Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Water and Agriculture'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 26th, 2025 at 10:08 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • And if the water board decides that there has to be a siren, are they funding it, and are they paying
  • Whether it's agricultural land or agricultural goods, and
  • developers for certain water conservation and reuse projects.
  • the impact of new developments on the existing water and wastewater systems.
  • developers for certain water conservation and reuse projects.
Bills: HB8, HB12, SB3, HJR1, SB11, SB16, SB14
Summary: In this meeting, significant discussions revolved around several key bills, including SB3, SB11, SB14, SB16, and HB8. SB3, concerning outdoor warning sirens, was emphasized for improving flood safety with community input and grants. SB11 proposed defenses for victims of human trafficking, affirmatively recognizing their coerced actions. Meanwhile, SB14 incentivized water conservation efforts by allowing political subdivisions to credit fees to developers for conservation projects. Each of these bills received robust debate and support from members. HB8, proposed by Buckley, aimed at reforming public school assessments, ultimately emphasizing accountability and transparency in educational measures, generating considerable discussion around reducing testing pressures on students and improving educational outcomes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That it do pass and be printed, and the clerk will call the roll.
  • and the...
  • And 65 is the max, and it's again, it's...
  • and get ready to take their kids to school and get ready for the workday and all the other things people
  • Members, our agricultural landowners and lessees play

Summary: The committee meeting focused on several important bills aimed at providing support and protections for agricultural producers affected by border-related crimes. Notable discussions centered around HB246, which proposed an expanded compensation program for damages, including not just real property, but also crops, livestock, and the necessary funds for soil restoration due to pollutions from such crimes. Representative Ginn led the conversations, emphasizing the critical role agricultural landowners play in the state’s economy and their need for fair compensation. Witnesses, including stakeholders from agricultural organizations, provided testimonies highlighting the inadequacies of the current framework and the urgency for legislative action.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And finally, we have a program for agricultural water conservation
  • These are similar water loss and water conservation program projects.
  • The waters are also critical for agriculture, an economic engine for the Rio Grande Valley, and the current
  • strive to prevent and abate agricultural and civil cultural non-point sources of water pollution.
  • water quality as it interrelates to agriculture and forestry, flood control dam maintenance or repair
Summary: During this meeting of the Texas House Natural Resources Committee, critical discussions centered on various legislative proposals impacting water management and conservation in the state. Chairman Harris emphasized the importance of balancing economic growth with conservation efforts, noting the urgency of addressing Texas's finite water resources. Several members raised concerns about the administrative processes governing water laws, and a variety of bills were presented, including a definition cleanup bill and modifications to reporting requirements. The committee heard testimony from multiple stakeholders who provided insights on existing issues and proposed solutions to enhance water management in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on State-Federal Relations Mar 27th, 2025 at 10:03 am

House S/C on State-Federal Relations

Bills: HCR77, HCR102, HR559
Summary: The committee meeting centered on key legislative discussions, focusing significantly on the implications of water resource management and infrastructure projects aimed at supporting economic growth in Texas. Members were particularly engaged in debates regarding the allocation of funding for these projects, showcasing varying perspectives on the prioritization of water access and renewable resources. The discussions also highlighted the importance of legislative support for green technologies and energy efficiency in an effort to propel the state's adaptation to future challenges.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs come to

  • method for water funding and transfers.
  • This time, we focused on water loss and water management.
  • deficit and fixing our aging, deteriorating drinking water and wastewater systems.
  • dollars proposed to be spent will yield water at the tap, water in the fields, and water to drive the
Summary: This meeting of the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs focused on substantial discussions regarding Senate Bill 7, which is a key legislative initiative addressing Texas' long-term water supply crisis. Chairman Perry emphasized the collaborative efforts over the past years to engage various stakeholders in crafting the bill, promoting transparency and accountability in the management of water resources. The bill aims to enhance Texas' water infrastructure and secure funding through dedicated revenue streams for water supply projects, as the state faces challenges associated with dwindling water availability. Several public testimonies were heard, reflecting both support and concerns from various sectors affected by water policies in the state. The committee aimed to ensure that the legislation not only addresses immediate needs but also creates a sustainable framework for future generations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • supply and its members.
  • Just their water management was under sunset, but the energy production and power distribution were not
  • rules and policies in managing and containing Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD).
  • and concerns about CWD management, ensuring transparency and community engagement.
  • I would like to have Parks and Wildlife come up as a resource witness on this and Mr. True.
Summary: This committee meeting focused on the discussions surrounding SB2476, which proposes the transfer of the Woodlawn Water Supply Corporation to the Angelina and Natchez River Authority. Senator Nichols presented the bill, highlighting its local agreements and the technical capabilities of the River Authority to manage the water supply efficiently. The discussion included inquiries about the implications of this transfer, particularly regarding sunrise accountability and whether the new arrangement would adhere to sunset processes in the future. Members engaged in a collaborative dialogue, reflecting an understanding of the local needs and the importance of maintaining water supply management.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs, come to order.

