Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Houston'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance May 7th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I think it's 7,200 miles of pipes in the ground in Houston or Harris County.
  • Now, also at the same time, the city of Houston has a real problem with the Wallaceville Pipeline and
  • , then the leaky pipe doesn't matter because you lose 60% of all the potable water in the city of Houston
  • The city of Houston has a $4 billion...
  • The city of Houston taxpayers are already paying the

Bills: HB3077, HJR2, HJR7
Summary: The meeting focused on HJR7, with substantial discussions surrounding Texas' dire water infrastructure needs and proposed funding allocations. The committee, led by Chairman Perry, emphasized the necessity for a dedicated funding source to address an estimated $154 billion required for both water supply projects and repairing aging infrastructure. Witnesses, including executives from various engineering and environmental organizations, testified about the critical state of Texas' water systems and the anticipated shortfall of 6.8 million acre-feet of water annually by 2070. Testimony highlighted the urgency of implementing strategies such as desalination and flood mitigation to secure Texas' future water resources.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part I) Aug 22nd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • span>

    CD9 in Houston

  • My questions today will be focused on the Houston districts and the changes to my home district.
  • Okay, I want to now really focus on Houston because

  • There's one in Houston and one in your county, Dallas County.
  • I can tell you that the greater Houston area will perform with regard to CD9.
Bills: SB2, SB5, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB4
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on the discussion of HB4, which pertains to redistricting. Chairman King emphasized the legal compliance of the proposed map and elaborated on its political advantages, stating that the map improves compactness while benefiting Republican candidates. The meeting saw extensive public testimony, with numerous participants voicing concerns about the map's legality and its implications on minority representation. Representative Smith highlighted that the overwhelming majority of public submissions expressed opposition to the redistricting bill, arguing that it disregards the constituents' voices. Debate ensued regarding the necessity and legality of the changes made, particularly concerning minority districts.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I am Deborah Chen, representing myself and OCA Greater Houston, against SB4.
  • OCA Greater Houston.

  • You live in Houston?

    That's correct. Nassau Bay.

  • I'm a sixth-generation Texan and a student at the University of Houston.
  • ...to vote within the Houston district.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Special Committee on Congressional Redistricting focused primarily on Senate Bill 4, which has sparked considerable public debate due to its implications on redistricting following the recent census. Senator King laid out the intent and details of SB4, which aims to make significant adjustments that critics argue will disenfranchise minority populations in Texas. Throughout the meeting, concerned citizens shared their testimonies, voicing opposition to the bill primarily on grounds that it manipulates district lines for partisan gain rather than community representation. The emotional testimonies of witnesses highlighted the serious concerns of many about representation in the Texas legislature going forward.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We have parks both in Austin and Houston.
  • I arrived in Houston, Texas, when I was two years old.
  • Reagan High School and then to Sam Houston State University.
  • They work for Dell, Microsoft, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston ISD, and UT Austin.
  • education nonprofit director in Houston.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Education Committee was marked by intense discussions surrounding several key pieces of legislation, particularly focusing on SB1798, which seeks to repeal the Texas DREAM Act. Advocates for the bill argued that it is important to restrict state financial aid to individuals unlawfully present in the United States, asserting that taxpayer resources should primarily benefit legal residents. Conversely, numerous witnesses testified against SB1798, emphasizing the economic contributions of Texas DREAMers and the long-standing positive impacts of the existing DREAM Act on Texas communities and workforce. The heated debate highlighted the stark divisions surrounding immigration policies and their implications on education and opportunity for young Texans who have grown up in the state. The meeting concluded with SB1798 left pending, awaiting further consideration, signifying ongoing concerns and unresolved sentiments among committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part I) Mar 31st, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the executive director of the Houston Film Commission.
  • I am here to speak in support of it as the executive director of the Houston Film Commission.
  • I have worked in film production in Texas and Houston since 1992.
  • We had a Houston story based on a very popular article in
  • Texas Monthly about an undercover Houston Police Department officer that was filmed in a neighboring
Bills: SB22
Summary: The meeting centered around the discussion of SB22, the Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program, which aims to provide reimbursement grants for projects produced in Texas. Senator Huffman presented the bill highlighting its potential to create jobs and grow the state's economy. Several members discussed the advantages of keeping film production within Texas, emphasizing that for every dollar spent in grants, an estimated $4.69 is returned to the state's economy. Additionally, a portion of the discussion focused on the need for careful oversight of taxpayer money utilized in the reimbursement process, ensuring grants are awarded only to those projects that align with the state's values.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That's more than the entire city of Fort Worth uses," said the Houston Public Works director.
  • As the Texas Tribune reported on July 5th of 2020, Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, Fort Worth,
  • it defines who the bill applies to, which includes the City of Austin, City of Fort Worth, City of Houston
  • Houston has reduced their water loss from 150 gallons per
  • I had asked, I've been asking them, and I had written to the lobbyists for the City of Houston Utilities
Summary: The committee meeting focused on addressing several important water-related bills, including HB391, HB420, and HB2626 among others. Representative Bell presented updates on HB391 related to accountability for rural water districts, achieving a consensus for statewide applicability and allowing for virtual meetings. Multiple testimonies were heard, showcasing both support for and concerns regarding the bills, specifically emphasizing the significance of maintaining water resources and addressing community needs amid Texas's growth. Representative Buckley advocated for HB2626 aimed at establishing the Central Texas Water Alliance to ensure sustainable water management across the region, which involves collaboration among various public, private, and state entities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations Feb 19th, 2025 at 08:02 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Switching gears to Houston ISD, obviously, we have a takeover.
  • We want to monopolize all of Houston issues in this committee
  • ...that a school of that size does a very, very poor job of communicating with the leadership in Houston
  • I get to the Houston area with some frequency.
  • The next time I'm in Houston, I'll certainly notify you so you can join us on a school visit.
Summary: The meeting hosted various discussions surrounding legislative measures impacting community resources and public safety. Notable discussions included a focus on environmental initiatives, which spurred passionate debates among committee members regarding the potential economic and ecological impacts. Several members raised concerns about the implementation timeline for new policies, while proponents emphasized the need for swift action to address pressing environmental challenges. Public testimony was also a significant part of the meeting, with citizens voicing their opinions on recent bills.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Transportation Funding Mar 10th, 2025 at 10:03 am

