Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Tax Policy'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

89th Legislative Session - First Called Session Jul 21st, 2025 at 12:07 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Summary: The meeting focused on a series of legislative proposals addressing a variety of critical issues impacting Texas residents. Key discussions revolved around the elimination of the STAAR test in favor of alternative student progress assessments and the regulation of hemp-derived products. Additionally, members expressed concerns over property tax reductions and the ethics of taxpayer-funded lobbying. Public testimonies enriched the discourse, offering diverse perspectives on the proposed bills, indicating strong community interest and involvement in these legislative matters.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Sep 3rd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Receive the lion's share of the policy reforms that have been
  • at the State House, Senator Creighton has consistently upheld conservative principles, advocated for tax
  • He approaches education policy not as a partisan issue, but as a moral one.
  • A certain legislation that was not good public policy

  • ...the fuel tax, which made every distributor in the state
Bills: SB8, SB1, SB2, SB5, SB10, HB27, HB7, HB17, HB1, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB20, HB18
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several significant legislative actions, particularly in relation to youth camp safety reforms. Senator Perry presented the committee substitute for HB1, emphasizing the collaborative effort with the House to enhance youth camp emergency preparedness following tragic events in the community. The bill, which maintains essential safety provisions, was received positively and passed without opposition. Additionally, discussions highlighted the importance of funding for flood management and the need for ongoing dialogue around public safety enhancements, including interoperability among emergency services. Overall, the meeting reflected a strong commitment to community safety and legislative integrity.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part I) Sep 3rd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • climate policies on Texans, this legislature would be outraged
  • is not what ought to be driving policy for the state of Texas
  • You can't have a tax rate.
  • Guide Texas policy.
  • A study just came out, the Ethics and Public Policy

Bills: SB8, SB1, SB2, SB5, SB10, HB27, HB7, HB17, HB1, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB20, HB18
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on the discussion and passage of several significant bills, including HB20, which aims to prevent and reduce fraudulent charitable solicitations during disasters. Representative Perry highlighted the importance of this bill in ensuring that legitimate organizations receive donations while deterring scams that occur in the aftermath of disasters. The bill was passed unanimously with discussions around its necessity and the impact on victims of fraud. Further, House Bill 18 was discussed concerning penalties for legislators attempting to break quorum, a topic that stirred some debate on legislative integrity and rules enforcement. Members voiced varying opinions on the implications of the bill, leading to its eventual passage amid objections from some members who raised concerns about its enforcement mechanisms and potential for misuse. Overall, the meeting was well-attended, with members actively debating key issues while striving for legislative progress on these critical bills. The audience included public stakeholders who expressed their views, showcasing the engagement between legislators and constituents on pressing matters.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Listen, I want to thank you all for bringing great public policy.
  • in tax cuts.
  • Lots of folks pay that sales tax, so we want to know that. So if Mr.
  • I hope when we make our policy, we're making policy on the complete picture.
  • They pay taxes. And so, yes.
Summary: The meeting facilitated a thorough examination of various legislative matters including the passage of significant bills such as HB451, which focuses on enhancing screening for children at risk of commercial sexual exploitation. Representative Thompson advocated for the bill by highlighting Texas's ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking and safeguard vulnerable children in foster care and the juvenile justice system. The bill passed with unanimous support, indicative of a strong consensus on the need for protective measures. Additionally, the committee addressed HB120, which aims to expand career and technology education, emphasizing its crucial role in preparing students for high-demand job markets in Texas. This bill also passed, furthering the committee's commitment to improving educational outcomes for students across the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development Mar 24th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The fact that Texas has low corporate taxes and no income taxes only gets us so far.
  • Not dissimilar to property taxes and those... Similar to sales tax.
  • In my role, I provide counsel to our tax operations and tax policy teams regarding state and local taxes
  • But in terms of hotel occupancy tax, that fee is not taxed, and that policy comes out of some court cases
  • It's a policy choice as to whether we want to start taxing something that we're presently not taxing
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Economic Development Committee featured substantial discussions around several key bills aimed at advancing various sectors in Texas. Notably, Senate Bill 529 was supported by multiple stakeholders, including the Mayor of Midland, emphasizing its importance in allowing the city to access sales tax incentives that could bolster economic growth. The committee unanimously recommended several bills for certification, indicating a strong consensus among members on the proposed legislation's benefits. The focus on job creation and supporting local economies was prevalent throughout the meeting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health May 5th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This continuum of care for families is essential pro-life policy.
  • There are no new fees or taxes, and it gives families across Texas a safe way to protect their homes
  • It does not reflect current agency policy, nor does it comply with changes made by the legislature.
  • 75 would require state and local agencies employing these professionals to adopt a mental health policy
  • to adopt a mental health leave policy for corrections and
Summary: The committee meeting included a range of discussions on various bills, notably focusing on mental health and public safety. Senate Bill 528, aiming to improve accountability in mental health treatment for individuals found incompetent to stand trial, received significant support from public testimonies. Witnesses emphasized the need for better coordination and transparency in service provisions, shedding light on the backlog of individuals requiring forensic mental health services in Texas. Additionally, Senate Bill 1388 was discussed as a means to enhance the Thriving Texas Families Program which supports women and families facing unplanned pregnancies, garnering both endorsements and concerns about its implementation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate SessionOpening Day of the 89th Legislature Jan 14th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • President, you know that the Senate was not the bastion of tax-cutting 10 years ago that it is today.
  • 107" data-time="3180"> **Senator Betancourt**: And in that contentious first debate about property taxes
  • And he was challenged by a senator that was not a fan of tax

