Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Texas Commission on Environmental Quality'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce Mar 4th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This is the Texas law on Texas arbitration for surplus lines of insurance that we...
  • focused, and rightfully so, on the fragility of our property and casualty market in Texas.
  • Craig Idle on behalf of Texas Trial Lawyers.
  • I'm Barksdale English with the Public Utility Commission, testifying on the bill.
  • What stood out to me is that there's no data on Texas; Texas didn't provide information.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Business included significant deliberations on multiple bills, specifically SB765, SB929, and SB455. Notably, Senator King advanced SB765 amid discussions on its committee substitute, clarifying issues related to confidentiality protections for law enforcement. The committee unanimously adopted the substitute, indicating broad support. Moving on, SB929 was similarly discussed, with minor amendments clarified before being favorably reported without objections. This reflects a positive atmosphere aimed at smoothing the legislative process for these initiatives. Senator Melton presented SB455, which addresses Texas law and arbitration for surplus lines of insurance that faced a veto in the previous session. This bill aims to establish arbitration processes that are more favorable to Texas policyholders by mandating that disputes be governed by Texas law and conducted within Texas. Stakeholders voiced strong support for this bill, emphasizing the importance of upholding Texas jurisdiction over such disputes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism Apr 23rd, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • You're testifying on behalf of Texas A&M University yourself. On behalf of Texas A&M University.
  • On behalf of self and Texas State University.
  • Yes, yes, on behalf of the Texas Hotel Association and not representing myself, just the Texas Hotel
  • Paul Hale testifying on behalf of the board, on behalf of the Republican Party of Texas, SREC SD1 against
  • of the True Texas Project on behalf of True Texas Project
Summary: The meeting covered several legislative bills focused primarily on environmental impact and economic incentives, with significant attention given to HB3728, which aims to establish numeric salinity standards for Texas's bays and estuaries. Proponents argued that these standards would help protect delicate ecosystems while allowing for necessary industrial expansion, particularly in desalination. There was passionate testimony from environmental advocates emphasizing the potential long-term benefits for both the economy and local communities reliant on these waters. Additionally, concerns were raised regarding the efficacy of past subsidies as found in discussions surrounding HB4568, which faced opposition from the public and prominent committee members who criticized the use of state funds to support the film industry without demonstrating sustainable economic return on investment.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs May 7th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I know the Texas Workforce does it, and they're commissioning that for people.
  • ...get quality health care in rural Texas. Right.
  • No one in Texas, but this includes data from all over the United States.
  • So you're registered as Daniel Woodard, testifying on behalf of Texas Civil Rights Project and against
  • I show you registered as Greg Stephens, testifying on behalf of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on the discussion and voting of various bills, with significant attention given to HB2082, which addresses the definition of short barrel firearms, and HB5528, related to the establishment of the Texas Law Enforcement Crisis Prevention Task Force. Chairman Heffner led the meeting, facilitating discussions that included debates on several bills and their implications. Notably, HB3626 concerning coroners' state benefits saw a unanimous vote supporting its passage. Public testimony highlighted the impacts of these legislative efforts, particularly in relation to law enforcement's operational effectiveness and community safety initiatives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 17th, 2025 at 09:04 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • on the Texas House floor.
  • one of the biggest betrayals of the voters of Texas that has ever occurred in the...
  • Commission for the Committee on Energy Resources.
  • Of the Texas Real Estate Commission for the Committee on
  • Historical Commission for the Committee on Culture, Recreation, and Tourism.
Summary: The meeting of the legislative committee featured discussions on various proposed bills, focusing on issues pertinent to education, taxation, and public health. Notably, the committee addressed HB 4847 regarding the discrimination of school district tax-related information, which sparked significant debate among members. There were multiple public testimonies in favor of and against provisions within the new legislation concerning the delivery of tax notices to property owners, showcasing the diverse opinions held by stakeholders. The committee chair emphasized the importance of transparency and equity in tax communications, and members were urged to consider the implications of the proposed changes carefully.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Whether it be air quality, water, and so on, how many layers are there, and how much time does each one
  • I'm the area director in the Office of Compliance and Enforcement for the Texas Commission on Environmental
  • Quality, located in the central Texas area.
  • If it's close therein, we are based on water quality.
  • We also have a program on underwater quality regulation.
Summary: The Committee on Natural Resources convened to discuss two key pieces of legislation, HB2867 and HB2876, focusing on late fees associated with water and sewer services in Texas. Representative Gates laid out HB2867, highlighting the financial implications of payment deadlines and fees that disproportionately affect low-income households. He emphasized the need for limits on late payment fees to protect these vulnerable consumers from potentially abusive practices. A committee substitute was proposed to clarify some ambiguous language within the bill, aiming to promote fairness and transparency for customers. This led to a robust discussion among members and stakeholders present at the meeting, including testimony from representatives of municipal utilities who raised concerns about local control over fee structures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Good morning, I'll show you as Kendall Cowell on behalf of the Texas Water Development Board.
  • Well, we're going to have some quality time on the floor, and you sit pretty close to one another.
  • Nygren with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and I’m here to be a resource witness on the
  • Hale, Texas Association of Builders, to testify on the bill.
  • Scott Norman, Jr., on behalf of the Texas Association of Builders, fighting against the bill.
Summary: The meeting of the committee was primarily focused on water management and infrastructure issues, highlighted by discussions surrounding several bills intended to address water supply and flood control. Representative Kitzman presented HB1535, which aims to extend the sunset review date for the Trinity River Authority, ensuring continued governance and operational improvements. Furthermore, HB3915 was introduced as a multi-purpose flood mitigation measure, offering solutions to the severe water scarcity in the region, particularly following recent catastrophic flooding events that emphasized the urgent need for improved water management. Public commentary reflected a strong interest in flood mitigation strategies, especially given the impacts of climate change and rapid population growth in the area.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce Apr 10th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Facilities Commission and the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation as members who have asked
  • I'm Warren Duveros, I work at the Texas Council on Family
  • Outside of working for the Texas Council on Family

