AUSTIN, Texas (June 20, 2011) – On Monday, Texas Gov. Rick Perry presented legislation for consideration in the ongoing Eighty-Second Texas Legislature, First Called Session that would ban intrusive TSA pat-downs.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, RICK PERRY, Governor of the State of Texas, by the authority vested in me by Article IV, Section 8, and Article III, Section 40, of the Texas Constitution, do hereby present the following subject matter to the Eighty-Second Texas Legislature, First Called Session, for consideration:

Legislation relating to prosecution and punishment for the offense of official oppression of persons seeking access to public buildings and transportation.

The move comes after a videotaped discussion at a book signing between a Texas resident and the governor went viral. In the widely circulated YouTube video, Perry indicated that he would not present the TSA bill unless there were enough votes in the House and Senate for passage. When the constituent indicated the support existed, Perry acted surprised and then went on to say he didn’t think there was enough time to get the legislation passed.

Bill author David Simpson (R-Longwood) released an open letter to Perry Monday morning, pleading with the governor to get the bill on the agenda.

“Texans overwhelmingly support this measure as I am sure your office can attest. And the Legislature is ready to pass it as soon as you call the bill,” Simpson wrote. “Governor Perry, there remains only for you to call the bill. Any concerns for time would be quickly wiped away if you would take the bull by the horns and provide leadership on this bill.”

The bill will move forward in the Special Session as HB 41.

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EDITOR’S NOTE: Sources close to the Tenth Amendment Center tell us to expect at least 10 other states considering similar legislation in the 2012 legislative session. Utah and Michigan have already joined in. CLICK HERE to track the progress of all “travel freedom” legislation around the country.