  • now, which is a supermajority vote for taxes.
  • If you're going to raise taxes, you have to do it with

Bills: SCR7
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee was marked by a robust discussion focused on Senate Bill 1760, which centered around crucial tax relief measures. Senator Creighton, the sponsor of the bill, passionately shared his experiences and the importance of tax cuts for the constituents of Texas, emphasizing the need for fiscal responsibility and community support. The Senate also witnessed nominations for key leadership positions, setting forth a collaborative tone for the upcoming session. Governor Abbott's address highlighted the importance of unity and effective governance amidst the challenges ahead, including managing the state's substantial budget surplus.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations May 8th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The ESF is funded by oil and gas tax revenue.
  • Lower the taxes.
  • I mean, we could solve this quote-unquote problem by just lowering the tax rate on the severance taxes
  • Raise taxes on our taxpayers for the tax reforms that we've
  • relief, property tax...
Bills: SJR4
Summary: The meeting focused on Senate Joint Resolution 4, which proposes to raise the constitutional cap of the Economic Stabilization Fund from 10% to 15%. Members engaged in a comprehensive discussion regarding the potential implications of this increase, especially in relation to Texas's long-term financial liabilities. Concerns were raised about maintaining adequate reserves while simultaneously addressing the need for taxpayer relief, especially considering factors such as property tax compression and future economic downturns. Various members voiced their opinions on the balance between saving for potential future needs and returning money to taxpayers, fostering a vigorous debate on the state's fiscal strategy and priorities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce Mar 4th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Every single line of our policies is carefully negotiated.
  • Policies are not available there.
  • They do not have this in the insurance policies that I've seen.
  • The Center for Public Policy Priorities. I'm primarily here; there's quite a robust...
  • Next go around, the policy is not renewed with no reason given.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Business included significant deliberations on multiple bills, specifically SB765, SB929, and SB455. Notably, Senator King advanced SB765 amid discussions on its committee substitute, clarifying issues related to confidentiality protections for law enforcement. The committee unanimously adopted the substitute, indicating broad support. Moving on, SB929 was similarly discussed, with minor amendments clarified before being favorably reported without objections. This reflects a positive atmosphere aimed at smoothing the legislative process for these initiatives. Senator Melton presented SB455, which addresses Texas law and arbitration for surplus lines of insurance that faced a veto in the previous session. This bill aims to establish arbitration processes that are more favorable to Texas policyholders by mandating that disputes be governed by Texas law and conducted within Texas. Stakeholders voiced strong support for this bill, emphasizing the importance of upholding Texas jurisdiction over such disputes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