  • These aquifers are often the sole source of water for rural residents and agricultural operations throughout
  • It's currently going through the state water planning process and is included in the regional water plan
  • Quality of that water and the microbes in that water.
  • We just looked at our five-year CIP for water and wastewater.
Summary: The meeting was convened to discuss several pivotal bills primarily relating to water management, environmental regulations, and labor standards. Amongst key discussions, SB243 aimed to reform migrant housing penalties, transforming the flat fee structure into a more compelling model that could incite improvements in living conditions for migrant workers. Furthermore, the committee deliberated on SB2159 and SB2568, both significant for addressing water resource management in Medina County, with testimonies from local water authority representatives emphasizing the urgent need for updated legislative support amid local growth pressures. Other bills discussed included SB1891 and SB1442, which prompted lively debates regarding utility rate adjustments and environmental compliance procedures for wastewater facilities.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs comes to

  • state, and then we're a water bank.
  • towards water and wastewater projects.
  • supply, and water quality.
  • water conservation district operations support, water quality as it interrelates to agriculture and
Summary: The meeting, led by Chairwoman L'Oreal Stepney, covered several crucial topics focusing on Texas water management and the associated legislative priorities. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) presented its initiatives including the implementation of a 50-hour workweek for Texas Game Wardens, the Cultivated Oyster Mariculture Program, and enhanced funding requests aimed at improving water infrastructure and conservation efforts. Notably, discussions centered around the integration of innovative practices in oyster farming to ensure sustainability and boost coastal resources. Chairwoman Stepney also highlighted the need for improved infrastructure to address water quality and supply challenges given Texas's growing population demands. In addition to water management, there was a significant emphasis on expanding the biosecurity program to combat recent agricultural threats and the establishment of a suicide hotline for farmers, reflecting the committee's commitment towards the well-being of agricultural stakeholders. The meeting concluded with a strong sense of collaboration among committee members and commitments to addressing the pressing needs concerning water resources, conservation, and agricultural safety in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations May 6th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The House of Appropriations Committee will come to order, and
  • Number two, it adds water infrastructure among the list

  • And three, the substitute gives priority to municipal

  • With 17 ayes and one nay.

  • And two nays, the motion is granted.
Summary: The House Appropriations Committee convened to discuss several significant legislative bills, including HB188, HB265, HJR35, HJR47, and SB1901. During the session, each bill was presented, and members engaged in lively discussions about their implications. Notably, the committee adopted a committee substitute for HB188, which expanded eligibility for grants related to water infrastructure. The substitute aimed to prioritize municipal utility districts, garnering a generally positive reception among committee members. Both HJR35 and HJR47 were reported favorably for consideration by the full House, demonstrating strong bipartisan support despite some dissenting votes.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • the history of water supply in Texas and water ownership.
  • management and water supply development in Texas.
  • interaction between groundwater and surface water.
  • Or if that's your water, that's your water, and make that decision.
  • Clearly identify a pool of water here, a pool of water here, and a pool of water here, or is all the
Summary: The meeting focused on several key pieces of legislation, including HB20, which aims to address disaster fraud in Texas by enhancing protections for victims during emergencies. The committee substitute for the bill was adopted without challenge and moved forward for a favorable recommendation. Public testimony was closed with no registered speakers, indicating strong support or little opposition to the measures being discussed. Additionally, the committee addressed HB27, sparking a significant debate about groundwater management and local regulations, reflecting growing concerns about resource allocation in Texas. Members engaged in discussions surrounding the need for scientific studies before imposing moratoriums on water permits, highlighting the complexities of balancing ecological concerns with community needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • And that's the type of amendment the put and take is.
  • individuals behind HAF and Associates and celebrate their 75 years of dedication, resilience, and diligence
  • And so...
  • and these are.
  • time, and it's unnecessary and unproductive for us as a state.
Summary: The committee meeting highlighted significant discussions surrounding several key bills, including HB908, which aims to establish a required reporting protocol for missing children cases. The bill received robust support, with members emphasizing its potential to enhance child safety and streamline law enforcement responses. Another notable piece of legislation discussed was HB1392, which addresses delays in property tax payment due to unforeseen circumstances like natural disasters and other emergencies, ensuring Texans are not penalized for situations beyond their control. The meeting concluded with enthusiastic participation from both committee members and the public, showcasing the community's engagement in the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Mar 17th, 2025 at 01:00 pm

