Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'utilities'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security May 22nd, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Probably not as often as some other offenses that are utilized.
  • If it is utilized, is that a tool you want to leave in the
  • I think it's probably less utilized as an act of terrorism.
  • That's not to say that it can't be utilized in the facilitation of a terrorist event.
  • The local utility, you know, water purification system, something
Bills: HCR40, HB214
Summary: The committee convened to discuss two significant bills: HCR40, regarding reimbursement for border security costs, and HB214, which addresses the prosecution of firearm and ammunition-related offenses. Senator Flores represented HCR40, urging Congress to reimburse Texas for expenses incurred under Operation Lone Star, citing ongoing issues with illegal crossings and drug trafficking. Though there was a commendable attempt at public testimony, none was received, and the bill was left pending with intentions for further discussions. Much emphasis was placed on the state's security responsibilities and federal inaction that led to a substantial financial burden on Texas taxpayers. In discussing HB214 introduced by Chairman Birdwell, key points included the need for refinement in identifying which offenses classify as terroristic. The members engaged in a comprehensive debate surrounding the expansion of offenses related to firearms smuggling and terrorism. Members expressed concern over including overly broad definitions that could lead to misuse of power and mislabeling of offenses. The committee's focus shifted towards creating a more precise framework that separates economic offenses from true acts of terrorism. The meeting emphasized collaboration and careful consideration in drafting legislation aimed at enhancing public safety without infringing on rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 3rd, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • and the actual utilizers that's just based off of information.
  • utilizers that's based on actual data served.
  • Is this data being utilized effectively?
  • So, those were the utilizers, but only 132 were served.
  • and then the actual utilizers are based on actual data served.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting focused on various topics related to child welfare, particularly emphasizing the importance of kinship placements in the foster care system. Senators Alvarado and Hinojosa engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the benefits of kinship care, highlighting better outcomes for children and the financial implications for the state. They emphasized a need for continued investments in kinship care as a strategy to improve child welfare outcomes, encouraging the legislature to consider this approach moving forward. Additionally, the committee reviewed community-based care programs, which aim to keep children in their communities to promote stability and familial connections.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations Feb 19th, 2025 at 10:02 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • What happens with the utilities? I've heard from water suppliers that...
  • ...for their utilities.
  • We work with those utility operators through the design process to, one, try to do...
  • They do a tremendous job of investing those funds, but by utilizing the Texas Water Fund...
  • And so, through the utilization of these additional dollars...
Summary: The meeting focused on significant discussions surrounding the Texas state water planning process and flood mitigation efforts. During the session, experts presented on the need for an adaptive and collaborative approach to manage Texas's water resources. A particular emphasis was placed on the upcoming updates to the state water plan, which aims to address projected shortages and enhance infrastructure to handle both drought and flood conditions. The collaboration involved regional groups who play a vital role in identifying community needs regarding water infrastructure development.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Connie Corona, I'm the Executive Director of the Public Utility Commission.
  • Same for the County and the Public Utility Commission.
  • Was that their municipal utility alone, or was that with multiple utilities?
  • I'm not seeing any universities being utilized within this endeavor.
  • We utilize a workforce of about 230 operators and staff.
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 1st C.S.

Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Jul 23rd, 2025 at 09:07 am

House Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So there's a really good resource and a reason for us to utilize it.
  • Yes, sir, the same with the Utility Commission too would be appreciated.
  • Was that their municipal utility alone, or was that multiple utilities?
  • We've got literally no ability to utilize the data effectively.
  • Here's an example of an alarm system that they utilize.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on flood management and response strategies following the recent devastating floods in Texas. Notably, discussions centered around the creation of a flood infrastructure fund and Senate Bill 8, which aims to improve regional flood planning processes. Several experts provided insights into the challenges faced during the floods, including communication barriers, emergency response efforts, and the need for better coordination among local and state agencies. Public sentiments were shared regarding the necessity for improved flood prevention measures, conservation plans, and the expansion of existing infrastructure to cope with future climatic challenges.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 2nd, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • However, under current Texas law, utilities that hire third-party contractors for projects like tree
  • On power lines, utilities cannot enforce these indemnity
  • HB 3306 would add utility contracting for the installation and construction of vegetation management
  • This drives up litigation and insurance costs for utilities
  • We are one of only four transmission and distribution utilities in the state of Texas.
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

