Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'voting accessibility'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Take a few votes here.
  • Chairman, the Subcommittee on Defense and Veterans Affairs voted this bill forward to you on a vote of
  • Chairman, the Subcommittee on Defense and Veterans Affairs voted this bill forward to you with a vote
  • Chairman, the Subcommittee on Defense and Veterans Affairs voted this bill forward to you with a vote
  • vote on the bill.
Summary: The meeting of the committee involved extensive discussions around several pieces of legislation aimed at improving law enforcement and addressing social issues in Texas. Notable among the bills was HB2217, introduced by Representative Wharton, which seeks to establish a grant program for equipping law enforcement vehicles with bullet-resistant components to enhance officer safety. The bill received support from multiple members who acknowledged the rising violence against law enforcement. Additionally, HB1775, which focuses on the transparency of the rape kit backlog, was also discussed, highlighting the importance of timely evidence collection in sexual assault cases. The committee heard testimonies both in support of and against various bills, showcasing a vibrant exchange of views on public safety measures and law enforcement accountability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part I) Sep 3rd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • So many reasons to vote no against this bill.
  • We take so many votes to help save people's lives and help people, and sometimes we make votes for political
  • In total, there were 17 yes votes, 8 nays, and 1 present not voting; the bill is final.
  • I've never asked for an excuse on the floor; 100% voting record, but...
  • Well, again, I've heard it brought before the body and we vote...
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

Opening Ceremonies of the 89th Legislature Jan 14th, 2025 at 12:01 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • A verification of a vote taken by voting machine shall be a roll call vote with the members seated in
  • not having voted for a nominee may not cast a vote.
  • All votes taken shall be record votes with the vote of each member entered into the House journal.
  • votes in the initial vote shall be in a runoff conducted by a voting machine as provided by section
  • votes cast.
Summary: The meeting of the Texas House of Representatives marked a significant start to the 89th Legislature, highlighted by the election of the new Speaker, Dustin Burroughs. The session began with heartfelt speeches from various members, emphasizing unity and the importance of collaboration in tackling Texas's pressing issues such as property tax relief, educational support, and water infrastructure investment. Members voiced their support for Burroughs, noting his ability to foster an inclusive environment for all representatives. The elected speaker's commitment to transparency and cooperation was a recurring theme throughout the discussions, which set an optimistic tone for the upcoming legislative session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 20th, 2025 at 10:05 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • There is objection; members, vote aye, vote nay, division vote.
  • Bowers voting aye. Show Mr. Reynolds voting aye. Have all voted?
  • Wilson voting aye. All voting aye.
  • Dean voting aye. Have all members voted? Have all members voted?
  • Bolshani voting aye, Mr. Bowe voting aye, Mr. King voting aye, Ms. Gervin-Hawkins voting aye.
Summary: The committee meeting was marked by dynamic discussions surrounding various legislative bills, notably SB1283 aimed at enhancing security in senior retirement communities following tragic incidents in the past. The bill, presented by Ms. Garcia-Hernandez, outlined essential measures including mandatory background checks for staff and a clear communication policy on criminal activities. The meeting also saw vigorous debates on multiple financial resolutions related to the statewide budget surplus, emphasizing the need for strategic allocation to property tax relief, as voiced by several committee members. Tensions arose as representatives questioned local government spending, reflecting a broader concern over escalating taxes across the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Mar 24th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Seeing none, we're going to vote on several bills that we have previously heard.
  • Muñoz: No vote.

  • Muñoz: No vote.

