Transcript Highlights:

• And Texas, being the state that has more African Americans than any other state in this country, is proud
• How many of you plan on going to college? Stand up, those of you who plan on going to college.
• of Texas, let's make our state better.
• Let's make our state better.
• Welcome to the State Capitol.

Bills: SJR12, SJR81, SCR39, SB22, SB32, SB241, SB393, SB414, SB458, SB464, SB568, SB583, SB609, SB660, SB693, SB731, SB732, SB746, SB783, SB785, SB897, SB993, SB996, SB1008, SB1029, SB1035, SB1036, SB1120, SB1122, SB1147, SB1163, SB1188, SB1197, SB1209, SB1227, SB1245, SB1267, SB1307, SB1321, SB1332, SB1386, SB1394, SB1396, SB1470, SB1494, SB1537, SB1596, SB1598, SB1610, SB1664, SB1814, SB1822, SB1841, SB1948, SB2065, SB2155, SB2406, SB2407, SJR12, SJR36, SJR81, SJR50, SJR4, SCR22, SCR12, SCR39, SB765, SB62, SB666, SB888, SB687, SB847, SB1248, SB504, SB305, SB296, SB284, SB241, SB304, SB1023, SB204, SB609, SB670, SB850, SB854, SB413, SB1346, SB1033, SB1220, SB1073, SB810, SB1539, SB447, SB1119, SB1505, SB1215, SB1302, SB583, SB673, SB681, SB1172, SB955, SB957, SB1120, SB541, SB266, SB1415, SB53, SB1352, SB785, SB1450, SB1502, SB1566, SB414, SB1062, SB711, SB746, SB1404, SB1448, SB507, SB1026, SB1349, SB1355, SB1433, SB1434, SB1596, SB1403, SB667, SB1059, SB1567, SB310, SB311, SB505, SB1209, SB1210, SB1470, SB264, SB1029, SB1358, SB1364, SB1569, SB1376, SB1228, SB519, SB1350, SB462, SB827, SB1585, SB1396, SB1484, SB1273, SB927, SB1227, SB1229, SB1353, SB1464, SB1709, SB1729, SB1733, SB1744, SB1772, SB1841, SB1147, SB1008, SB2016, SB1173, SB1163, SB996, SB568, SB1370, SB1321, SB1101, SB860, SB993, SB693, SB1610, SB1537, SB1332, SB1307, SB963, SB493, SB984, SB619, SB1122, SB455, SB522, SB1057, SB1239, SB1254, SB1255, SB1259, SB1341, SB1664, SB1877, SB464, SB1277, SB32, SB732, SB660, SB731, SB921, SB268, SB1822, SB1188, SB1589, SB397, SB1058, SB1036, SB1267, SB2112, SB1930, SB532, SB1035, SB2155, SB508, SB292, SB291, SB901, SB1333, SB1436, SB1494, SB964, SB779, SB1378, SB2312, SB1719, SB1386, SB287, SB2143, SB1245, SB261, SB1247, SB1948, SB2406, SB2407, SB1882, SB1197, SB1814, SB618, SB38, SB393, SB2065, SB1371, SB1394, SB1365, SB2243, SB2226, SB2039, SB1919, SB1895, SB1598, SB1493, SB1810, SB1791, SB1706, SB1644, SB1238, SB783, SB458, SB22, SB651, SB897, SB1809, SB1080, SB745, SB826, SB989, SB1320, SB1437, SB2320, SB2289, SB1171, SB664, SB1637, SB2064, SB868, SJR40, SJR27, SCR38, SCR37, SB1079, SB1243, SB1504, SB1851, SB1879, SB2237, SB1257, SB2034, SB1522, SB883, SB249, SB1318, SB1151, SB596, SB1191, SB226, SB570, SB870, SB991, SB60, SB365, SB1067, SB1786, SB326, SB1401, SB1592, SB1728, SB1265, SB586, SB529, SB217, SB209, SB1923, SB1559, SB1839, SB387, SB1874, SB1872, SB1873, SB1921, SB1883, SB1677, SB95, SB1620, SB1838, SB2024, SB2429, SB1999, SB511, SB2309, SB2166, SB871, SB510, SB33, SB2420, SB1860, SB1541, SB1316, SB1314, SB1313, SB1426, SB1398, SB1869, SB1750, SB1871, SB36, SB855, SB1233, SB760, SB2425, SB2037, SB1758, SB1759, SB2365, SB1924, SB762, SB1271, SB1818, SB605, SB1405, SB1762, SB1968, SB1977, SB2077, SB2148, SB2321, SB1967, SB1662, SB1663, SB2124, SB2204

