Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'constitutional amendment'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Mar 6th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I move to suspend the three-day constitutional rule

  • amendment to state affairs.
  • Senate Bill 159 by Birdwell proposes a constitutional amendment
  • SJR 61 by Hall proposes a constitutional amendment

  • SJR 61 by Hall proposes a constitutional amendment regarding
Summary: The meeting focused on several significant bills, including SB703, which addresses the criminal and licensing implications for various massage establishments and was aimed at aligning state laws with federal regulations by closing existing loopholes. Senator Zaffirini played a vital role in facilitating discussions on multiple bills, including SB21, which proposes the establishment of the Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, emphasizing the need for Texas to explore forward-thinking financial strategies amidst federal monetary inflation concerns. Additionally, SB790, aimed at streamlining the resolution process for tenant-landlord disputes regarding water and wastewater billing, was also presented, drawing attention to due process concerns but ultimately supported for its efficiency improvements.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations Mar 10th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • the Texas Constitution of 1876, as it is amended from time
  • This could allow for approved constitutional amendments.
  • And it was a very frivolous lawsuit that should not affect these constitutional amendments in my work
  • I have never seen a constitutional amendment vote that's ever close enough that an election contest would
  • But you're right, it would not need to amend the Constitution. Of course, you're right.
Summary: The meeting revolved around various critical discussions, primarily focusing on school safety and the challenges surrounding border security. Key testimonies highlighted the significant strides made in reducing illegal crossings but emphasized the need for continued vigilance against crime and drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl. Members expressed gratitude towards the Texas Senate's supportive role in funding for safety measures and strengthening resources to keep the state safe. Conversations also centered around the implementation of new safety protocols in schools, including the establishment of the Office of School Safety and Security, and how schools are addressing vulnerabilities identified from assessments. Furthermore, the importance of mental health resources was underscored as a complement to physical security improvements within educational institutions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Feb 27th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • President, I move to suspend the meeting, suspend the constitutional order of business, and the constitutional
  • the author of the amendment.
  • Secretary, read the amendment.
  • It's a very brief amendment, Mr. President, and members.
  • I'm opposed to the amendment.
Summary: The meeting of the committee was led by Chairman Johnson and included several items of discussion, with a notable focus on the confirmations of appointments to various boards, including the Texas Juvenile Justice Board and the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Senator Parker initiated a discussion regarding the significance of these appointments, emphasizing their potential impact on the respective organizations. Additionally, resolutions were adopted through voice votes, reflecting a collaborative effort among the committee members to push forward various legislative tasks. The meeting was characterized by active participation from both the senators and the public present in the gallery, ensuring diverse opinions were represented.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs May 27th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • or other measures in the Constitution, such as the First Amendment, or any other provisions within the
  • Constitution.
  • Constitution, I guess, and once it's determined, we would by
  • joined together and stood up and passed a bill that made Texas a sanctuary state for the Second Amendment
  • and within their constitutional authority to do it, but they
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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Jan 27th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • , so any changes would require constitutional amendments.
  • , then changes will require constitutional amendments.
  • , so changes would require constitutional amendments.
  • It would require a constitutional amendment, I would think.
  • It would require a constitutional amendment, I would think.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Finance Committee was marked by extensive discussions around the budget proposals for various judicial services and the impact of proposed salary increases on staffing. Notably, there were concerns raised regarding a significant attorney shortage in rural areas, which has seen a 27% decline in attorneys taking positions compared to previous years. Scott Ehlers highlighted a crucial $12 million funding request aimed at addressing this shortfall to maintain the adequate operational capacity of indigent defense services across the state. The committee members, led by Chairman Hinojosa, emphasized the importance of finding solutions to improve legal access and representation in underserved areas to respond effectively to this critical issue.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • That's the issue of violations of the 14th Amendment or 15th Amendment of the Constitution.
  • or the 15th Amendment.
  • The 14th Amendment or the 15th Amendment, and I'm glad you
  • The amendment to the United States Constitution prohibits
  • Constitution, and more so recently, but do you remember the first Texas Constitution?
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting was convened to discuss the redistricting process in light of ongoing concerns over gerrymandering and the potential impact on fair representation, particularly for communities of color in Texas. Chair Phil King welcomed committee members and emphasized the importance of public participation. Throughout the meeting, numerous witnesses provided testimony, raising urgent issues regarding how proposed changes to congressional districts would affect the political landscape, local representation, and disaster response efforts in the wake of recent events. Many speakers highlighted a sense of urgency, as they felt that the focus on redistricting was a diversion from pressing matters such as disaster recovery and climate response.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 21st, 2025 at 10:08 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Please read the amendment: Amendment by Walle.
  • will read the amendment to the amendment.
  • will read the amendment to the amendment: Amendment by Howard.
  • Howard to explain the amendment to the amendment.
  • And does that require a constitutional amendment or anything?
Bills: HB1, HB2, HB3, HB5, HB20, HB22
Summary: The committee meeting conducted a thorough review of multiple bills aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and response in Texas. Key discussions focused on HB1, the Resident Youth Camp Emergency Plans, presented by Mr. Darby, which emphasizes creating emergency plans for youth camps following tragic incidents. The bill received broad support and passed mostly unanimously, highlighting a collective commitment to improving safety for vulnerable populations. Another significant piece of legislation, SB2 by Mr. King, aimed at disaster recovery and preparedness, also saw robust discussions, resulting in a passing vote that underscored the necessity of establishing clear emergency management protocols at local levels.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce Mar 18th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The AR-50 proposes a constitutional amendment that prohibits the legislature from imposing any such taxes
  • Why a constitutional amendment prohibiting the legislature
  • And that's where this constitutional amendment came

