H.R. No. 959 is a ceremonial House resolution honoring the life and memory of James Steven Strain, who died on September 19, 2024. The resolution recounts his upbringing in Abilene, education at the University of Texas at Austin, and his career in the family highway construction business, J. H. Strain & Sons, which he helped grow into a four-generation enterprise. It also highlights his community involvement, including leadership and volunteer service with civic and church organizations, and emphasizes his devotion to his family and friends.
The resolution directs the Texas House to pay tribute to Mr. Strain, extend sympathy to his family and friends, and prepare an official copy for his family. It further states that the House adjourn in his memory, making the measure a formal expression of respect rather than a policy change. The bill was unanimously adopted by a rising vote, indicating broad agreement and no substantive legislative opposition.
Impact
This resolution does not amend state law, create new programs, appropriate funds, or change the duties of any agency or local government. Its effect is limited to the Texas House of Representatives formally recognizing James Steven Strain’s life and service, preserving the tribute in the legislative record, and authorizing an official copy for his family. The only practical governmental action is the House adjournment in his memory.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding H.R. 959 is uniformly positive and respectful. The bill was unanimously adopted by a rising vote, and the text itself is commemorative, emphasizing Mr. Strain’s professional accomplishments, civic leadership, faith-based service, and family devotion. There is no evidence of partisan or policy-based disagreement in the available record.
Contention
There is no notable substantive contention associated with this resolution. Because it is a memorial tribute, the measure does not present competing policy interests or legal disputes. The only potentially relevant distinction is that the resolution honors an individual whose family business and civic roles are specifically described, but the available record shows no opposition or debate over those details.