HBA-CMT H.B. 2908 77(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


Office of House Bill AnalysisH.B. 2908
By: Hawley
State, Federal & International Relations
7/19/2001
Enrolled



BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

The 75th Legislature directed the Texas Department of Economic Development
to establish and maintain the Texas Strategic Military Planning Commission
(TSMPC).  The main purpose of TSMPC is to assist in the prevention of
future base closures and realignments and to assist defense-dependent
communities in preparing for the next generation of the military in Texas.
Prior to the 77th legislature, a bill was introduced in the United States
Congress that would begin the next round of  base realignment and closure
(BRAC) hearings.  If the bill passes, it would authorize additional base
closings and Texas may be at risk of losing more bases and civilian jobs if
an organized effort is not ready to address BRAC.  Placing TSMPC within the
governor's office would enhance its profile and send a signal that Texas is
serious about its military and defense community.  House Bill 2908 moves
TSMPC from the Texas Department of Economic Development to the office of
the governor.  

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

House Bill 2908 amends the Government Code to place the Texas Strategic
Military Planning Commission (TSMPC) within the office of the governor.
The bill requires TSMPC to serve as an advisory committee to the office of
the governor, in addition to the Office of Defense Affairs in the Texas
Department of Economic Development, on the effect of the military on the
economy of this state.  The Texas Department of Economic Development is
required to provide administrative support to TSMPC. 

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2001.