-----Original Message-----
From: CTA [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Wednesday, May 09, 2001 1:11 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: LEGISLATIVE ALERT: ALL CTA MEMBERS


Senate Bill 934 is one that would allow recreational metal detecting on
state property (specifically state parks).  This last Monday, the Senate
passes the bill on to the House where it is under review in the Committee
for State Recreational Resources.  In my opinion this bill is a bad one
because it would send the wrong message to the public by letting them know
that it is ok to treasure hunt on public land.  It is in conflict with the
Antiquities Code which considers all historic sites either known or unknown
as State Archeological Landmarks, and these landmarks cannot be altered,
damaged or destroyed without at state permit.  The collecting of artifacts
through recreational metal detecting would in deed alter and destroy the
scientific and educational potential of these resources.  If this bill were
to pass and become law, these resources would benefit only a select few at
the expense of the public.

I strongly encourage you to contact the chairman of the committee and your
local representative regarding this matter.  We must act fast, the bill
could be called to the floor anytime.

Eric Schroeder, Chairman
Governmental Affairs Committee

Send e-mails, faxes, letters to:
Chairman Edmund Kuempel
Committee for State Recreational Resources
P.O. Box 2910
Austin, Texas 78768
e-mail: [log in to unmask]
Phone: (512) 463-0602
Fax: (512) 463-5896


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Stephen P. Austin
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