Transcript Highlights:

• I think the ask is 100 million this session for that.
• It may have been my first session, maybe second.
• A couple of sessions ago, or last session, a bill was proposed
• I think those are issues that we should take up this session in addition to 1150.
• Before you this morning, SB 1061 is a refile from last session, HB 419.

Bills: SB1150, SB763, SB1061, SB1146, SB1198

Keywords: concrete plants, environmental regulation, permit process, air quality, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, orphaned wells, plugging, replugging, Railroad Commission, liability, oil and gas, spaceports, critical infrastructure, criminal liability, civil liability, aerospace industry, SB1150, inactive wells, oil and gas, Railroad Commission

Summary: The meeting centered around the discussion of SB1150, which is designed to address the issue of inactive wells in Texas. Senator Middleton presented the bill, highlighting the concerns surrounding the current regulations that allow wells to remain inactive indefinitely, which poses various risks to health, safety, and the environment. The proposed legislation includes requirements for owners to plug or return inactive wells to production after certain timelines, with a compliance plan to be evaluated by the Railroad Commission. Several stakeholders participated in the discussion, expressing their support and emphasizing the importance of addressing the rising costs associated with orphaned wells and the financial burden on taxpayers. The bill is seen as a critical step toward sustainable oil and gas management in Texas.

Transcript Highlights:

• ...passed by this body in the regular session and also the
• first special session.
• And was that sharp lawyer involved in the drafting of Senate Bill 7 in this special session?
• Do you think that'll hold over time or next session? I mean, it seems to me there's a...
• Before we come back to the next session, correct?

Bills: SB2, SB5, SB10, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB17, HB7, HB7, HB15, HB15, HB27, HB1

Keywords: school assessment, public education, accountability, transparency, education standards, abortion, civil liability, abortion-inducing drugs, qui tam actions, Texas Citizens Participation Act, Religious Freedom Restoration Act, healthcare regulations, judicial branch, court security, juvenile boards, mental health services, election challenges, judicial procedures, court security, mental health services

Summary: The meeting centered around significant discussions concerning groundwater management, specifically focusing on House Bill 27, which relates to a groundwater study affecting the Neches and Trinity Valleys. Senators debated the necessity of a two-year moratorium on new groundwater permitting, highlighting concerns about potential over-extraction and the ecological impact. Senator Perry expressed urgency for a study to understand the interconnectedness of aquifers, emphasizing the importance of scientific data in guiding legislative decisions, which prompted a detailed examination of current water resources in Texas. The bill was passed with amendments after extensive debate and consideration of various regional impacts.

Transcript Highlights:

• Hopefully, we get legislation done this session that could make that better, but as of current right
• In previous sessions, this has been a bipartisan proposition. In 2013, when then-Rep.
• The next session, Rep.
• And just as a reminder, we go into session at 10.
• It's a recess; you heard people filed it during the sessions before me.

Bills: HB311, SB447, SB505, SB2217, SB2753

Keywords: voter registration, electronic, Texas election law, Signature verification, DPS, internet application, voter registration, electronic, Texas Election Code, signature verification, DPS, online application, data security, voter registration, electronic application, signature verification, Department of Public Safety, information security, electronic voter registration, voting technology

Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Elections covered several significant bills, particularly focusing on election integrity and voter registration processes. Notable discussions included the challenges posed by election irregularities and the introduction of electronic voter registration aimed at enhancing efficiency and security. Representative Swanson presented SB 505, which would strengthen oversight in election irregularities, while HB 311, discussed in detail, proposed an electronic voter registration system modeled after successful implementations in other states. Both bills sparked robust discussions among committee members and witnesses, highlighting various perspectives on improving electoral processes. The members indicated a shared goal of maintaining transparency and accountability in Texas elections, though differing opinions on specific measures were apparent throughout the meeting. The meeting adjourned with many bills left pending, awaiting further consideration as the committee seeks a consensus.

Transcript Highlights:

• And yes, the early morning session is the best hearing, but we

• Welcome to the first hearing of this session of the Committee

• But back in the late '80s, they had three special sessions on it.
• In 1991, they had two special sessions on it.
• I mean, can you imagine having a special session just on it?

Keywords: Texas CHIPS Act, semiconductor industry, foreign investment, international business, economic development, Governor Abbott, Taiwan office, workforce development

Summary: The meeting primarily focused on the implementation and impacts of the Texas CHIPS Act, aimed at bolstering the semiconductor industry within the state. Legislators praised its potential to create jobs and capital investment. The discussion also highlighted recent international business development missions undertaken by Governor Abbott, including visits to India, the UK, and Taiwan, to foster stronger economic ties and attract foreign investment. Chairwoman Button emphasized the importance of a robust economic development strategy to maintain Texas's leading position in job and economic growth.