House S/C on Transportation Funding

Transcript Highlights:
  • question is, how do we resolve those problems where you've got huge contributors like the Port of Houston
  • 673" data-time="4032"> work some plays there, plus every single truck that has to go to the Port of Houston
  • Houston is one of those areas that is under an air quality conformity plan.
  • In your opening statement, I-45 in Houston now is two or
  • that we have our infrastructure, and we're blessed that we don't have that many toll roads in the Houston
Summary: The meeting of the Standing Subcommittee on Transportation addressed crucial issues relating to state transportation funding, focusing primarily on Propositions 1 and 7. The discussions, led by Chairman Canales, highlighted the significant contribution these propositions make to Texas's transportation budget and the impending challenges tied to a projected funding shortfall of $15 billion. Mark Williams, Executive Director of TxDOT, along with Stephen Stewart, CFO, emphasized the importance of sustained funding to support Texas’s growing infrastructure needs amidst rising costs and diminishing revenue sources, notably due to changes in vehicle fuel efficiency and increased reliance on electric vehicles. Notable public testimony from Pete Sepulveda from the Cameron County Regional Mobility Authority provided insights into local funding mechanisms and their role in enhancing the regional transportation networks.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce (Part II) Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Like the Houston Ship Channel, for example, has a trillion

  • One of my board members was friends with somebody in the Houston area that was very well qualified for
  • So it eliminates everybody in Houston, basically, from serving on the TWIA board. So I worked.
Summary: The committee meeting revolved around important discussions regarding two significant bills, SB2530 and SB2571, intended to address the funding challenges faced by the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA). Senator Milton highlighted the need for reforms due to escalating reinsurance costs that have risen to over 60% of premiums. A notable focus was the proposed dynamic funding model, which aims to reduce reliance on fixed assessments and public securities tied to the current Probable Maximum Loss (PML) structure, allowing funding to adjust based on actual needs. Both bills received mixed responses, with public testimonies citing the potential for increased financial burdens on insurance companies if the assessments were restructured without careful consideration of market conditions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • data-time="972">It also corrects a drafting error affecting an existing exemption for the city of Houston
  • One, a rehab application in Houston was denied.
  • So right now, there are none because Houston doesn't