  • How would failure to pass this constitutional amendment threaten retiree benefits?
  • Is that constitutional amendment as well?

    Yeah.

Summary: The committee meeting was marked by a series of discussions regarding several bills aimed at improving local regulations, particularly around food service operations. Members discussed the challenges of regulatory inconsistencies affecting restaurants and the food industry, emphasizing how Senate Bill 1008 could alleviate some financial burdens. Various stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Restaurant Association, testified in support of this bill, highlighting the need for clearer and more predictable regulations. The discussions included provisions that would cap local permit fees, preventing duplicate charges that hinder small businesses' operations. Notably, there was strong bipartisan support demonstrated as numerous bills were reported favorably with unanimous votes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session (Part I) Aug 6th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • There is an amendment.
  • For amendment number one by Middleton and Birdwell.
  • This is just a clarifying amendment to clean up language.
  • Hearing none, the amendment is adopted.
  • Senator Hinojosa, you're recognized to speak on the amendment.
Bills: SB15, SB9, SB7
Summary: During this committee meeting, significant attention was directed towards property tax relief and reform, notably through discussions led by Senator Bettencourt regarding the upcoming options for homestead exemptions that would be voted on in November. The committee also reviewed a series of bills, including Senate Bill 9, which was presented as a committee substitute. There was a strong emphasis on how the legislation aims to streamline tax guidelines for local government expenditures while balancing taxpayer relief against budgetary constraints. The meeting was characterized by a collaborative atmosphere where committee members shared insights and feedback on the various bills under consideration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 29th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I think the Constitution is more important than any one case.
  • I mean, it is like a sacred document, with amendments, because I wouldn't be a person without amendments
  • people's constitutional rights.
  • The Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees the right to effective legal representation
  • Capital cases have their own unique constitutional jurisprudence and include...
Summary: The meeting focused on several key pieces of legislation aiming to address legal representation issues, specifically regarding indigent defendants and the implications of artificial intelligence in legal matters. Notably, House Bill 3694, introduced by Representative Raymond, sought to regulate the use of AI in creating non-consensual explicit media, establishing stricter penalties. Additionally, House Bill 507, presented by Representative Gervin Hawkins, aimed to enhance the quality of legal representation for indigent defendants in capital cases by establishing stricter standards for appointed attorneys and promoting transparency in legal processes. Testimonies were heard for and against various bills, highlighting strong community engagement and varying opinions on these critical issues.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I just want to be real clear: the First Amendment of the U.S.
  • Constitution and the Texas Constitution...
  • That's not what the Constitution guarantees.
  • Constitution permits exceptions.
  • amendment regarding.
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened for a detailed examination of SB1065. The session was marked by comprehensive discussions surrounding the potential implications of this legislation. Members engaged in dialogue regarding the bill's objectives, with presentations from the bill's author and various stakeholders, highlighting differing perspectives on its necessity and impact. Public input was also sought, allowing for a range of opinions to be expressed, which enriched the deliberative process. Notably, Senator Haldeman emphasized the importance of the bill for improving community resources and addressing urgent needs in public services.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Texas Constitution is clear: all courts shall be open.
  • When you believe that the Constitution...
  • Do you believe that the Constitution excludes the grand jury, or should you have that constitutional
  • We got to make the government follow the Constitution.
  • right as more important than a constitutional right.