  • This database will be free and publicly accessible, so that everybody knows.
  • It goes up to about 100 votes in the House and 21 or 22 votes
Summary: The meeting of the Ways and Means Committee was marked by significant deliberation on several bills aimed at improving tax policies and supporting community welfare. A noteworthy discussion surrounded HB1256, which proposes tax exemptions for rainwater harvesting systems, reflecting the pressing issue of water conservation amid drought conditions affecting Texas. Representative Zwiener emphasized the necessity of incentivizing families to conserve water, championing the bill as a common-sense solution. The committee also considered HB1632, which aims to make pet food tax-exempt, further engaging legislators in a light-hearted yet crucial dialogue about affordability for pet owners amidst rising living costs. Following these discussions, a series of resolutions and bills were reported favorably out of the committee, including HJR138, which seeks to prohibit a carbon tax in Texas as a precautionary measure against potential economic repercussions. The meeting concluded with clear communication regarding upcoming votes and recommendations for moving these bills forward to the full house. The atmosphere fostered a collaborative spirit as committee members shared their insights on pressing issues, highlighting their commitment to supporting Texas families and communities.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • So we'll be voting on those.
  • Senator Nichols was on the prevailing side of the vote.
  • You guys are standing in the way of a vote.
  • We won’t vote on it now, but we can address it later tonight.
  • Where were we on that vote string?
Summary: The meeting focused on several important bills, including discussions around HB2508, which aims to clarify property tax exemption conditions for surviving spouses of veterans. Additionally, HB1991 was discussed, emphasizing the need for transparency regarding utility charges in municipally owned systems. The chair recognized public testimonies detailing both support and concerns associated with these bills. Comprehensive discussions took place regarding the implications of utility charges on residents, highlighting the importance of accessible information for community members to understand their billing. The committee urged efficiency in reporting mechanisms that relate to municipal operations and accountability to constituents. In addition to the legislations described, the committee was informed of the significant number of bills pending review and decisions were made to prioritize those that were urgent. The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing discussions and a streamlined approach to handling forthcoming bills. Members appeared engaged and responsive to public input, showcasing a collaborative commitment to legislative transparency and community service.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Transportation Funding Apr 14th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House S/C on Transportation Funding

Transcript Highlights:
  • This is done through loans or grants, which the Commission must vote to authorize.
  • We give law enforcement the access and mobility that they need to do their jobs effectively.
  • Texans should never be forced to pay tolls on roads they didn't vote for, so I filed HB 1589.
  • on tolling various roads that all Texans need to access and use to get around.
  • Getting a vote on toll roads.

    Mr.

Summary: The committee meeting centered on several key legislative bills focused primarily on transportation and toll road policies. Notable discussions included HB1589, which aims to require voter approval before any new toll road can be constructed. Representative Dirty emphasized that Texans should have a voice regarding tolling roads they didn't vote for, while opponents argued that this could impede necessary road funding. HB2725, which proposed toll exemptions for first responders, also received significant attention as it seeks to alleviate financial burdens on those who serve the community during emergencies. Witnesses testified on behalf of these bills, providing personal stories and statistics to support their positions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) May 15th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It ensures that even more high-performing educators can access meaningful compensation.
  • We will stop and vote.

  • Is there time for a quick question before the vote?
  • Chairman, in the bill that was before us to vote, I believe that the...
  • I cannot tax or call a bond vote in order to address our facility needs.
Bills: HB2
Summary: The meeting focused prominently on the discussions surrounding HB2, which entails significant investments in public education and aims to reform funding mechanisms to better support students and teachers. Multiple stakeholders, including educators and policymakers, conveyed their support while also voicing concerns about the bill's potential shortcomings. Witnesses discussed the urgent need for increased funding for special education and the necessity of expanding pre-K eligibility for students with disabilities. The testimony highlighted the historical context of the funding model and emphasized the importance of creating equitable solutions for all public school districts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Mar 31st, 2025 at 04:03 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • Right, that federal law does not limit parents' access.
  • Now, we cannot authorize this request that you outlined; we are not granted access.
  • Provision of access to a personal representative or an individual that requests such access is reasonably
  • and possession can actually get that access and possession as ordered by the court.
  • But we don't take a vote.
Summary: The meeting of the Family and Judiciary Committee was productive, with in-depth discussions focused on multiple bills that address important aspects of family law. Notable conversations revolved around HB2495, which aims to clarify the rights of parents regarding their children's education amidst existing ambiguities in lower court rulings. Testimony supporting this bill highlighted the necessity for legal clarity to ensure children can be enrolled in school without delays. The committee also discussed HB3181, which seeks to enhance the enforcement of child possession orders by linking repeated contempt findings to custody modifications, reinforcing accountability for parents who violate court orders.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Delivery of Government Efficiency Apr 16th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So we urge you all to vote no on this. Thank you.
  • , or maybe the criminal's access to information?
  • So yeah, I hope you all vote for this. Thanks.
  • ...vote for many years.
  • We support it and ask you to vote it out favorably. Thank you.
Summary: The meeting of the committee addressed several bills focusing on transparency and innovation in Texas governance. A significant portion of the discussions revolved around House Bill 4990, which seeks to establish an open records hotline to better facilitate public access to government information. Witnesses, including local journalists, strongly supported the bill, citing its importance for accountability in government operations. Other bills, such as HB 4751, focusing on technological advancements, were also highlighted as critical to maintaining Texas's competitive edge in the quantum technology industry. Each bill was left pending for further consideration, indicating ongoing negotiations and a collaborative effort among committee members to refine the proposed legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 2nd, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • To vote, so at this time the chair lays out Senate Bill 968
  • No one else has registered to vote on Senate Bill 968.
  • Last session, which was voted out 27 to 3.
  • Schwertner and Senator Parker will be voting, and then we'll take your bills up.
  • This does not reduce or limit access to immunization.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services convened to discuss several significant bills, including SB968, SB966, and SB437. Senator Zaffirini presented SB968, which aims to modernize podiatry regulations in alignment with current practices, while SB966 involves the licensing and regulation of podiatry, addressing outdated provisions following a 2017 transition to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Both bills indicate a necessary clean-up of statutory language to better reflect contemporary standards in healthcare regulations. Additionally, Senator Hinojosa proposed SB437, which focuses on providing effective regulatory frameworks for chemical dependency treatment facilities, highlighting an urgent increase in demand due to rising substance abuse rates post-COVID-19.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, while we have a full dais, we're going to go ahead and vote on a couple of...
  • The version of the bill we voted out on Monday was a non-legislative council draft.
  • Please vote yes so that we can continue.
  • I mean, I have a sister who's a physician, and I can get access to help.
  • Is there access where they live currently?
Summary: The meeting of the Public Health Committee focused on several significant bills concerning blood donation practices and patient care. Notably, Senate Bill 125 faced opposition from multiple testimonies that raised concerns about the potential risks associated with directed donations. Testimony from representatives of the blood centers highlighted alarming statistics about the increased incidence of infectious diseases among directed donors, urging the committee to reconsider the bill's implications. Supporters of the bill argued for the necessity of such provisions to protect patients with rare blood types, stressing the importance of ensuring their access to appropriate care. As discussions unfolded, the challenges of maintaining a balanced blood supply while accommodating specific patient needs became a central theme.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I urge you to vote against this bill.
  • They had to take action to vote for it.
  • Vote no for the children who do or don't practice any religion in this state, and yes, that means vote
  • Please vote against SB10. Thank you.
  • Vote no on SB 10.
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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Juvenile Justice Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House S/C on Juvenile Justice

