Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'housing affordability'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Mar 19th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The House Committee on Insurance will come to order.

  • We believe that House Bill 138 is a common sense.
  • We are here respectfully testifying against House Bill 138 as filed.
  • I am Annie Spillman here on behalf of Texans for Affordable Health Care for House Bill 138.
  • Small employers are not able to afford to cover their employees anymore.
Bills: HB138, HB335, HB388
Summary: The House Committee on Insurance convened a meeting focusing on critical legislative objectives aimed at insurance reform. Noteworthy discussions emerged around HB138, which aims to address cost reduction in health insurance and increase transparency in the reporting of private insurance costs. The committee members emphasized the need to identify cost drivers and cut unnecessary regulations while also working on effective methods to deliver insurance benefits efficiently. There were extensive remarks made regarding the implications of insurance mandates on overall costs, bring forth a call for a thorough evaluation and revision of existing mandates that may result in unintended consequences.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Mar 4th, 2025 at 02:30 pm

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Bill 2.

  • House Bill 19 or House Bill 3 in 2019, when they passed the
  • I'm testifying in support of House Bill 2. Thank you.
  • to purchase an instrument, they can't afford to buy dance shoes, they can't afford to buy the dance
  • So I want to thank you for House Bill 2.
Bills: HB2
Summary: The meeting focused on House Bill 2, which aims to reform funding for special education in Texas. Various stakeholders, including educators and administrators, testified on the importance of the bill, highlighting current funding gaps and the need for increased resources to adequately support students with disabilities. Testimony revealed that many school districts are experiencing a significant funding shortfall, forcing them to seek additional local funding sources to cover the costs of necessary services. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for a new tiered funding system, which was met with cautious support due to the ambiguities surrounding its implementation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Article III Feb 27th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Article III

Transcript Highlights:
  • We are committed and focused on affordability.
  • We are focused on keeping higher education affordable.
  • Finally, as illustrated on slide 8, you can see our affordability metrics.
  • It's turnkey and fairly affordable, based on everything I've seen.
  • Hello, my name is Grace Atkins with Texas 2036, testifying on House Bill 1.
Summary: The committee convened to discuss critical funding and legislative matters regarding various state initiatives, notably focusing on workforce development, health services, and emergency management. The discussions revealed the heightened importance of supporting community colleges and addressing workforce shortages in healthcare, especially considering the increased demand for veterinary services as pet ownership rose due to the pandemic. Representatives from various organizations presented their requests for funding, emphasizing the necessity of enhancing educational outcomes and preparedness programs.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm with the Texas Affiliation of Affordable Housing Providers.
  • Arriaga, Executive Director for the Texas Affiliation of Affordable Housing Providers, TAP for short.
  • I'm with the Texas Affiliation of Affordable Housing Providers.
  • Arriaga, Executive Director for the Texas Affiliation of Affordable Housing Providers, TAP for short.
  • And Gene Latshaw, also with Texas Affiliation of Affordable Housing Providers, on the bill.
Summary: The meeting involved in-depth discussions focused primarily on several significant bills aimed at reforming healthcare, improving consumer protection, and enhancing community-based care. Key highlights included House Bill 1919 and House Bill 1763, which address the roles and regulation of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) in Texas. Lawmakers emphasized the need for these bills to create a fairer landscape for independent pharmacies while ensuring patient access to necessary medications. Public testimonies reflected both support for the reforms and concerns regarding their potential implications. Another major topic was Senate Bill 513, which proposes the development of a pilot program for community-based care in rural West Texas, aiming to improve child welfare services in regions facing unique challenges.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • housing, one of the stickiest parts of inflation.
  • Make it easier and more affordable for Americans to adopt
  • We discussed in Washington state how you had a very innovative program before the Affordable Care Act
  • They can't afford that, and it's brutal obviously on individuals.
  • good service at an affordable price for our citizens.
Summary: The committee convened to discuss critical issues surrounding the nomination of Michael Falkender for the position of Deputy Secretary of the Treasury. This meeting included a series of remarks from committee members who expressed divergent views on Falkender's qualifications and the implications of his appointment. Senator Wyden voiced strong opposition, arguing that Falkender represents harmful policies expected to be perpetuated under the current administration, especially concerning taxpayer privacy and IRS tactics. Meanwhile, other members defended Falkender, noting his extensive experience, including a commitment to transparency in government operations if confirmed.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 5th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Moving on to **Goal B**, Affordability and Debt, which houses
  • I will say that I am fully supportive of **House Bill 8** and the method, the goals.
  • I'm going to skip to **House Bill 8**.

