Shawn Cirkiel, head chief and owner of Jean-Luc's Bistro in Austin, said the new tax is a headache that Texas restaurants don't need.

"Right now, this very difficult economy is affecting all restaurants and small businesses in the state of Texas," Mr.

Cirkiel said. "It seems as if people should be looking for ways to help us rather than looking for platforms to hurt us."

France has opposed U.S. efforts to bring about a vote on a second United Nations resolution aimed at forcing Iraq to disarm or face military force.

Mr. Christian said he was introducing the bill to give Texas legislators an opportunity to express
support for President Bush.

"In this great country and state we live in, we stand together," he said.