Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'veteran discount program'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 23rd, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • provide 13 checks, or in this case of this last session, a COLA for our retired teachers in the TRS program
  • Thirteen checks to our state retirees in the ERS program, including
  • The narrative has changed and the ERS is no longer being underfunded, or at least the main ERS program
  • considered one of the premier IB schools in the nation, and we consistently rank among the top IB programs
  • So they're getting about a 20% discount on the same benefit
Summary: During the meeting, the committee discussed several important bills focused on state employee pensions, the education sector, and consumer credit resources. One of the main topics was HB886, which proposes a 13th check for state retirees to help alleviate financial challenges faced by those who have not seen any pension adjustments for over a decade. The bill received support from various stakeholders who emphasized its necessity given the rising costs of living and inflation. Additionally, HB3221 was examined, addressing unequal pension contributions between traditional school districts and charter schools, which has placed undue financial burdens on charter schools since 2019. The bill aims to unify the contribution rates to ensure fairness and retain essential funding for education.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It applies a 3% discount rate to congestion and savings
  • I just, is the comptroller in a position today to implement this program?
  • He can contract with a third-party vendor, and the program can be implemented.
  • You may or may not end up with this program.
  • I have evaluated where H.J.R. 98 is going, and as a father and a Navy veteran...
Summary: This meeting of the State Affairs Committee primarily focused on discussing several important bills, including HB1846, which aims to establish an Electric Truck Advisory Council for developing a statewide electric vehicle infrastructure plan. Representative Wally detailed the need for this council to facilitate the growing medium and heavy-duty electric vehicle market, emphasizing collaboration with state agencies and the private sector. The discussions included an in-depth analysis of proposed amendments and the fiscal implications of the bill. Witnesses provided testimony both supporting and opposing the bill, highlighting various perspectives on infrastructure development and economic impact.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 2nd, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • There are fortification programs against hail.
  • And so there are programs for this.
  • Due largely to this program. So the program does work.
  • We think it's a good program.
  • ...the discount and then the variety of discounts offered
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance revolved around discussions primarily focused on the intricacies of multiple proposed bills aimed at reforming insurance regulations, particularly in the context of windstorm insurance. Chairman Hunter introduced HB3689, which seeks to create a more equitable funding system for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association by eliminating costly debt financing options. Multiple testimonies from representatives of the insurance industry highlighted collaboration efforts that have resulted in more affordable coverage options for residents in coastal regions. Key stakeholders, including insurance experts and affected constituents, expressed overwhelming support for the proposed changes, emphasizing the urgent need for reform to combat the rising costs that have burdened homeowners over the years. Additionally, discussions around HB1576 focused on incentivizing homeowners to improve the resilience of their properties against weather-related damage through a proposed grant program administered by the Department of Insurance. This proposal was deemed a significant step toward stabilizing insurance costs and encouraging safer construction practices.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • > ...between political subdivisions in a variety of ways and programs
  • I would not discount the actions of Dripping Springs or Hays County.
  • And I don't say that to discount the pain of that.
  • Well, you look at our capital program.

  • Our capital program fluctuates from year to year depending on what's going on at things like the airport
Summary: The meeting focused on key legislative issues including the submitted bills targeting affordable housing, budget transparency, and fire code enforcement. Notably, discussions around HB4045 involved concerns about local government support and neutrality in tax credit applications, with several stakeholders expressing their views on the barriers faced in securing housing development in high-opportunity areas. Additionally, the committee deliberated on HB5267, which aims to reform the budgeting processes for cities and counties by standardizing formats and limiting expenditures in line with population growth and inflation. Public testimonies offered a range of perspectives on these bills, highlighting the importance of community support in legislative outcomes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We learned some lessons from the pilot program and

  • Counties can charge what it actually costs to run the program, no more, no less.
  • Thirteen percent suffer from chronic substance abuse, and seven percent are veterans.
  • , there has never been a default on a program, a revolving loan fund like this.
