce our doctor of the day.

REPRESENTATVIE LANCE GOODEN: Mr. Speaker, members, it's my pleasure to introduce our doctor of the day today; Dr. Thomas Cherry. Dr. Cherry practices medicine at Trinity Clinic in Chandler. Dr. Cherry graduated from Texas Tech University Health Science Center in 1995, and completed his residency at Trinity Lutheran Family Practice in Kansas City in 1998. He's a member of the Texas Academy of Family Physicians, American Academy of Family Physicians, the Texas Medical Association, and the Henderson County Medical Society. Please help me welcome Dr. Cherry to the Texas House.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Geren.

REPRESENTATIVE CHARLIE GEREN: Thank you Mr. Speaker and members, I just want to give y'all an update on Dean Craddick. Tom was -- lost his balance and fell to his side, hitting his head as he was laying out a bill in House Transportation this morning. He has been rehabilitating a pain in his leg, and recently taking pain medication for an infected tooth. He was sitting up and making jokes as he left the Committee Hearing Room. He was transported to the hospital as a precautionary measure. EMS does not consider it to be a serious situation, and all the tests that they have run so far, since Thomas has been at the hospital, have come back negative. So it looks hopeful that he'll be back with us pretty soon. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER: Excuse Representative Craddick because of important business on the motion of Representative Geren. Is there objection? Chair hears none. So ordered.

WOMAN SPEAKER: Please excuse Representative Harless for important business in the district, on the motion of Representative Brown -- Harper Brown. Is there an objection? Chair hears none. So ordered.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Lewis for an introduction.

REPRESENTATIVE TRYON LEWIS: Thank you Mr. Speaker and members. Members, we have a group from the University of Texas Permian Basin honors program. They have come down here to Austin to learn about state government, and they're up here. I would like them to stand. If you would give them a round of applause for coming. Thank you very much. And thank you, Mr. Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Landtroop for a motion.

REPRESENTATIVE JIM LANDTROOP: Thank you Mr. Speaker and members. I move to suspend all necessary rules to take up and consider House Resolution 681.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair lays out House Resolution 681. Members, is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Chair lays out House Resolution 681. Clerk will read the resolution.

CLERK: HR681 by Landtroop. WHEREAS, Honoring the memory of a young Texan who lost her Life in a senseless tragedy, the Remember Alex Brown Foundation Works to raise awareness about the dangers of texting while Driving; and WHEREAS, In November 2009, Alex Brown, a senior at Seagraves High School, lost control of her pickup truck when she was texting And died as a result of the injuries she sustained in the accident; and. WHEREAS, This vivacious 17-year-old was a straight-A student And a member of FFA and the basketball team; she also sang soprano And served as the Seagraves Eagles student mascot; and WHEREAS, In memory of their daughter, Johnny Mac and Jeanne Brown of Wellman created the Remember Alex Brown Foundation, and They travel to high schools across the Lone Star State with the Wreckage of their daughter's truck, urging young people to pledge Not to text while driving; and WHEREAS, Mr. and Mrs. Brown and their youngest daughter Katrina, have also been featured on the ABC television program Extreme Makeover: Home Edition; this national exposure has helped To take their anti-texting campaign to countless individuals across The country; and WHEREAS, Through their vital work with the Remember Alex Brown Foundation, the Browns are selflessly sharing the story of Their heartbreaking loss to help save the lives of other young People; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby honor Johnny Mac and Jeanne Brown for their Establishment of the Remember Alex Brown Foundation in memory of Their beloved daughter and extend to them sincere best wishes for Continued success with spreading their important message; and, be It further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be Prepared for Mr. and Mrs. Brown as an expression of high regard by The Texas House of Representatives.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Landtroop.

REPRESENTATIVE JIM LANDTROOP: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Ladies and gentlemen, today we are joined, on the dias behind me, by Johnny Mac, Jeanie and their daughter Katrina Brown from Wellness, Texas. I cannot express to you how proud I am of this family. The Browns created the Remember Alex Brown Foundation after they lost their daughter, Alex, to a car accident that was caused by texting while driving. Campaigning throughout the United States, the Browns urge young people to pledge to not text while they drive. They have dedicated their time to educating our youth to the perils of distracted driving. I cannot thank this family enough for the endless work they have done to spread the message of the dangers of texting while driving. And I want you to join me in thanking them for sharing their story with us today. They are testifying in the Transportation Committee later on. And I want you to know that there is a banner that will be down there that says, "Texting While Driving, It Can Wait." And I urge you to take the time to go by there and sign that banner in support of the Brown family and of the Alex Brown Foundation.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Perry.

REPRESENTATIVE CHARLES PERRY: I can't add much. There's not much we can say at the House to bring back their daughter, but I would ask that if each member would come by the dias to give them a supportive hug to let them know we are thinking about them, to let them know we appreciate what they are doing, and the courage it takes to stand out. Also, there's bands that kind of is a reminder. But, also, they come up with one for your phone, so as you're fixing to go and text, you know, this could be grandkids, kids and friends of our kids that could be doing one of those deals, and we have all seen it happen; where it's just a near miss every day. Every day I get on Route 1 and there's those instances. Put a band around your phone and hopefully that will remind us not to do some of the things that we're doing. But I appreciate it very much, what they stand for and what they've done. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Phillips.