Keywords: parental rights, education, constitutional amendment, school choice, child education, tax exemption, ad valorem, tangible personal property, income production, constitutional amendment, Texas, moving image industry, incentive program, film production, grant funding, job creation, economic development, ad valorem taxation, tax exemption, franchise tax credit

Summary: The meeting primarily focused on educational reforms, particularly in special education funding. Notably, Senator Bettencourt laid out the transformative impacts of Senate Bill 568, which aims to lift a historical cap on special education funding that affected approximately 775,000 students. The discussions included plans for an intensity-based funding model that could ensure fair distribution of resources depending on individual needs, thereby enhancing educational support for diverse learning requirements. Senators acknowledged past failures in the special education framework, emphasizing the necessity of moving towards a system that is transparent and focused on delivering adequate services.

Transcript Highlights:

• ...college level through this type of work.
• In Texas, we rank sixth in honey production in the United States.
• Bees are having a lot of trouble this year in the United States.
• And, you know, the State of Texas does a great job with bees and habitat.
• We've got a lot of big ranchers that could do it, but they oppose tracking by the state.

Bills: HB147, HB1113, HB1203, HB1269, HB1276, HB1277, HB1437

Keywords: hemp, agriculture, research permit, cannabis regulation, criminal offense, administrative penalty, hemp regulation, Texas agriculture, hemp research permit, administrative penalties, cannabis standards, hemp regulation, agriculture, research permit, criminal offense, administrative penalty, hemp, agriculture, research, regulation

Summary: The Committee on Agriculture and Livestock convened to address several pressing bills concerning agriculture, food systems, and hemp regulation in Texas. Notable discussions revolved around HB1113, which focuses on the production and regulation of hemp, ensuring alignment with federal regulations. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Hemp Coalition, indicated broad support for the bill, citing its potential to enhance agricultural practices and promote research. Additionally, members expressed concerns regarding the implications of food insecurity, advocating for HB1203, aimed at establishing an Office of Food Systems Security and Resiliency to address access to nutritious foods across Texas.

Transcript Highlights:

• Texans will experience homelessness, and on any given night, between 27,000 to 30,000 people in our state

Bills: HB21, HB211, HB223, HB323, HB524, HB530, HB636, HB762

Keywords: housing finance, multifamily residential, low income, tax exemption, audit requirements, affordable housing, local government, development bonds, housing assistance, financial assistance, low income housing, community support, affordability, veterans housing, housing assistance, financial assistance, low income housing, community involvement, air conditioning, tenant support

Summary: The meeting centered around House Bill 636, presented by Representative Wally, which aims to address the growing issue of homelessness in Texas. It was highlighted that approximately 62,000 Texans are expected to experience homelessness in 2024, with significant numbers being veterans and victims of domestic violence. The bill proposes that the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs collaborate with the Texas Homeless Network to create a unified data sharing system. This collaborative effort is intended to enhance communication between various agencies and service providers to improve service delivery for those experiencing homelessness.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm the State Registrar representing the Department of State Health Services, and I'm here to serve as
• of the states.
• We do more than any other state.
• As the previous gentleman stated, we're all for state readiness, we're all for training.
• This is a good way for the state.

Bills: HB39, HB227, HB930, HB1078

Keywords: highway designation, veteran recognition, commemorative, transportation, Brazoria County, Texas National Guard, combat duty, military activation, state requirements, emergency response, Texas National Guard, active combat duty, military service, Congressional action, Governor responsibilities, Texas National Guard, combat duty, Congressional declaration, military activation, state law

Summary: During the meeting, the committee deliberated on several bills primarily focused on veteran welfare and transition issues. One of the main highlights was the discussion of HB39, which proposes to improve data collection on veteran suicide rates, addressing the alarming statistics that reveal veterans are dying by suicide at a rate significantly higher than the general population. The bill seeks to mandate the Texas Department of Health and Human Services to submit aggregate data regarding deceased veterans to the Texas Veterans Commission, ensuring proper analysis and reporting on this critical issue. Witnesses, including mental health professionals and veterans, provided their insights, emphasizing the importance of having accurate data to inform better policies for preventing veteran suicides.