  • Did you say there's never been a default in the Minnesota program?
Summary: The committee meeting revolved around significant discussions regarding various housing and firefighter-related issues in Texas. Prominently, House Bill 3171 aimed to reinstate bargaining tools for firefighters that were invalidated by a recent Supreme Court ruling. The bill sparked diverse opinions among stakeholders, with testimonies highlighting the need for effective labor negotiations and concerns about financial implications from local government representatives. House Bill 2142 focused on addressing homelessness through innovative solutions like tiny home shelters, emphasizing collaboration between state, local, and university resources. This bill sought to provide critical mental health services and other supportive measures to the homeless population in Texas, which is notably large and growing.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • education programs offered at TSTC.
  • Based on their DPE, programs are placed into four categories.
  • Both sanction and sunset programs become ineligible for new funding.
  • It focuses on programs with low debt-to-earnings ratios.
  • funding under the foundation school program for certain school districts.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Education covered various significant bills focused primarily on improving educational accessibility and accountability in Texas. Notably, Senate Bill 2252, aimed at supporting kindergarten readiness and early literacy, received a commendable endorsement from the committee, showcasing a unifying approach towards enhancing foundational education. Additionally, Senate Bill 1962, concerning public school accountability, stirred proactive discussions about the challenges faced by school systems, further bringing forth various stakeholder insights during public testimony. The atmosphere remained engaged as committee members debated the efficacy and implications of each proposal, reflecting a strong commitment to enhancing educational standards across the state. As the meeting progressed, various senators championed their respective bills, emphasizing the importance of flexibility in standardized college entrance exams as highlighted in Senate Bill 1241. The bill proposes to expand acceptable exams beyond the traditional SAT and ACT, reflecting a modernized approach to student assessments. Senators and representatives from key educational organizations contributed testimony, solidifying support for such measures while advocating for the continuous dialogue on educational reforms. With multiple bills reported favorably to the full Senate, the session exemplified a dedicated effort towards fostering educational advancements in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • business and industry partnerships, building degree programs
  • for this for the community is that we can align degree programs
  • Also, to build upon existing healthcare programs through A&M's current end of residency program with
  • Because of that, we need growing career programs and job opportunities that relate to the agricultural
  • A&M's residency program, which was brought to Victoria some years back, is highly, highly successful.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Education convened to discuss several important bills, prominently featuring Senate Bill 2361, which proposes the transition of the University of Houston-Victoria into the Texas A&M University System. Testimonies from community leaders such as Mayor Dwayne Crocker highlighted the significant positive implications this shift could have for local education and economic development. The consensus was that the integration would not only elevate educational opportunities but also enhance the region's workforce alignment with industry needs, particularly in fields like engineering and agriculture. Additionally, SB 530 was introduced, focusing on removing restrictions on which accrediting bodies universities can engage for accreditation, a move that aims to modernize Texas educational regulations to align with recent federal changes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Foundation School Program creates a lack of transparency
  • The bill creates a supplemental retirement program

  • ...by granting these officers supplemental program service
  • >A peace officer with at least 25 years of service under this program
  • ...supplemental program.
Summary: The meeting was focused on a range of significant legislation including discussions on retirement benefits for public safety officers and specific bills aimed at addressing current challenges in the pension systems. Representative Busey introduced HB2802, aimed at stabilizing the Austin Firefighters Retirement Fund, which received support from various stakeholders including Mayor Kirk Watson, reflecting months of collaborative effort. Testimony emphasized the need for proactive changes to prevent future financial crises in the fund. Additionally, HB4029, proposed by Chairman Guillen, generated appeals from various members about the necessity of addressing retirement needs for peace officers in public schools, linking it directly to their recruitment and retention challenges in the current environment. Issues regarding recruitment and the financial sustainability of the Houston Fire Department were also highlighted with HB2688, enabling timely action on pressing pension reform to retain skilled personnel.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 May 20th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • in career and technical education programs.