  • Does **House Bill 8** give that community college credit for that?
  • The ones that can afford it are doing magnificent work.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting focused on the funding recommendations for public health-related institutions and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. During the session, significant discussions were held around the $4.2 billion in total funding recommended for the 2026-27 biennium, which reflects a notable decrease compared to the previous biennium. Key highlights included an increase in funding for various educational support programs like the Graduate Medical Education expansion, and the need for modern data systems in colleges to ensure educational programs meet workforce demands. Testimonies from representatives highlighted both concerns about budget cuts and optimism for enhanced funding initiatives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Bill 2928 is trying to bridge gaps.
  • I'm here today to speak in support of House Bill 29.
  • Then what we've seen on housing affordability is

  • But we're here tonight in opposition to House Bill 1798.
  • That is more than what some of these students can afford.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Education Committee was marked by intense discussions surrounding several key pieces of legislation, particularly focusing on SB1798, which seeks to repeal the Texas DREAM Act. Advocates for the bill argued that it is important to restrict state financial aid to individuals unlawfully present in the United States, asserting that taxpayer resources should primarily benefit legal residents. Conversely, numerous witnesses testified against SB1798, emphasizing the economic contributions of Texas DREAMers and the long-standing positive impacts of the existing DREAM Act on Texas communities and workforce. The heated debate highlighted the stark divisions surrounding immigration policies and their implications on education and opportunity for young Texans who have grown up in the state. The meeting concluded with SB1798 left pending, awaiting further consideration, signifying ongoing concerns and unresolved sentiments among committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Apr 22nd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Bill 3032 would.
  • The Chair lays out House Bill 3574.
  • Yeah, so in the House budget, it has passed the House floor.
  • House Bill 1273 be reported favorably to the full House with the recommendation that it do pass and be
  • The chair lays out House Bill 5339.
Summary: In this meeting of the Committee on Higher Education, various bills were laid out and discussed, with particular emphasis on education and research funding, alongside measures to support Texas's agricultural sector. Notable discussions included House Bill 5339, which aims to establish a program for regenerative agriculture, facilitating long-term research on agricultural practices and aiming to improve soil health and food quality. The committee members engaged in discussions about the implications of such research on local farming communities, stressing the importance of evidence-based practices in addressing modern agricultural challenges. The meeting also included concerns related to the nursing shortage, with House Bill 3032 presented as a measure to identify more clinical training sites for nursing students. Additionally, members touched on issues such as retaining Texas students in state universities, given the rising trends of students leaving for opportunities in other states.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This is House Bill 2741.
  • The Chair lays out House Bill 2528.
  • An FQHC in a rural area probably can't afford to operate an in-house pharmacy.
  • The chair lays out House Bill 9.
  • House Bill 946 accomplishes this.
Summary: The House Committee on Insurance convened to discuss multiple bills aimed at enhancing consumer protection and improving access to essential services. Notable discussions included HB2528, which seeks to eliminate prior authorization requirements for medications treating substance use disorders, thereby expediting access to crucial treatments for Texans. Representative Boosie laid out HB722, addressing transparency in auto insurance valuation processes, prompting engagement from various witnesses on how current practices potentially exploit consumers. Members voiced concerns about the intersection of bureaucratic delays and the urgency of addiction treatment, emphasizing the bill's potential life-saving implications.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House S/C on Workforce

Transcript Highlights:
  • >

    His only option would be to hire a lawyer, which he can't afford

  • As a career member of this profession, I'm asking that you support House Bill 1306 and provide medical
  • ...protections that this designation affords.
  • So we support access to quality and affordable child

  • House Bill 3173...
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

Education K-16 (Part I) May 8th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Bill 1188 and Dean Zaffirini, House Bill 1188 will be
  • to move the House bill in lieu of the Senate bill.
  • Senator Perry, you're recognized on House Bill.
  • I don't know what the vote count was over in the House.
  • We'll open up testimony on House Bill 6, Chair.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Education, K-16, revolved around multiple bills, notably HB1188, HB2856, HB3126, HJR5, and HB6. Key discussions highlighted the importance of early intervention for families with special needs through HB1188, which aims to provide better resources for parents. Public testimony included compelling narratives that underscored the personal impact of such legislation. Additionally, the committee engaged in important dialogue concerning student discipline, specifically focusing on vaping in schools and its consequences under HB6.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health Apr 17th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health