Transcript Highlights:

• They will be assisting us this session.
• Last session, there was a signing statement issued by the governor about the budget.
• We knew this would be a topic of legislative direction in the next session as well.
• And now, all of a sudden, in the middle of a legislative session.
• That's all this session. You're under sunset.

Keywords: House Bill 11, House Bill 3579, lottery ticket couriers, modernization, human trafficking, regulatory oversight

Summary: The meeting focused primarily on legislative discussions surrounding House Bills 11 and 3579, with a significant emphasis on regulatory measures concerning lottery ticket couriers and modernization of licensing systems for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Various committee members engaged in lively debates, particularly around the implications of using couriers within the lottery framework, as this raised concerns about regulatory gaps and the need for clearer oversight. Additionally, there was mention of the agency’s efforts to combat human trafficking through updated regulations and enforcement actions, indicating a priority agenda for the session.

Transcript Highlights:

• The legislature awarded $1.4 billion over two sessions, and we have committed around $700 million of
• When that fund was created last session, the legislation included certain statutory priorities.
• Available after this session for that fund.
• In past sessions, other competing priorities may have been considered first, and then we might think

• You may have seen an initiative this session.

Keywords: Texas House, Natural Resources, water management, conservation, legislative proposals, administrative processes

Summary: During this meeting of the Texas House Natural Resources Committee, critical discussions centered on various legislative proposals impacting water management and conservation in the state. Chairman Harris emphasized the importance of balancing economic growth with conservation efforts, noting the urgency of addressing Texas's finite water resources. Several members raised concerns about the administrative processes governing water laws, and a variety of bills were presented, including a definition cleanup bill and modifications to reporting requirements. The committee heard testimony from multiple stakeholders who provided insights on existing issues and proposed solutions to enhance water management in Texas.

Transcript Highlights:

• Teacher safety, which we're addressing in this session, and student discipline, which ties directly to
• teacher safety, are also topics that we're addressing this session.
• funding bill out of ten thousand bills in the session, and
• If the economy goes badly next session, I do not trust you to not cut that funding later.
• We have the floor session starting at 11 o'clock, but we will call up one more witness, Greg Poole.

Bills: HB2

Keywords: public education, teacher compensation, certification, funding, school finance, educator rights, education funding, charter schools, staff compensation, state aid, retention allotment, HB2, education funding, public schools, charter schools, Teacher Incentive Allotment, Senator Creighton, equity in education

Summary: The Senate Education Committee's meeting focused heavily on HB2, which proposes an historic investment of $8 billion into Texas public education. Senator Creighton led the discussion, explaining the components of the committee substitute and emphasizing the importance of increasing funding beyond past measures, highlighting that this package exceeds any previous investment in public education. The committee heard testimonies from public witnesses who expressed strong support for the bill, including educators discussing the positive impacts of the Teacher Incentive Allotment. The meeting adjourned after a vibrant discussion about the various provisions included in HB2, such as adjustments in funding allocations for both traditional and charter schools, and the ongoing issues related to educational equity across districts in Texas.

Transcript Highlights:

• In the 2017 85th legislative session, the body passed HB 22, which established the current A through
• Like you did this past legislative session and give every
• SB 8 builds on the thoughtful work this committee led last session.
• At the end of the regular session, we had a good bill on this topic.
• With the end of the special session approaching, we understand time is light and time is tight.

Bills: SB8

Keywords: Senate Bill 8, STAR test elimination, education accountability, student assessments, Texas education, K-16 education committee, transparent testing, educational standards

Summary: The Senate Committee on Education K-16 convened to discuss Senate Bill 8, focusing on revising Texas's statewide assessment system by eliminating the STAR test and replacing it with a more efficient structure. This bill was highlighted as an important effort to enhance student accountability and academic performance through three testing phases: beginning, middle, and end of the academic year, to commence in the 2027-2028 school year. During the meeting, various stakeholders including educators and business leaders presented their support, emphasizing the need for a timely, transparent, and actionable assessment strategy that better serves students' educational needs and alleviates the pressure of over-testing in schools. Furthermore, the committee addressed the importance of ensuring assessments align closely with the Texas educational standards and provide teachers with the resources to adapt instruction based on real-time student data.

Transcript Highlights:

• We're down to about the last hour or two of session, and

• In my first session, you said, and I just can't express how much I appreciate it.
• It took us several sessions, but we prevailed.
• We're talking about late in the session. I've got to go see 31 senators before they...
• And so, I knew, and I went up to the cocktail party before the session even started.