  • For programs that exist in the state of Texas.
  • In terms of the different financial literacy programs and things, I assume that...
  • I assume your institutions are running those types of programs for these athletes.
  • How much knowledge do you have about them, about these programs?
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding various bills aimed at improving educational standards and safety in Texas. Notable discussions included House Bill 121, which was proposed to enhance school safety by allowing the Texas Education Agency to commission peace officers for schools, a measure that received both support and opposition regarding the authority of local school district police. Additionally, House Bill 367 addressed the issue of excused absences for students with serious illnesses, emphasizing the need for clear documentation requirements to assist families and educators in managing these situations. The meeting was marked by public testimonies from various stakeholders, including educators and policy advocates, who provided insights and experiences that illustrated the importance of the legislation being considered.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 2nd, 2025 at 09:05 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • span marker="181" data-time="1080"> 17 to the Committee on Homeland Security, Public Safety, and Veterans
  • This is a program that we've had on the books now for

  • House Bill 844 reauthorizes participation in the Texas Historic Tax Credit Program. I move passage.
  • Members, this allows veterans VFW.
  • Security, Public Safety, and Veterans Affairs.
Bills: HJR138, HB42, HB104, HB129, HB677, HB426, HB668, HB1699, HB2017, HB2128, HB2038, HB3783, HB3717, HB2316, HB3686, HB2563, HB3883, HB4021, HB2788, HB2663, HB3305, HB3173, HB3474, HB1105, HB3531, HB3490, HB3597, HB1295, HB3512, HB3010, HB3112, HB4215, HB3223, HB3464, HB3120, HB4214, HB4511, HB3704, HB4081, HB4783, HB4063, HB2783, HB4937, HB5085, HB2510, HB3426, HB4361, HB1169, HB2516, HB2347, HB4034, HB4700, HB3560, HB5150, HB3860, HB3146, HB3924, HCR98, HCR92, HB1520, HB1545, HB5265, HB1887, HB1914, HB2402, HB2306, HB2350, HB3000, HB3237, HB3326, HB3211, HB1056, HB2081, HB2187, HB3092, HB3308, HB3526, HB3750, HB4219, HB4230, HB4290, HB5238, HB4804, HB4749, HB245, HB1465, HB294, HB793, HB809, HB3928, HB334, HB2037, HB1973, HB285, HB4341, HB1043, HB1234, HB1193, HB1729, HB2498, HB1314, HB1353, HB3960, HB3923, HB2221, HB2517, HB2518, HB2213, HB5092, HB3748, HB5246, HB4344, HB1482, HB4044, HB2702, HB4264, HB2807, HB2898, HB3181, HB3250, HB2091, HB2115, HB2542, HB2768, HB3349, HB4406, HB1593, HB1899, HB3133, HB3133, HB4960, HB3214, HB2145, HB1201, HB5061, SB29, SB879, SB65, SB1745, SB412, SB412, SB1746, SB1238, SB1341, SB522, SB1532, SB1378, SB1062, SB2066, SB1963, SB2204, SB1366, SB2077, SB1967, SB1151, HB1618, HB2156, HB2615, HB2615, HB2349, HB1926, HB569, HB1762, HB38, HJR138, HB42, HB104, HB104, HB129, HB677, HB426, HB668, HB1699, HB2017, HB2128, HB2038, HB3783, HB3717, HB2316, HB3686, HB2563, HB3883, HB4021, HB2788, HB2663, HB2663, HB3305, HB3173, HB3474, HB1105, HB3531, HB3531, HB3490, HB3490, HB3597, HB1295, HB3512, HB3010, HB3112, HB4215, HB3223, HB3223, HB3464, HB3120, HB4214, HB4511, HB3704, HB4081, HB4783, HB4063, HB2783, HB4937, HB5085, HB2510, HB3426, HB4361, HB1169, HB2516, HB2347, HB4034, HB4700, HB3560, HB5150, HB3860, HB3146, HB3924, HCR98, HCR92
Summary: The meeting centered around a number of legislative bills, with significant discussions on HB2402 concerning Medicaid benefits and HB2306 focused on parole eligibility. HB2402 successfully passed, with members praising its potential to increase prescription drug access for Texans without additional costs to Medicaid. Concurrently, HB2306, which modifies parole conditions for certain offenders, also passed without opposition, highlighting a move towards reform in the criminal justice system. The atmosphere was collaborative, with numerous bills advancing through the legislative process, indicating a proactive approach by the committee members towards addressing various public policy issues.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 1st, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Costs are monthly fee-based membership discount programs
  • Charges to include membership-based discount programs in
  • HHSC's current interpretation of UNC charges must include monthly membership-based discount programs,
  • So, members, this is just a simple fix that would allow these discount programs to operate.