89th Legislative Session Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • The no man's land is the electric poles and lines between the meter from the utility and the wellhead
  • I worked with the Railroad Commission and the Public Utility
  • data-time="7848">SB 4269 by Perez of El Paso, relating to the bill payment assistance program for utility
  • "8478"> ...by Hernandez, relating to access and use of criminal record information for the Public Utility
  • HB 4385 by Darby, relating to the recovery of the gas utility

Bills: HJR4, HJR6, HB195, HB13, HB143, HB135
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on H.J.R. 4, a proposed constitutional amendment that aims to prohibit taxes on securities transactions and occupation taxes on securities market operators. Representative Meyer introduced the resolution, explaining its intention to prevent the state legislature from imposing such taxes indefinitely. The proposal received unanimous support from the Ways and Means Committee but faced scrutiny from other members concerned about its implications for equity and taxation in Texas. Key discussions highlighted the potential long-term consequences of locking in tax breaks for wealthier entities, particularly amid rising living costs for ordinary Texans.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Jan 30th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It can be very safe and secure, efficient, and utilize great technology.
  • And then, of course, we have all the special utility districts, which I would wonder if that is also
  • And then, of course, we have all the special utility districts, which I would wonder if that is also
  • Does that include schools and all the special utilities? Thank you.
  • And with the utilization of AI and other technologies, we
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting focused on several critical budget recommendations for various state agencies, including the Texas Facilities Commission, which proposed significant funding changes. Chair George Purcell highlighted a reduction in appropriations, along with the introduction of new funds aimed at refurbishing the Rudder Building and supporting facilities operations. Discussions also touched on border security, where it was reported that Governor Abbott formally requested congressional support to reclaim $11 billion in funding for Texas operations. The ongoing dialogue regarding the maintenance and responsibilities relating to border wall constructions was emphasized, noting the complexity and the need for clear allocation of responsibilities as discussions with federal authorities develop. Throughout the meeting, there were notable conversations about operational efficiencies, particularly in the context of expanding cyber threats and the need for improved cybersecurity measures at state agencies. Members engaged in deliberating the future hiring of staff and resources necessary for maintaining effective service delivery amidst increasing demand. The discussions concluded with a commitment to keeping an open line with constituents regarding the implications of these funding decisions and the overall strategic direction of the agencies involved.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) Apr 7th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In utilizing the electronic system registration, if you wish
  • District 61 and also Harris County Municipal Utility District 248, which we operate in our particular
  • Where land can be annexed, it's tied to the utility system that's in place.
  • My concern is that personal data can be utilized as a threat.
  • I serve on the Board of Directors of Harris County Municipal Utility District Number One.
Summary: The meeting covered several significant bills, primarily focusing on enhancing transparency and accountability within local government and homeowners' associations. Notably, Senator Hinojosa introduced SB1935, aimed to reform the operations of Property Owners Association Boards, addressing concerns over insufficient representation and transparency for homeowners. The bill drew a mix of support and opposition, with testimonies highlighting the need for greater homeowner engagement in decisions affecting their communities. Additionally, SB2046 was discussed, which would enhance penalties for public officials engaging in bid rigging, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement of competitive bidding processes to curb misconduct within government contracts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Environmental Regulation May 8th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Environmental Regulation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Water and wastewater utilities take PFAS very seriously, along with other emerging contaminants.
  • From a utility perspective, the regulation by the

  • And by land appliers, I in fact mean the utilities.
  • They are not sitting on that utility space for 14 to 21
  • We have some utilities on the larger side that are producing about 80,000 tons of biosolids a year.
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on the discussion of various environmental legislative bills, notably HB1341, which sets maximum allowable ground level concentrations of hydrogen sulfide, and HB1674 regarding PFAS regulations in biosolids. Representative Reynolds presented HB1341, emphasizing the health risks associated with hydrogen sulfide and the need for clear regulatory standards to protect communities near industrial operations. This received support from health advocates and oversight bodies, highlighting the urgent need for regulations to safeguard public health. Meanwhile, HB1674 faced significant opposition, particularly from environmental organizations which argued that the bill's provisions could disrupt biosolid disposal processes and increase costs significantly. Many testimony segments reflected concerns regarding the adequacy of scientific understanding related to PFAS and its implications for agricultural safety and water quality.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas law contains various requirements that apply to certain insurers when engaging in utilizing...
  • It is important to note that House Bill 1818 does not add any new utilization review requirements.
  • I mean, each examination of the utilization?