Bills: SB8, SB1, SB2, SB5, SB10, HB27, HB7, HB17, HB1, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB20, HB18

Keywords: sex designation, restroom access, civil penalties, private civil right of action, women's privacy, campground safety, youth camp regulations, flood safety, emergency evacuation, health and safety standards, disaster relief, flood preparedness, emergency funding, local government support, meteorological forecasting, abortion, healthcare, jurisdiction, civil action, qui tam

Summary: The committee meeting focused on several significant legislative actions, particularly in relation to youth camp safety reforms. Senator Perry presented the committee substitute for HB1, emphasizing the collaborative effort with the House to enhance youth camp emergency preparedness following tragic events in the community. The bill, which maintains essential safety provisions, was received positively and passed without opposition. Additionally, discussions highlighted the importance of funding for flood management and the need for ongoing dialogue around public safety enhancements, including interoperability among emergency services. Overall, the meeting reflected a strong commitment to community safety and legislative integrity.

Transcript Highlights:

• We started this session, it's our first bill, with many more
• I pray as we go throughout this session and this day, travel

• More specifically, members, this session 459 constituents

• This is an emergency item for two sessions in a row that we should work on urgently.
• And I know that I'm at peace if I'm on the front porch instead of another session.

Bills: SB2, SJR36, SB2, SB2, SR29, SB2

Keywords: Maverick County, recognition, economic development, Texas Senate, community celebration, legislation, economic policies, public safety, committee discussions, public commentary

Summary: The meeting focused on various legislative issues, with committee members engaging in detailed discussions regarding proposed bills and their implications. Key points included debates on economic policies and public safety initiatives, with members expressing differing viewpoints on certain legislative measures. The atmosphere was collaborative, as various stakeholders provided input on the legislation under consideration. Public commentary was encouraged, contributing to a robust dialogue among committee members and attendees.

Transcript Highlights:

• It's an identical version that passed out of this committee during the regular session.
• Welcome to the special session.
• That was the bill that we passed, and how many sessions ago was that, guys?
• That would be a welcome step forward for next session.
• I just want to say that I don't think I can get there on a special session with enough granularity, but

Bills: HB17, HB23

Keywords: property tax, school funding, enrollment changes, inflation adjustment, tax rate notice, property tax, transparency, tax exemptions, public testimony, local government, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, unfunded mandate

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Local Government focused primarily on two bills, HB23 and HB17. HB23, which clarifies existing tax exemptions for charitable organizations, particularly concerning the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, received unanimous support from committee members and was reported out without opposition. Meanwhile, HB17 sparked more robust discussions surrounding transparency in property tax notifications. Proponents argued the necessity of providing clear, direct information to taxpayers about rate changes, while opponents raised concerns about the financial burden this would impose on school districts and local governments, asserting that the bill could lead to significant mailing costs and create an unfunded mandate.

Transcript Highlights:

• The House is in session today at 12:30 PM in room 3W15 to consider pending and committee business.
• I'm not aware, but I will say that this bill is very, very similar to HB7 from last session.
• I know there certainly was back last session under HB7.
• So this is similar to the bill that you passed last session, is that correct?
• Wiener, in a past legislative session, we authorized the founding.

Bills: HB2293, HB2694, HB2999, HB3694, HB3254, HB4662, HB5629, HB5632, HB5675, HB5664, HB5671, HB5680, HB5682, HB5693, HB4158, HB5695, HB4669, HB5696, HB5698, HB5677, HB5699, HB5694, HCR81, HCR83, HCR84, HCR89, HCR111, HCR142, HR868, SB682, SB1351, SB1895, SB1931, SB2141, SB3044, SCR1, SCR6, SCR37, SB458, SB482, SB927, SB984, SB651, SB1620, SB2124, SB2448, SB841, SB843, SB402, SB2662, SB2053, SB2332, SB2112, SB745, SB1247, SB1789, HB75, HB5354, HB4683, HB4847, HB1449, HB3833, HB265, HB1845, HB108, HB1960, HB1955, HB2512, HB2581, HB2803, HB1738, HB636, HB2638, HB2655, HB871, HB1107, HB1765, HB1822, HB3679, HB4099, HB3732, HB3171, HB3749, HB2814, HB3977, HB4204, HB4207, HB4449, HB1820, HB1876, HB1939, HB1347, HB2593, HB2136, HB2658, HB2757, HB2080, HB3063, HB3006, HB2844, HB3241, HB3680, HB3169, HB2078, HB2507, HB4559, HB3405, HB475, HB3463, HB3441, HB3520, HB3178, HB158, HB2060, HB4991, HB1991, HB5596, HB2014, HB2731, HB2417, HB2399, HB2301, HB3335, HB3234, HB3320, HB4848, HB4748, HB4769, HB4795, HB2086, HB2234, HB4916, HB5624, HB4505, HB5093, HB5302, HB5402, HB5606, HB4630, HB4924, HB3339, HB3793, HB3631, HB4882, HB5509, HB5499, HB5520, SB1177, SB1559, SB746, SB434, SB1383, SB1214, SB1079, SB3031, SB2141, SB2185, SB1895, SB1241, SB901, SB1883, SB552, HB1249, HJR218, HB5623, SB687, SB1332, SB458, SB482, SB927, SB984, SB651, SB1620, SB2124, SB2448, SB841, SB843, SB402, SB2662, SB2053, SB2332, SB2112, SB745, SB1247, SB1789, HCR76, HCR127, HCR9, HCR40, HCR118, HR559, HCR59, HCR135, HCR141, HCR46, HCR109, HCR10, SB3037