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Our business is a low-margin business, and we do try to keep our margins low for our agricultural producers
  • Throughout the state, we try to sustain agriculture, and this would be a great help for us to be able
  • And Mr. Cavanaugh, go ahead and keep your seat.
  • And enjoined and remanded such that...
  • And continuing. And continuing, correct?
Summary: The meeting of the committee was dominated by discussions surrounding House Bill 134, which proposes a shift from origin-based sales tax sourcing to destination-based sourcing in Texas. This bill generated significant debate among committee members and witnesses, with several city representatives expressing strong opposition due to the potential financial impact on their municipalities. Concerns were raised that the bill could lead to the loss of millions in sales tax revenue, which is crucial for funding essential services like public safety, infrastructure, and local development initiatives. As the discussion progressed, the chairman emphasized the need for a comprehensive understanding of the bill's implications on all economic stakeholders, while supporters of the bill argued for its potential to streamline tax regulations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources May 21st, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • , the water stays in the impoundment; it is taken out of the circulatory system and is not available.
  • Water is available well under the rehabilitation sometimes, and particularly now that we're in a drought
  • We were using recycled water from wastewater plants, we were using groundwater, and other things to vegetate
  • The local districts and the State Soil and Water Board provide money for rehabilitation, but we're trying
  • Water districts in the region have, in some cases, used arbitrary fee schedules and overly strict construction
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Natural Resources was convened to review several bills concerning water regulation and development. Chairman Harris facilitated discussions on SB1965, SB2885, SB2440, SB1855, SB2568, SB3058, and SB612. Notable was the acknowledgment of rising concerns over groundwater availability and the regulatory framework surrounding it. The members emphasized the essential nature of the decisions being made, particularly in light of recent developments in water conservation and infrastructure. The bill SB1855 emerged as a focal point, addressing ambiguities in prior legislation about groundwater certification, which has caused confusion among local officials and developers alike. Testimonies were provided by representatives from various counties, emphasizing the necessity for clear guidelines and standards to protect water resources and support sustainable development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Mar 3rd, 2025 at 11:03 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • building standards, and water conservation codes.
  • water while adapting to modern management practices such as recycling produced water and recent advancements
  • A lot of that water today is now cleaned up again and reused as we are using fresh water.
  • That water is being recycled and reused.
  • ...recognized and knew that beneficial use and produced water
Summary: The House Committee on Energy Resources held its inaugural meeting where members emphasized their commitment to addressing critical issues facing the energy sector in Texas. Chairman Darby initiated discussions focused on legislative priorities, notably the management of inactive and orphaned wells, which have become a significant economic and environmental concern. The committee also discussed the balance between regulatory oversight and industry growth, emphasizing collaborative efforts among members and stakeholders to create effective policy. Testimonies highlighted the importance of tackling concerns related to produced water and ensuring sustainable practices in Texas's vast energy landscape, including innovations in hydrogen production and recycling.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Natural Resources Aug 11th, 2025 at 01:08 pm