    Yes.

  • Of things already on our books that maybe we're not utilizing
  • marker="961" data-time="5760"> Under this bill, and we said the requirements of this bill to do utilization
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
Transcript Highlights:
  • to utilize their own inspectors, just like a county fire marshal
  • These utilities often include additional charges for operations.
  • charging inconsistent rates for the installation of utility
  • This ensures that utility rate information is centralized, accessible, and easy to find.
  • It does not limit or cap utility rates; it simply requires transparency, making sure that residents are
Summary: The meeting focused on several important bills, including discussions around HB2508, which aims to clarify property tax exemption conditions for surviving spouses of veterans. Additionally, HB1991 was discussed, emphasizing the need for transparency regarding utility charges in municipally owned systems. The chair recognized public testimonies detailing both support and concerns associated with these bills. Comprehensive discussions took place regarding the implications of utility charges on residents, highlighting the importance of accessible information for community members to understand their billing. The committee urged efficiency in reporting mechanisms that relate to municipal operations and accountability to constituents. In addition to the legislations described, the committee was informed of the significant number of bills pending review and decisions were made to prioritize those that were urgent. The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing discussions and a streamlined approach to handling forthcoming bills. Members appeared engaged and responsive to public input, showcasing a collaborative commitment to legislative transparency and community service.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Apr 21st, 2025 at 01:04 pm

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • How is this, you know, you mentioned out in the space that it's widely utilized?
  • Financing the same project within a utility is also considered.
  • In 2005, El Paso utilized certificates of obligation twice.
  • We specialize in utility construction services.
  • Now, I understand you're saying you don't like that the law is being utilized.
Summary: The committee meeting focused heavily on evaluating a series of bills aimed at improving fiscal responsibility and transparency in local government borrowing. A significant discussion centered around HB19, which proposes reforms to debt issuance by local governments. Members expressed concerns that some provisions could hinder local government operations. Some stakeholders acknowledged positive aspects of the proposed reforms but highlighted potential impacts on public safety and ongoing projects due to stricter debt limits. Throughout the meeting, various representatives voiced differing opinions, contributing to a robust dialogue on improving taxpayer protections while ensuring local governments can meet community needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm a pathologist; I sit on utilization review committees for hospitals and other things.
  • is not to utilization review itself.
  • Utilization review that we created under this bill is for laboratory claim reviewers.
  • We have a utilization committee.

  • The rates that are being utilized now are excessive.
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance focused on several significant bills, including HB854, which aims to reform insurance payment structures to improve accessibility for homeowners needing urgent repairs. Representative Garcia-Hernandez strongly advocated for this bill, highlighting the struggles faced by constituents unable to cover upfront repair costs. Additionally, HB4092 was discussed, which seeks to clarify regulations surrounding pre-suit notices in insurance claims, emphasizing the importance of protecting policyholders' rights. The meeting included various testimonies, with both supporters and opponents voicing their concerns about how these bills could impact consumers and the insurance industry.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) May 26th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The committee will be utilizing the electronic registration

  • and improvements to their water infrastructure, the process is generally designed with municipal utility
  • Okay, so you've got a special utility district in this

  • TRWA represents over 900 water and wastewater utilities

  • Next one, this is the Special Utility Districts, the water
Summary: The Senate Committee on Local Government convened to discuss various important bills, primarily focusing on housing and local governance issues. Significant discussions included House Bill 5509, aimed at enhancing municipal powers against human trafficking by allowing the suspension of hotel occupancy certificates when crimes are suspected. The committee thoroughly reviewed the proposed committee substitutes for several bills, stressing stakeholder input and the importance of due process in legislative changes. Additionally, public testimony highlighted community support for the new amendments designed to ensure safety and welfare, particularly concerning vulnerable populations. House Bill 5663, addressing vital infrastructure needs and associated funding, also received a favorable recommendation from the committee, advancing its path through legislative scrutiny.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations May 6th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • makes three changes:

    Number one, it adds municipal utility

  • data-time="90"> Organizations, public institutions of higher education, school districts, municipal utility
  • span>

    And three, the substitute gives priority to municipal utility

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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance May 7th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Biomarker testing utilizes biospecimens such as blood or tissue to assist physicians in providing diagnoses
  • marker="595" data-time="3564"> HB 4635 remedies this by mandating a written disclosure of AI tools utilized
  • Senate Bill 1822 would also require issuers and utilization review agents to submit an annual report
  • to the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) attesting that any algorithms used for utilization reviews
  • Members, SB 1822 simply provides assistance with greater transparency regarding utilization reviews and
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance centered around numerous healthcare-related bills, focusing heavily on issues such as artificial intelligence (AI) in medical determinations, autism insurance coverage, and HIV prevention. Representative Garcia Hernandez presented HB4635, aiming to ensure transparency in the use of AI in medical claim denials, which has become increasingly prevalent. The bill introduces mandates for disclosures on AI algorithms used in decisions, enhancing patient rights and keeping the Texas Department of Insurance informed of potential denials. Public testimony supported the bill as essential for safeguarding Texans from unintended biases in AI applications. Additionally, HB813, presented by Representative Goodwin, garnered attention for its effort to update autism-related insurance mandates, removing outdated age restrictions for therapy coverage. This legislation is seen as a crucial step in accommodating the needs of all individuals on the autism spectrum, regardless of the timing of their diagnosis.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 22nd, 2025 at 11:04 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • HB 14 by Harris, relating to funding mechanisms within the Office of the Governor and Texas Public Utility
  • >

    HB 805 by Cortez, relating to a study by the Public Utility

  • House Bill 805 directs the Public Utility Commission of
  • Speaker, this is an effort to better understand and utilize eviction information at the state level with
  • Unfortunately, we've had some municipally owned utilities that have adopted increased water rates.
Summary: The meeting was a significant session of the committee, focusing on a wide range of bills including issues related to water utility rates, worker's compensation hearings, and consumer protection in the realm of artificial intelligence. Representative Montgomery championed HB685, which aims to prohibit municipalities from imposing unfair utility rates on tax-exempt entities, ensuring fair pricing practices. The bill passed unanimously, highlighting the committee's commitment to safeguarding public interests. Additionally, HB2488 emerged as a crucial legislative effort, enabling virtual hearings for worker's compensation cases, which enhances accessibility for injured workers and reduces costs associated with legal representation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations Feb 19th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Well, the implementation of the program utilized

  • What happens with the utilities?

  • to utilize any available right-of-way along those roadways for their utilities.
  • We were able to dust those programs off and utilize their structure, which is intended for those tiny
  • The water in unincorporated Harris County is either provided by MUD, an investor-owned utility (IOU),
Summary: During this committee meeting, the focus was on discussing critical infrastructure funding, especially related to water supply and flood mitigation projects. Chairwoman Stepney and the Water Development Board presented extensive details regarding the Texas Water Fund, which included $1 billion appropriated to assist various financial programs and tackle pressing water and wastewater issues. Additionally, funding allocations aimed at compromising the state's flood risk and improving water conservation were hotly debated, emphasizing collaboration among committee members and the necessity of addressing community needs in such projects.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Agriculture & Livestock Apr 8th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House Agriculture & Livestock Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • marker="529" data-time="3168"> We have to clean away and pick up all the trash and debris left by a utility
  • And they left this utility company to leave it behind for
  • That is also the city's contractors and utility providers running lines through.
  • Yes, so look at this: I do utility work, and anywhere that I've done work, this would be... they run
  • Additionally, unlike a homeowner in a subdivision, we are not able to utilize the property within the
Bills: HB2013, HB4163, HB4810
Summary: The meeting of the Agriculture and Livestock Committee mainly centered around discussions regarding three bills: HB4810, HB2013, and HB4163. Notable emphasis was placed on HB4810, which seeks to renew the Trade Agriculture Inspection Grant Program due to its critical role in ensuring the efficient flow of agricultural goods between Texas and Mexico. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted the importance of cross-border trade and the economic impact of agricultural imports, which supports thousands of jobs and ensures a reliable food supply. The committee members engaged in thoughtful deliberations about the necessity of maintaining and expanding the program to accommodate rising trade volumes and local agricultural needs.

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