Summary: The meeting was primarily focused on discussions surrounding several bills aimed at reforming aspects of criminal justice in Texas. Representative Little laid out HB413, detailing its provisions which aim to prevent pretrial detention from exceeding the maximum time a person could be sentenced if convicted. The bill generated significant discussion, emphasizing the importance of due process and the financial burden of detaining individuals unnecessarily. Public testimonies were presented, with varied opinions on the efficacy and implementation of this bill. Additionally, discussions on HB2507 and HB1418 highlighted the ongoing efforts to improve transparency and reliability in the judicial process, specifically addressing issues related to grand jury proceedings and in-custody informants, respectively. Witnesses from both supporting and opposing sides provided comprehensive insights, showcasing the depth of concern regarding wrongful convictions and the need for reform in testimony verification practices. The committee concluded the meeting with plans for a follow-up session to continue these crucial discussions and potentially advance the bills further.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • This is unacceptable in a constitutional democracy.
  • It should lie with the American people and the Constitution
  • to the fullest extent consistent with the constitutional
  • Our position flows from Article 3 of the Constitution.
  • In my view, it is not compatible with the letter or the spirit of the Fourth Amendment to allow those
Summary: The committee meeting primarily involved discussions around key nominations and pressing legal issues pertaining to the Department of Justice. Notable discussions included the nomination of John Eisenberg for assistant attorney general for national security, where concerns over the revival of the China Initiative were raised. Senators expressed significant apprehensions regarding previous actions taken under this initiative and its implications for national security. Additionally, there were critiques of the broader implications of executive actions that challenge judicial authority, aligning with ongoing dialogues about the integrity of the judiciary and executive oversight.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Sep 3rd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • There's an amendment; the secretary will read the amendment
  • Hearing none, the amendment is adopted.
  • The bills you passed in 15 and 17 had massive support from the public and the constitutional amendments
  • I've got constitutional authority and all..."
  • Members, it's the same amendment, identical amendment we had on HB1.
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 Regular

Jurisprudence Mar 26th, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It's a very high bar, and it should be a very high bar because under our Constitution, the rights that
  • So, Senate Bill 2052 will enshrine this in the Constitution.
  • need to be any amendments when it reaches the other chamber
  • Texas already does that in its own amendments, its own constitution.
  • Any amendments, like, you know, if there's more specificity
Summary: The meeting involved discussions primarily focused on family law and child protection cases, featuring several bills aimed at clarifying legal standards and fee schedules. Notably, Senator Byrd introduced SB2052, which reinforces the parental rights in child custody matters, establishing a presumption that parents act in the best interest of their children. This bill drew support and testimonies from various stakeholders, highlighting the need for clarity in legal proceedings regarding child custody. Additionally, Senator Zaffirini's SB1838 addressed the compensation of attorneys in child protection cases, emphasizing the importance of clear fee schedules to ensure fair compensation. Testimonies from legal experts underscored the existing confusion around attorney fees and the need for standardized procedures. Overall, the committee acknowledged the importance of these bills in protecting children's rights and ensuring fair legal representation for families.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • It's also grounded in the 14th Amendment and Article 1, Section 2 of the U.S. Constitution.
  • Every proposed amendment, here or on the floor, must be able to demonstrate that their proposed amendment
  • , as we don't have any amendments filed for the hearing today.
  • As to amendments, we'll look at each amendment independently, and those decisions will ultimately be
  • , the amendment process for the committee had been...
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Congressional Redistricting focused primarily on the discussion of HB4 and SB4, concerning the redistricting process based on the 2020 Census data. Chairman King opened the session, expressing gratitude to the committee members for their attendance and emphasizing the importance of completing redistricting within the special session's 30-day timeframe. Public testimony was a major component, with numerous individuals voicing their opinions both in favor and against the proposed redistricting maps, emphasizing issues of representation and concerns of racial injustices inherent in the process. The majority of witnesses highlighted the need for immediate attention to pressing issues such as flood relief instead of focusing solely on redistricting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs May 7th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Would that constitute illegal assistance under this bill?
  • Constitution across state lines. I don't want that.
  • of the Constitution that prohibits the establishment of religion?
  • The State could not consistently with the First Amendment and the Fourteenth Amendment utilize...
  • The First Amendment to the United States Constitution

