Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'rural America'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part I) Mar 26th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The committee substitute brackets out rural hospitals

  • to define rural hospitals for the purposes of this bill.
  • The problem it has in the rural areas is that people

  • are sort of disincentivized to even sign up for a non-compete in these more rural markets, and so they
  • I'm the state legislative director for Gun Owners of America, and I'm here to testify for this bill.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services convened to discuss various pieces of legislation, addressing critical issues affecting healthcare and social services in Texas. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 481, which mandates backup power provisions for nursing homes and assisted living facilities to ensure the safety of vulnerable residents during outages, and Senate Bill 596, aimed at improving reporting requirements related to child welfare, enhancing the oversight of removals and placements. The committee also reviewed several other bills aimed at supporting healthcare access and enhancing protections for children under various circumstances.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • You see it in Dallas, you see it in Houston, you see it in the rural areas.
  • But the rural areas are now dominating the urban votes by the way they've drawn the data.
  • Rural Texans were upset when they realized their schools were gutted to give handouts...
  • America will rise up against you!
  • This political maneuver to back blue urban areas into rural districts hurts rural communities too.
Summary: The meeting of the House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting primarily focused on public testimony regarding the proposed revisions to the congressional redistricting plan known as C-2193. Various members of the public expressed their concerns about potential racial implications of the redistricting process, particularly the impact on black and brown communities. Testimonies highlighted the urgency for the legislature to prioritize flood relief and infrastructure instead of redistricting mid-decade, arguing that it undermines representative fairness and could disenfranchise many voters. The session saw active engagement from constituents who emphasized the importance of public input and transparency in a potentially transformative legislative process. The chair outlined a two-phase hearing plan to gather comprehensive public feedback before moving forward with legislative drafts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services May 5th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This is especially true in smaller, more rural areas.
  • statement that's as kindly as possible, but your bill states it covers counties along the Gulf of America
  • I can't vote for a bill that says Gulf of America.

  • I don't know how it would be interpreted, but if it says Gulf of America and it passes, and then in three
  • I'm the Executive Director of the Mid-America Collectors Association.
Summary: During this committee meeting, several important bills were discussed, including HB5632, HB3900, and SJR57. The committee focused on HB1342, which aims to reorganize the priority structure of private activity bonds for residential rental projects, responding to concerns raised by various stakeholders about the efficiency and accessibility of these bonds in supporting affordable housing. Additionally, HB3002 was presented as a consumer protection bill requiring debt collectors to disclose rights in all written and electronic communications, ensuring average Texans are informed of their rights regarding debt obligations. The meeting concluded with a discussion about upcoming bills and the schedule for the next sessions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Juvenile Justice Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House S/C on Juvenile Justice

Transcript Highlights:
  • Fannin County is a small rural county in North Texas that sits next to the DFW Metroplex.
  • especially for those counties that contract for detention beds, and for those like mine who reside in rural
  • Sumter said, I would encourage you to do a statewide study on the cost to our local and rural probation
  • We have billionaires after billionaires; the richest Black man in America lives here, and the richest
  • person in America, Elon Musk, resides here as well.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding HB2234, which aims to raise the age of criminal responsibility in Texas. There was a strong consensus among witnesses advocating for the change, citing the psychological and social implications of prosecuting 17-year-olds as adults. Several testimonies highlighted the damages inflicted by adult incarceration on youth, recommending a shift towards juvenile systems that provide rehabilitative support tailored for younger individuals. Chairman Dutton acknowledged the historical significance of this session's discussion, emphasizing the need for legislative change to align Texas with national trends and prioritize youth rehabilitation over punishment. The committee remains engaged in discussions on how to effectively implement this legislation, considering fiscal impacts and community needs. The meeting concluded with the bill left pending due to ongoing concerns regarding the financial implications for counties and the judicial system. A diverse panel of advocates, including youth service organizations and legal professionals, reinforced the argument that raising the age is not merely a matter of policy but an essential aspect of ensuring fair treatment and rehabilitation for young individuals in the justice system.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm Vice President of Heimdall Power North America. I reside in Kingwood, Texas.
  • We have you registered as Kyle Caruth on behalf of Gun Owners of America, testifying for the bill.
  • The distances we have in rural Texas... I mean, yeah, you may have a fence line located...
  • The bill ensures clear communication, builds trust, and enhances safety in rural communities, especially
  • I'm a volunteer firefighter, the county's liaison to the Kerr Area Rural Fire Association, and I'm also
Summary: The committee meeting covered a wide range of bills, highlighting legislative efforts to address energy efficiency, border security, and public safety. Notably, the discussions surrounding HB3824 focused on establishing fire safety standards for battery energy storage systems, inciting concerns about their proximity to schools and hospitals. Members expressed varying opinions on the technology while considering public safety and infrastructure requirements. The meeting also saw the passage of multiple bills, including HB1554, which prohibits the use of public funds for legal services for unlawfully present individuals, showcasing a strong political consensus on border-related issues. Overall, the session was marked by substantial public engagement and the intent to address critical legislative priorities effectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 19th, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • >

