Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'agency oversight'
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TX
Transcript Highlights:
- span marker="61" data-time="360"> methods of challenging agency
- My name is Mike Morath, Commissioner of the Texas Education Agency. I am here on the bill.
- There are multiple changes, many of which are binding on the agency in terms of how the agency crafts
- The agency is now required to have rules on the A through F system out by July 15th before the school
The bill also expands legislative oversight of the
Bills:
SB8
Keywords:
Senate Bill 8, STAR test elimination, education accountability, student assessments, Texas education, K-16 education committee, transparent testing, educational standards
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Education K-16 convened to discuss Senate Bill 8, focusing on revising Texas's statewide assessment system by eliminating the STAR test and replacing it with a more efficient structure. This bill was highlighted as an important effort to enhance student accountability and academic performance through three testing phases: beginning, middle, and end of the academic year, to commence in the 2027-2028 school year. During the meeting, various stakeholders including educators and business leaders presented their support, emphasizing the need for a timely, transparent, and actionable assessment strategy that better serves students' educational needs and alleviates the pressure of over-testing in schools. Furthermore, the committee addressed the importance of ensuring assessments align closely with the Texas educational standards and provide teachers with the resources to adapt instruction based on real-time student data.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- It's no oversight at all." And I just want to thank Representative...
- If their license is still active, then the agency, if they became... the agency could appoint them.
- I think some statewide agencies as well, and got feedback.
- Are they licensed and credentialed working for an agency as a reserve?
- We'd prefer them to be employees of our agency.
Bills:
HB2034, HB2436, HB3010, HB3033, HB3138, HB3177, HB3426, HB3686, HB3858, HB4176, HB4257, HB4264, HB4804, HCR98
Keywords:
groundwater, foreign ownership, national security, water permits, environmental health, deadly conduct, firearm, recklessness, peace officer, prosecution, Penal Code, Texas laws, disaster recovery, infrastructure, rural communities, grants, state funding, emergency management, firearms regulation, local government
Summary:
The meeting of the Committee covered various bills with a notable focus on HB3426, which aims to modernize how Texans access and present their driver's license by introducing a digital option. Testimonies from proponents highlighted the convenience and necessity of making identification more accessible in a digital age, while security and privacy concerns around the potential for data mishandling were also addressed. Additional discussions included HB3033, which proposes a donation mechanism for non-profits supporting Department of Public Safety employees, reinforcing community support for those in service.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I think you could ask the agency at some point.
- You would like to ask the agency directly about that.
- We have great agencies, but you know, in the agency process, there's going to be a lot of influence,
- So TMA already has an approved agency.
- Raglan has oversight over all three of those campuses.
Keywords:
healthcare, maternal health, reporting requirements, Texas Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee, health provider immunity, workplace violence, nurses, grant program, healthcare facilities, safety measures, workplace violence, nurses, grant program, healthcare facilities, safety, workplace violence, nursing, grants, healthcare safety, verbal abuse
Summary:
The committee meeting welcomed discussions centered on maternal health, particularly relating to the delays in the Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee's report. The Commissioner noted significant delays due to a backlog in the review process for maternal death cases and staff shortages, essentially making it difficult to meet statutory deadlines. A proposed bill, HB713, aims to allow nurses to access unredacted materials during the review to expedite the Committee's reporting process and address the increasing maternal mortality rates in Texas. The urgency surrounding this legislation indicates the committee's commitment to improving maternal outcomes in the state.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on County & Regional Government Mar 17th, 2025 at 10:00 am
House S/C on County & Regional Government
Transcript Highlights:
- And then the oversight is, like with everyone else here, we're all elected officials.
- Representative Zwiener, you pointed out, what's an oversight?
- So, there's no way for my agency to go against precinct five's agency, the sheriff's office agency, saying
- Big agencies.
- That's probably a larger oversight that's outside the scope of this bill.
Keywords:
law enforcement, sheriff, constable, contracts, county governance, videoconference, county park commissioners, government meetings, public access, legislation, unincorporated communities, grant program, public improvement, rural development, Texas counties, law enforcement, sheriffs, constables, contracts, property owners' associations
Summary:
In this meeting, discussions centered around public safety and law enforcement contracts in unincorporated areas of Harris County. Key bills, including HB336, were examined which aim to allow homeowners and municipal utility districts the right to contract for police services directly, ensuring that these communities have reliable law enforcement amid growing populations. Representatives voiced concerns regarding oversight, fiscal responsibility, and the need for adequate policing coverage, especially as the unincorporated areas continue to expand rapidly without corresponding funding for public safety. Witnesses testified both in support and opposition to the proposed legislation, highlighting the need for accountability and clarity in contracting.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine bridging the gap, focusing on enhancing outreach to support veterans' mental health. Apr 29th, 2025 at 09:30 am
Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- These aren't bureaucratic oversights. They're deliberate choices with deadly consequences.
