Two Houston lawmakers want Texas to formally apologize for slavery and better recognize contributions made by black Americans.

State Senator Rodney Ellis and Representative Senfronia Thompson want Texas to join legislatures from seven states considering similar measures.

A Tennessee Democrat has introduced a resolution in Congress for a national apology.

Ellis and Thompson, both Democrats, say they want to get bipartisan support for that formal apology.

They say it's not an attempt to seek monetary reparations.

Gov. Rick Perry says that the issue is up to legislators.

"You know I'm a big fan of the preparations for the future, not focusing on reparations for the past," Perry said.