Keywords: Sweeny Hospital District, board of directors, local governance, elections, healthcare administration, Brazoria Drainage District, commissioners, elections, vacancies, resignation, hydrogen vehicles, weight limitations, transportation, environmental impact, clean energy, deep fake, intimate depictions, consent, digital media, criminal penalties

Summary: The committee meeting featured extensive discussions surrounding various bills concerning public safety, health services, and regulatory reforms. Noteworthy among these was the passage of HB3732, which allows the Texas Commission on Fire Protection to extend compliance deadlines, and HB3171, which supports firefighters' collective bargaining rights. Members expressed a drive towards improving firefighting standards and furthering the welfare of emergency services throughout the state. HB3339 was another highlight, aimed at addressing maternal mortality among black women in Texas, garnering support for its goal to enhance healthcare and safety for vulnerable populations.

Transcript Highlights:

• It's a good day, it's a good night, it's been a rough session.
• In each session since 2021, we've made small adjustments.
• If they recant, does that mean we can come back next session and then respond?
• and every session, and HB 150 answers that call.
• all right, but it's a reminder for next session.

Bills: SB801, SB867, SB2717, SB2919, HJR7, HB4, HB14, HB27, HB42, HB46, HB100, HB111, HB112, HB121, HB126, HB146, HB186, HB223, HB229, HB322, HB367, HB500, HB521, HB640, HB705, HB783, HB1052, HB1056, HB1105, HB1106, HB1178, HB1211, HB1234, HB1306, HB1403, HB1449, HB1506, HB1661, HB1690, HB1871, HB1960, HB2017, HB2078, HB2128, HB2240, HB2243, HB2348, HB2407, HB2512, HB2820, HB2844, HB2853, HB2854, HB2885, HB3000, HB3005, HB3053, HB3057, HB3181, HB3333, HB3372, HB3425, HB3441, HB3516, HB3749, HB3783, HB3812, HB3848, HB3923, HB3963, HB4070, HB4134, HB4157, HB4158, HB4211, HB4449, HB4623, HB4638, HB4687, HB4690, HB4748, HB4749, HB4795, HB4848, HB5093, HB5115, HB5129, HB5138, HB5294, HB5616, HB5629, HB5646, HB5661, HB5672, HB5674, HB5699, HCR40, SJR5, SJR27, SJR59, SB4, SB6, SB8, SB9, SB10, SB12, SB22, SB23, SB25, SB27, SB34, SB36, SB37, SB38, SB40, SB57, SB140, SB261, SB293, SB441, SB447, SB467, SB512, SB650, SB777, SB785, SB924, SB1188, SB1281, SB1318, SB1333, SB1398, SB1448, SB1566, SB1579, SB1621, SB1723, SB1838, SB1862, SB2167, SB2405, SB2406, SB2407, SB2878, SB3059, SB3070, SB1, SB17, SB21, SB260, SB379, SB509, SB1198, SB1405, SB1506, SB1637, SB1833, SB2155, SB2308, SB2601, SB2778, HB300, HB2011, HB2525, HB5246, SJR36, SJR50, SJR63, SCR12, SCR39, SB2023, SB62, SB666, SB847, SB284, SB854, SB810, SB1505, SB583, SB507, SB1434, SB1772, SB2016, SB1122, SB731, SB397, SB508, SB1436, SB287, SB1882, SB393, SB1791, SB209, SB2429, SB1085, SB1975, SB2717, SB1262, SB636, SB2056, SB884, SB1200, SB1845, SB2458, SB801, SB3014, SB3013, SB758, SB2797, SB2076, SB2876, SB1640, SB1449, SB1181, SB1234, SB2926, SB2841, SB1528, SB1854, SB317, SB1250, SB2082, SB1237, SB2819, SB629, SB2608, SB1602, SB2009, SB867, SB640, SB1698, SB2680, SB913, SB1071, SB1086, SB1087, SB1483, SB1444, SB1553, SB1556, SB1703, SB2133, SB2297, SB2298, SB2622, SB2955, SB2334, SB1367, SB2044, SB2363, SB2565, SB1888, SB3036, SB3057, SB3043, SB3063, SB3035, SB203, SB2688, SB2522, SB2459, SB2655, SB2251, SB1884, SB2928, SB2566, SB2549, SB2553, SB2919, SB1944, SB1232, SB1798, SB2603, SB2607, SB2683, SB1319, SB3045, SB3071, HJR7, HB5115, HB3053, HB1403, HB223, HB748, HB5652, HB3395, HB180, HB1306, HB322, HB126, HB5650, HB4894, HB1629, HB5698, HB3171, HB2694, HB5664, HB4690, HB4464, HB3623, HB2520, HB2213, HB252, HB146, HB5596, HB3619, HB5320, HB5651, HB5670, HB5665, HB5437, HB5679, HB5699, HB5661, HB5662, HB5654, HB5672, HB5656, HB3812, HB3057, HB2035, HB721, HB346, HB2512, HB5695, HB5694, HB5674, HB3185, HB2348, HB1871, HB1135, HB101, HB5666, HB5677, HB5682, HB5658, HB4144, HB3642, HB3815, HB2686, HB2012, HB1960, HB227, HB654, HB1690, HB2128, HB4158, HB4630, HB1523, HB2078, HB1973, HB3333, HB3697, HB3546, HB3225, HB3181, HB2820, HB1506, HB1234, HB640, HB521, HB229, HB186, HB119, HB4795, HB4466, HB3749, HB1106, HB4, HB4170, HB3909, HB4081, HB4145, HB4157, HB4285, HB4463, HB4995, HB5138, HB5624, HB1449, HB2598, HB3629, HB4361, HB824, HB1868, HB4848, HB2243, HB40, HB117, HB3686, HB500, HB3793, HB112, HB104, HB1056, HB42, HB3000, HB100, HB2240, HB718, HB27, HB4904, HB4202, HB2853, HB5129, HB5093, HB4765, HB4748, HB4559, HB4350, HB4214, HB3388, HB3112, HB5196, HB4211, HB3516, HB3092, HB4233, HB4687, HB705, HB1094, HB2037, HB3005, HB3848, HB1105, HB121, HB3372, HB367, HB783, HB3336, HB3441, HB4449, HB5616, HB2407, HB2854, HB3425, HB5294, HB1178, HB4623, HB14, HB3963, HB1211, HB5646, HB5629, HB3783, HB4236, HB46, HB4638, HB1052, HB4070, HB5509, HB5435, HB4134, HB3923, HB3520, HB3320, HB2517, HB2488, HB5663, HB2731, HB3073, HB2655, HB2399, HB541, HB4099, HB111, HB1532, HB3483, HB2963, HB4580, HB3748, HB713, HB632, HB426, HB4730, HB127, HB5690, HB5689, HB5655, HB3385, HB2757, HB4359, HB5381, HB20, HB123, HB549, HB5606, HB2217, HB2594, HB796, HB150, HB1057, HCR141, HCR40, HCR59, HCR76, HCR81, HCR46, HCR111, HCR83, HCR84, HJR7, HB4, HB14, HB27, HB42, HB46, HB100, HB126, HB150, HB322, HB367, HB500, HB640, HB705, HB783, HB1105, HB1178, HB1211, HB1234, HB1506, HB1690, HB1871, HB2078, HB2128, HB2240, HB2243, HB2407, HB2512, HB2853, HB2854, HB3000, HB3057, HB3181, HB3372, HB3425, HB3441, HB3749, HB3783, HB3812, HB3923, HB3963, HB4070, HB4134, HB4157, HB4211, HB4449, HB4623, HB4638, HB4687, HB4748, HB4795, HB5093, HB5129, HB5616, HB5629, HB5699, HB229, HB521, HB1056, HB1106, HB5138, SR583, SCR52, HB223, HB229, HB521, HB1056, HB1106, HB1403, HB3053, HB5115, HB5138

Keywords: housing finance, low income, moderate income, affordable housing, ad valorem tax exemption, open meetings, tenant protections, multifamily developments, housing choice voucher, emergency plans, renal disease, healthcare facilities, power requirements, generator, water fund, Texas water supply, constitutional amendment, state revenue, infrastructure, nuclear energy

Summary: The meeting centered around critical discussions regarding several proposed bills, notably HB150, which focuses on establishing the Texas Cyber Command. This bill aims to streamline cybersecurity efforts across the state, thereby enhancing protections against digital threats. Senator Parker emphasized the necessity of quick implementation and collaboration with smaller municipalities that currently lack adequate resources for cybersecurity. The committee debated potential amendments before finally passing the bill, highlighting the collaborative effort among various senators to address urgent cybersecurity needs for Texas. In addition to HB150, several other bills were also discussed, including HB4748, which pertains to state agency purchasing procedures, and HB1690, regarding groundwater conservation permits. These discussions featured various senators praising the associated benefits of these bills, particularly in enhancing efficiency within state agencies and improving communication in environmental management. Overall, the meeting was marked by a strong sense of purpose and cooperation among the members as they navigated complex legislative issues, resulting in the successful passage of multiple bills.