  • Houston is not a PID.
  • I have been developing in the Houston region for the past 35 years.
Summary: The meeting of the committee effectively reviewed and voted on multiple bills pertaining to public safety, affordable housing, and local governance. Notably, Senator Cook introduced SB2262, which grants municipalities authority to regulate automated defibrillators, aiming to enhance public health responses in urban areas. Public testimony was heard on several bills, illustrating community support and concerns, particularly around affordable housing issues raised by Senator Menendez's SB2137, which seeks to improve access to low-income housing by altering existing criteria used by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Additionally, the discussions also touched on the impact of various bills on local governance and property rights, highlighting the committee's aim to address essential services within communities effectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security (Part II) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am the administrator for the Texas Anti-Gang Center in Houston, Texas.
  • data-time="3654"> It would be serious consequences for what they would do with my appearance, even from a Houston
  • There are certain locations in Houston that if I were a member of TDA ...
  • ...certain parts of Southwest Houston I'm not going to go
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around several significant legislative proposals, notably focusing on SB2201, which aims to enhance intelligence databases to tackle organized crime, including street gangs and terrorist organizations. Senator Birdwell led the discussions by emphasizing the need for strong measures to adapt to the evolving landscape of criminal activity in Texas and proposed key amendments designed to strengthen accountability for law enforcement. Members engaged in detailed conversations with testimonies supporting the bill's intention to safeguard civil liberties while bolstering law enforcement's ability to manage public safety concerns effectively. Additionally, SB2200 and SB2199 were discussed and subsequently passed favorably to the full Senate following committee substitutions that addressed minor drafting corrections and compliance with federal standards.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • , I'm the president and CEO of Legacy Precast in Brookshire, Texas, located 45 miles northwest of Houston
  • commute to employment centers in Houston and Harris County
  • I am here on behalf of the Houston Real Estate Council.
  • We are a group in Houston that represents commercial building owners and developers.
  • He registered as John Nancy, testifying on behalf of the Houston Real Estate Council and himself.
Summary: The committee meeting covered a wide array of bills focusing primarily on workforce development, manufacturing improvements, and online safety for children. Notably, provisions were discussed under HB4196, aimed at modernizing the manufacturing sector through increased digital integration and automation strategies. Witnesses from various sectors, including manufacturing companies and educational representatives, offered their perspectives on the importance of creating a skilled workforce able to adapt to new technologies. Additional discussion highlighted the pressing need for legislation that protects minors in the digital landscape, with testimonies emphasizing the adverse effects of unfiltered online content on children’s mental health, as encapsulated in HB4901.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Legacy is located 45 miles northwest of Houston.
  • Commute to employment centers in Houston and Harris County
  • We show you registered as John Raines to testify on behalf of the Houston Building State Council, and
  • I am here on behalf of the Houston Real Estate Council.
  • We show you registered as John Renzi, testifying on behalf of the Houston Real Estate Council.
Summary: The meeting held by the Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development involved a variety of discussions centered around multiple bills aimed at improving workforce development and addressing contemporary challenges in digital spaces, particularly concerning youth and technology. A notable point in the meeting was the presentation of HB 4196, which aims to modernize Texas's manufacturing sector through digital integration and automation, enhancing job creation and addressing barriers to innovation. Committee members engaged in extensive dialogue with witnesses advocating for and against various bills, with many emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with the protection of consumer rights, particularly in the realm of children's safety online. Committee Chairwoman Button guided the discussions and maintained an efficient pace to cover a considerable number of bills. Several bills passed with bipartisan support, showcasing a collective interest in fostering economic growth through strategic legislative measures. Public testimonies were incorporated into the proceedings, with representatives from various sectors, including education and technology, providing their insights, which enriched the discussions and highlighted community concerns.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on County & Regional Government Apr 28th, 2025 at 11:04 am

House S/C on County & Regional Government

Transcript Highlights:
  • In Fort Worth, as far as, for example, Houston PD has a homicide unit.
  • A bit more about me: I'm born and raised in Houston

  • Growing up in Houston, celebrating the Lunar New Year was
  • A lot of them do like to have the fireworks and firecrackers because I grew up in Houston, and it's really
  • 574" data-time="3438"> A lot of lion dance teams have a supplier; there's a local supplier here in Houston
Summary: The meeting focused on significant legislative proposals primarily centered around public health and criminal justice reforms. Notably, discussions centered on HB3841 and HB5108, which aim to enhance transparency and accountability in death investigations within county jails. Representatives shared compelling testimonies involving the necessity for improved oversight following recent incidents of in-custody deaths, highlighting the emotional impact on affected families. Witnesses from advocacy groups passionately urged the committee to approve the bills to foster trust in the system and uphold public safety standards. Additionally, various members addressed HB5611, which would empower emergency services districts to provide preventative healthcare services, contributing to the prevention of unnecessary 911 calls.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on International Relations Mar 24th, 2025 at 10:03 am

House S/C on International Relations

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...more border infrastructure, but also frees up state funds for projects in cities like Dallas, Houston
  • With Austin booming, Texas has a Houston Medical Research