Transcript Highlights:
  • So, was there like an official vote?
  • Was there a vote by your organization?
  • At a vote, or y'all didn't have a vote on this specific issue
  • accessing drug courts.
  • Expanding access isn't excusing violence; it's a smarter way to reduce future harm.
Summary: Additionally, House Bill 2147 was discussed, which proposes to expand the use of remote proceedings in juvenile justice, streamlining the process and making it more accessible to families. Supporters highlighted that this efficiency is crucial for ensuring that all parties can participate in hearings, especially as many families struggle with transportation. The meeting concluded with several bills remaining pending, showcasing the ongoing deliberation and consideration of how best to address juvenile crime and justice in the community.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And we can change that by expanding access to petition-based non-disclosures.
  • Please know, this is not just about gaining access to documents.
  • Denying release indefinitely when a system itself blocks access is unacceptable.
  • to vote no on Senate Bill 1610.
  • Please vote no. on Senate Bill 1610.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several legislative bills, primarily related to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) and corrections. Notable discussions included the adoption of committee substitutes for bills such as HB1515, which proposes the TDCJ Sunset Bill, and HB2854, which discusses necessary hospital visits for inmates. The meeting featured extensive participation from members and witnesses, who provided testimonies in support of or opposition to the various bills. The atmosphere remained collaborative, with members showing mutual respect during discussions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • least five community access assets important to economic mobility, including access to jobs, transit,
  • Senator Mendez, I may need your votes; I don't know. I know it's a blast.
  • Let's vote.

    Yeah. All right.

  • So in my mind, they should have 100% of the vote.
  • We probably will be voting a couple.

Summary: The meeting of the committee effectively reviewed and voted on multiple bills pertaining to public safety, affordable housing, and local governance. Notably, Senator Cook introduced SB2262, which grants municipalities authority to regulate automated defibrillators, aiming to enhance public health responses in urban areas. Public testimony was heard on several bills, illustrating community support and concerns, particularly around affordable housing issues raised by Senator Menendez's SB2137, which seeks to improve access to low-income housing by altering existing criteria used by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Additionally, the discussions also touched on the impact of various bills on local governance and property rights, highlighting the committee's aim to address essential services within communities effectively.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine big fixes for big tech. Apr 1st, 2025 at 01:30 pm

