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TX SB217

Bill

Status

Passed

6/20/2025

Primary Sponsor

Royce West

Click for details

Origin

Senate

89th Legislature Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Establishes the Historic Texas Freedmen's Cemetery Designation Program under the Texas Historical Commission to identify and alert the public about cemeteries containing graves of freed slaves

  • Requires cemeteries to contain at least one freed slave's grave to be eligible for designation; any person may submit an application with supporting documentation

  • Mandates the commission notify property owners of the cemetery land, adjacent landowners, and any cemetery organization when an application is received

  • Authorizes an application fee not to exceed $25 and allows the commission to design and sell medallions to identify designated cemeteries

  • Takes effect September 1, 2025, with the Texas Historical Commission required to adopt program rules by June 1, 2026

Legislative Description

Relating to establishing the Historic Texas Freedmen's Cemetery Designation Program; authorizing a fee.

Historic Preservation & Museums

Last Action

Effective on 9/1/25

6/20/2025

Committee Referrals

Culture, Recreation & Tourism4/24/2025
Economic Development2/3/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available