- Lorraine, do we have enough opportunity for oversight on these grants?
- I think if there is oversight, it's not transparent. We do participate.
- That type of oversight is needed.
- Many of them work in billets that are now outlawed in the agency.
Keywords:
veterans, mental health, suicide prevention, Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Grant Program, HOPE Act, BRAVE Act, Every State Counts for Vets Mental Health Act, advocacy, legislation, mental health resources
Summary:
The committee meeting focused primarily on the critical issues surrounding veterans' mental health and suicide prevention. Discussions centered on the reauthorization of essential programs aimed at providing non-clinical support services to veterans, particularly the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program. Senators emphasized the urgent need for adequate mental health resources as the suicide rate among veterans remains alarmingly high. Key testimonies were provided by various advocates and officials, illustrating both successful implementations of these programs and areas needing improvement.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Apr 8th, 2025 at 10:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- If we already, because every two years, we come in and we review agencies.
- Agency.
- agencies, so it's a much more comprehensive and wider process.
- They review agencies to make sure that they're still needed, right?
- , and I'm sure the agencies will follow.
Keywords:
open meetings, public notice, transparency, government efficiency, taxpayer impact, water infrastructure, bonds, economically distressed areas, financial assistance, water supply, public information, government transparency, civil penalty, recordkeeping, election reports, prosecutor salary, state funding, judicial district, government employees, salary cap
Summary:
During this committee meeting, a range of bills were discussed, focusing primarily on public safety and community health issues. There were significant conversations surrounding HB3159, where members raised concerns about its implications for local law enforcement practices. The bill drew various opinions from committee members, with some supporting its approach to funding police training, while others questioned its efficacy in addressing community needs. Additionally, there was an emphasis on testimony from community representatives, who expressed both support and opposition, enriching the discourse around the proposed legislation.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and Commerce May 23rd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- The bill places the discretion on the agency entirely to
- Chairman and members, House Bill 4748 by Representative Pat Curry relates to state agency.
- However, the state will still provide oversight through the insurer to ensure transparency and solvency
- It also includes financial safeguards and state oversight so churches operate with accountability and
- state agencies where educational experience and training
Keywords:
public records, transparency, workforce policies, healthcare access, dental workforce, Texas legislation
Summary:
The meeting focused on various legislative proposals with notable discussions surrounding bills aimed at improving transparency in public information access, adapting workforce policies for state employment, and addressing public health workforce shortages in Texas. The key highlights included HB4214 which seeks to centralize public records request processes for better accessibility, and HB1803 aimed at enhancing the state's dental workforce through participation in a compact with other states. Several members presented arguments highlighting the necessity of these legislative initiatives in light of ongoing economic and social challenges facing Texas. Public testimonies supported these bills, demonstrating stakeholder engagement and community concerns regarding transparency, workforce efficiency, and health access.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Licensing & Administrative Procedures Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am
House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- The medical board has disciplinary oversight over physicians
- As a result, regulatory agencies are unable to pursue disciplinary actions against those who perform
- SB 378 corrects this oversight by granting TDLR the authority to discipline estheticians and cosmetologists
- > Members, we do have a witness here, Doug Jennings, from the agency
- not regulate or test for mycotoxins, creating regulatory confusion and an inconsistent scope of oversight
Keywords:
elevator inspection, building safety, construction standards, health and safety code, regulatory requirements, public safety, licensing, regulatory measures, cosmetology, driver education, committee meeting
Summary:
The committee meeting covered a variety of bills primarily focusing on public safety, regulatory measures, and licensing issues. Notable discussions included the approval of SB1366, which mandates the inclusion of construction and maintenance work zone information in driver education curriculums, and SB378, which clarifies the restrictions on cosmetologists and estheticians regarding injections and incisions, addressing safety concerns regarding unauthorized procedures. Members actively debated the merits of these bills, with several voiced concerns about the implications for public health and safety. The meeting also saw the passage of several bills without opposition, indicating a generally collaborative atmosphere among members.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Apr 30th, 2025 at 10:04 am
House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- officers at a rate consistent with their peers at other state agencies.
- We more often prefer to refer that to other law enforcement agencies.
- We do oversight with law enforcement agencies.
