Bill > SB1350

This bill establishes the Texas Bicentennial Commission, a 23-member group tasked with coordinating and promoting celebrations of Texas' 200th anniversary of independence in 2036. The commission will include nine public members appointed by the governor, three senators appointed by the lieutenant governor, three representatives appointed by the house speaker, and eight ex officio members from various state agencies and cultural institutions. The commission's primary responsibilities include encouraging and coordinating bicentennial activities across the state, developing standards for these events, disseminating information, inviting dignitaries, promoting tourism, creating an official bicentennial logo, and potentially selling commemorative items. Members will serve staggered six-year terms and will not receive compensation but can be reimbursed for expenses. The commission is authorized to solicit donations, establish rules, and may even create a nonprofit organization to support its mission. The commission is set to be operational starting September 1, 2025, with initial appointments to be made by December 1, 2025, and will be officially dissolved on September 1, 2037, after submitting a final report on the economic impact of the bicentennial celebrations.