State Affairs Aug 26th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Because I don't want money to trump public policy in the few times that we're supposed to actually do
  • ...public policy.
  • However, we have to, in my opinion, let public policy be paramount, whether in a regular session or in
  • Correct, and I believe it's correct policy; then we should
  • I believe that you have to have a separation between a public policy period and a fundraising period.
Bills: SB53, SB54, HB16, SB19
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss several significant bills, including SB19, SB54, HB16, and SB2217. A major focus was the potential changes to fundraising rules during special legislative sessions, aimed at aligning policies for regular and special sessions. Senator Bettencourt presented SB19, which prohibits political contributions during special sessions, raising questions about the implications for ongoing fundraising activities. Additionally, the committee reviewed SB54, which seeks to amend recent changes around voting procedures to prevent misunderstandings related to voter registration within counties. The session featured robust discussions, particularly surrounding the balance of regulations and the need for clear public policy. The meeting concluded with several bills moving forward positively, highlighting the collaborative effort among members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 6th, 2025 at 10:05 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • The sport of golf drives $14.2 billion in total economic impact, $1.3 billion in tax revenue for Texans
  • This extends the current policy in Collin County for health care for indigents.
  • It puts in place a policy for us to understand why it is that we are doing what we're doing.
  • Taxes! Is there anything in your bill to cut taxes in the state of Texas? Absolutely.
  • The school districts will retain full authority over how policies are developed and implemented.
Bills: HB1535, HB123, HB111, HB180, HB342, HB1027, HB1178, HB610, HB1277, HB1615, HB1620, HB5342, HB4885, HB4751, HB4689, HB4530, HB4488, HB2149, HB2041, HB2071, HB1813, HB2282, HB2248, HB2243, HB2522, HB2310, HB2513, HB2300, HB1902, HB3719, HB4284, HB4327, HB3743, HB3778, HB3801, HB5153, HB5147, HB4877, HB4850, HB3158, HB3261, HB3005, HB3033, HB3138, HB3099, HB2849, HB2967, HB3488, HB3477, HB3466, HB3396, HB3469, HB2594, HB2776, HB2564, HB2298, HB5331, HB5646, HB5247, HB5323, HB2015, HB4384, HB3896, HB4014, HB3627, HB3594, HB2524, HB510, HB561, HB5111, HB5446, HB1181, HB3963, HB2785, HB1661, HB2460, HB24, HJR138, HB3800, HB42, HB129, HB677, HB668, HB2128, HB2038, HB2316, HB3686, HB2563, HB1160, HB3883, HB2788, HB2663, HB3305, HB3474, HB1105, HB3490, HB3597, HB1295, HB3512, HB3783, HB2017, HB3010, HB3112, HB4215, HB3223, HB3464, HB3120, HB4214, HB4081, HB4783, HB4063, HB2783, HB5085, HB2510, HB3426, HB4361, HB1169, HB2516, HB4700, HB3560, HB3860, HB3146, HB184, HB198, HB247, HB367, HB449, HB1778, HB514, HB632, HB2582, HB766, HB2715, HB2712, HB3069, HB3505, HB1269, HB4224, HB5032, HB2240, HB5180, HB3348, HB4668, HB4665, HB3395, HB3157, HB4395, HB4325, HB4386, HB4273, HB2760, HB2820, HB1828, HB1579, SB2349, SB1268, SB610, SB1577, SB1369, SB2032, SB2034, SB1057, SB1044, SB922, SB1759, SB1143, SB1506, SB1403, SB2361, SB870, SB372, SB72, SB1583, SB2314, SB1267, SB1273, SB765, SB552, HB2145, HJR112, HB1804, HJR110, HB1194, HB1531, HB5008, HB3421, SCR27, HB5398, HB1407, HB426, HB1535, HB123, HB1773, HB1871, HB2035, HB2448, HB2492, HB1411, HB4753, HB4666, HB4529, HB1499, HB1610, HB2028, HB1506, HB886, HB3546, HB796, HB223, HB1475, HB3556, HB4638, HB111, HB180, HB342, HB1027, HB1178, HB610, HB1277, HB1615, HB1620, HB5342, HB4885, HB4751, HB4689, HB4530, HB4488, HB2149, HB2041, HB2071, HB1813, HB2282, HB2248, HB2243, HB2522, HB2310, HB2513, HB2300, HB1902, HB3719, HB4284, HB4327, HB3743, HB3778, HB3801, HB5153, HB5147, HB4877, HB4850, HB3158, HB3261, HB3005, HB3033, HB3138, HB3099, HB2849, HB2967, HB3488, HB3477, HB3466, HB3396, HB3469, HB2594, HB2776, HB2564, HB2298, HB5331, HB5646, HB5247, HB5323, HB2015, HB4384, HB3896, HB4014, HB3627, HB3594, HB2524, HB510, HB561, HB5111, HB5446, HB1181, HB3963, HB2785, HB1661, HB2460, HCR98, HCR92, HCR126
Summary: The meeting involved significant discussions on a variety of bills, notably including the passage of HB3305, which relates to the continuation of health care provider participation programs in certain counties, and received overwhelming support with 106 ayes. Another critical bill discussed was HB3474, which amends the evaluation and reporting of investment practices for public retirement systems, passing unanimously with 147 ayes. Additionally, there was debate surrounding HB2149 concerning non-conforming land uses post-zoning changes, which drew a point of order due to concerns over misleading analysis. The meeting showcased an active participation from members, with a focus on health care and zoning issues as debated by various representatives along with public testimonies incorporated into the session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education Mar 27th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the Education Policy Advisor at Texas 2036. I'm proud to testify in support of House Bill 2196.
  • I'm the Deputy Associate Commissioner of Authorizing and Policy at the agency.
  • We've got 36 years of ineffective kindergarten readiness policy behind us to this point, and that is
  • But if we enact appropriate kindergarten readiness policy, we can significantly reduce the investment
  • more paperwork than a tax accountant during filing season
Bills: HB117, HB2196, HB2689, HCR64
Summary: The committee meeting focused on the discussion of several educational bills, notably HB2196, which aims to create a comprehensive framework for virtual and hybrid learning in Texas public schools. Chairman Bell and other committee members emphasized the significance of this bill, stating that it aligns with bipartisan recommendations for enhancing access to education. Testimonies from educators and parents were heard, echoing admiration for the potential of virtual learning to provide flexibility to students, especially those with specific educational needs. There were also concerns voiced regarding provisions within the bill that could affect traditional educational frameworks, sparking vigorous discussions among committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Is that a bad policy?
  • We don't have any authority over federal policy and immigration policy and so forth.
  • taxes, sales taxes, and, on and on, for their time here.
  • Everyone who works here in Texas pays taxes. We all pay sales tax when we shop here.
  • taxes as well.
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