REPRESENTATIVE LARRY PHILLIPS: Thank you Mr. Speaker and members. I just want to say, please, come up and say hi to the Browns and thank them. But what I want to say is, on the west side of the Capitol, on a trailer, is the vehicle that their daughter was in. And they take that around to schools as a remembrance, and to show young people -- teach them about the dangers of texting while driving. And so, if you would like to see that, or if anybody in the gallery would like to go to that, they do have the vehicle on a trailer that they take around and it's on the west side of the Capitol. And we sure do appreciate you guys coming. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Landtroop.

REPRESENTATIVE JIM LANDTROOP: Thank you Mr. Speaker, members, I move adoption.

MR. SPEAKER: Members, you heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Representative Perry moves to add all members' names. Is there objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Chair recognizes Representative Phillips for recognition.

REPRESENTATIVE LARRY PHILLIPS: Thank you Mr. Speaker and members, and I'd like to ask everybody to recognize some wonderful citizens of the great State of Texas. This is a delegation from Fannin County. We've got mayors, we've got School Board members, we've got the Chamber of Commerce presidents; we just got a bunch of great Texans. Would y'all stand? And we welcome you to the Capitol of this great state. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Bonnen for recognition.

REPRESENTATIVE DENNIS BONNEN: Mr. Speaker , members. Mr. Murphy, Representative Schwertner and I have a special guest here, one that may be more special to Representative Schwertner than even to me. Representative Schwertner's cousin, a Lake Jackson City Councilman and friend of mine from the district is here, Scott Schwertner, and a business leader from Lake Jackson is here, Mike Vandamere. If they would please rise in the gallery and let us welcome them to the Texas House?

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Phillips for a motion.

REPRESENTATIVE LARRY PHILLIPS: Thank you Mr. Speaker, members, I move to suspend the following rules: Five day posting rules and any and all other rules to allow the Committee on Transportation to consider pending business, and previously posted items. The time will be during the reading and referral. Date March 9th, 2011, place E2.028.

REPRESENTATIVE LANHAM LYNE: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chairs hears none. So ordered. The rules are suspended. Is Mr. Cook on the floor, Mr. Pitts on the floor? Mr. Deshotel on the floor? The Chair recognizes Representative Zerwas for a motion.

REPRESENTATIVE JOHN ZERWAS: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to move that the five day posting rule be suspended in order to allow the Committee on Appropriations to consider House Bill 4 at 7:00 a.m., March 10, 2011 in E1.030.

REPRESENTATIVE LANHAM LYNE: Members, you have heard the motion. Is there objection? Not hearing any. Motion passes. Representative Cook, Representative Taylor. Chair recognizes Representative Taylor.

REPRESENTATIVE LARRY TAYLOR: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I move request to grant committees permission to meet, pursuant to Rule 4 Section 9 of the House Rules. I request permission for all House committees and subcommittees be granted permission to meet today while the House is in session, during the reading and referral of bills, pursuant to their committee posting. For purposes of this motion, those House committees and subcommittees that are scheduled to meet upon adjournment and final recess of today should be considered to be scheduled to meet during referral today. Move passage.

REPRESENTATIVE LANHAM LYNE: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there objection? Not hearing any. Motion is passed. Chair recognizes Representative Cook for a motion.

REPRESENTATIVE BYRON COOK: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Members, I request permission for the Committee on State Affairs to meet while the House in session during the reading and referral of bills today, 3/9/11, place is 3W.9, to consider pending business.

REPRESENTATIVE LANHAM LYNE: Members, you have heard the motion. Is there objection? Not hearing any. The motion passes. The following announcements: The Clerk will read the announcements.

CLERK: The Committee on Agriculture and Livestock will meet at 6:30 p.m. on March 9th, 2011, at 1205 North Lamar, Austin, Texas 78703. This will be a work session to consider committee dinner. The committee on State Affairs will meet upon reading and referral of bills on March 9th, 2011, at 3W.9. This will be a formal meeting to consider pending business. The Committee on Transportation will meet during reading and referral of bills. This will be a public hearing to consider pending business on previously posted items. The Committee on Appropriations will meet at 7:00 a.m. on March 10th, 2011, at E1.030. This will be a public hearing to consider HB4.

REPRESENTATIVE LANHAM LYNE: Mr. Madden on the floor, please. Chair recognizes Representative Madden.

REPRESENTATIVE JERRY MADDEN: Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend all necessary rules to bring up House Resolution 685.

REPRESENTATIVE LANHAM LYNE: Members, you've heard the motion. Are there any objections? Not hearing any. The Rules are suspended. The Chair lays out House Bill No. 685. The Clerk will read the resolution.