- For the agency, I'm on my 11th year, almost 12th year as a commissioner.
- That removed any oversight for polygraph in the state of Texas, essentially.
Bills:
HB1065, HB2929, HB2956, HB3009, HB3420, HB3626, HB3649, HB4956, HB4993, HB5293, HB5308, HB5528, HCR118, SB36, HB4023
Keywords:
employee classification, private security, misclassification, workforce regulations, Texas Workforce Commission, autism, peace officers, training program, law enforcement, intervention, communication, developmental disability, family violence, central database, criminal offense, registration, law enforcement, public safety, violent offenses, criminal database
Summary:
The meeting focused on several significant bills concerning law enforcement training, mental health crisis management, and resource allocation. Notably, House Bill 2929 aimed at requiring police officers to undergo specialized training related to autism, was discussed with testimonials highlighting the need for improved understanding of individuals with autism in potential law enforcement encounters. Additionally, House Bill 4993 gathered attention as it proposed measures to enhance the health and readiness of military service members, emphasizing the importance of fitness standards and supportive health programs.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Intergovernmental Affairs Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
With this oversight provided by the Texas Commission
- put us in a bad position as an agency.
- I'm deferring to the agency.
- This balanced approach provides greater flexibility while maintaining oversight.
- It wasn't because of regulatory oversight.
Bills:
HB386, HB1449, HB1701, HB2142, HB2675, HB2857, HB3063, HB3171, HB3641, HB3732, HB4045, HB4370, HB4491, HB4505, HB4626, HB5267, HB5356
Keywords:
construction contracts, change orders, local government, budget limits, Texas legislation, homelessness, housing, community development, higher education, partnerships, political subdivision, personal property, acquisition, local government, cloud computing, government contracts, municipal ordinances, parking regulations, civil fines, local government
Summary:
The committee meeting revolved around significant discussions regarding various housing and firefighter-related issues in Texas. Prominently, House Bill 3171 aimed to reinstate bargaining tools for firefighters that were invalidated by a recent Supreme Court ruling. The bill sparked diverse opinions among stakeholders, with testimonies highlighting the need for effective labor negotiations and concerns about financial implications from local government representatives. House Bill 2142 focused on addressing homelessness through innovative solutions like tiny home shelters, emphasizing collaboration between state, local, and university resources. This bill sought to provide critical mental health services and other supportive measures to the homeless population in Texas, which is notably large and growing.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services (Part I) Mar 26th, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- This ensures that there is external oversight in the decision-making process.
- a state agency that has lost focus, not just on the child
- or the different agencies that keep a database, that do not allow for due process.
- It's no fault of the agency; this is just what's on the books.
- Laws remain on the books granting state agencies authority to adopt minimum gun safety standards.
Bills:
SB397, SB481, SB596, SB760, SB855, SB1195, SB1196, SB1233, SB1257, SB1318, SB1368, SB1388, SB1398, SB1524, SB1558, SB1589, SB1677, SB1792, SB2034
Keywords:
data privacy, consumer rights, technology, business regulation, cybersecurity, emergency preparedness, nursing facilities, assisted living, resident safety, power outage, voting by mail, assisted living, nursing facilities, legal guardian, electoral process, foster care, medical consent, out-of-network, healthcare access, Medicaid
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services convened to discuss various pieces of legislation, addressing critical issues affecting healthcare and social services in Texas. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 481, which mandates backup power provisions for nursing homes and assisted living facilities to ensure the safety of vulnerable residents during outages, and Senate Bill 596, aimed at improving reporting requirements related to child welfare, enhancing the oversight of removals and placements. The committee also reviewed several other bills aimed at supporting healthcare access and enhancing protections for children under various circumstances.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Today, I'd like to highlight some of the achievements we've made as an agency.
- I mean from this agency about how to manage that long term.
- And so we, as an agency, have primacy from PHMSA, the Federal Pipeline Administration agency, and so
- We appreciate the excellence with which you operate the agency.
- There's no commissioner or agency that is not afraid to come in here.
Keywords:
SB786, SB119, SB1186, geothermal injection wells, brine mining, environmental regulations, water management, Texas Railroad Commission, economic growth
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee focused on several key legislative initiatives, including the implementation of new regulations concerning geothermal injection wells as per SB786, and the jurisdiction over brine mining clarified by SB119 and SB1186. Commissioner Christy spoke about the achievements of the Railroad Commission of Texas in regulatory standards and emphasized the importance of updating environmental practices that safeguard groundwater and surface water while facilitating economic growth. Senators expressed their concerns regarding operational impacts on various sectors, highlighting the need for continued collaboration between agencies to address challenges related to water management and environmental compliance.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I think one of the other challenges for the agency is that some of these tests are called PLA codes or
- , limiting the options that other insurance agencies can offer for their clients, creating an unfair
- When contracts are lost, agencies scramble to find the next best option for their clients, resulting
- Texans are wholly unaware of instant determinations of their claims without any human oversight.
