Texas State Senator

Paul Bettencourt 2023 - 88th Regular - Committees

Legislative Session
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Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Committee of the Whole Senate

The Committee of the Whole Senate comprises a diverse group of members representing various districts and political parties, including Democrats and Republicans. Key members include Carol Alvarado, Paul Bettencourt, and Judith Zaffirini. Although specific bills and meetings are not listed, the committee is likely focused on a wide range of legislative issues pertinent to the Senate's overall agenda, reflecting the interests of its constituents and the state of Texas.
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Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice is dedicated to the oversight and reform of laws related to criminal justice in Texas. Chaired by Senator John Whitmire, the committee holds regular meetings to discuss various bills and initiatives that impact the safety and legal rights of Texans. Recent areas of focus include the rights of victims of family violence, reforms in bail practices, enhancements in medical transportation for inmates, and legislation aimed at preventing child exploitation in the digital age. The committee is also closely monitoring the implementation of significant bills passed in the 88th Legislature, ensuring that their objectives are met and relevant services are adequately funded.
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Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Senate Education Committee

The Senate Committee on Education is dedicated to advancing the quality of education across Texas through legislative oversight and policy development. Chaired by Senator Brandon Creighton, the committee includes members who are focused on critical educational issues such as the establishment of education savings accounts, school safety measures, and curriculum revisions that address contemporary challenges, including mental health and digital education. Recent discussions have also emphasized parental involvement in education and the provision of essential resources and services to support educators and students alike.
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Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Senate Finance Committee

The Texas Senate Committee on Finance, chaired by Senator Joan Huffman, focuses on the state's financial appropriations across various sectors including education, public safety, health services, and infrastructure. The committee is dedicated to reviewing bills that impact fiscal policies and ensuring adequate funding for essential state services. Recent sessions have involved detailed discussions on workgroup recommendations for multiple articles, with an emphasis on mental health services and the monitoring of infrastructure funds as outlined in recent legislation. The committee also actively evaluates proposed legislation to enhance school safety and support economic development initiatives.
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The Hurricane and Tropical Storm Preparedness, Recovery, and Electricity Special Committee is focused on addressing issues related to disaster preparedness and recovery, specifically concerning hurricanes and tropical storms. The committee is chaired by Senator Charles Schwertner and includes a diverse group of members from both Republican and Democratic parties. Although there are currently no bills or meetings recorded, the committee's objective is to enhance the state's resilience against severe weather events and improve electricity management during such disasters.
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Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Senate Local Government Committee

The Senate Committee on Local Government, chaired by Senator Paul Bettencourt, focuses on a range of critical issues affecting local governance in Texas. The committee comprises key members including Vice Chair Drew Springer, and Senators Sarah Eckhardt, Roland Gutierrez, Bob Hall, Robert Nichols, Tan Parker, Angela Paxton, and Royce West. Recent activities have emphasized improving property owner rights, examining local government spending, and reviewing the management policies of housing authorities. Legislative discussions have included ongoing measures to streamline regulations for local governments and ensure transparency in the use of federal funds. Notably, the committee is actively addressing concerns related to squatters' rights and the safety of local communities, as seen in interim charges to evaluate the existing legal frameworks. Additionally, the committee is considering the implications of various bills including SB 349 and SB 1923, aimed at reforming housing policies and appraisal processes respectively, reflecting a commitment to supporting responsible and equitable local governance.
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Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

House State Affairs Committee

The House Committee on State Affairs, chaired by Representative Todd Hunter, focuses on various legislative issues affecting the state of Texas. The committee has been active in reviewing and reporting on a range of bills, primarily concerning public policy, energy efficiency, utility regulation, and transparency in public office. Recent meetings have seen the adoption of committee substitutes and a strong record of unanimous support for many proposed measures. The committee prioritizes the examination of legislative proposals that enhance state infrastructure, promote energy efficiency, and ensure transparency in government operations.
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Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Senate State Affairs Committee

The Senate Committee on State Affairs, chaired by Senator Bryan Hughes with Vice Chair Senator Angela Paxton, focuses on a diverse range of legislative issues impacting state policies. The committee has been actively considering bills related to public school regulations, property rights, criminal justice reforms, and foreign investment. Recent meetings have highlighted significant legislation, including proposals for religious expression in schools, stricter voting regulations, and the regulation of foreign ownership of Texas agriculture. The committee's impact is reflected in its consistent agenda of evaluating measures aimed at enhancing governance and safeguarding constitutional rights.