Here we go again . . . Texas Senate Bill 1516

[Indianasmith]

Senator Bob Deuell, who represents my district in NE Texas, has once again filed a bill that would legalize the surface collection of Indian Artifacts from all public waterways in Texas. The bill was filed earlier today and the full text is not online yet. The Senator's office and I decided to go ahead and file the bill with the same wording as last time around, since the State is very crunched for cash right now, and that version did include an annual fee to collect artifacts, not unlike a fishing license. There was also a provision for reporting significant finds to the Historical Commission. There will be a public hearing on the bill in a month or two; I hope that there will be a HUGE turnout from the collecting community to support it, because the archeological community was sure there in force last time to argue against it! The bill is not perfect, but it will be the most generous pro-collecting law on the books in ANY state if it passes, and may lead to a gradual rollback of some of the more ridiculously strict laws in other states. If not, at least collectors in Texas will have a safe haven!
More to come!

Here is a link to the capitol website, with the text of the bill just posted:

Texas Legislature Online - 82(R) Text for SB 1516

[Indianasmith]

I didn't finish one thought in that post . . . since this bill requires a license fee for collecting, I figured the legislature would be more likely to go for it, since the State is desperate for new sources of revenue right now!

[silver lake]

Just sent the Senator an email.

[Indianasmith]

Thanks! Every bit of support counts, although I really need my fellow Texas to come through on this one!

[homestyle]

WOW! Three cheers for Indy! It's good to see some proactive efforts from collectors in this regard. I wish you the best of luck with this ambitious and courageous undertaking!

[Indianasmith]

Thanks a lot!

[Shannon Graham]

Indy,

Has it really already been two year since our last trip to the Capitol?

We could certainly benefit from a solid turn-out this year. Let's talk.

Shannon

[Indianasmith]

Look to hear from me soon, Shannon. I think I've still got your number.
Maybe even a hunt, next week, if you like!

[bulletproof002000]

So who do we need to be contacting to get this some support? I usually deal with national issues, and contact congressmen and senators. With this I know the senator can help, but who else? Thanks Bullet

[eddies]

good luck on this one, i hope it works out for you guys