CLERK: HR685 by Madden. WHEREAS, The citizens of Richardson have greatly benefited From the dedicated leadership of Bob Macy, who has served his Community as a member of the city council since 2009; and WHEREAS, During his tenure in municipal government, Mr. Macy Has helped to ably guide the city with an eye to the future, and his Knowledge and expertise in a wide range of community issues have earned him the respect of many people along the way; and. WHEREAS, A veteran of the U.S. Army, Bob Macy graduated from Officer Candidate School and served his country in the Korean War; He went on to earn his bachelor's degree from Ohio State University and his master's degree from Southern Methodist University; and WHEREAS, Mr. Macy's career in mechanical engineering has Included employment with General Dynamics, where he served in the Flight control design and operations research groups, and with the Sun Oil Company Production Research Laboratory; and WHEREAS, Since his retirement, he has dedicated more than 6,000 hours to his community, serving on the Methodist Richardson Medical Center Foundation Board and as a chaplain at that facility; In addition, he has shared his time with the local police department And cofounded the Stephen Ministry caregiving program at the First United Methodist Church, where he has been a member for 40 years; And WHEREAS, Each day, public servants improve the quality of Life for their fellow citizens in innumerable ways, and the efforts Of Bob Macy are helping to make Richardson an even better place in Which to live and work; now, therefore, be it. RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby honor Richardson City Council member Bob Macy For his committed public service and extend to him sincere best Wishes for continued success; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be Prepared for Mr. Macy as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives.

REPRESENTATIVE LANHAM LYNE: Chair recognizes Representative Madden.

REPRESENTATIVE JERRY MADDEN: Mr. Speaker and members, I -- We are very pleased. First of all, we are very pleased to be joined up here on the front by Representative Button, Representative Carter. We are proud to be the two of the three representatives that represent the City of Richardson, one of the greatest places to live and raise your family, and have some of the best schools in the State of Texas. We're very proud of the Richardson Telecom Corridor and the businesses that we have there in our Great University of Texas, Dallas, which is right in the heart of Richardson. We have them here today and we ask of all the citizens of Richardson to please stand up and let us acknowledge your presence here today. Thank you. You-all I think -- I move adoption of resolution.

REPRESENTATIVE LANHAM LYNE: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Chair recognizes Representative Button. Chair recognizes Representative Madden.

REPRESENTATIVE JERRY MADDEN: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Members, we're glad to be joined by several of our outstanding citizens of Richardson up on the dias, up on the podium. First of all, we have City Councilman Mark Soloman, City Councilman Bob Macy, City Councilman Bob Townsend, Mayor Gary Slagal, and the City Assistant Manager E.A. Hoppy. You guys, thank you all for being here.

REPRESENTATIVE LANHAM LYNE: Chair recognizes Representative Button.

REPRESENTATIVE ANGIE CHEN BUTTON: Members , Mr. Speaker, I'm just so totally excited to be here, and I would like to suspend all necessary rules to take up HR301 recognizing March the 9th, 2011, as the Richardson Telecom Corridor Legislative Day.

REPRESENTATIVE LANHAM LYNE: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So moved. Chair lays out HR301. The Clerk will read.

CLERK: HR301 by Button. WHEREAS, On March 9, 2011, proud residents, businesspeople and friends of the Richardson community are meeting at the State Capitol for Richardson's Telecom Corridor Legislative Day.

REPRESENTATIVE LANHAM LYNE: Chair recognizes Representative Button.

REPRESENTATIVE ANGIE CHEN BUTTON: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. This is the same group of people that Chairman Madden already recognized, but let me introduce a couple more. Gene Casten and Carol Alice from the Richardson School Board of Trustees. Thank you for joining us. And also the Richardson Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the Board Mr. Jim Strengths and the Richardson Chamber CEO and President, Bill Spurrow. Thank you for coming to visit with us in the Capitol. Thank you. And I'm proud to say that Richardson is the international business capital of North Texas. Thank you very much.

MR. SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Chair recognizes Representative Dutton for an announcement.

REPRESENTATIVE HAROLD V. DUTTON JR.: Than k you, Mr. Speaker. The Committee on Urban Affairs will meet at 2:00 o'clock today.

MR. SPEAKER: Following announcements. Will the Clerk read the announcements?

CLERK: The Committee on Transportation will meet during the reading and referral of bills on March 9th, 2011, at E2.028. This will be a public hearing to consider pending business and previously posted items. The Committee on State Sovereignty will meet during bill reading and referral on March 9th, 2011, at 1W14 at the Ag Museum. This will be a formal meeting to consider HCR50 and HCR18.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Castro for recognition.

REPRESENTATIVE JOAQUIN CASTRO: Thank you Mr. Speaker and members. I wanted you to help me welcome Southwest Preparatory High School, who is here from San Antonio, who have come to join us with their teachers; Mrs. Burton and Mrs. Reyes. If the students and teachers will please stand up so we can welcome them? All right. Thank you guys for coming. Welcome.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative McClendon.

REPRESENTATIVE RUTH JONES MCCLENDON: Than k you, Mr. Speaker. This announcement is for the members of the Bear County delegation. We're going to meet today up on adjournment after the reading and referral of bills, when they begin reading and referring the bills we will be meeting. And we're going to meet in room 2W25. That's today, upon adjournment.