Public Education May 15th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So does this just require a school board to make a policy on it?
  • They won't have to make a policy.
  • the state policy.
  • This policy makes it easier for us to collaborate, right?
  • And that would be a requirement of the policy that's adopted by the district.
Summary: The meeting of the committee revolved around several significant bills aimed at enhancing educational policies within the state. Among these, SB413 sought to improve transparency in school board decisions, allowing voters easier access to meeting minutes and votes. There was considerable discussion about the challenges parents face in acquiring information, emphasizing the need for timely publication of school board actions online. Meanwhile, SB571 aimed to address educator misconduct and enhance protections for students by expanding the do-not-hire registry. Committee members voiced strong support, highlighting the bill's importance in safeguarding children against potential abuses within educational settings. Public testimony reflected both excitement and concern regarding the proposed measures, leading to an engaged dialogue among the representatives present.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce May 8th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Its use of tax dollars to make direct subsidies to private
  • The Energy Information Administration doesn't include tax
  • The tax investment and others... and I think some people
  • living centers and assisted living facilities, from being named beneficiaries on a life insurance policy
  • I'm the advocate and Policy Director at Texas Parent to Parent. We're a statewide non-profit.
Summary: The meeting was a thorough exploration of multiple bills, most notably focused on innovative energy solutions and public safety enhancements. Key discussions centered around HB14, which aims to bolster the state's nuclear energy capabilities through the establishment of a Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office. Senators and expert witnesses discussed the potential of nuclear power as a clean energy source and a strategic necessity for Texas's growth. There was strong support for the bill, with various stakeholders highlighting its importance for the future energy landscape. Additionally, other bills like HB132 addressed the need for enhanced confidentiality protections regarding sensitive information, while HB1584 sought improvements in power restoration procedures during emergencies. Overall, the committee engaged with multiple viewpoints, balancing innovation with safety and ethical considerations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) May 26th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Summary: The meeting appeared to lack substantial content, primarily focusing on procedural matters rather than engaging discussions on specific topics or bills. A motion was made by Senator Paxson to recess the meeting, which was accepted, indicating a brief interruption in proceedings. There were no notable discussions or testimony recorded that highlighted the meeting's purpose or advancements on legislative items. This may have contributed to a less vibrant atmosphere, with minimal public engagement observed.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It also exempts them from all property taxes.
  • Have Ayala brought us a tax raise bill? No, I'm not going to do that.
  • Without it being a taxing entity, how are you getting your funding?
  • Yes, as commercial development grows, so does the tax base.
  • This tax helps reduce the burden of residential property taxes.
Summary: The Committee on Natural Resources convened to discuss two key pieces of legislation, HB2867 and HB2876, focusing on late fees associated with water and sewer services in Texas. Representative Gates laid out HB2867, highlighting the financial implications of payment deadlines and fees that disproportionately affect low-income households. He emphasized the need for limits on late payment fees to protect these vulnerable consumers from potentially abusive practices. A committee substitute was proposed to clarify some ambiguous language within the bill, aiming to promote fairness and transparency for customers. This led to a robust discussion among members and stakeholders present at the meeting, including testimony from representatives of municipal utilities who raised concerns about local control over fee structures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • removing a TRA board member, establishes board member training requirements, and requires TRA to adopt policies
  • We've long had a policy of having real estate disclosures intended to inform purchasers of risks and
  • To live in the county, there's not as many taxes and