Transcript Highlights:
  • And House Bill 231 is left pending.
  • Is there anyone else wishing to testify for or against House Bill 1782?
  • Here's none, and House Bill...
  • Before you today, House Bill 2036 closes an important gap in access to mental health.
  • We're going to leave House Bill 2036 pending.
Summary: The meeting revolved around critical discussions regarding health-related bills, particularly focusing on women's health and food access issues highlighted in HB1786 and HB231. Representative Howard proposed HB1786 to reinstate the Women's Health Advisory Committee, emphasizing its necessity to address women's healthcare challenges in Texas due to the dissolution of the committee, which had previously facilitated valuable collaboration among healthcare providers. The discussions included testimonials from various stakeholders including health professionals and representatives from advocacy groups, all supporting the need for an advisory body that could effectively address women's health concerns. Additionally, there was strong support for HB231, which aims to study the impact of food deserts on vulnerable populations, as articulated by Representative Morales, making a case for equitable access to nutritious food across the state.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • In your view, could housing be...

  • and Urban Development and the Department of the Interior to address housing affordability in the West
  • And it's one of the reasons why in the Houses Act...
  • Doing this will ensure we have access to affordable, reliable power 24/7.
  • It's very difficult to have affordable, reliable, and secure energy if the...
Summary: The committee meeting was dominated by discussions on a variety of legislative bills including major topics such as nuclear energy advancement, the effects of regulatory hurdles on energy production, and proposals to improve national park staffing and maintenance. Members expressed concerns over the federal government's handling of uranium imports and the necessity for maintaining a robust domestic nuclear supply chain. Efforts to streamline permitting processes to facilitate more efficient energy project development were also a focal point, alongside public testimony from stakeholders in the energy and environmental sectors. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure development to meet rising energy demands while addressing climate change impacts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 26th, 2025 at 09:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Berry moves the House adjourn until 10 a.m. Thursday.
  • The House will come to order.
  • The House stands adjourned.
  • Berry moves the House adjourn until 10 a.m. Thursday.
  • The House stands adjourned.
Summary: The meeting featured a address by Chief Justice Jimmy Blacklock, who emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the legal system and ensuring fair access to justice for all Texans. He addressed the challenges facing the judiciary, notably the need for increased funding for district judges, which has not seen a raise since 2013. The Chief Justice highlighted how inadequate compensation has affected the ability to attract and retain qualified judges. He urged the legislature to consider a substantial increase in judicial salaries as a matter of public interest and necessary for the state's judicial system.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • They went over to the House, where 146 House members voted for it, and no House members voted against
  • quickly how it's going to help housing affordability.
  • One of the things that contributes to that housing affordability issue are labor shortages.
  • We build houses the same way today as we've built houses for the last 50 or 60 years.
  • affordability problem.
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.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Without that assistance, our residents would be facing bills they simply couldn't afford.
  • How critical is federal investment in water infrastructure for supporting water affordability?
  • Does it go into the house? What have you found in that, and how can we...
  • I was able to get a program to address water affordability authorized in the IIJA.
  • For families experiencing poverty, being able to afford the net...
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and its implications for local water systems. Various witnesses highlighted the transformative impact of the bipartisan infrastructure law, which has provided an unprecedented amount of funding to help address long-standing issues in drinking water infrastructure, particularly concerning lead service line replacements and sustainability in water management. The discussions emphasized the urgent need for federal reauthorization to continue supporting these initiatives, as many rural and disadvantaged communities still face substantial barriers in upgrading their water systems. Additionally, cybersecurity risks were noted, raising concerns over the vulnerability of water systems across the nation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 19th, 2025 at 10:02 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • House is in session.