- We need to reign that in and just put some semblance of order and oversight in place.
Keywords:
autism, health insurance, coverage, medical treatment, health benefit plan, HIV prevention, prescription drug, prior authorization, health benefits, insurance coverage, insurance, contract termination, property and casualty, insurance agents, discrimination, insurance, appraiser, umpire, licensing requirements, continuing education
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
Energy Resources Mar 3rd, 2025 at 11:03 am
House Energy Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- The adopted rules enhance the agency's oversight of waste management facilities.
- The third thing is oversight and safety.
- We, as an agency, for the last eight years have been giving additional dollars.
So, we as an agency cannot...
- We as an agency cannot change that.
Keywords:
Energy Resources, orphaned wells, produced water, hydrogen production, regulatory policy, environmental concerns, public testimony, Texas energy
Summary:
The House Committee on Energy Resources held its inaugural meeting where members emphasized their commitment to addressing critical issues facing the energy sector in Texas. Chairman Darby initiated discussions focused on legislative priorities, notably the management of inactive and orphaned wells, which have become a significant economic and environmental concern. The committee also discussed the balance between regulatory oversight and industry growth, emphasizing collaborative efforts among members and stakeholders to create effective policy. Testimonies highlighted the importance of tackling concerns related to produced water and ensuring sustainable practices in Texas's vast energy landscape, including innovations in hydrogen production and recycling.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII Feb 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII
Transcript Highlights:
- Corona, I know last session we bumped up a lot of the resources for the agency.
Is the agency looking at this?
- So none of your state agencies deal with any HUB guidelines, like...
- We do report in retrospect which agencies are...
- We have revised our oversight, and we have added staff.
Keywords:
Texas Energy Fund, Public Utility Commission, taxpayer money, funding strategies, electricity regulation, public testimony, resource efficiency
Summary:
The meeting focused primarily on the public utility sector, with significant attention given to the Texas Energy Fund and its anticipated expansion. Discussions highlighted the funding strategies for public utility programs, with representatives questioning the necessity of further taxpayer investments in projects that have not proven their effectiveness. There was substantial debate over the management of resources and efficiency, particularly emphasizing the regulatory responsibilities of the Public Utility Commission. Member concerns were vocalized around the impact of increased spending on local taxpayers, and whether alternative measures could suffice without additional funding.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 7th, 2025 at 10:00 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- modernization effort aimed at enhancing transparency, reducing redundancy in reporting, and aligning oversight
- This bill helps ensure that oversight remains effective without
- From the Department of Banking's perspective, that is the extent of our oversight of that activity.
- There may be other oversight through other agencies at the state and federal level.
- where my mind is going is that's a very broad authority, and then we're essentially directing the agency
Keywords:
money services, regulation, financial services, money transmission, currency exchange, financial compliance, electronic payments, motor vehicles, convenience fee, retail installment contract, fee restrictions, eviction, credit report, tenant rights, property law, housing stability, digital assets, consumer protection, regulatory framework, public retirement systems
Summary:
The meeting of the Pensions, Investments and Financial Services Committee involved detailed discussions surrounding several key bills aimed at enhancing regulatory frameworks and consumer protections. Notably, House Bill 4233, presented by Chairman Capriglione, seeks to modernize regulations for digital asset service providers by addressing earlier ambiguities in reporting requirements while enhancing accountability for the businesses involved. The testimonies from industry stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Blockchain Council, emphasized the need for clarity and streamlined obligations that align with consumer needs. The bill passed favorably without challenges, reflecting strong support from committee members.
