2010 Texas 4-H Congress

Texas 4-H Congress is a four-day mock legislative experience for 4-H members ages 15 (at the time of the event) to 18. During this time, the 4-H members assume the roles of senators, representatives, lobbyists, press corps, and special interest groups to gain a first-hand understanding of how the legislative process works. Bills that are written and sponsored by 4-H members focus on issues concerning Texas and Texas youth. These bills are assigned to the appropriate committee and then debated in committee meetings and then on the floor of the House or Senate. If a bill is successful in negotiation and the legislative debate in all three stages, it is delivered to the Governor of the Texas 4-H Congress for his or her signature or veto. Copies of all the bills that are signed into law during Texas 4-H Congress are provided to the Office of Governor Rick Perry for his review.

Texas 4-H Congress will be held in Austin, Texas July 11-14, 2010. The host hotel for the event will be the Sheraton Hotel near the Texas Capital. Youth will actually be allowed to participate in committee meetings in the same rooms where our state legislators do and debate bills on the floor of the House and Senate Chambers. County delegates and other 4-H members not attending Texas 4-H Congress will submit bills that will be the foundation of debate throughout the experience.

In addition to the mock legislative sessions and joint sessions of the House and Senate, all participants will have an opportunity to explore the Texas State Capitol during a guided tour. A special theme night dinner will be held on Monday and will feature the theme of 4-H Masquerade Ball. Participants are encouraged to research masquerade balls and come up with a creative mask and costume and compete in some exciting contests during the evening. The capstone event of Texas 4-H Congress is the Final Gala. This semi-formal banquet will recognize the participants for their completion of the event and celebrate Texas 4-H in grand style!

Youth who have attended Congress in 2006 or 2008 are encouraged to apply for a position as a lobbyist or press corp member. Applications will be submitted on 4-H Connect April 1-30, 2010. Youth not selected for one of these positions may still attend Congress as a member of the House or Senate.

Thanks to the assistance of more than $65,000.00 from the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the R.S.M.I.S. Foundation, Ed Rachel Foundation, and Blue Bell Creameries, the cost of Texas 4-H Congress will only be $275 per person. Without these gracious donors, the registration cost would exceed $450.00 per person. Travis County has been allotted two spots for youth to attend Texas 4-H Congress. Interested youth must complete the application at www.travis4h.com and submit the application to Cory by April 30, 2010. (Look under the tab"forms")

If you are interested in attending Texas 4-H Congress and would like more information, please contact Cory at cmtalley@ag.tamu.edu.