H.B. No. 5554 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. It also establishes the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum fund, which will consist of revenue from admissions, sales, and donations, allowing for expenditures related to the museum's administration and maintenance without legislative appropriation.

Additionally, the bill removes the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum from the definition of "other agency of higher education" in the Education Code, and it repeals Section 102.35 of the Education Code. It stipulates that, starting September 1, 2025, employees of West Texas A&M University who are exclusively assigned to the museum will become employees of the Texas Historical Commission. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

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