S.B. No. 2641 proposes amendments to the Government Code to establish a new subchapter dedicated to the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, which is located in Canyon, Texas. The bill defines the museum and outlines the Texas Historical Commission's authority to enter into contracts with the Panhandle-Plains Historical Society and West Texas A&M University for the museum's operation and management. Key provisions include the expansion and preservation of the museum's collection, the employment of necessary staff, and the acceptance of donations. Additionally, the bill creates the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum fund, which will be administered by the commission and can be used without legislative appropriation for the museum's operational needs.

The bill also amends the Education Code to remove the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum from the definition of "other agency of higher education," indicating a shift in its administrative structure. Furthermore, it stipulates that as of September 1, 2025, employees of West Texas A&M University assigned to the museum will become employees of the Texas Historical Commission. The bill includes a provision for its immediate effect upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or, if not, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 61.003, Education Code 102.35 (Education Code 61, Education Code 102)