Transcript Highlights:

• Last session, this legislation eliminated safety inspections for travel trailers.
• ...registry created by Texas last session, which empowers DPS
• We started this initiative a few sessions ago, initiated by statute.
• I'm not sure if you heard it earlier, but this was passed last session.
• This is just cleaning up the language because we did the two bills separately in the last session.

Bills: HB647, HB791, HB1242, HB1729, HB2003, HB2029, HB2061, HB2775, HB3751, HB4804, HB3611

Keywords: driver's license, vision correction, medical verification, Texas Department of Public Safety, renewal fees, Senate Transportation Committee, House Bill 647, public safety, high-speed rail, public testimony, license renewal, DPS, transportation legislation

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Transportation Committee included crucial discussions surrounding various bills pertaining to transportation and public safety. Notably, House Bill 647 was presented to streamline the process for individuals who have undergone corrective eye surgery, allowing them to update their driver's licenses without needing to visit the Department of Public Safety in person. This bill was celebrated for potentially decreasing traffic at DMV offices and optimizing resources, with members expressing general support and a positive sentiment surrounding its passage. Additionally, public testimony was gathered for House Bill 2003, concerning high-speed rail projects, where witnesses voiced differing opinions, emphasizing the bill's relevance to current transit challenges and community impacts.

Transcript Highlights:

• Thank you, members and guests, for being here today for our first hearing of the 89th legislative session
• absolutely love this committee, and I am so grateful to have learned so much the past couple of sessions
• This is my fourth session on human services.
• We do this every session.
• Regulatory reform and what this looks like for us is kind of coming from SB593 of last session.

Keywords: Senate Bill 593, kinship care, foster care reforms, licensing, health and safety, regulatory compliance, public comment, child welfare

Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around the presentation of Senate Bill 593, which focuses on reforming licensing requirements for kinship and foster care homes. Significant discussions revolved around the proposed changes to reduce duplicative regulations aimed at helping kinship families qualify for foster care payments. Members emphasized that the reforms would ensure that health and safety standards remain paramount while streamlining processes for providers. Various stakeholders expressed optimism that these changes would eliminate barriers and improve the system for both kinship caregivers and the children they support. Public comment on the new rules is anticipated in May 2025, with the new regulations set to take effect in October 2025. The chair and committee members expressed gratitude towards the agencies involved for their contributions during the review process.

Transcript Highlights:

• capital for the 83rd legislative session.
• Last session, we had to fight them on a local.
• We had a local bill last session, even though it requires a constitutional amendment.

• You were up here a lot last session on that.

• to the 23 session.

Keywords: SB8, SB18, LGBTQIA rights, public testimony, discrimination, constitutional rights, drag performances

Summary: The meeting revolved around significant legislative discussions primarily focused on SB8 and SB18. Notably, the committee addressed public testimonies on SB18, which targeted drag performances and LGBTQIA individuals. Testimonies highlighted the potential discriminatory implications of the bill, raising concerns that it undermines constitutional freedoms. Various members of the public expressed both support and opposition, fostering a heated debate about its impact on community rights and protections.

Transcript Highlights:

• This is the third session we've been down here.
• I've been in support of every iteration of this, going back multiple sessions.
• after session.
• The depository was established by the 84th legislative session.
• We do have to go back in session at 11, so I don't think I can get through everybody.

Bills: SB524, SB782, HB42, HB1056, HB2894, HB3033, HB3474, HB3594, HB4738, HB5246

Keywords: severance tax, oil, gas, restimulation wells, tax exemption, civil penalty, hydrocarbons, Texas Railroad Commission, higher education, funding, financial allocation, state budget, Texas A&M University, University of Houston, education funding, gold standard, legal tender, currency, transactional currency, financial transactions

Summary: The meeting covered multiple bills, primarily focusing on House Bill 2802, which relates to the Austin Firefighter Retirement Fund Pension, and House Bill 1056 regarding the establishment of gold and silver as legal tender in Texas. Senator Schwartner introduced several committee substitutes aimed at improving provisions in these bills, with the committee discussing amendments and seeking public testimony on the implications of these changes. Notably, the discussion highlighted varying perspectives on the use of gold as a currency and its constitutional implications, eliciting significant public and legislative engagement.

Transcript Highlights:

• And one thing I'll tell you, last session, this did go out.
• This is identical to a committee substitute that we did last session that passed out of this committee
• This would make it easier to update rules without having to wait for legislative sessions to change the
• Session towards the end of last session, we had a study bill
• Last session, and then over the interim, we worked on this one.