  • I'm honored to welcome so many affordable housing providers.
  • Housing Providers, the Rural Rental Housing Association of Texas, and the Association of Local Housing
  • affected by housing insecurity.
  • Thank you for everything you do to all our affordable housing providers.
Summary: The meeting featured a range of resolutions being discussed, with many representatives emphasizing the importance of various community celebrations across the state. Notable mentions included HR288 recognizing Medical City Dallas Hospital for its contributions to healthcare, and HR273 honoring Delta Xi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority at the University of Texas for its historic significance and community work. The discussion emphasized praise for local organizations contributing to healthcare, education, and cultural heritage.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Jun 1st, 2025 at 01:06 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I call up the conference committee report on House House
  • this addition was necessary for the House to accept the Senate provisions absent from the House version
  • those houses a bit smaller."
  • Bill 46 left this House.
  • between the House and the Senate.
Bills: HCR158, HCR159, HCR160, HCR161, HCR162, HCR163, HCR164, HR174, HR427, HR790, HR810, HR857, HR866, HR882, HR883, HR962, HR966, HR1001, HR1045, HR1085, HR1097, HR1127, HR1138, HR1141, HR1150, HR1152, HR1292, HR1296, HR1304, HR1305, HR1306, HR1308, HR1309, HR1310, HR1311, HR1312, HR1313, HR1315, HR1317, HR1318, HR1320, HR1321, HR1322, HR1323, HR1324, HR1325, HR1327, HR1328, HR1329, HR1330, HR1331, HR1332, HR1333, HR1334, HR1335, HR1338, HR1340, HR1341, HR1342, HR1343, HR1344, HR1345, HR1346, HR1347, HR1348, HR1349, HR1352, HR1353, HR1354, HR1355, HR1358, HR1359, HR1360, HR1361, HR1362, HR1363, HR1364, HR1365, HR1366, HR1368, HR1369, HR1370, HR1380, HR1383, HR1384, HR1385, HR1386, HR1387, HR1388, HR1389, HR1390, HR1392, HR1393, HR1396, HR1397, HR1398, HR1399, HR1400, HR1402, HR1403, HR1404, HR1405, HR1406, HR1407, HR1408, HR1409, HR1410, HR1411, HR1412, HR1413, HR1414, HR1415, HR1417, HR1418, HR1419, HR1420, HR1421, HR1422, HR1424, HR1425, HR1426, HR1427, HR1428, HR1429, HR1430, HR1431, HR1432, HR1433, HR1434, HR1435, HR1436, HR1437, HR1438, HR1440, HR1441, HR1442, HR1443, HR1444, HR1445, HR1447, HR1448, HR1449, HR1450, HR1452, HR1453, HR1454, HR1455, HR1456, HR1458, HR1459, HR1460, HR1461, HR1462, HR1463, HR1464, HR1465, HR1466, HR1467, HR1469, HR1470, HR1471, HR1472, HR1473, HR1475, HR1477, HCR132, HCR154, HR17, HR49, HR170, HR275, HR355, HR356, HR364, HR369, HR672, HR690, HR755, HR756, HR759, HR762, HR763, HR781, HR785, HR848, HR1240, HR1265, HR1303, HR1307, HR1314, HR1316, HR1319, HR1326, HR1336, HR1337, HR1350, HR1351, HR1367, HR1371, HR1372, HR1373, HR1374, HR1375, HR1376, HR1377, HR1378, HR1379, HR1382, HR1391, HR1395, HR1451, HR1457, HR1468, HR1474, HR1476, SB1637, SB2878, HB2885, HB2017, HB5246, SB8, SB2308, SB1405, HB119, SB3059, SB15, SB568, SB2900, HB3642, HB3909, SB268, HB493, SB2217, HB2516, SB650, HB2963, SB1610, HB705, SB2972, SB1540, HB40, SB2753, SB1660, SB2024, HB1545, HB46
Summary: The meeting convened to address a variety of bills, with substantial attention devoted to the conference committee reports on multiple pieces of legislation. Notably, the discussion included SB268, where a fix was made to restore language regarding serious bodily injury referrals to law enforcement. Members expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts during the conference committee stages of the bills, with several members highlighting the enhancement of the legislative process through a united front. Additionally, notable discussions surrounded HB5246 and SB2308, which focused on drug trials and the necessity of establishing clear protocols moving forward. The meeting concluded with significant voting outcomes, showcasing the supportive stance of the majority on various measures discussed.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII Feb 24th, 2025 at 10:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII

Transcript Highlights:
  • We believe that the handling of affordable housing is a crucial
  • TDHCA serves as the leading agency for affordable housing, community services, energy assistance programs
  • housing.
  • to be affordable housing items.
  • I represent House District 115.
Summary: The meeting of the Texas Lottery Commission centered around vital discussions regarding the regulatory framework and operational issues related to the lottery and charitable bingo systems in Texas. The committee reviewed financial appropriations, focusing on the need for infrastructure improvements to the Charitable Bingo Operations Division and highlighted the ongoing work with the Sunset Advisory Commission to enhance operational efficiency and compliance. Significant attention was given to the unregulated activities of lottery ticket couriers, which have raised concerns about integrity and fairness in lottery games, prompting the commission to consider appropriate measures to stop such activities.

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