  • Council on Family Violence, I serve as a member of the Texas
  • Senate Bill 2902 continues Texas' leadership on this issue by providing a clearer process for victims
Summary: The meeting of the committee commenced with the establishment of a quorum, where members discussed and voted on five significant bills related to energy efficiency, insurance regulation, and public utility governance. Notably, Senate Bill 2717 was presented, incorporating feedback to foster collaboration among various state agencies for improved energy efficiency performance. This was followed by a detailed discussion on Senate Bill 1642, which proposed changes to the Texas Department of Insurance's executive structure to optimize management and consumer focus. Each bill saw active participation from senators who moved to adopt committee substitutes for clarity and responsiveness to stakeholder concerns, indicating a proactive approach to legislative issues.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice (Part I) Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas DPS is neutral on the bill, and I'm happy to answer any of your questions at this time.
  • and the Texas Police Department, Public Policy and Foundation on this bill.
  • The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE) believes standardized regulations would help law enforcement
  • Commission on Law Enforcement.
  • This piece of legislation today is helping us take action on behalf of the people of Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice covered several significant legislative proposals aimed at improving the efficiency and safety of the Texas criminal justice system. Lead discussions focused on SB2405, which received attention for its comprehensive approach towards modernizing the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) and addressing recommendations made by the Sunset Advisory Commission. The bill includes provisions for enhanced staff planning and updated rehabilitation programs that are expected to yield substantial cost savings while promoting public safety. Senators engaged actively, expressing their support and raising questions about the implications of the proposed changes, especially concerning parole processes and facility management.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs Mar 17th, 2025 at 11:00 am

House S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs

Transcript Highlights:
  • , in collaboration with the Texas Veterans Commission, to create a workplace poster on the benefits and
  • , contact information for the Texas Veterans Commission, details on the Veterans Crisis Hotline, tax
  • That is my number one priority: to reduce veteran suicide in Texas.
  • In Texas, the border crisis, of course, rages on.
  • I would say, how are they going to take on Texas, by the way, on that? Good luck, right?
Bills: HB39, HB227, HB930, HB1078
Summary: During the meeting, the committee deliberated on several bills primarily focused on veteran welfare and transition issues. One of the main highlights was the discussion of HB39, which proposes to improve data collection on veteran suicide rates, addressing the alarming statistics that reveal veterans are dying by suicide at a rate significantly higher than the general population. The bill seeks to mandate the Texas Department of Health and Human Services to submit aggregate data regarding deceased veterans to the Texas Veterans Commission, ensuring proper analysis and reporting on this critical issue. Witnesses, including mental health professionals and veterans, provided their insights, emphasizing the importance of having accurate data to inform better policies for preventing veteran suicides.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice Mar 18th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Summary: The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to address critical issues surrounding victim protection and human trafficking legislation. The meeting opened with the chair, Senator Flores, emphasizing the importance of enhancing Texas laws to protect victims of sexual assault and trafficking. Key bills on the agenda included SB955 and SB957, which aim to strengthen legal repercussions against traffickers and provide support for survivors. Notably, the committee heard testimony from various stakeholders, including law enforcement officials and advocates, who underscored the challenges faced by trafficking victims and the necessity of legislative reform.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education May 6th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So like the University of Texas could have one regional somewhere.
  • We have a membership base currently including 68 colleges in Texas and additional ones in Oklahoma and
  • So I think there is a big focus in Texas on both.
  • What happens to one Texas campus affects all Texas campuses.
  • Have some faith in Texas students and their professors. Vote no on SB37.
Summary: The meeting focused on several significant bills, with notable discussions surrounding SB37, which aims to overhaul the governance and curriculum oversight of higher education in Texas. Representative Shaheen expressed that the bill is intended to ensure that degrees earned in Texas are valuable and properly aligned with workforce demands. Witnesses presented both support and opposition to the bill, presenting various perspectives on its potential impact on academic freedom and educational quality. One associate professor voiced concerns regarding SB37, arguing it could stifle open discussions and critical thinking in classrooms by imposing political oversight on curricula. The discussion highlighted a divide between representatives who support increased legislative oversight and those who fear it will undermine educational integrity.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Veteran Affairs (Part I) May 15th, 2025