Bills: HB147, HB1113, HB1203, HB1269, HB1276, HB1277, HB1437

Keywords: hemp, agriculture, research permit, cannabis regulation, criminal offense, administrative penalty, hemp regulation, Texas agriculture, hemp research permit, administrative penalties, cannabis standards, hemp regulation, agriculture, research permit, criminal offense, administrative penalty, hemp, agriculture, research, regulation

Summary: The Committee on Agriculture and Livestock convened to address several pressing bills concerning agriculture, food systems, and hemp regulation in Texas. Notable discussions revolved around HB1113, which focuses on the production and regulation of hemp, ensuring alignment with federal regulations. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Hemp Coalition, indicated broad support for the bill, citing its potential to enhance agricultural practices and promote research. Additionally, members expressed concerns regarding the implications of food insecurity, advocating for HB1203, aimed at establishing an Office of Food Systems Security and Resiliency to address access to nutritious foods across Texas.

Transcript Highlights:

• per legislative session.
• place to nominate two individuals to receive the Legislative Medal of Honor for the 89th legislative session
• and to preserve the respect deserving of each candidate, we have the option to go into executive session
• Chair, I move that the committee go into executive session at this time briefly.
• Hearing none, so move, and so we will now go into executive session, and we will be back momentarily.

Bills: SB128, SB203, SB205, SB317, SB393, SB397, SB510, SB582, SB731, SB801, SB867, SB913, SB1071, SB1073, SB1086, SB1087, SB1163, SB1250, SB1285, SB1310, SB1444, SB1483, SB1553, SB1556, SB1723, SB1782, SB1835, SB1861, SB1897, SB1903, SB1950, SB2043, SB2063, SB2082, SB2133, SB2137, SB2260, SB2297, SB2298, SB2334, SB2344, SB2403, SB2446, SB2522, SB2532, SB2549, SB2566, SB2600, SB2619, SB2637, SB2655, SB2688, SB2717, SB2785, SB2790, SB2794, SB2841, SB2847, SB2857, SB2891, SB2919, SB2943, SB2972, SB3047, SB3052, SB3053, SB3057, SB3059, HJR1, HB9, HB26, HB37, HB116, HB334, HB554, HB913, HB1109, HB1151, HB1899, HB2081, HB2809, HB2890, HB2970, HB3012, HB3307, HB3809, HB5092, SB17, SB314, SB455, SB509, SB761, SB963, SB1023, SB1968, SB2122, SB2371, SB2420, SB2544, SB1, SB260, SB1506, SB1637, SJR36, SJR50, SJR63, SCR12, SCR39, SB2023, SB2943, SB510, SB1835, SB1950, SB62, SB666, SB847, SB284, SB854, SB1073, SB810, SB1505, SB583, SB507, SB1434, SB1772, SB2016, SB1163, SB1122, SB731, SB397, SB508, SB1436, SB287, SB1882, SB393, SB1791, SB209, SB2429, SB511, SB2309, SB1085, SB1975, SB2717, SB1262, SB636, SB2056, SB884, SB1200, SB1845, SB2458, SB801, SB3014, SB3013, SB758, SB2797, SB2076, SB2876, SB1640, SB1449, SB1181, SB1359, SB1234, SB2926, SB2972, SB2841, SB1528, SB2891, SB1854, SB317, SB2532, SB1250, SB2082, SB1285, SB1237, SB2819, SB629, SB2608, SB1602, SB2009, SB2460, SB2785, SB867, SB640, SB1698, SB2680, SB2994, SB2747, SB913, SB1071, SB1086, SB1087, SB1483, SB1444, SB1553, SB1556, SB1703, SB2133, SB2297, SB2298, SB2622, SB2955, SB2334, SB1861, SB2043, SB1367, SB2857, SB128, SB3058, SB2044, SB2363, SB2565, SB1888, SB3048, SB3052, SB3053, SB3036, SB3057, SB3056, SB3043, SB3050, SB3063, SB3047, SB3035, SB2446, SB1790, SB1778, SB2847, SB2619, SB203, SB3061, SB2600, SB2799, SB2790, SB2688, SB2515, SB1230, SB2522, SB2639, SB2403, SB2459, SB3051, SB2655, SB2251, SB1884, SB582, SB2617, SB2751, SB2928, SB1310, SB2566, SB2344, SB1897, SB1749, SB1361, SB2549, SB2553, SB2919, SB1782, SB1705, SB2696, SB1944, SB2215, SB644, SB1232, SB2850, HJR1, HB1109, HB1130, HB1689, HB2884, HB1393, HB2559, HB26, HB3012, HB1327, HB109, HB1238, HB2890, HB9, HB2081, HB4215, HB2970, HB37, HB1899, HB3809, HB334, HB554, HB1593, HB2607, HB3526, HB3810, HB5092, HB388, HB2809, HB1151, HB913, HB3307, HB879, HB116, HB12, HB2703, HB1610, HB1615, HB1620, HB30, HB21, HB2712, HB2692, HB1633, HB1318, HB685, HB630, HB4753, HB2742, HB303, HB198, HB1535, HB762, HB148, HB1520, HB5061, HB2286, HB1606, HB1041, HB132, HB11, HCR7, HCR75, HCR86, HCR92, HCR93, HCR126, SB582, SB1163, SB2344, SB2403, SB2446, SB2600, SB2785, SB3047, HB334, HB554, HB1109, HB2081, HB3809, SB510, SB1835, SB1950, SB2943, SB1073, SB1310, SB2532, SB2619, SB2847, SB2972, SR509, SR512, SJR87, SB3072, SB3073, HB49, HB229, HB361, HB700, HB796, HB1128, HB1534, HB1661, HB1803, HB1837, HB1866, HB2149, HB2282, HB2294, HB2434, HB2440, HB2761, HB2785, HB2867, HB3057, HB3062, HB3134, HB3185, HB3225, HB3233, HB3358, HB3388, HB3421, HB3619, HB3658, HB3675, HB3687, HB3697, HB3743, HB3745, HB3787, HB3848, HB3866, HB3940, HB3984, HB4176, HB4205, HB4226, HB4429, HB4437, HB4463, HB4506, HB4730, HB4735, HB4752, HB4813, HB4903, HB4904, HB5033, HB5057, HB5129, HB5137, HB5138, HB5149, HB5153, HB5155, HB5195, HB5196, HB5200, HB5224, HB5294, HB5339, HB5394, HCR108, SJR87, SB3072, SB3073, HB49, HB229, HB361, HB700, HB796, HB1128, HB1534, HB1661, HB1803, HB1837, HB1866, HB2149, HB2282, HB2294, HB2434, HB2440, HB2761, HB2785, HB2867, HB3057, HB3062, HB3134, HB3185, HB3225, HB3233, HB3358, HB3388, HB3421, HB3619, HB3658, HB3675, HB3687, HB3697, HB3743, HB3745, HB3787, HB3848, HB3866, HB3940, HB3984, HB4176, HB4205, HB4226, HB4429, HB4437, HB4463, HB4506, HB4730, HB4735, HB4752, HB4813, HB4903, HB4904, HB5033, HB5057, HB5129, HB5137, HB5138, HB5149, HB5153, HB5155, HB5195, HB5196, HB5200, HB5224, HB5294, HB5339, HB5394, HCR108