MR. SPEAKER: The Chair recognizes Representative Martinez. REPRESENTATIVE ARMANDO "MANDO" MARTINEZ: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Today is a wonderful day for District 39 as we're celebrating Mid-Valley Day. And up on the dias we have some wonderful people. But I'm going to ask that our resolution, HR561, be read in full.

MR. SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Chair lays out Resolution 561.

CLERK: HR561 by Martinez. WHEREAS, Proud residents of the Mid-Valley region of Texas are gathering in Austin on March 9, 2011, to celebrate Mid-Valley Day at the State Capitol; and WHEREAS, Located in eastern Hidalgo County in the Rio Grande Valley, the Mid-Valley region includes the towns of Alamo, DonnaMercedes, Progreso, Progreso Lakes, San Juan, and Weslaco; this area is a center for agribusiness, with farmers producing sugarcane, grains, and citrus fruit such as grapefruits and oranges; and WHEREAS, The city of Alamo is located in close proximity to the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge, which comprises more than 2,000 acres of protected land and is home to a wide array of animals and plants; in addition, the town boasts a birding information center and the recently renovated Alamo Central Park; and WHEREAS, Upholding the motto "the City with a Heart in the Heart of the Rio Grande Valley," Donna recently celebrated the opening of the Donna-Rio Bravo International Bridge; representing a Federal investment of $110 million over 10 years, the bridge is Expected to facilitate shopping, tourism, and commercial trade to And from Mexico; and WHEREAS, Mercedes has long been a major center for the Processing and marketing of livestock, cotton, and vegetables, and It is also known for its boot makers and the shopping opportunities At the Rio Grande Valley Premium Outlets; the annual Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show and Rodeo draws more than 200,000 people to Town each year, and the event provides valuable scholarship funds For 4-H and FFA students; and WHEREAS, In addition to being centers for the sugarcane Business, Progreso and Progreso Lakes have been serving as gateways To the Rio Grande Valley since the opening of the Progreso/Nuevo Progreso International Bridge in 2003; and WHEREAS, Fast-growing San Juan is the home of the Basilica of Our Lady of San Juan del Valle National Shrine, which attracts Multitudes of pilgrims from throughout the United States and Mexico; the town hosts an annual Spring Fiesta and is the site of Numerous parks, including Liberty Park, with its flagpole monument that honors those who have served in the U.S. armed forces; and WHEREAS, The city of Weslaco has become a favorite Destination for tourists, golfers, retirees, and birders and is the Location of two important Texas A&M University research stations; The annual Onion Fest celebrates the development of the famous Texas 1015 onion in Weslaco, and this popular event brings many Visitors to the city; and WHEREAS, Throughout the Mid-Valley region, great emphasis is Placed on the value of education, and one particularly striking Example of the area's educational achievements came in 2010, when Newsweek ranked the Science Academy of South Texas in Mercedes as Number 12 on its list of "America's Best High Schools"; and WHEREAS, The residents of this dynamic region of the Lone Star State are justifiably proud of their hard work, civic Commitment, and innovative spirit, and their efforts have created a Group of notable Texas communities that are well prepared to meet The challenges and opportunities of the future; now, therefore, be It. RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby recognize March 9, 2011, as Mid-Valley Day at The State Capitol and extend to the visiting delegation sincere Best wishes for an informative and enjoyable stay in Austin.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Martinez. REPRESENTATIVE ARMANDO "MANDO" MARTINEZ: T hank you Mr. Speaker and members. I'm proud to be joined by my Valley colleagues here. Behind me, in honor of Mid-Valley day, Representative Aaron Pena, Representative Veronica Gonzalez, Representative Sergio Munoz Jr., Representative Jose Lozano. We also have an honorary Valley-ite. Chairman Tuffy Hamilton is an honorary Valley-ite for the Rio Grande Valley. And, on the dias, we have some wonderful people. From PSJ, our school board member Bobby Rodriguez. From the City of San Juan, our Mayor Pro Tem Lupe Rodriguez, from Alamo our Mayor Rudy Villarreal, from West, Commissioner Lupe Rivera. Mercedez doctor, Dr. Dan Travino, and Progreso doctor, Dr. Castillo, along with South Texas ISD board member Homer Garcia, and his beautiful wife, Gloria, up in the gallery joining us today. And, none other than our County Commissioner from Precinct 2, Peto Palacios. Let's give them a round of applause. Also, members, in the gallery today for Mid-Valley Day, we have some wonderful people. From Alamo our Commissioner Victor Perez, Commissioner Elisa Escovaro, City Manager Luciano Luna, and we also, from san Juan, Commissioner Bob Garson, Commissioner Mando Garza are up in the gallery joining us. And we have a wonderful group of mariachis from Mercedez ISD. And I'd like to recognize them, because they're going to be playing on the south steps at 11:00 o'clock. They are Natalie Olivares, Maria Gonzalez, Cassandra Garcia, Miranda Barreon, Terry Sola, Tony Torrez, Chris Weya, Ryan Alvarez, Armando Perrasa, Hector Barreon, Jacob Viechica, and Reuben Verez. Their chaperons, Dina Olivares and Mr. and Mrs. Rainy. Thank you, mariachi, Tiger Mariachis from Mercedez, for joining us. Thank you, members, and have a wonderful day.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Dukes.

