HBA-MPM H.B. 889 76(R)BILL ANALYSIS


Office of House Bill AnalysisH.B. 889
By: Lewis, Glenn
Higher Education
6/15/1999
Enrolled



BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

Through acquisitions and donations, Prairie View A&M University has
accumulated school records, artifacts, and other memorabilia relating to
the cultural history of African-Americans in the state of Texas.  It is
well positioned to serve as the institution to study the lives and times of
AfricanAmericans in this state.  H.B. 889 provides for the creation of an
Institute for Preservation of History and Culture at Prairie View A&M, to
be overseen by the university's board of regents.  This bill further sets
forth the mission of the institute, as well as its area of focus, which is
the history, contributions, and role of African-Americans in Texas history
and culture 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the opinion of the Office of House Bill Analysis that this bill does
not expressly delegate any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, department, agency, or institution. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Amends Subchapter B, Chapter 87, Education Code, by adding
Section 87.106, as follows: 

Sec. 87.106.  INSTITUTE FOR PRESERVATION OF HISTORY AND CULTURE. Requires
the board of regents (board) of the Texas A&M University System to
establish an institute for the preservation of Texas and American history
and culture (institute) at Prairie View A&M University.  Provides that the
organization, control, and management of the institute is vested in the
board, and that the employment of personnel and operating budget are
subject to board approval.  Specifies that an institute employee is
considered an employee of Prairie View A&M University.  Sets forth the
mission of the institute, as well as requiring the institute to emphasize
specific aspects of the history, contributions, and role of African
Americans in Texas history and culture.  Authorizes the institute to
establish and operate a museum, archives, automated data systems, or
similar facilities; and operate educational and awareness programs,
particularly for students in public education.  Authorizes the board to
solicit and accept gifts and grants from a public or private source. 

SECTION 2.  Emergency clause.
  Effective date: upon passage.