Transcript Highlights:

• It will help wildlife in the state of Texas.
• areas of the state should be avoided.
• Please state your name, whom you represent.
• The bill does not ban the state from creating...
• State agencies should not use...

Bills: SB3074, HB49, HB2440, HB3556, HB3619, HB3866, HB4042, HB4112, HB4271, HB4413, HB4426, HB5033

Keywords: oil waste, gas waste, liability, treatment processes, environmental safety, beneficial use, motor vehicle, air quality, energy source, engine, state implementation plan, construction, wildlife impact, height restrictions, national wildlife refuge, environmental regulations, surface estate, well plugging, Railroad Commission, landowner rights

Summary: The committee meeting covered several significant bills with a focus on environmental concerns and public health implications. Notably, House Bill 2440 was discussed, which aims to prevent state agencies from restricting vehicle ownership based on energy sources, ensuring Texans can choose the vehicles that suit their needs. Representative Curry presented the bill, emphasizing the need for consumer choice and the protection of personal freedoms in transportation policies. The bill left the floor pending after no public testimony was provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• Thank you so much, Father, for the State of Texas.

• Please join me in the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag and the Texas flag.

• I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States

• for the good of the State of Texas, my state, and your God, honor and gratitude.

• State your inquiry.

Bills: HB4, HB1, HB2, HB18, HB19, HB20

Keywords: redistricting, congressional districts, Texas Legislature, elections, 2020 Census, disaster response, emergency management, mass fatality, justices of the peace, training programs, emergency manager license, volunteer management, disaster response, mass fatality, emergency management, justice of the peace training, volunteer management, criminal history checks, state health services, emergency communication

Summary: The meeting focused on various procedural motions and discussions related to the governance of the legislative session. Members addressed issues surrounding the enforcement of specific legislative measures, with motions being presented to put certain procedures into effect. A notable moment was when a motion was made to adjourn the first called session of the 89th legislature, signaling the potential for future special sessions as indicated by several members' comments regarding upcoming legislative matters. The presence of influential members emphasized the significance of the topics laid out, even though specifics on bills and substantial debates were minimal.

Transcript Highlights:

• data-time="180"> to the amendment of an existing comprehensive development agreement for a portion of State

• Please state your name, who you represent, and what you're

• We stated that we're working on the financing, and we

• testified last time I was here that we also don't believe that that's in the best interest of the state

• We're really trying to work with the state of Texas.

Bills: HB2007, HB2462, HB2621, HB2921, HB3187, HB3331, HB3332, HJR144, HB3514, HB3528, HB3539, HB3563, HB3720, HB3726, HB3751, HB3859, HB3947, HB4148, HB4164, HB4337, HB4346, HB4368, HB4706, HB4916, HB4950, HB4967, HB5177, HB5603

Keywords: commercial signs, county approval, transportation code, regulations, road signage, high occupancy vehicle lane, pregnant operators, transportation, parental rights, motor vehicle regulations, live video feed, transportation, state agency, transparency, public safety, confidentiality, personal information, local government, airport data, public records

Summary: The committee meeting involved robust discussions focusing on three key bills: HB791, HB1729, and HB2876. HB791, presented by Representative Gortez, quickly passed through the committee with no objections, relating to approval for Central Catholic High School. Next, HB1729, which concerns term limits for commissioners of the free board, also saw no discussion before being moved favorably to the full House. The final bill discussed, HB2876, was pulled back from subcommittee and addressed amendments to a comprehensive development agreement aimed at enhancing portions of State Highway 130. The chair demonstrated an intent to expedite these measures, highlighting a commitment to advancing local infrastructure projects efficiently. Additionally, public testimony was not on the agenda for this meeting, indicating a focus on internal discussions. Members expressed gratitude for the cooperation shown during the session, suggesting a positive working environment. As the meeting adjourned, it was noted that the upcoming agenda would include numerous bills, ensuring ongoing legislative activity in the following weeks.

