Governor Abbott vetoes HB 109 (86R)
Pursuant to Article IV, Section 14, of the Texas Constitution, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas, do hereby disapprove of and veto House Bill No. 109 as passed by the Eighty-Sixth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, because of the following objections:
Although the purpose of House Bill 109 was to keep Texas schools closed on Memorial Day, as written it would allow up to 859 school districts to remain open on the holiday. Memorial Day is an important holiday, intended to honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in defense of our country. Teaching young Texans how to respectfully celebrate this holiday is critical, and we do not accomplish this goal with a law that may require them to attend school on Memorial Day. If the goal was to create more uniformity in how charter schools and school districts celebrate holidays, the Legislature should draft a more targeted bill next session.
Since the Eighty-Sixth Texas Legislature, Regular Session, by its adjournment has prevented the return of this bill, I am filing these objections in the office of the Secretary of State and giving notice thereof by this public proclamation according to the aforementioned constitutional provision.
IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, I have signed my name officially and caused the Seal of the State to be affixed hereto at Austin, this 15th day of June, 2019.
GREG ABBOTT
Governor