  • understand that Houston has been a center for medical research
Bills: HB1240, HB1353, HCR76, HCR90
Summary: The Subcommittee on Internet convened addressing significant legislative matters, including House Bill 1240, which aims to update definitions surrounding the Texas-Mexico border region to promote consistency across various state statutes. Chairman Guillen led the discussion, highlighting the importance of providing clarity for stakeholders involved in policy and implementation. Additionally, House Concurrent Resolution 90 was discussed, advocating for the establishment of a Texas Economic Trade Office in Israel. Several witnesses testified, emphasizing the benefits this office would offer in terms of economic partnerships and innovation transfer, particularly in technology sectors such as cybersecurity and medical technology. The meeting was characterized by active participation, and the members acknowledged the importance of reinforcing Texas's role on the global stage.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 10th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • that there are many things that still need to change in Houston ISD, right?
  • The basic allotment and then these other strategies that are working at Houston ISD?
  • This is what we have going on in Houston ISD now, correct?
  • Houston has seen more rapid growth over the last...
  • Brad Wright, who's an asset manager and attorney out of Houston.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting covered a wide range of topics, focusing primarily on pending legislation and various policy issues facing the committee. Discussions were notably animated surrounding several bills, with members expressing both support and concern over their implications. Witness testimonies were heard, shedding light on different perspectives regarding the legislation in question, indicating a robust public interest and engagement in the topics discussed. Members collaborated to address constituents' concerns while seeking solutions that align with the committee's objectives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Apr 8th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...out of Houston, Texas, and I'm in support of this bill
  • I'm representing the Champions Private Social Club in Houston and Dallas.
  • Our Houston location is state-of-the-art.
  • parking for airports, for example, in Houston is $26 a
  • And I spoke to Governor Connolly, not in 1968, but about 25 years later when he invited me to Houston
Summary: The meeting was marked by thorough discussions regarding several pivotal bills aimed at addressing safety and regulatory reforms within various sectors. Notably, House Bill 3352 was a focal point, where industry representatives highlighted the urgent need for enhanced driver safety training in work zones due to a rise in fatalities. Supporters argued that including work zone safety in driver education programs could significantly improve awareness and reduce accidents. Additionally, House Bill 2186 drew scrutiny from small business owners who expressed concerns about the regulatory burden it would impose on electricians and the potential impact on employment within the industry. Despite the commitment to improve safety, stakeholders warned of unintended consequences that could affect operational viability for non-signatory firms.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So, earlier you mentioned a case out of Houston.
  • I'm in Tyler, but I also have an office in Houston.
  • I grew up in Houston as well. I represent in Dallas, but I grew up in Houston.
  • And I do know that the crime rate in Houston is.
  • Houston.
Summary: The committee meeting centered around a range of bills, with significant focus on public safety and welfare issues. Discussions highlighted the implications of HB166, which aims to enhance protections for vulnerable populations against the dangers of fentanyl exposure. Witness testimonies were presented both in support and opposition to the legislation. Representative Capriglione underscored the urgency of addressing this growing concern, as fentanyl's potency poses a lethal risk, particularly to children, elderly individuals, and disabled individuals. The session included a robust debate on how best to enforce these legal protections while balancing concerns about enforcement complexities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Mar 3rd, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • My name is Aisha Jeffery, and I work at the headquarters at Bahama Mama in Houston.
  • I'm Ikra Ahmed, and I look after two Bahama Mama retail stores in Houston.
  • I'm a third-generation Texan born and raised in Houston.
  • I'm from Houston, Texas.

  • I'm a small business owner of a CBD wellness shop in Houston, Texas, named Bahama Mama.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate State Affairs Committee provided a platform for discussing a comprehensive agenda featuring multiple bills, particularly focusing on concerns surrounding THC regulations and its implications for public safety. Notably, Senate Bill 3, which seeks to ban consumable hemp products containing THC, drew strong public testimony from various stakeholders who expressed both support and opposition. Supporters argued the necessity to curb the proliferation of high-potency THC products in schools and among youths, while opponents warned of the potential negative economic impacts and push towards unregulated markets if such a ban were implemented.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session (Part I) Mar 19th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • He was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Galveston-Houston in 1993 and served diligently in
  • I have to say, though, I'm jealous of you because we miss Bishop Tamayo in Houston.
  • Given that my second home is Houston and the University of
  • The Houston NAACP is also in the house today. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, members.
  • Wallace with the Houston Chronicle approached me about Ms. Cunningham's legacy.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on a variety of bills, with notable discussions surrounding SB842, which clarifies protections for ringside physicians during combative sports events. This bill aims to enhance the recruitment of these physicians by granting them immunity from civil liability, barring cases of gross negligence. It received unanimous support, passing without objection. Additionally, SB35 was thoroughly debated. The bill, relating to design bill contracts, was also unanimously passed after discussions revealed concerns over how tailored contracts could restrict competition within the bidding process. Senators voiced their support for the bill and acknowledged the balance it strikes between regulation and opportunity.

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