    I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America

  • Bonnie Goethe of Henderson Chamber of Commerce, John Cloutier, and Michael Marshall of the Rust County Rural
  • Association of African American Chambers of Commerce is one of the oldest Black Business Leagues in America
  • He's a national leader for the Roman Catholic Church in America.
  • HB 2765 by Guillen, relating to the Rural Economic

Summary: The meeting involved robust discussions among committee members about various bills, notably those concerning criminal justice reforms and public health matters. Significant focus was placed on speaker bills such as HB2792, which addressed a proposed moratorium on capital punishment, and HB2813, aiming to enhance notifications to victims regarding scheduled court proceedings. Additionally, notable debates unfolded around bills aimed at improving access to health care services and environmental regulations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Things that would come out of this bill include the importance of ensuring representation from both rural
  • McCurry to meet President Trump's goal to make America healthy again.
  • America is the greatest country in the world.

  • Trump's announcement of the Make America Healthy Again Commission
Summary: The committee convened to discuss SB25, receiving public testimonies from various stakeholders. Significant discussions centered around the implications of the bill, with multiple witnesses voicing their support and concerns. The atmosphere was engaging, with committee members actively questioning the witnesses to clarify their positions and gain deeper insights into the potential impact of the legislation. Chairman's leadership facilitated a structured dialogue that allowed for both support and opposition viewpoints to be expressed.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • /p>

    I mean, most of those crossings of those highways are in rural

  • Seven years after it became a great state in this United States of America, we have created young men
  • America, and connect families and our country in new ways.
  • And then will we, will, you know, rural and low-income...
  • That makes it more accessible to folks in rural areas, underserved, and whatnot.
Summary: The committee meeting included significant discussions surrounding several bills, particularly focusing on infrastructure projects and their implications for the community. House Bill 2989 initiated a dialogue around modernizing the legal framework for Cedarport National Park, which is vital for enhancing maritime transport and reducing truck traffic. Supporters emphasized the economic benefits and the project's potential to create a more efficient and sustainable transport network, highlighting testimonies from local officials who noted the bill's importance for regional growth and safety. Representative Metcalfe and others advocated strongly for the bill, underscoring its necessity in addressing the increasing container demand due to recent shifts in shipping patterns. The meeting was well-attended and included various testimonies for and against bills, showcasing the passionate involvement of community members and stakeholders. One key point mentioned was the need for grade separations to improve safety around railway crossings. In particular, concerns were raised about the impact of long trains blocking intersections in residential areas, prompting discussions about potential solutions. Overall, the meeting highlighted the ongoing collaboration between legislators, industry representatives, and community leaders to enhance infrastructure and ensure public safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part I) Sep 3rd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Like thousands of rural Texans, she relies on a mail-order delivery to get her medicine.
  • " data-time="3762"> Concerning shortages in healthcare providers everywhere, but especially in our rural
  • I believe women who live in rural Texas may need to

