TITLE: Recognizing February 23, 2011, as Sheriffs' Association of Texas Day at the Capitol.

SUMMARY: Recognizing February 23, 2011, as Sheriffs' Association of Texas Day at the Capitol.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, Members of the Sheriffs' Association of Texas, one of the nation's oldest law enforcement organizations, are gathering in Austin on February 23, 2011, to participate in Sheriffs' Association of Texas Day at the Capitol; and WHEREAS, The Texas Constitution created the office of sheriff in each county of the state; legislation requires that a sheriff conserve peace and enforce the criminal laws of the state; moreover, the sheriff is responsible for the county jail, bail bonds, civil process, and the security of the courts; in some smaller counties, the sheriff may also act as the tax collector; and WHEREAS, The first meeting of this esteemed association took place on August 14, 1874; association members adopted their preamble, calling for sheriffs to assist one another in the execution of laws, in the discharge of their duties against criminals, and in the protection of the citizens in their respective counties and throughout the state; the group has continued to follow the dictates of this mission; and WHEREAS, The office of sheriff is one of the oldest forms of law enforcement; sheriffs in our state's 254 counties are elected to four-year terms, and each sheriff is a member of the Sheriffs' Association of Texas; in addition, more than 2,500 individuals are active members of the group, and more than 45,000 individuals are associate members; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 82nd Legislature, hereby recognize February 23, 2011, as Sheriffs' Association of Texas Day at the Capitol and commend the members of the Sheriffs' Association of Texas for their many contributions to our state; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for the association as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate. Ogden President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 23, 2011.