  • By preventing artificially low rates from membership discount programs from influencing Medicaid payments
Summary: The meeting convened with Chair Hull overseeing the discussions, and a quorum was confirmed with all members present. The primary focus was on voting several bills that had been discussed in previous hearings. Notable among them was HB1155, which relates to monetary assistance from the DFPS to certain parents. The committee adopted a substitute for the bill without objection and subsequently moved it forward with recommendations for favorable approval to the full House. Another significant topic was HB136, which aimed to include lactation consultation in Medicaid coverage, which also passed out of committee with a substitute.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • impact cost and coverage analysis program, authorizing a fee
  • There are some life insurers that offer wellness programs that help people get discounts on their...
  • He's actually sold these products and seen those kinds of discounts happen.
  • Mobile Insurance Coverage Program.
  • There's not enough burners for a private insurance pool to start the program.
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance was a significant gathering that focused on various health-related bills, including HB138, AB388, HB1942, and others. The committee heard testimony from multiple stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Medical Association, who emphasized the importance of health insurance transparency and compliance. Notably, HB1818 garnered attention as it aims to enhance the oversight of utilization review processes, which has previously faced challenges from both insurers and healthcare providers. The committee also discussed measures to improve the prescribed burning insurance under HB2563, a critical topic due to the increasing risk of wildfires in Texas. Several witnesses provided insights into the urgent need for a robust insurance framework to support prescribed burn managers, highlighting the current limitations and risks posed by the lack of coverage in the market.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This legislation creates a shared savings program, which is a financial incentive program run by health
  • They have to come up with a plan or program.
  • These fees result in a double discount.
  • It's the only kind of program in Texas.
  • a straight co-pay type program.
Summary: The House Committee on Insurance meeting covered multiple bills focused on healthcare regulations and patient accessibility. Notably, House Bill 3057 was highlighted in testimony from citizens advocating for expanded access to CAR T-cell therapy, which has shown effectiveness for blood cancers. Testimonies were given by affected individuals, emphasizing the need for local treatment options without the burden of travel to distant medical facilities. Similarly, House Bill 4603 was laid out with the intent to align arbitration options and ensure that consumers receive timely resolutions in disputed medical charges. Overall, the committee demonstrated an active engagement with the public and various stakeholders while navigating key issues affecting health insurance and patient care in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I later discovered the PASS program at Texas A&M, a post-secondary program specifically designed for
  • on the EmPOWER program.
  • More programs are needed.
  • or undergraduate programs?
  • , engineering programs that we...
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on several bills related to education and public safety. Notable discussions included HB1105, which seeks to provide EMS employees with tuition exemptions similar to those received by firefighters and police officers, thus addressing educational parity among first responders. Representative Ward-Johnson presented the bill and highlighted the growing responsibilities of paramedics in the changing landscape of emergency services. Witnesses from the Austin EMS Association spoke in support, emphasizing the importance of quality education for EMS workers in enhancing public safety and service delivery. The committee also discussed HB1705 and HB2290, which aim to improve educational accreditation and health benefits for students, respectively, indicating a broad focus on enhancing the educational framework within the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...for all programs.