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • and water availability.
  • Board, the State Soil and Water Conservation Board, the Department of Agriculture, and the Texas Commission
  • water supply planning and recreation.
  • fall is and how fast that water is rising.
  • and any water supply activities?
Summary: The meeting of the committee emphasized the urgent need for effective flood mitigation strategies in response to recent severe flooding events in South Texas. Local officials, including Commissioner David Fuentes and General Manager Raul Sassin, presented the devastating impacts of heavy rainfall that inundated homes, destroyed infrastructure, and led to significant loss of life. They discussed the importance of projects like the Delta Region Water Management initiative, which aims to manage stormwater effectively while also addressing future water supply challenges. The legislators reiterated the legislature's ongoing commitment to funding and implementing robust flood management policies, underscoring the significance of community involvement in these efforts. The discussions also highlighted innovative approaches to capturing floodwaters for potable use as part of a broader water management strategy.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Act, and the Safe Drinking Water Act.
  • ...and public water systems to ensure safe drinking water
  • Those new drinking water standards are increasingly more complex and more challenging to execute, and
  • So whatever this committee and this legislature does for water and produced water will be very, very
  • and how this state decides to deal with water in this state, and particularly flow back.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee focused on several key legislative initiatives, including the implementation of new regulations concerning geothermal injection wells as per SB786, and the jurisdiction over brine mining clarified by SB119 and SB1186. Commissioner Christy spoke about the achievements of the Railroad Commission of Texas in regulatory standards and emphasized the importance of updating environmental practices that safeguard groundwater and surface water while facilitating economic growth. Senators expressed their concerns regarding operational impacts on various sectors, highlighting the need for continued collaboration between agencies to address challenges related to water management and environmental compliance.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • and there's fish, trees, and water.
  • state in water, wastewater, and flood.
  • I'm on water, agriculture, and rural affairs, and I've heard you.
  • our tributaries, and about data sources and water quality.
  • And that's just the water alone, or just LCRA?
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on discussions around the recent floods in Texas, specifically addressing emergency preparedness, response coordination, and recovery efforts. Officials from various agencies provided testimonies on the challenges faced during the emergency, including issues with communication systems among first responders. Notably, the need for improved inter-agency communication and technology integration was emphasized, with recommendations for establishing regional communications units for better coordination during disasters. The audience included local government representatives and emergency management partners, who shared insights and experiences from the recent flooding events.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance May 25th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • use tax to the Texas Water Fund.
  • The substitute constitutes dedication to the Water Fund. Committee substitute to HGR 7.
  • And both the governor and I agreed that 20 years was good,
  • This means that it will require active engagement with the Texas Water Development Board and the legislature
  • to come together and re-up.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Finance convened to discuss several key bills focused on public finance and water resources. Senator Perry presented House Bill 3000, which proposes a $90 million grant program aimed at providing financial assistance to qualified ambulance service providers in rural counties. The bill received strong support, being reported favorably to the full Senate without any opposition. Concurrently, the committee adopted a substitute for HGR 7, which seeks to amend the state constitution for revenue allocation to the Texas Water Fund, extending the dedication period from 16 to 20 years. This change was met with discussions on revenue splits and interim allocations, pivotal for funding future projects related to water infrastructure in Texas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • water quality while also raising water rates for their customers and refusing to reinstall filtration
  • and ensure Texans have access to safe, quality drinking water.
  • And a water filtration system is very expensive for a small water system that the honorable Zaffirini
  • water and still not be able to drink it.
  • water loss data and just common sense.
Summary: The committee meeting was marked by significant discussions around various bills, especially those related to water quality and public utilities. House Bill 2692 was presented to simplify and clarify the enabling legislation for the San Antonio River Authority, highlighting improvements necessary for effective governance and administration. Additionally, there were discussions on Senate Bill 2497, which mandates public water systems to install filtration systems to ensure safe drinking water in communities facing water quality issues. Witnesses emphasized the financial burden and the need for more flexibility in solutions to address water contamination without imposing heavy costs on small water systems. The conversation underscored the balance between public health and fiscal responsibility, with various solutions proposed to mitigate the risks of water contamination.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Water Committee on Agriculture, Water, and Rural Affairs

  • However, real estate developers who frequently extend water and sewer pipelines to support housing and
  • source of water for rural communities and landowners.
  • and the water leaving their land.
  • the results of the water loss audits and submit water loss mitigation plans.
Summary: The meeting of the committee addressed significant issues surrounding groundwater conservation, with a focus on several proposed bills aimed to enhance the management and sustainability of water resources in the region. House Bill 1633 was discussed, which seeks to strengthen criteria used by groundwater conservation districts (GCDs) when permitting, ensuring that they factor in potential impacts on neighboring exempt wells. Positive sentiments were expressed regarding the need for more stringent evaluations of groundwater permits to preserve resources effectively. This bill aims to reinforce accountability among GCDs, emphasizing the criticality of groundwater, especially in rural areas where access is essential for agricultural and domestic use. In addition, House Bill 1689 and Senate Bill 3058 were presented, both aimed at improving how GCDs utilize export fees and manage water conservation measures. Public testimony highlighted the concerns of landowners about excessive pipeline construction fees and a lack of adequate authority to collaborate with counties on water projects. The committee adopted several amendments to these bills to better align the interests of landowners with water conservation goals. The meeting concluded with an acknowledgment of the pressing need to balance development and conservation, signaling a collective intent to move forward with actionable legislation.

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