Bill > HB4405

This bill establishes the Texas 2036 Bicentennial Commission to coordinate and promote celebrations of Texas' 200th anniversary of independence, which will occur in 2036. The commission will consist of 23 members, including 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. Commission members will serve staggered six-year terms and are not paid but can receive expense reimbursements. The commission's key responsibilities include encouraging and coordinating bicentennial celebration activities across the state, developing standards for these events, inviting national and international dignitaries, creating a commemorative logo, and potentially selling commemorative products. The commission is also tasked with gathering and sharing information about bicentennial events and filing a report by September 1, 2037, about the economic impact of these celebrations. The commission can accept donations and grants to support its work and will have the authority to adopt necessary rules. The commission will be automatically dissolved on September 1, 2037, after completing its mission of commemorating Texas' bicentennial. Initial appointments to the commission must be made by December 1, 2025, with the commission becoming operational on September 1, 2025.