TITLE GOVERNOR

Executive Order

Relating to the Governor's Task Force for Economic Growth.

WHEREAS, Texas has enjoyed a period of tremendous economic prosperity in recent years, leading the nation in net job creation and maintaining a robust and vibrant economy;

WHEREAS, because Texas leaders have placed a strong emphasis on improving public and higher education and creating a sound climate for job growth, Texas is well positioned to mitigate the effects associated with a cooling national economy;

WHEREAS, due to the unwavering spirit of Texas' independent entrepreneurs and business leaders, the Texas economy is diversified and dynamic;

WHEREAS, although Texas' economy is faring better than many other states, the state can and should assess the status of job creation and the Texas economy, evaluate different policy alternatives, and propose recommendations for consideration by the Governor and other state policy-makers; and

WHEREAS, Texas' continued economic strength lies, in part, in its ability to develop a long-range plan for job growth;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Rick Perry, Governor of the State of Texas, by virtue of the power and authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the State of Texas, do hereby order the following:

1. Creation of Task Force. A Governor's Task Force for Economic Growth ("Task Force") is hereby created to advise the Governor on matters related to the state economy.

2. Composition and Terms. The Task Force shall consist of members appointed by the Governor.

The Governor will appoint one member to serve as chair and one member to serve as vice-chair.

The Governor may fill any vacancy that may occur and may appoint other voting or ex officio, non-voting members as needed.

Any state or local officers or employees appointed to serve on the Task Force shall do so in addition to the regular duties of their respective office or position.

All appointees serve at the pleasure of the Governor.

3. Duties. The Task Force, through its advisory efforts, shall develop and present recommendations, including fiscal impact assessments, to:

a. actively recruit businesses to the state, foster and promote free competitive enterprise, diversify Texas' employment base, develop high wage job opportunities, and maintain employment, production, and purchasing power;

b. assist and advise the Governor in responding to fluctuations and cycles within the state economy; and,

c. enhance the ability of the executive branch of government to respond to economic downturns.

4. Coordination. The Task Force through its advisory efforts should coordinate with national, state, and local entities and communicate with neighboring states and Mexico to address similar issues.

5. Report. The Task Force shall make a report to the Governor.

6. Meetings. Subject to the approval of the Governor, the Task Force shall meet at times and locations determined by the chair.

7. Administrative Support. The Office of the Governor and other appropriate state agencies shall provide administrative support for the Task Force.

8. Other Provisions. The Task Force shall adhere to guidelines and procedures prescribed by the Office of the Governor. All members of the Task Force shall serve without compensation. Necessary expenses may be reimbursed when such expenses are incurred in direct performance of official duties of the Task Force.

9. Effective Date. This order shall take effect immediately.

This executive order supersedes all previous related orders and shall remain in effect and in full force unless modified, amended, rescinded, or superseded by me.

Given under my hand this the 26th day of February, 2002.

Rick Perry, Governor