  • Most healthcare in America today, there's a record of that
  • That's been the law in America. for decades.
Bills: SB8, SB1, SB2, SB5, SB10, HB27, HB7, HB17, HB1, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB20, HB18
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on the discussion and passage of several significant bills, including HB20, which aims to prevent and reduce fraudulent charitable solicitations during disasters. Representative Perry highlighted the importance of this bill in ensuring that legitimate organizations receive donations while deterring scams that occur in the aftermath of disasters. The bill was passed unanimously with discussions around its necessity and the impact on victims of fraud. Further, House Bill 18 was discussed concerning penalties for legislators attempting to break quorum, a topic that stirred some debate on legislative integrity and rules enforcement. Members voiced varying opinions on the implications of the bill, leading to its eventual passage amid objections from some members who raised concerns about its enforcement mechanisms and potential for misuse. Overall, the meeting was well-attended, with members actively debating key issues while striving for legislative progress on these critical bills. The audience included public stakeholders who expressed their views, showcasing the engagement between legislators and constituents on pressing matters.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 12th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • , and Bank of America issues the payment to the player.
  • only in Texas or anywhere else, but North America.
  • only in Texas or anywhere else, but North America.
  • Thompson**: I also represent a lot of rural counties on top of Houston as well.
  • Thompson**: I also represent a lot of rural counties on top of Houston, as well.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The committee meeting addressed various pressing issues, notably the funding and appropriations for transportation and housing programs. Presentations focused on $40.4 billion in funding for highway projects, which is directed towards construction, maintenance, and infrastructure development for the upcoming biennium. Discussions highlighted the importance of addressing the capacity for project delivery amid increasing demands due to population growth and increased vehicle miles traveled in Texas. Additionally, Senator Hinojosa pushed for clarifying the funding available for driver education programs, especially for homeless and foster youth, which underscored a need for legislative support to ensure adequate resource allocation. Public testimonies lent depth to these discussions, presenting the human impact of legislative decisions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • According to 2023 TEA data, 50% of Texas public schools are classified as rural.
  • We are asking that you not leave these rural homeschooled children behind.
  • It's in school rooms across America.
  • They're not creating the Episcopalian states of America.
  • He didn't say it wasn't part of America.
Summary: The committee meeting was marked by significant discussions surrounding House Bill 4, which aims to reform the Texas public school assessment and accountability system. The bill proposes to eliminate the existing STAAR testing framework and replace it with a nationally norm-referenced assessment that emphasizes growth over year-end testing, promoting a more individualized learning experience for students. This shift was widely supported among educators and stakeholders, with many testifying in favor of creating a system that aligns better with both educational outcomes and community accountability. Notably, there were concerns raised about maintaining adequate oversight and integrity in the assessment process, as well as the timing of implementing these significant changes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • >

    After that, I visited with eye doctors, especially in rural

  • Chairman, you indicated, and we agree, there are rural areas of Texas that lack optometric services,
  • And you work for yourself; you're with the Brain Injury Association of America.
  • Our rural hospitals, and a lot of our hospitals, are dealing with many abuses.
  • I am also the National Medical Director for the Brain Injury Association of America and I'm a professor
Summary: The committee meeting revolved around key discussions on several proposed bills, particularly focusing on HB3211, which aims to improve patient access to optometrists. Multiple stakeholders participated, expressing their views and concerns regarding the impact of the bill on vision care networks. The discussions highlighted the need for a clearer application process for optometrists to be included in vision plan networks, reflecting a powerful sentiment from both healthcare professionals and patients about access to care. The meeting also encapsulated varying perspectives on the legal aspects surrounding HB2275, addressing arbitration provisions for surplus policies, illustrating the committee's diligence in scrutinizing regulatory frameworks for consumers.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session (Part II) Feb 5th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • span marker="35" data-time="336">This threatens to widen educational disparities, particularly for rural
  • In some rural communities, that's a full school.
  • That means for rural schools, which are already stretched thin...
  • Stripping rural schools of resources, I don't think it's the way to get there.
  • That is America. That's absolutely Texas.
Bills: SB2, SJR36, SB2, SB2, SR29, SB2
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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Agriculture & Livestock May 14th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Agriculture & Livestock Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 1864 strengthens rural economies, supports