  • My name is Rachel Haynes, and I'm the Policy Director for the Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance in San
  • I'm the policy director of the Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance, and we are in favor.
Summary: The meeting of the committee was primarily focused on water management and infrastructure issues, highlighted by discussions surrounding several bills intended to address water supply and flood control. Representative Kitzman presented HB1535, which aims to extend the sunset review date for the Trinity River Authority, ensuring continued governance and operational improvements. Furthermore, HB3915 was introduced as a multi-purpose flood mitigation measure, offering solutions to the severe water scarcity in the region, particularly following recent catastrophic flooding events that emphasized the urgent need for improved water management. Public commentary reflected a strong interest in flood mitigation strategies, especially given the impacts of climate change and rapid population growth in the area.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management Apr 17th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • is currently receiving service from an emergency services district, remove that area from the ESD's tax
  • Additionally, House Bill 5437 does not create a new taxing
Summary: The committee meeting focused on a variety of bills, with notable discussions surrounding the challenges faced by municipalities in managing growth and public safety. Bills such as HB447 and HB3897 sparked conversations on the impact of Municipal Utility Districts in high-density areas and the necessity of thorough traffic impact assessments before approving new developments. Representative Cook highlighted concerns over a specific project related to HB3671, which aimed to dissolve a municipal district due to contradictory prior agreements. Public testimonies included concerns from residents, signaling the tension between development needs and public safety requirements.

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