Keywords: hospital reporting, child abuse, neglect, administrative penalty, medical ethics, child protection, student privacy, numerical class rank, education policy, academic programs, high school, monuments, memorials, public property, historical significance, civil penalties, local governance, voter registration, Election Code, registrar duties

Summary: The Texas Legislative Medal of Honor Committee meeting focused on the honoring of two individuals for their extraordinary acts of bravery. The meeting consisted of emotional testimonies highlighting the heroic actions of Sergeant Ricky Wittner and Petty Officer First Class Nathan Gage Ingram. Witnesses, including family members and military representatives, shared personal stories and recounted the sacrifices made by these men in service to their country. The committee concluded by voting to nominate both individuals for the Texas Legislative Medal of Honor, which recognizes extraordinary danger under duress. The meeting reflected a deep sense of respect and recognition for selfless service and sacrifice.

Transcript Highlights:

• I mean, we had a scope of practice bill last session with ...
• ...to address this session.
• I had a bill last session working on the nursing shortage, and we have to have...
• You all may remember this bill from last session.
• But this committee last session was very supportive of this and voted the bill out.

Bills: HB107, HB742, HB1639, HB1700, HB2071, HB2187, HB2402, HB2516, HB3211, HB4529, HB5342, HB694, HB923, HB4655

Keywords: sickle cell disease, registry, health data, confidentiality, healthcare access, human trafficking, first responders, health care, training, reporting, protection, cancer, female firefighters, health study, state health services, fire protection, telemedicine, teledentistry, telehealth, health records

Summary: The meeting of the committee featured a series of discussions primarily focusing on various bills aimed at enhancing accountability and safety in the healthcare sector. Notable highlights included the passage of HB694, which aims to promote transparency in the operations of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) by shortening the notification timeline for significant events from ten days to 48 hours. This bill received unanimous support from all members present, underscoring a strong consensus on improving communication with parents and stakeholders involved in the child welfare system. Another significant topic was the introduction of HB2187, which seeks to amend and update the existing nursing staffing laws to address emerging challenges faced by healthcare professionals, particularly stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill was presented as a response to the increased burnout rates among nurses and aims to provide a more stable working environment to retain talent in the healthcare sector. The committee took testimony from several experts and stakeholders, highlighting the urgency and importance of these legislative changes.