Transcript Highlights:

• We would have been cut away from the state.

• We're giving it to the State Board of Education.
• I understand why the State Board of Education would be better than the commission.
• I do fear giving away that power to the State Board of Education.
• Board of Education in the state of Texas.

Bills: HB4, HB54, HB775, HB850, HB1122, HB1249, HB1405, HB2336, HB2757, HB3372, HB3622, HB4442, HB4687, HB4893, HB5089, HB5515, HB5606, SB10, SB24, HB1573, HB3369

Keywords: non-human behaviors, education, Texas schools, policy, regulation, education, funding, teacher salaries, school districts, state budget, non-enrolled students, University Interscholastic League, participation, school districts, eligibility standards, non-enrolled students, University Interscholastic League, school participation, academic standards, Texas education

Summary: The committee meeting focused on House Bill 5089, concerning the creation of new school districts through detachment of existing territories. During the discussions, multiple committee members expressed significant concerns about the implications of the bill, emphasizing the need for community involvement and public voting whenever major district changes are proposed. Witnesses from the Keller Independent School District testified against the bill, highlighting the potential for confusion and the erosion of local control if school boards could make such determinations without voter approval. The testimonies painted a picture of a heated community reaction regarding the handling of the detachment process and underscored a general agreement that any significant changes should require a public vote to ensure accountability and transparency.

Transcript Highlights:

• ...prosecute state election crimes.
• Senators from the state of Texas to the Congressional Redistricting and Special Committee.

• Senate Bill 9 by Bettencourt to State Affairs.

• to State Affairs.
• government to State Affairs.

Bills: SB2, SB3, SB4, SB5, SB6, SB7, SB8, SB9, SB10, SB11, SB12, SB13, SB14, SB15, SB16, SB18, SB34, SB2, SB3, SB4, SB5, SB6, SB7, SB8, SB9, SB10, SB11, SB12, SB13, SB14, SB15, SB16, SB18, SB34

Keywords: flooding, public safety, outdoor warning sirens, disaster preparedness, emergency response, flood warning, outdoor sirens, disaster preparedness, local government, safety measures, flood management, outdoor warning sirens, emergency preparedness, municipal safety, disaster response, disaster relief, emergency funding, flood management, Meteorological forecasting, local government assistance

Summary: This meeting of the Texas Senate during the second called special session focused on a variety of pressing legislative issues. Notably, the session included discussions on multiple Senate Bills including SB2, concerning disaster preparedness measures, and SB3, which aimed to improve early warning systems in flood-prone areas. The Governor's announcement to convene the special session triggered robust debates, particularly regarding the incorporation of stricter regulations on hemp products and funding allocation for disaster relief. The members of the Senate participated actively, with motions proposed for immediate hearings on several bills following their introduction, emphasizing the urgency of the issues at hand. The dynamics were marked by a sense of collaboration among members while grappling with complex topics affecting their constituents.

Keywords: state policy, governance, legislative processes, public concerns, policy improvement

Summary: During the committee meeting, various issues surrounding state policy and governance were deliberated. Although the specifics of bills under discussion were not highlighted, comments from several committee members indicated a focus on improving legislative processes and addressing public concerns. The chairman facilitated discussions that included several points of critique as well as suggestions for enhancement of existing laws. The atmosphere remained constructive despite the complexity of the topics at hand.

Transcript Highlights:

• If you'll state your name and who you represent, and whether you're for or against.
• We are mandated by the state to serve anything in Galveston County.
• But under state statute, we are mandated to service any ports in Galveston County.
• Our pilots are state-commissioned pilots, and we can service that area.
• I mean, we have seven great pilot associations in this state.

