House Bill 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 in Texas. Specifically, the bill adds the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals to the definition of "Event" and introduces a new category for eligibility that includes this festival alongside other major events. Additionally, the bill modifies the definition of "Site selection organization" to include South by Southwest, ensuring that the organization is recognized in the context of event funding.

Furthermore, the bill exempts certain large venues from specific eligibility requirements for events described in the amended sections, particularly those related to the South by Southwest Conference and Festivals. This exemption allows endorsing municipalities or counties to request determinations for funding without needing to meet all standard eligibility criteria. The changes outlined in this bill will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Government Code 478.0001, Government Code 478.0053 (Government Code 478)