HB 2168 (Krause/Powell) repeals a criminal penalty for accepting anything other than U.S. currency or a debit card for the purchase of charitable raffle tickets. HB 2168 was sent to the Governor on 5/31.
HB 3012 (Geren/Nelson) adds a charitable foundation related to the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association to the list of entities able to conduct charitable raffles. HB 3012 was sent to the Governor on 5/25.
SB 4 (Buckingham/Burrows) requires that agreements involving public funds between a governmental entity and a professional sports team include a verification that the U.S. national anthem will be played. SB 4 was sent to the Governor on 5/27.
MERP: Events were added to the Major Events Reimbursement Program under several bills, including:
- HB 1472 (Bucy/Eckhardt) added the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (Concacaf) Gold Cup. Filed without signature and effective immediately on 5/15.
- SB 1155 (Nelson/King, Ken) ensures Texas Motor Speedway (TMS) remains eligible for MERP as it undergoes renovation and adds the Texas Grand Prix Race. Sent to the Governor on 6/1.
- SB 1265 (Birdwell/Ellzey) added the National Hot Rod Association Fall Nationals at the Texas Motorplex. Signed by the Governor on 5/24 and effective on 9/1.