  • and you know, that's an existential threat to our state because our state is built on the backs of rural
  • agriculture that promotes self-reliance and independence and these good qualities of people who live in rural
  • data-time="2052"> Disease was a huge problem just a little over 100 years ago in the United States of America
Bills: SB1864
Summary: This meeting of the committee centered around the discussion of SB1864, which aims to increase access to the graded egg market for small-scale producers. Chairman Wilson introduced the bill, highlighting its potential to lower barriers for entry, allowing smaller producers to sell ungraded eggs to retailers and wholesalers with proper labeling and documentation. The committee heard differing viewpoints, with supporters emphasizing the importance of farming diversity and access to local markets, while opponents raised concerns about food safety and maintaining quality standards. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including farmer representatives, industry experts, and regulatory bodies, were presented, showcasing the tension between market access for small producers and the need for consumer protection through existing food safety regulations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 5th, 2025 at 10:02 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • span>

    I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America

  • In the United States of America, we have a crown jewel, a
  • Nurse practitioners help build bridges and bridge the gaps, excuse me, in access to health care in rural
  • the largest port not only in the United States of America
  • Represented roles in the entire United States of America, we have a crown jewel, a living legend right
Summary: The meeting featured significant discussions on various resolutions presented by members, including the recognition of different communities and contributions. Notably, H.R. 153 was introduced by Mr. Landgraf to recognize Midland and Odessa Days at the State Capitol, which was highlighted as a crucial economic region within Texas. Several members expressed pride in the accomplishments of their communities, emphasizing their contributions to state growth and development. H.R. 160 commemorated Webb County Day, led by Mr. Raymond, who spoke on the county's role as an international trade hub.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 28th, 2025 at 10:05 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • God bless America.

    Please excuse Ms.

  • Bell of Montgomery for a recognition of his service to the United States of America.
  • States of America.
  • It depends on where you are, but a lot of rural areas do have a college nearby.
  • And I also understand that it helps rural areas.
Bills: SB15, SB646, SB800, SB790, SB748, SB571, SB1957, SB1923, SB1896, SB1760, SB1335, SB2368, SB2477, SB2587, SB2986, SB2965, SB1563, SB1467, SB1164, SB1137, SB614, SB705, SB918, SB955, SB869, SB850, SB863, SB1055, SB2206, SB457, SB2337, SB1610, SB1362, SB926, SB1494, SB251, SB456, SB500, SB1307, SB2615, SB2995, SB2321, SB2972, SB973, SB865, SB506, SB1522, SB1558, SB510, SB667, SB763, SB2073, SB1858, SB1660, SB2900, SB1433, SB1540, SB1964, SB1300, SB1644, SB2217, SB2373, SB2431, SB1758, SB974, SB2480, SB3039, SB3047, SB2781, SB826, SB766, SB527, SB1946, SB2885, SB1243, SB2610, SB857, SB2501, SB66, SB268, SB331, SB1302, SB519, SB2807, SB13, SB7, SB1718, SB1567, SB1233, SB413, SB2177, SB30, SB2024, SJR1, SCR27, SB2018, SB1580, SB2121, SB1049, SB1266, SB1400, SB1596, SB2753, SB2221, SB1719, SCR9, SB204, SB437, SB568, SB612, SB672, SB710, SB823, SB876, SB904, SB905, SB968, SB1084, SB1207, SB1230, SB1313, SB1504, SB1790, SB2232, SB2366, SB2367, SB2398, SB2515, SB2520, SB2589, SB2786, SB2790, SB3048, SB3050, SB3052, SB3053, SB3056, SB3029, SCR3, SCR18, SCR30, HCR146, HCR148, HCR149, HCR153, HCR155, HCR157, HB5560, HB762, HB1584, HB107, HB114, HB138, HB4386, HB2495, HB581, HB3348, HB5323, HB4341, HB6, HB2712, HB171, HB3153, HB143, HB2688, HB3464, HB449, HB3486, HB4263, HB2, HB1522, HB24, HB1237, HB2637, HB3126, HB3233, HB4310, HB3487, HCR9, HB5331, HB1397, HB163, HB3250, HB3071, HB3463, HB5033, HB35, HB3824, HB216, HB4226, HB3512, HB18, HB5154, HB103, HB851, HB647, HB4520, HB3016, HB2313, HB2818, HB2851, HB4486, HB4264, HB1500, HB5081, HB2974, HB2080, HB4384, HB5659, HB493, HB4903, HB2516, HB4488, HB4530, HB3689, HB145, HB43, HB5247, HB2221, HB5671, HB700, HB3711, HB120, SB17, SB1637, SB1833, SB2155, SB21, SB2778, SB379
Summary: The meeting featured a comprehensive discussion involving several bills primarily focused on education, mental health, and public safety. Notable was the passage of SB204, which establishes a parental rights handbook that consolidates various rights pertaining to education and training for school district trustees. The bill was passed unanimously, highlighting strong bipartisan support for parental engagement in education. Additionally, the committee discussed SB2277, which allocates funding to assist local law enforcement with violent crime rates, indicative of a heightened concern over public safety. Amendments and testimonies highlighted the various stakeholders' views, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in legislative measures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Jul 21st, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • move in and out, and I know my home county two years ago was the sixth fastest growing county in America
  • Chairman, you do know that in rural areas and urban areas.
  • , meaning that a lot of people in urban Texas and rural Texas don't have access.
  • But I agree with you, and there are parts of Texas, urban and rural.
  • America is great.