Moreover, bills such as House Bill 3014 and House Bill 3474 were discussed, with both successfully moving forward to the full House. HB3014 focuses on fraudulent use of gift cards, while HB3474 deals with public retirement systems' investment reporting practices. The meeting noted several supportive public testimonies and demonstrated the committee's commitment to refining legislation that impacts Texas' financial landscape. Overall, the meeting was productive, indicating a collaborative effort toward regulatory updates in important sectors.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
SB 7 by Perry, relating to the oversight and financing
SB 502 by Perry relates to the oversight of the Health
SB 502 by Perry relates to the oversight of the Health
SB 502 by Perry relates to the oversight of the Health
- 949" data-time="5688">HB 12 by Bell of Kaufman, relating to the review and audit of certain state agency
Bills:
HJR99, HB1399, HB1400, HB1094, HB365, HB1109, HB647, HCR35, SB14, HB12, HB1522, HB422, HB675, HB204, HB748, HB912, HJR99, HB1399, HB1400, HB1094, HB365, HB1109, HB647, HCR35, HCR123, HCR124, HR57, HR87, HR111, HR228, HR230, HR322, HR624, HR625, HR626, HR627, HR628, HR630, HR631, HR634, HR635, HR636, HR637, HR638, HR639, HR640, HR645, HR646, HR648, HR649, HR651, HR652, HR653, HR654, HR664, HR665, HR668, HR675, HR676, HR678, HR679, HR680, HR683, HR686, HR688, HR689, HR694, HR695, HR697, HR698, HR699, HR472, HR622, HR632, HR633, HR643, HR655, HR657, HR660, HR661, HR662, HR663, HR667, HR670, HR674, HR681, HR682, HR696
Keywords:
animal feed, tax exemption, ad valorem taxation, retail, constitutional amendment, animal feed, ad valorem taxation, tax exemption, retail sale, tangible personal property, Texas tax code, groundwater, water conservation, financial assistance, Texas Water Development Board, innovation fund, local conservation districts, transportation protection agreement, funeral services, insurance exemption
Summary:
In this meeting, significant discussions took place surrounding various bills aimed at improving state operations and addressing public concerns. Notably, HB204 was passed, which deals with the annual salary of certain state prosecutors and was presented by Mr. Tepper. The committee also engaged heavily with HB748, titled Trey's Law, which seeks to end the use of non-disclosure agreements in cases of sexual abuse against minors. The bill received a strong response from the members, reflecting a growing concern for child's rights within the legislature. Furthermore, the committee deliberated on HB912, focused on compensation for renewable generation owners, and moved forward with discussions about infrastructure funding reforms, illustrated by SB14's passage.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services May 23rd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- The agency has the authority to reimburse, but it does not cover any legal expenses, no, not with this
- We can go to the agency as we could be the second payer if
- This allows the agency to reimburse them. So, this is mostly civil, this would be...
- Oversight has since shifted to the Department of Insurance, which now manages them through grant oversight
- agency policy documents, advisory committee reports, and
Keywords:
health care, HIV testing, STD screenings, children's safety, intellectual disabilities, employee protections, legislative measures
Summary:
The meeting of the Health and Human Services Committee covered a variety of bills primarily focused on health care service enhancements and legal protections for employees. A notable discussion surrounded HB50, which aims to integrate HIV testing into routine STD screenings, a topic that received unanimous backing due to its potential to reduce the transmission of the virus. There was also significant dialogue around HB2399, which requires courts to provide detailed findings when making safety determinations regarding children's placements, further ensuring transparency and clarity in decision-making processes. The committee deliberated on various aspects of health care accessibility, particularly regarding individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as legislative measures to protect family services workers from damages caused in the line of duty. The session was characterized by thoughtful engagement from committee members and testimonies from various stakeholders.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on County & Regional Government Mar 24th, 2025 at 10:03 am
House S/C on County & Regional Government
Transcript Highlights:
- heroes of our agency, and they're very critical to our mission
- span marker="196" data-time="1170"> They have been expanding those without anyone really providing oversight
- to create a law enforcement agency that is more reliable
- Agency will help us tremendously to provide a safe environment
- with the flexibility to adapt to their unique fiscal needs while ensuring responsible financial oversight
Keywords:
family leave, leave pool, county employee, sick leave, vacation leave, family care, pandemic, guardianship, fencing, reservoirs, local government, regulation, land use, conservation capacity, fencing, reservoirs, local government, land use, conservation capacity, property regulation
Summary:
During this meeting, significant discussions revolved around essential bills, including HB1646, HB605, HB2379, and HB2115. HB1646, aimed at amending the Health and Safety Code, was presented as a means to enhance the operational efficiency of emergency service districts by raising the expenditure threshold for board approval from $2,000 to $50,000. Testimonies from emergency service officials were notably in favor of the bill, highlighting the improved response times and operational flexibility it would provide. On the other hand, HB605 sought to grant the Harris County Hospital District the authority to employ and commission its peace officers, tackling the increasing concerns of workplace violence in healthcare settings, which was addressed with urgency as it aimed at improving safety for both staff and patients. The bill was left pending to allow further considerations.