  • It would be interactive, allowing nursing programs to see what openings exist.
  • graduate nursing education programs.
  • As a 100% disabled veteran with over 20 years of service...
  • 26,205 students in the program.
Summary: During this committee meeting, a range of bills focused on enhancing Texas's healthcare and educational workforce were discussed. Notable discussions included HB1787, which aims to improve cancer prevention through education and vaccination, with concerns raised about its implications on personal choice regarding vaccines. HB5180 addressed diploma designation issues amid institutional mergers, and students provided testimony on the emotional significance of diplomas bearing their attending institution's name. Meanwhile, the committee aggressively pursued initiatives under HB5333 to boost local STEM education and production of doctoral graduates within the state, promoting collaboration between institutions and industries to foster talent development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • He was one of the founders of the Veterans Court and the Human Trafficking Specialty Court.
Summary: The meeting focused on discussions surrounding judicial reform, specifically addressing issues such as judicial accountability, compensation, and the backlog of cases. Members expressed concerns over the lack of sufficient compensation for judges, which has hindered their ability to attract qualified candidates to the bench. Witness testimonies highlighted the significant workload judges face and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on court operations. There was a concerted effort among committee members to ensure judges are held accountable while also providing them with fair compensation and resources to effectively manage their caseloads. The gathering concluded with commitments to further discuss proposed legislation and its potential effects on the judicial system in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 22nd, 2025 at 11:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • , they don't give them money to get on their feet, none of that, unless they go through a certain program
  • Most of them don't have access to that program, because when they're out of foster care or in a placement
  • They have access to those programs, but whenever they're in a facility and they age out, they do not
  • have access to those programs as they would if they were in a foster home.
Summary: The meeting of the committee brought forth significant discussions focused on the legislation surrounding newborn health coverage. Representative Johnson presented HB3940, highlighting the issues with newborns not receiving timely healthcare coverage due to inefficiencies in the enrollment process. The committee engaged in a thorough review, emphasizing the critical impact on health outcomes for infants who were uninsured during vital early checkups. Other members raised questions and concerns, adding to the dialogue on how to improve the automatic enrollment processes currently in place. The intent of the proposed bill is to empower parents with necessary information to prevent the enrollment issues from persisting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 22nd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Right now, the Recovery Audit Contractor Program is in place.
  • A completed pilot program was implemented through a grant from the Texas Council for.
  • We were one of the pilot programs.
  • We have huge gaps in the Star Plus program.
  • ...during programs that protect...
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several key bills related to health care and adoption services, with a significant emphasis on fostering care systems. Vice Chair Emanuel presented bills that aimed to streamline reporting requirements for the HHSC, while Representative Slauson's bill on voluntary adoption registries prompted a discussion on improving access and procedures within the child welfare system. Each bill was generally met with favorable votes, indicating strong bipartisan support for these initiatives. The committee heard testimonies from various stakeholders who voiced the importance of these legislative efforts in enhancing the quality of life for children and families involved in the welfare system. Notably, the committee also tackled the issue of Medicaid services and accessibility for children needing medical equipment like baby helmets, which have been a burden for many low-income families.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm also a combat veteran.
  • Statewide, those programs have a success rate where the programs graduate.
  • And yes, those interests are bought at a discount.
  • Yeah, I think the way that it's set up is this creates the grant program.
  • of talking about their programs.
Summary: In the recent meeting, the Judiciary and Cellular Disturbance Committee convened to discuss several critical issues, highlighted by the testimony surrounding HB1761. The committee chair emphasized the importance of the bill, gathering a panel consisting of key witnesses who offered various perspectives. Notably, Kathy Ward from the State Commission on Judicial Conduct voiced concerns regarding potential pitfalls of imposing sanctions on false complaints, advocating for a more inclusive process that considers mental health perspectives. Jacob Putnam, a District Attorney, echoed the sentiments, highlighting the bill's implications for public service recruitment and the necessity for competitive pay in public positions.

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