REPRESENTATIVE DAWNNA DUKES: Thank you Mr. Speaker. Members, I move to suspend all necessary rules to take up and consider House Resolution 747, the Texas Moving Image Industry Day resolution.

MR. SPEAKER: Members, you have heard the motion. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. The rules are suspended. Chair lays out HR747. Members, please give us your attention, please. The Clerk will read the resolution.

CLERK: HR747 by Dukes. WHEREAS, A state that is home to iconic American legends, talented residents, diverse settings, and abundant resources for all aspects of filmmaking, Texas has long been a favorite location for motion picture and television productions, and that rich and ongoing tradition is being celebrated on Texas Moving Image Industry Day at the State Capitol on March 9, 2011; and WHEREAS, More than 1,800 films and television programs have been made in Texas since 1910; the first movie ever to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, the 1927 World War I epic, Wings, was shot in and around San Antonio; and WHEREAS, Audiences all over the world have discovered the Lone Star State through films and television programs made here; Giant, filmed near Marfa, tells the sprawling story of cattle and oil in West Texas; John Wayne's 1960 epic, The Alamo, brought that Essential Texas story to worldwide audiences; the film and Television series Friday Night Lights revolve around the Distinctively Texan phenomenon of high school football, and 13 Years after its release, Hope Floats, continues to draw tourists to Its Smithville locations; Austin City Limits, aired on PBS since 1976, is the only television show to receive a National Medal of Arts award; no fewer than nine Texas-made films and television Programs, including Terms of Endearment and The Last Picture Show Have been based on the works of legendary Texas writer Larry McMurtry; and WHEREAS, Great storytellers from across the nation have Employed Texas locations, actors, and technicians to make their Films; Steven Spielberg shot his first feature, The Sugarland Express, here, Sam Peckinpah filmed his classic thriller The Getaway in San Marcos and El Paso, Clint Eastwood made A Perfect World in Huntsville and Austin, and Joel and Ethan Coen utilized Various locations around Texas in Blood Simple and True Grit; and. WHEREAS, The state's own writers and directors have produced Many great projects here, including Robert Benton (Bonnie and Clyde, Nadine), Horton Foote (Tender Mercies, The Trip to Bountiful), Bill Wittliff (Raggedy Man, Honeysuckle Rose), Wes Anderson (Rushmore), Richard Linklater (Slacker, Dazed and Confused), Tim McCanlies (Dancer, Texas Pop. 81, Secondhand Lions) Robert Rodriguez (From Dusk Till Dawn), and John Lee Hancock (The Alamo, The Rookie); and WHEREAS, Texas has hosted a tremendous variety of Productions, from independent films like Bottle Rocket (shot in Dallas) to classic westerns like Lonesome Dove (shot near Del Rio) As well as war dramas like Courage Under Fire (shot in El Paso) Family adventures like the four Spy Kids films (shot in Austin), and romantic comedies like Miss Congeniality (shot in San Antonio) and Michael (shot in Austin and La Grange); the state has also been the Location for such Academy Award-winning features as No Country for Old Men and There Will Be Blood (both shot in Marfa), Boys Don't Cry (shot in Greenville), Places in the Heart (shot in Waxahachie), and Hud (shot in Claude); and WHEREAS, The state is known for its highly skilled film Technicians, whose expertise is so well-regarded that most films Shot in Texas hire primarily local crews; the state also boasts a Strong base of acting talent, and specialized film vendors and Services have been a strong part of the state's economy for more Than two decades; and WHEREAS, With over 130 companies, Texas is the nation's Second largest center for the development of video games, and their Products include such popular titles as Epic Mickey from Disney Junction Point Studios, Ultima Online, a groundbreaking Multiplayer game from Origin Systems, and Words With Friends from McKinney-based The Zynga With Friends Studio, as well as militarY Simulation training games for the U.S. Army; and. WHEREAS, Over the past decade, the moving image industry Including film, television, videos, commercials, animation, and Video games, has spent more than $2.5 billion and is estimated to Have created nearly 56,000 jobs in Texas, and the contributions of This dynamic industry to Texas, and of Texans to the industry, are Truly worthy of recognition; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby recognize March 9, 2011, as Texas Moving Image Industry Day at the State Capitol and commend the many talented and Creative individuals involved in this exciting field.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Dukes.