Summary: The meeting focused primarily on the congressional redistricting resolution prompted by the governor's request due to constitutional concerns flagged by the U.S. Department of Justice. Members discussed the procedural steps necessary to establish a special committee on congressional redistricting, emphasizing the need for transparency and public participation. Concerns were raised about the limited number of planned regional hearings and the implications for community input. A strong commitment to include public testimony through both in-person and virtual means was stated, ensuring that Texans can engage with the process regardless of their geographical location. Discussions included the necessity of adopting prior successful procedures similar to those in past sessions, with an acknowledgment of the unique challenges posed by current legal requirements. Members expressed varying viewpoints on balancing the need for thorough public participation while addressing logistical challenges inherent in the redistricting process. Overall, the meeting demonstrated a collaborative atmosphere aimed at crafting a fair and lawful redistricting plan while acknowledging the diverse opinions of constituents throughout Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism Mar 6th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • marker="58" data-time="342"> to return hundreds of buildings to benefit the economies of urban and rural
  • Our goal is to ensure that communities, both urban and rural, benefit from the meeting.
  • Texas is home to the most diverse city in America.
  • We are an economic leader for America and for the country.
  • We are an organization that advocates for all farmers, ranchers, and rural Texans.
Summary: During this committee meeting, members discussed several bills, including HB2, HB22, and HB4, focusing on various state issues. Key discussions revolved around the impact of legislation on local communities, with members expressing differing viewpoints on the measures proposed. Witnesses were invited to provide testimonies, highlighting both support and concerns regarding the bills, particularly in terms of economic implications and social justice reform. Overall, the meeting reflected a robust engagement from the members and public, showcasing the complexities of the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Mar 18th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Two weeks ago, Senate Bill 513 was heard in committee proposing the establishment of a rural community-based
  • governments, this approach fosters regional collaboration and tailors services to the unique needs of rural
  • I know we have many definitions of rural.
  • However, we are worried, especially for rural and small
  • One in six children in America is developmentally disabled.
Summary: The meeting of the committee was focused predominantly on various bills concerning healthcare and insurance policies, reflecting significant discussions on how these laws impact the community. Notably, Senate Bill 660 was introduced to enhance safety measures at healthcare facilities, discussing the necessity for bollards to prevent unauthorized vehicular access, highlighting a bipartisan understanding of public safety. Senator West emphasized the importance of these regulations, citing real-world incidents that necessitate such actions. Public testimonies complimented this discussion, providing insight into community needs for enhanced security in hospitals.

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