Senate Veteran Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Health and Human Services Commission to the Texas Veterans Commission.
  • to the Texas Veterans Commission.
  • The plan would require the Texas Veterans Commission to submit
  • We also have a resource witness from the Texas Veterans Commission.
  • House Bill 39 requires the Texas Department of State Health Services to provide the Texas Veterans Commission
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several key pieces of legislation aimed at improving services and support for veterans in the state. Notable discussions included House Bill 114, which proposes to transfer veterans' mental health initiatives to the Texas Veterans Commission, emphasizing the need for enhanced mental health resources. This bill received supportive testimony from various stakeholders who advocated for the importance of community-based mental health services for veterans. Additionally, House Bill 1965 was highlighted, seeking to expand the Military Veteran Peer Network to better serve rural communities and address increasing mental health needs. Testimonies reflected a strong commitment to reducing veteran suicides through peer support systems.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I have you here on behalf of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, and you self-registered against the
  • Segura, a 1995 Texas Supreme Court case, relied on the provision in the Texas Free Enterprise and Antitrust
  • Jackson, I have you here on behalf of the Texas Association of Manufacturers, is that correct?
  • Well, while we're on the record, the Texas Exchange

  • So if a corporation is founded on the premise of doing environmental good or is very interested in...
Summary: The committee meeting convened to discuss several significant bills focusing on criminal justice and consumer protection. One of the highlights was Senate Bill 251, which aims to establish criminal law magistrates in Bell County to expedite proceedings for individuals in county jail. The bill received supportive commentary emphasizing its potential to ensure timely hearings and legal counsel, reflecting a commitment to swift justice. Additionally, House Bill 4713 was introduced, which aims to clarify the statute of limitations regarding arbitration proceedings, helping align the treatment of claims filed in court and in arbitration. This was discussed in light of ambiguous current practices that can impact fair resolution for claimants seeking timely justice. Public witnesses participated in evaluating both bills, although specifics on public testimony were limited as these bills were generally supported by members of the committee.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 24th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Matt Nelson, on behalf of the Texas Water Development Board
  • Sarah Kirkl, on behalf of the Texas Water Association

  • I'm with the Texas Water Association, which is a statewide water policy association focused on water
  • I show y'all registered as Jeremy Major on behalf of Texas 2036.
  • North Texas Commission, Jennifer Walker on behalf of the National Wildlife Federation, and Perry Fowler
Bills: SB7
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on Senate Bill 7, which aims to enhance Texas's water infrastructure amid growing population and environmental challenges. Various stakeholders, including representatives from engineering firms, environmental organizations, and water associations, testified in support of the bill, emphasizing its potential to address pressing water supply issues and improve infrastructure reliability. Key topics of discussion included water reuse, flood infrastructure funding, and the need for legislative oversight to ensure effective management of financial resources. The testimony underscored the importance of adapting to aging water systems while promoting innovative solutions for sustainability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Workforce Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Workforce

Transcript Highlights:
  • It wasn't long ago that much of West Texas was on fire