REPRESENTATIVE DAWNNA DUKES: Thank you Mr. Speaker and members, it is with great pleasure that I welcome to the Capitol today the Texas Motion Picture Alliance and affiliated celebrities who do Texas proud. TXMPA serves the film, video, interactive and digital media production industry as the industry advocate before the Legislative Regulatory and Judicial bodies, representing a robust community of professionals who seek economic and creative incentives for media production in Texas. Through its programs and activities, TXMPA educates its members, it educates legislators and the general public on all forms of media production and the tremendous economic impact that film production generates within the state. We all know that last session, and the session prior, that the Texas House initiated, and the Texas Senate followed in passing House Bill 673, which expanded the motion picture industry program. And, as a result, we have seen great progress in the generation of income in Texas, over $614 million in new state spending and has accounted for more than 57,000 production jobs in Texas. This program works. It's a program that has helped Texas to be competitive in the industry, it has allowed for Texans to work in home, in Texas, and it has helped our economy greatly. So, without further ado, I have great pleasure introducing to you some of the members of the Texas Motion Picture Alliance who are joining us on the dias today. President of Texas Motion Picture Alliance, Don Stokes. Will you wave, Don? Steve Beleski, President of the International Association of Theatrical Stage Employees. Kyle Chandler, TV star of the nationally syndicated Friday Night Lights. And we all know love and know Richard Linkletter, Austin based film director born in Houston. Mr. Linkletter is a director of films such as Dazed and Confused, School of Rock, and The Bad News Bears. Welcome Richard Linkletter. Mr. Speaker and members, also joining us in the gallery this morning are members of TXMPA. Will you guys please stand and be recognized? Welcome to your House. Welcome to your Capitol. We would like to invite legislatures and staff to stop by and enjoy Amy's Ice Cream today, from 3:00 to 5:00 at the Capitol Grill. Also, there's a Texas archive of moving images displayed in the ground floor rotunda for all to enjoy, and we encourage you to take a moment to stop by and view the works of our Texas artists. Thank you. And, members, I move passage.

MR. SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there objection? Chair hears none. Legislation is adopted. Representative Naishtat moves to have all members' names added. Is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Members, we're about to have a memorial resolution. Will you please take your seats or move your conversation outside the rails? Chair recognizes Representative Callegari.

REPRESENTATIVE BILL CALLEGARI: Mr. Speaker , members, I move to suspend all necessary rules for the House to take up and consider House Resolution 165 to pay tribute to the life of Dr. Susan Diane Jackson.

MR. SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there objection? The chair hears none. So ordered. Chair lays out House Resolution No. 165. The Clerk will read the resolution.

CLERK: HR165 by Callegari. WHEREAS, Susan Diane Jackson, who passed away on June 12 2010, at the age of 59, lived life with a joy and grace that transcended every challenge and that called forth the best in everyone she met; and WHEREAS, Born on September 26, 1950, and raised in Carrizo Springs, Diane Jackson graduated from Southwest Texas State University in 1972, earned a master's degree from Sul Ross State University in 1976, and was awarded her doctor of education degree by Texas A&M University in 1987; four years later, she completed postgraduate work at the University of Houston, where she served as an adjunct professor of education; and WHEREAS, Dr. Jackson taught in San Antonio and Eagle Pass before spending the remaining 30 years of her career with the Spring Branch Independent School District; in the SBISD she held a number of different posts and served most recently as executive director for policy administration and governmental relations; she was a founding member of the Texas School Alliance and a forceful advocate for the schoolchildren of Texas; and WHEREAS, During her tenure with the SBISD, Dr. Jackson organized innumerable field trips to the State Capitol, in order for students to observe legislative proceedings and meet with representatives and state senators; she also encouraged students to seek legislative internships and supported them in that effort; and WHEREAS, Profoundly engaged in the world around her, Dr. Jackson was an avid traveler; she reveled in exploring the culture and history of the countries she visited and developed a special affinity for Italy and China; and WHEREAS, This esteemed educator was affiliated with a number of professional organizations and served in an advisory capacity with the colleges of education at both Texas A&M and the University of Houston; in addition, she was an alumna of Leadership Houston and Leadership Texas, a life member of the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Association, and a member and former president of the Memorial--Spring Branch Rotary Club; she also held membership in the Texas A&M former students association and the 12th Man Foundation; and WHEREAS, For her outstanding service in behalf of Texas students, Dr. Jackson was recognized in 2009 with membership in the Dean's Roundtable, an honor conferred by the Texas A&M University College of Education and Human Development; in May 2010, the SBISD Also paid tribute to her stellar professional contributions with the creation of the Diane Jackson Scholarship; and WHEREAS, The passion and generosity of spirit that Diane Jackson brought to every endeavor endeared her deeply to all who Knew her, and she will be forever treasured by those who were Blessed to share in her love and affection; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 82nd Texas Legislature hereby pay tribute to the life of Dr. Susan Diane Jackson and extend sincere sympathy to the members of her family: To her sisters, Carla Anne Jackson, Jennifer Davis, Marcia Leigh Rowland, and Mary Elizabeth Roberts; to her brother-in-law, Larry Roberts; to her nieces, Christine Rowland, Alexandria Davis, and Liesel Roberts; to her close friend and companion, Richard Cole; And to her many other relatives and friends; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be Prepared for her family and that when the Texas House of Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Dr. Susan Diane Jackson.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Calgary.

REPRESENTATIVE BILL CALLEGARI: Mr. Speaker , members, I move adoption of House Resolution 165.

MR. SPEAKER: Members, this is a memorial resolution. All those in favor please stand. The resolution is unanimously adopted. Speaker Pro Tem Woolley requests to add all names. Is there objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Chair recognizes Representative Calgary.