Senate Competition Policy, Antitrust, and Consumer Rights Subcommittee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Yet, too often, big tech companies block key access, even to basic information.
  • First, consider API access.
  • Unanimous votes!
  • We actually want equal access. We want a fair market and a seat at the table.
  • And yet, without access.
Summary: The meeting, titled 'Big Fixes, Big Tech', marked the first hearing of the Senate antitrust competition policy and consumer rights subcommittee in the 119th Congress. Chairman Lee opened the session focusing on the urgent need for effective solutions regarding anti-competitive behavior among major tech firms like Google and Facebook, highlighting several ongoing court cases regarding monopolistic practices in the digital advertising and search markets. Key discussions included the limitations imposed on small businesses and innovation due to the dominance of these tech giants, with many testimonies advocating for stronger legislative measures, including the America Act. The act aims to disrupt the monopolistic capabilities of these firms and restore competitive integrity in the marketplace, which has suffered under their oppressive market control.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Juvenile Justice Apr 14th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Juvenile Justice

Transcript Highlights:
  • They have asked the legislature to allow them to add one more judge to the board to prevent tie votes
  • Leave House Bill 5483 pending, and we will be voting a little
  • Currently, access to information in juvenile cases is limited to the prosecutor, the child's parents,
  • Lalani walked in, and we're going to take up his bill, and then we'll be voting after that.
  • I'll have to vote on it, just like Valerie. What are we doing? Voting on House Bill 3882.
Summary: The meeting was focused on several critical bills concerning juvenile justice in Texas, with particular emphasis on reforms to improve support for young individuals in the juvenile justice system. Notable discussions included House Bill 3882, presented by Dr. Lalani, which aims to expand eligibility for job training grants to youth in juvenile justice facilities, enhancing their opportunities for successful reintegration into society. Witnesses testifying in support illustrated the transformative impact of educational programs on at-risk youth. Additionally, House Bill 4923 was highlighted, with Speaker Moody advocating for a shift away from punitive measures against status offenders, emphasizing the importance of addressing root causes rather than criminalizing conduct associated with running away from home. The meeting included participation from various stakeholders, including local officials and advocates for juvenile justice reform, who underscored the urgent need for these legislative changes. The committee's deliberations showcased a strong commitment to fostering a rehabilitative rather than punitive approach to juvenile justice, reflecting broader national trends and best practices in the field. Many members expressed support for the bills discussed, recognizing their potential to positively impact youth outcomes and community safety. The atmosphere was collaborative, with members actively engaging in discussions about amendments and potential adjustments to strengthen the proposed legislation. As the session wrapped up, several bills moved closer to the full committee for consideration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 19th, 2025 at 10:05 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • This is a majority vote; vote aye, vote no.
  • Morales voting nay. Have all members voted? Mr. King voting aye. Have all members voted?
  • Dean voting aye. All voted. Show Mr. King voting aye.
  • King voting aye. Show Mr. Lopez voting aye. Have all voted?
  • Simmons voting aye, Ms. Morales voting aye, Ms. Luther voting aye. Have all members voted?
Summary: The committee's meeting was marked by several key discussions surrounding numerous bills and resolutions. Notably, HCR 9 and HCR 40 were adopted, with representatives urging Congress for reimbursement related to border security under Operation Lone Star. Additionally, HCR 118 showed expressions of support for the warship manufacturing industry, reflecting a strong emphasis on local economic development. Senate Bills 1321, 2143, and 2145 passed various readings, which included provisions regarding law enforcement authority and the adaptability of public improvement districts to conduct meetings virtually. The meeting was well attended and featured numerous votes on significant legislative items, showcasing active participation from both members and the public.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice Apr 15th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Accordingly, a local government must secure votes.
  • Deputies arrived and they were denied access. They entered through a...
  • We'll hold this pending our voting.
  • Hearing none, the vote is closed and we will hold this pending.
  • We'll leave the bill pending for voting in here in a few minutes.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice covered a range of legislative measures focusing primarily on the improvement of mental health services and clarifying procedural aspects of emergency detention for individuals experiencing mental illness. Key bills, such as SB1164, which aims to enhance emergency detention procedures, were discussed. Testimonies from both supporters and critics highlighted the need for clear standards in mental health emergencies to ensure that due process is maintained while providing necessary care. The committee also addressed concerns around legislation impacting community supervision and administration, exemplified by SB663, and how it could streamline budget processes for local agencies. Overall, the discussions emphasized balancing public safety with mental health needs and ensuring fair representation in the judicial process.

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