Bills: HB2065, HB2462, HB2621, HB3187, HB3539, HB3563, HB3726, HB4164, HB4207, HB4368, HB4706, HB4916, HB4950, HB4967, HB5177, HB4429, HB5597

Keywords: commercial vehicles, parking regulations, residential areas, local governance, land use, traffic safety, high occupancy vehicle lane, pregnant operators, transportation, parental rights, motor vehicle regulations, live video feed, transportation, state agency, transparency, public safety, regional transportation, mobility program, sales tax, public infrastructure

Summary: The committee meeting was marked by detailed discussions on four significant bills, notably HB5597, HB2462, HB4420, and HB4429. Each bill was thoroughly examined, with representatives offering insights and public representatives providing testimony. One of the standout moments was when Representative Leach presented HB2462, which seeks to allow pregnant drivers to use HOV lanes, described as a step toward elevating motherhood and supporting life in Texas. The committee enjoyed robust dialogue around the implications of this legislation, leading to inquiries about potential impacts and reception from the public and other stakeholders. As the meeting progressed, urgent matters pertaining to the other three bills were deliberated, with various opinions being voiced about their respective benefits and drawbacks. Notably, discussions included concerns regarding safety, economic implications, and community impact. After addressing all bills, the meeting concluded with plans for upcoming sessions to explore these topics further. The committee encouraged continued public engagement and input on the matters discussed, emphasizing the importance of addressing community needs through thoughtful legislation.

Transcript Highlights:

• Please state your name and who you are.
• There are technology services and programs in other states that allow multi-state dealers to quickly
• The authority is the state. The state created HCTRA.
• I'm trying to figure out where the state, how the state,
• That's the way the state uses it. That's the way the state uses it.

Bills: HB2065, HB2462, HB2621, HB3187, HB3539, HB3563, HB3726, HB4164, HB4207, HB4368, HB4706, HB4916, HB4950, HB4967, HB5177, HB4429, HB5597

Keywords: commercial vehicles, parking regulations, residential areas, local governance, land use, traffic safety, high occupancy vehicle lane, pregnant operators, transportation, parental rights, motor vehicle regulations, live video feed, transportation, state agency, transparency, public safety, regional transportation, mobility program, sales tax, public infrastructure

Summary: The meeting was centered around the discussions of several bills, primarily focusing on HB3187, which proposes to reduce DART's funding by 25%. This bill drew significant opposition from various members and public witnesses who argued it would severely impact public transportation services in North Texas, especially with the upcoming FIFA World Cup in 2026. Many speakers highlighted the economic consequences, job losses, and diminished accessibility for residents that would result from passing this legislation. Members of the committee engaged in heated debates, with some representatives advocating for the preservation of DART's funding and others supporting the proposed cuts based on financial grievances from certain cities. The meeting ended with a resolve to consider future negotiations among local municipalities instead of pursuing state intervention on the funding issue.

Transcript Highlights:

• We thank you, Father, that we can meet in the great state of Texas, in this beautiful building, Father
• , with all its history of the state of Texas.
• Members and guests in the gallery, please join me in our pledges to the United States and Texas flag.
• I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands
• Texas, one state under God, one indivisible.

Bills: HB4, HB1, HB2, HB18, HB19, HB20

Keywords: redistricting, congressional districts, Texas Legislature, elections, 2020 Census, disaster response, emergency management, mass fatality, justices of the peace, training programs, emergency manager license, volunteer management, disaster response, mass fatality, emergency management, justice of the peace training, volunteer management, criminal history checks, state health services, emergency communication

Summary: The meeting of the Texas House of Representatives focused on ensuring quorum for the ongoing special session and addressing pressing legislative matters. Speaker called attention to the absence of certain members who had not returned, leading to discussions on maintaining attendance and possibly issuing civil arrest warrants if necessary. The discussions also included emphasis on pro-life legislation and property tax protections, as well as addressing safety concerns highlighted by tragic incidents such as those at Camp Mystic. Notably, House Bill 1 focusing on camp safety and House Bill 25 for over-the-counter ivermectin were among the priorities mentioned for upcoming sessions.

Keywords: economic development, infrastructure, transportation, housing, funding allocation, legislative testimony, state resources, project accountability

Summary: The committee also heard testimonials from stakeholders and community members regarding the proposed changes, which sparked debate about the best strategies for implementing economic policies effectively. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to advance key measures to the next stage, highlighting the collaborative efforts of the committee members in addressing state needs while ensuring legislative transparency.

Transcript Highlights:

• You can also see states vary.
• Two other states that emphasize those—well, two of the states that we should aspire to be in terms of
• I live in a big city, and our state is a great big state, so just living in the city doesn't...
• in the United States?
• from the United States.