Bills: SB6, SB11, SB33
Summary: The committee meeting was centered around the discussion of two key bills: SB33 and SB11. SB33 received significant attention as it aimed to close loopholes related to local government funding for abortion travel, which several representatives argued was an overreach of governmental power. Testimonies from supporters highlighted the need for this bill to clarify taxpayer protections, while opponents raised concerns about infringing on local autonomy and access to healthcare. The discussion featured passionate inputs from various stakeholders, emphasizing the societal implications of legislations regarding reproductive rights and healthcare services. At the conclusion of deliberations, both bills were left pending, indicating that further consideration is required before moving forward.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 27th, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • H.J.R. 1 by Meyer proposes a constitutional amendment

  • H.J.R. 2 by Garen proposes a constitutional amendment

  • H.J.R. 4 by Meyer proposes a constitutional amendment

  • H.J.R. 6 by Capri Leong proposes a constitutional amendment

  • H.J.R. 1 by Meyer proposes a constitutional amendment to authorize
Summary: The meeting focused on honoring Senator Judith Zaffirini for her exceptional service to the state of Texas, marking her as the first female dean of the Texas Senate. Various members spoke of her achievements, highlighting her dedication to public service and her significant impact on the community and education, particularly for students with disabilities. The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie and deep respect, as colleagues shared personal anecdotes and affirmed her role as a mentor and leader.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Transportation Funding Apr 28th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House S/C on Transportation Funding

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Bill 4523 amends Section 21.105 of the Transportation Code by adding Subsection C, which makes
  • Members, House Bill 4524 amends Chapter 21 of the Transportation Code by adding Sub-chapter C-1, which
  • House Bill 4523 amends section 21.105 of the Transportation Code by adding subsection C, which makes
  • Members, House Bill 4524 amends Chapter 21 of the Transportation Code by adding Sub-chapter C-1, which
  • Keeping the toll on the road forever in perpetuity violates our Constitution, Article 1, Section 26.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on discussions surrounding several notable bills, particularly concerning toll roads in Texas. Chairman Metcalf introduced HB5346, which aims to establish clear mandates for the cessation of tolling once a project's financial obligations have been satisfied. This bill sparked considerable debate, with proponents arguing for taxpayer fairness and control, while opponents raised concerns about potential perpetual tolls disguised as public votes every five years. Witnesses voiced strong opinions both for and against the measures, highlighting the ongoing tensions over infrastructure funding and user fees.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • There's also a constitutional dimension.
  • Constitution.
  • The courts will say there's birthright citizenship under the Constitution.
  • Panuccio, the way that our founders designed our constitutional system.
  • It is because the administration is violating the Constitution.
Summary: During this meeting, the committee focused on the implications of universal injunctions, which have become a significant concern in recent years. The discussion centered around various legislative proposals aimed at addressing the perceived overreach of district judges who issue nationwide injunctions that affect policies across the entire country. Several members expressed the belief that such injunctions undermine judicial authority and disrupt the balance of power between the judiciary and executive branches. Expert witnesses testified about the historical context of universal injunctions and the necessity for reforms that would limit the power of courts to grant remedies benefitting non-parties.

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