  • I am just one of the thousands of Texas workers that suffer poor and unsafe conditions on the job.
  • On behalf of the workers here in Texas and across the country, we urge you to vote yes on HB447.
  • Texas is one of the most dangerous states for construction workers. One construction worker...
  • to keep Texas workers safe while on the job.
Summary: The meeting held by the committee focused on several bills aimed at improving worker safety and economic support for rural communities. Key discussions included the introduction of HB446, which aims to establish a Heat Illness Prevention Advisory Board to address the increasing number of heat-related worker deaths in Texas. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted the need for heat safety standards and the emotional impact of heat-related illnesses on workers' lives. HB1609 was also presented, seeking protections for volunteer firefighters during declared disasters to prevent job loss while responding to emergencies. The committee expressed strong support for these initiatives, suggesting a collective understanding of their importance amid rising temperatures and demands on the workforce.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 28th, 2025 at 11:04 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • of the Texas Advisory Committee on Pacific Conflict.
  • and Human Services Commission to the Texas Veterans Commission.
  • rather than the Texas Veterans Commission, an existing agency designed to meet the needs of Texas veterans
  • Community-based care for the West Texas region was the only region that had no bidders on.
  • Commission on Environmental Quality to issue permits for land application.
Summary: The committee meeting covered a variety of bills focusing on issues ranging from housing development moratoriums to the regulation of Medicaid services. Notably, House Bill 2559, addressing building moratoriums imposed by municipalities, drew attention when Mr. Patterson presented it as crucial for aligning residential and commercial construction regulations. The bill passed to engrossment with a solid majority of 118 votes in favor. Additionally, House Bill 3126, which involves the election of certain school districts to participate in a uniform group coverage program, received significant support, affirming the commitment to enhance healthcare access for school employees. Equally critical was the discussion surrounding Senate Bill 963, aimed at improving Medicaid managed care organizations' ability to inform recipients about private health plans, reinforcing the legislature's focus on healthcare administration. This bill too was passed with a clear majority. The discussions showcased active participation from committee members, with multiple witnesses providing testimony on various bills, reflecting a collaborative approach to legislative advancements. The meeting concluded with plans for ongoing deliberations on the remaining agenda, emphasizing the importance of public feedback through testimonies.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Workforce Apr 1st, 2025 at 09:00 am

House S/C on Workforce

Transcript Highlights:
  • It would require the Texas Workforce Commission to

  • I was doing some of my own research on how Texas could

  • First, it requires the Texas Workforce Commission and local workforce boards to report on spending for
  • The Texas Workforce Commission will distribute around 80 million dollars in federal funding for...
  • Sturdes Fedora Galasso on behalf of the Texas Network of
Summary: The meeting of the Workforce Committee included extensive discussions around several key bills, primarily focusing on issues related to wage theft and child care services. Representative Gonzalez presented HB 669, highlighting the significant problem of wage theft affecting low-income workers. Testimonies from various stakeholders underscored the importance of creating a transparent database that would hold employers accountable for wage violations, emphasizing the need for a fair labor market for all workers. Several witnesses provided support for the bill, discussing its potential positive impact on Texas families and businesses.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Veteran Affairs (Part II)Audio only. May 15th, 2025

Senate Veteran Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair recognizes Senator Parker on the substitute.

  • Wait, hold on. You need to bring it out.

  • Senator Menéndez is recognized on the committee substitute. So very good.
Summary: The Senate Veteran Affairs Committee convened to discuss several key bills, primarily focusing on HB39, HB114, HB1875, and HB1965. Notably, Senator Parker presented a committee substitute for HB39, addressing concerns raised by state agencies to ensure better information accuracy and extending report deadlines to December 1st. The committee members unanimously adopted this substitute and recommended its passage. Further discussions included amendments and swift votes on multiple bills, with HB114 following suit with a similar committee substitute process, which was also passed without objection.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Workforce Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House S/C on Workforce

Transcript Highlights:
  • One of TEAS's core strengths lies in its ability to deliver high-quality, hands-on, professional education
  • eligible entities for the Skills Development Fund administered by the Texas Workforce Commission.
  • Members, we have a resource witness from the Texas Workforce Commission here available for any of the
  • We show you registered as Robert Graves on behalf of the Texas Association of Counties, and yourself
  • You are registered as Joe Markham on behalf of the Texas
Summary: The meeting of the committee involved critical discussions surrounding several pieces of legislation aimed at supporting first responders, enhancing worker rights, and improving child care access. Notably, House Bill 4144 was presented, which aims to provide supplemental income benefits to firefighters and police officers diagnosed with critical illnesses post-retirement. Testimony from a representative of the Texas State Association of Firefighters emphasized the importance of extending benefits to those affected by job-related diseases, particularly cancers prevalent among firefighters. The bill stirred affirmative discussions, with a consensus on its necessity in providing comprehensive support to first responders.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs Mar 31st, 2025 at 11:03 am

House S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs

Summary: The committee meeting was centered on discussions related to several House Bills concerning veterans' issues and public safety. A pivotal moment was the consideration of HB101, which aimed to establish a State Guard Professionalization Task Force. This initiative was intended to support the Texas Military Department by modernizing the Texas State Guard's capabilities amid evolving disaster response needs. Witness testimonies provided insights into the critical nature of this legislation, emphasizing the need for strategic improvements. Furthermore, HB2193 called for a comprehensive study on the state of claims benefit advisors for veterans, aiming to assess their effective placement across Texas. Members expressed enthusiasm and concern about ensuring veterans receive adequate benefits, showcasing the committee's commitment to advancing these issues.

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