Texas Historical Commission takes over the first capitol site

The text as introduced · 711 words

89R9169 SCF-D

By: Vasut
H.B. No. 3251

A BILL TO BE ENTITLED

AN ACT

relating to operation and management of the first capitol state

historic site and replica by the Texas Historical Commission.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:

SECTION 1. Chapter 442, Government Code, is amended by

adding Subchapter B-3 to read as follows:

SUBCHAPTER B-3. FIRST CAPITOL STATE HISTORIC SITE

Sec. 442.068. DEFINITIONS. In this subchapter:

(1) "Commission" means the Texas Historical

Commission.

(2) "First capitol site" means the first capitol state

historic site located in West Columbia, Texas.

(3) "Replica" means the replica of the first Republic

of Texas house of representatives building housed on the first

capitol site.

Sec. 442.0681. JURISDICTION AND MAINTENANCE OF FIRST

CAPITOL SITE AND REPLICA. (a) The first capitol site and replica

are under the jurisdiction of the commission. The commission is

responsible for the preservation, maintenance, and operation of the

site and replica.

(b) The commission shall:

(1) develop, expand, and manage the first capitol site

and replica by:

(A) expanding, renovating, and managing the site

and replica to enhance visitor experience and historical accuracy;

(B) overseeing maintenance and operations of the

site and replica to ensure long-term preservation and public

accessibility; and

(C) providing financial support for ongoing

operations and new projects, such as administration, personnel, and

site improvements;

(2) enhance the facilities and infrastructure for the

site by:

(A) relocating the replica to a historically

accurate location on the site;

(B) constructing a historically accurate

replication of the first Republic of Texas senate building on the

site;

(C) constructing and maintaining a visitor

center on the site to provide educational resources, exhibitions,

and interactive experiences for visitors; and

(D) implementing other improvements to the

site's facilities and infrastructure in accordance with the site's

purpose and mission;

(3) assume responsibility for the historic

preservation and interpretation of the first capitol site and

replica by:

(A) preserving and maintaining historical

documents, artifacts, relics, and other items of historical

significance related to the site and this state;

(B) developing exhibitions and interpretive

programs to reflect the site's mission and educate the public; and

(C) conducting ongoing research to enhance the

accuracy and depth of the site's programs;

(4) oversee the operations of and personnel for the

first capitol site and replica by:

(A) hiring and training personnel to manage the

site's daily operations, educational programs, and visitor

services;

(B) establishing efficient operational and

visitor engagement policies and procedures; and

(C) ensuring personnel development aligns with

current best practices for historic site management;

(5) acquire resources and seek donations for the first

capitol site and replica by:

(A) accepting and managing donations of money,

land, historical relics, or other donations supporting the site's

mission;

(B) seeking grant opportunities and

public-private partnerships to increase funding for site

preservation and improvement efforts; and

(C) acquiring property and artifacts aligned

with the historical significance of the site that contribute to the

site's mission and narrative;

(6) strategically develop the first capitol site and

replica by:

(A) identifying and acquiring real property

adjacent or relevant to the site to support the mission of and

expand the site;

(B) ensuring all acquisition of real property

aligns with the historical context of the site and contributes to an

authentic and immersive visitor experience; and

(C) engaging in strategic planning to enhance the

site's presence in the nearby community and promote heritage

tourism;

(7) facilitate community engagement and partnership

for the first capitol site and replica by:

(A) collaborating with local organizations,

schools, and other relevant stakeholders to foster community

involvement and support of the site;

(B) establishing partnerships with historical

societies, institutions of higher education, and cultural

organizations to strengthen the site's educational impact; and

(C) hosting events, lectures, and programs that

encourage public participation and awareness of this state's

history; and

(8) ensure responsible stewardship of resources and

the first capitol site and replica by:

(A) maintaining ethical and professional

standards for site operations; and

(B) conducting periodic assessments to measure

progress and identify areas to improve stewardship of the site.

Sec. 442.0682. GRANTS; DONATIONS. The commission may

accept a grant or donation for any program or purpose of the first

capitol site and replica.

SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2025.