HBA-DMD H.R. 362 76(R) BILL ANALYSIS Office of House Bill AnalysisH.R. 362 By: Puente State, Federal, & International Relations 4/17/1999 Introduced BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE San Antonio derives its name from the Spanish Mission San Antonio de Valero, founded in 1718 and was later renamed the Alamo. After the Mexican Revolution, immigrants from Mexico caused the city's population to swell, creating a burgeoning and multicultural economy with a lucrative system of trade, growing roots that are clearly visible in today's North Atlantic Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). This shared history and the strong commercial ties between San Antonio and Mexico are greatly responsible for the distinct Spanish flavor that is apparent in the city today. San Antonio is currently the most popular visitor destination in Texas and boasts three renowned landmarks; the Alamo, the Mission Trails, and the River Walk. San Antonio also features a distinctive blending of cultures that exhibits its deep roots in the heritages of both Mexico and Texas, and it is appropriate at this time to recognize the close cultural and economic bond between San Antonio and Mexico. 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. ANALYSIS H.R. 362 recognizes San Antonio as the "Gateway to Mexico" and pays tribute to the citizens of this distinguished city.