REPRESENTATIVE BILL CALLEGARI: Mr. Speaker , members, it is my honor to offer this resolution to pay tribute to Dr. Jackson who was a fine and honorable woman who made many contributions to the -- her community, greatly recognized and appreciated by her students, parents, coworkers and all people within the State of Texas. I would like to recognize the family members who are here right next to the podium. Her sister, Liz, her sister, Marcie Roland, her niece, Liesel and her good friend, Richard Coal. Thank y'all for being here. I would also like to recognize some of her friends for being up in the gallery. Would y'all please stand so we can recognize you? What a tribute to Diane. Some of you would like to make comments about Diane, so I think Representative -- Speaker Pro Tem --

MR. SPEAKER: Speaker recognizes Speaker Pro Tem Woolley.

REPRESENTATIVE BEVERLY WOOLLEY: Thank you Mr. Speaker and members. Diane Jackson was not only my constituent, she was also my friend. She fought a hard battle against breast cancer, and I've never seen anybody be as pleasant. She always kept going, she always had a smile on her face. She was a wonderful woman. She did a great job for Spring Branch Independent School District as their governmental relations person. She loved her job, she loved people, she was just a delight in every way. And we offer the family and friends our deepest condolences. And Diane was great person who I will always remember and know that I met someone that was a good and -- someone that is a hero and a model. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Bohac.

REPRESENTATIVE DWAYNE BOHAC: I would just like to echo many of the things Representative Woolley said. Diane was truly a friend of mine. I lived a stone's throw from String Branch ISD headquarters, I lived just around the corner and would stop by and see Diane. But whenever I was out at an event I would always look for Diane and Richard. Those are two of the sweetest, most loving people you would ever want to meet; on top of all the accomplishments. When my wife and I would travel outside this door here, we would be on an education issue, I'd be looking for Diane or Mike or Duncan, because I knew that they would be ready to tell me what's in the best interests of SBISD and those children. And we're all very fortunate up here to represent Spring Branch ISD, some portion of it in the legislature. I am most fortunate in the fact that I knew Diane as a friend, I loved her deeply, from the heart. I went and visited with her in hospice on a number of occasions and I got to speak at her celebration of life on June 10th or June 12th. And my last memory of being with Diane was in hospice. I was talking to her and her voice was just down to a whisper so you had to put your ear to hear what she had to say. She knew, she knew that the the breast cancer was going to take her. So I said "Diane, are you ready to go?" She said, "I'm ready." And I said, "You know your Savior?" And she said, "I know my Savior." I said, "Diane, I love you, and I'm so ready for you to be well." That was my last comments with her, because on Sunday I showed back up to hospice and her room was clear, and there wasn't anything there. But I knew that she had gone home to be with the Lord Jesus Christ and she was free from cancer and she was healthy and that smile that she maintained up to the very end was now joy and laughter, because she had seen her Savior face to face. Thank you.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Murphy.

REPRESENTATIVE JIM MURPHY: Thank you Mr. Speaker. Members, not to be too somber about it, we are all better to have known Diane Jackson and having had the opportunity to work with her. The fact that you folks are from Houston to be here today to celebrate her life and her contributions means a lot to all of us. It was great to work with her. She, in a business where they say nothing is personal, it's political; it was entirely personal with Diane. She put her heart and soul into her work. She cared passionately about her kids, but she never took herself too seriously. Through her battle with cancer we kind of separated for a few months, and I told her how beautiful her hair looked when I saw her. She then removed the wig and affirmed that she was still battling cancer. And that was Diane. She was a pleasure to work with, and I think she's a great example for all of us so we don't bear our troubles so heavy but we keep in mind our mission. So thank you for being part of it and thank y'all for being here today.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Strama.

REPRESENTATIVE MARK STRAMA: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Obviously, I don't represent Spring Branch School District, but in 1986 I graduated from Spring Branch Independent School District. And I still have a photograph taken in 1985 of Diane Jackson hanging a medal around my neck at one of our end-of-the-year ceremonies. She always, at the time, told me how much she believed in me and had high hopes for me and big expectations. And, instead, I ended up here with you people. But even while I was here, she told me what high exceptions she had for me someday. And we will miss her deeply.

MR. SPEAKER: Is Mr. Hancock on the floor of the House and Miss Carter on the floor of the House? And Miss Davis of Dallas, Representative Davis of Dallas on the floor? The Chair takes note that it is the birthday of our colleague, the 49th birthday of our colleague, Charles Perry, today. So be sure and wish him a very happy birthday. Chair recognizes Representative Carter.

REPRESENTATIVE STEFANI CARTER: Mr. Speaker, members, I move to suspend all necessary rules to take up and consider House Resolution 777 recognizing Dr. Kay Eggleston.

MR. SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion is there any objection? Chair hears none. So ordered. Chair lays out House Resolution 777. Clerk will read the resolution.

CLERK: HR777 by Carter. Commending Dr. Kay Eggleston for her continuing service to Richland College.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Carter.

REPRESENTATIVE STEFANI CARTER: Members, Dr. Eggleston has demonstrated great leadership and skill and furthering the mission of Richland College, I'm proud to say, which is in House District 102; and her role as interim president. Dr. Eggleston's notable career in higher education has included service as executive dean of the Health and Legal Studies Division at El Centro College. And this accomplished professional, who is here with us today in the north gallery, has served on a number of statewide higher education committees and task forces. I would like for you to join me, please, in welcoming Dr. Eggleston to her Texas House. Thank you for being here, Doctor. Mr. Speaker, I move adoption.

