H.B. No. 4811 amends the Government Code to include the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals as an eligible event for funding under the Major Events Reimbursement Program. Specifically, it adds the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals to the definition of "Event" in Section 478.0001(3) and also includes it in the list of events that are exempt from certain eligibility requirements for large venues in Section 478.0053. Additionally, the bill introduces a new insertion for a Super Bowl event while deleting references to the United States Open Championship, World Cup soccer games, the World Games, and WrestleMania from the eligibility list.

The bill aims to enhance the recognition and support for the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals, which is a significant cultural event in Texas. By including this event in the funding eligibility, the bill seeks to promote economic growth and tourism associated with the festival. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, allowing for a transition period for the implementation of these new provisions.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 478.0001, Government Code 478.0053 (Government Code 478)
House Committee Report: Government Code 478.0001, Government Code 478.0053 (Government Code 478)
Engrossed: Government Code 478.0001, Government Code 478.0053 (Government Code 478)