Bills: HB4, HB54, HB775, HB850, HB1122, HB1249, HB1405, HB2336, HB2757, HB3372, HB3622, HB4442, HB4687, HB4893, HB5089, HB5515, HB5606, SB10, SB24, HB1573, HB3369

Keywords: non-human behaviors, education, Texas schools, policy, regulation, education, funding, teacher salaries, school districts, state budget, non-enrolled students, University Interscholastic League, participation, school districts, eligibility standards, non-enrolled students, University Interscholastic League, school participation, academic standards, Texas education

Summary: The committee meeting was marked by significant discussions surrounding House Bill 4, which aims to reform the Texas public school assessment and accountability system. The bill proposes to eliminate the existing STAAR testing framework and replace it with a nationally norm-referenced assessment that emphasizes growth over year-end testing, promoting a more individualized learning experience for students. This shift was widely supported among educators and stakeholders, with many testifying in favor of creating a system that aligns better with both educational outcomes and community accountability. Notably, there were concerns raised about maintaining adequate oversight and integrity in the assessment process, as well as the timing of implementing these significant changes.

Transcript Highlights:

• In another state that is a centralized IT state, at one point in time, talking to my peer in that state
• dollars with state dollars.
• You know, DIR is DIR with the state of Texas. There are others that are state-based.
• out of state.
• for the state.

Keywords: government efficiency, accountability, public hearings, cybersecurity, state agencies, taxpayer dollars, oversight, modernization, legislative proposals

Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Delivery of Government Efficiency marked the beginning of a new era focused on holding government agencies accountable and eliminating inefficiencies. Chairman Capriglione emphasized the committee's role in modernizing state government, implementing rigorous oversight, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used effectively. The committee plans to address waste, mismanagement, and corruption, aiming for an ambitious agenda over the next 22 months. Discussions included the establishment of public hearings to foster transparency and the development of legislative proposals to drive reform. Several state agencies provided insights into their operations, with a particular focus on how they can better serve the public through increased efficiency and enhanced cybersecurity measures.

Transcript Highlights:

• We focus on federal and state policy, but mostly state policy.
• The state resources benefit everybody.
• The state does not have to do this on its own.
• According to the 2022 State Water Plan...
• Other states are investing billions to leverage ports as an economic tool for their state.

Keywords: water management, desalination, Corpus Christi, drought, Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus, state funding, economic impact

Summary: The meeting focused primarily on water management issues related to the ongoing drought in Texas, particularly concerning the need for new water sources such as seawater desalination. Testimonies highlighted the critical status of local water supplies and the urgency of projects designed to secure future water availability. A noteworthy discussion revolved around the upcoming Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus and desalination plant in Corpus Christi, which is aiming to become Texas's first municipally owned facility of its kind. Various stakeholders emphasized the importance of timely state support and funding in expediting these projects to mitigate water shortages and their potential economic impacts on the region.

Transcript Highlights:

• State Affairs will come to order.

• a federal directive is unconstitutional and prohibiting a state
• constitutionality of a federal directives that hurt our state
• they said to shut down your churches, law enforcement could not go out, as we saw on TV in other states
• You know, we've discussed this a couple of times regarding state sovereignty, and I am an absolute

Keywords: House Bill 796, federal directives, state sovereignty, committee substitute, Senator King, Senator Birdwell, Senate proceedings

Summary: The meeting of the committee primarily focused on House Bill 796, which seeks to establish a framework for the legislature to declare federal directives unconstitutional. Senator King introduced a committee substitute that provided a detailed explanation of the bill's intent, emphasizing the importance of state sovereignty in opposing what they deem unconstitutional actions from the federal government. The discussion included various viewpoints on how effective the bill would be in empowering the state against federal overreach. Senator Birdwell moved to adopt the substitute without any objections, indicating broad support for the measure. The bill was subsequently reported favorably to the full Senate for further consideration. In addition to HB796, SB707 was mentioned as part of the discussions but did not receive as much focus as the primary bill. The committee sessions were indicative of a collaborative effort amongst the senators to assert Texas's legal stances on federal directives, pushing forward with legislation intended to protect state rights. With a quorum present, the session was efficient and concluded with a sense of purpose and agreement on future proceedings.