MR. SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? The chair hears none. So ordered. Chair recognizes Representative Handcock.

REPRESENTATIVE KELLY HANDCOCK: Thank you Mr. Speaker and members, I would like to suspend all necessary rules to take up and consider House Resolution 751 honoring the Texas Chemicals Day.

MR. SPEAKER: Members, you have heard the motion. Is there objection? The Chair hears none. So ordered. Chair lays out House Resolution 751. The Clerk will read the resolution.

CLERK: HR751 by Handcock. Recognizing March 9th, 2011, as Texas Chemicals Day at the State Capitol.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Handcock.

REPRESENTATIVE KELLY HANDCOCK: Yes, thank you, Mr. Speaker. I'd like to point out in this day and time, the economic times that we're in, the chemical industry employs more than 70,000 people in the State of Texas and, indirectly, approximately half a million contractors, suppliers and distributors. So we would like you to recognize them and the contributions they make to the economy of Texas and to our national economy as well, at this time. I move passage.

MR. SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there objection? The Chair hears none. So ordered. The Chair recognizes Representative Isaac.

REPRESENTATIVE JASON ISAAC: Mr. Speaker and members, I would like to suspend all necessary rules and take up this resolution, HR695.

MR. SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there objection? The Chair hears none. So ordered. The Chair lays out House Resolution 695. The Clerk will read the resolution.

CLERK: HR695 by Davis of Dallas. Welcoming the members of the Dallas chapter of the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials who are visiting the State Capitol on February 2, 2011, in conjunction with Minority Business Enterprise Public Policy Day.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Isaac.

REPRESENTATIVE JASON ISAAC: Thank you Mr. Speaker. Members, I move adoption.

MR. SPEAKER: Members, you've heard the motion. Is there any objection? The Chair hears none. So ordered. Chair recognizes Representative Pitts for a motion.

REPRESENTATIVE JIM PITTS: Mr. Speaker, members, I move to suspend the following rule; the five day posting rule, to allow the Committee on Appropriations to consider HB275 at 7:00 a.m. March the 10th, 2011, at E1030.

MR. SPEAKER: Members, you heard the motion. Is there objection? The Chair hears none. So ordered. Following announcement. The Clerk will read the announcement.

CLERK: The Committee on Appropriations will meet at 7:00 a.m. on March 10th, 2011, at E1.030. This meeting will be to consider HB275.

MR. SPEAKER: Members, if you have any announcements please bring them down front? Members, would you give your attention to Representative Hunter? Chair recognizes Representative Hunter.

REPRESENTATIVE TODD HUNTER: Mr. Speaker, members, if you'll all listen, please. Tuesday, the Select Committee on the Election Contest will meet. Tuesday, the Select Committee on the Election Contest will be meeting. You've already had the first step, which was the Master's Report. The second step is now the committee that will be meeting. There is a process in place. We are collecting the information. But I want to make you aware that there may be meetings, there may be get-togethers, and I just want to caution you on this. Because, by law, you are the ultimate judge and jury on the election contest. So I just want to make sure that we have the same admonishment to everybody that I announced the very first day we started the process, just be very careful. The committee will meet and we will listen to the arguments. The committee will make their decision and I believe that all information will be provided to all of you. And, hopefully, you'll have information next week. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER: Chair recognizes Representative Dutton.

REPRESENTATIVE HAROLD V. DUTTON JR.: Mr. Speaker, members, the House Democratic Caucus will have a press conference in the Speaker's Committee Room immediately upon adjournment.

MR. SPEAKER: Representative Hughes on the floor. Chair recognizes Representative Hughes.

REPRESENTATIVE BRYAN HUGHES: Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Members, just to remind you about the Capital Commission Bible Study. Don Garner is out of town this week at a conference. But Steve Collins, many of us know Steve as our parliamentarian in various roles in the legislature and in the government, will be teaching the Bible study today. Upon adjournment, we will give our friends from the Democratic Caucus a few minutes to get there after the press release, but upon adjournment we will head to the Austin Club for the Bible study. And then 7:30 in the morning, not 7:00 but 7:30 in the morning, the Members Lounge in the extension and, of course, for staff and the broader Capitol community, Bible study, Friday morning, 8:00 o'clock. So upon adjournment at the Austin Club, 7:30 a.m. in the Capitol Member's Extension. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

MR. SPEAKER: Members, are there any further announcements? If not, then Representative Hughes moves that the House stand adjourned pending the reading and referral of bills until 10:00 a.m. tomorrow. The following bills on first reading and referral:

CLERK: HB5 by Kolkhorst, relating to the Interstate Health Care Compact. Referred to the Committee on Select State Sovereignty. HB500 by Eissler, relating to end-of-course assessment instruments administered to public high school students. Referred to the Committee on Public Education.

MR. SPEAKER: The House stands adjourned until 10:00 a.m. tomorrow.