Resolution 2002-02
          American Council of the Blind of Texas, Inc.

WHEREAS, the State Use Program of the State of Texas was
enacted in the State of Texas to provide a resource of goods and
services at specified and guaranteed quality, price, and delivery
for state agencies; and

Whereas, these goods and services are produced by Texans with
disabilities, who are employed by Texas Industries for the Blind
and Handicapped (TIBH) member agencies; and

Whereas, the State Use Program directs state agencies to give
preferential status in the purchase of these goods and services
of TIBH; and

Whereas, state agencies have not consistently complied with the
State Use Program by purchasing the products of TIBH member
agencies; and

Whereas, The Sunset Commission has completed its review of the
State Use Program and has given favorable recommendation for
its re-authorization and made recommendations for better
compliance and extended participation:

BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED by The American Council of the
Blind of Texas, Inc., assembled in meeting this fifteenth day of
September, 2002, in the City of Lubbock, Texas, that The
American Council of the Blind of Texas, Inc. endorses the
continuance of the State Use Program in order to provide
employment for people with disabilities and to provide goods and
services of guaranteed quality and price,to agencies of the State
of Texas; and

Be it further resolved that in re-authorizing the State Use
Program, the Legislature of the State of Texas strengthen its
enforcement to insure that the true and full intent of the law is
fulfilled.

Unanimously approved


Recommended dissemination:
All State Senators and Representatives,
who have a TIBH member agency in their districts
The Governor, Attorney General, and Comptroller of Texas
Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities
Texas Building and Procurement Commission
Texas Industries for the Blind and Handicapped
ACB
Posted on ACBT web site