Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senate Committee on Finance'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Local Government Aug 1st, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Okay, the Senate Committee on Local Government will come

  • Senator Bettencourt sends up the committee substitute for Senate Bill 9, and the chair recognizes Senator
  • And that's why Senator Perry and Representative King are chairing that committee.
  • My solutions are this: If Senate Bill 9 is going to pass, one provision...
  • Based on the committee substitute, we would stay at the three and a half percent.
Bills: SB9
Summary: The Senate Committee on Local Government met to discuss the implications of Senate Bill 9, which focuses on property tax appraisal reforms. The bill's primary goal is to lower the voter-approved tax rate from 3.5% to 2.5%. During the meeting, various stakeholders provided testimony, highlighting concerns about the potential impact of the cap on local governments, especially in rapidly growing areas. Senators engaged in extensive discussions about the balancing act between tax relief and the need for robust public services, emphasizing the need for local flexibility to meet constituents' needs. The bill faced opposition from local officials who argued that the cap could hinder essential services like police and fire departments, as well as infrastructure maintenance.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Anyone else wish to testify on, for, or against committee substitute Senate Bill 2497?
  • Senate sponsor Zaffirini laid it out to this committee.
  • There is a committee substitute. Senator Perry sends up the committee.
  • The committee substitute for Senate Bill 2497 is reported favorably to the full Senate.
  • Could I be shown voting no on Senate Bill 2497?
Summary: The committee meeting was marked by significant discussions around various bills, especially those related to water quality and public utilities. House Bill 2692 was presented to simplify and clarify the enabling legislation for the San Antonio River Authority, highlighting improvements necessary for effective governance and administration. Additionally, there were discussions on Senate Bill 2497, which mandates public water systems to install filtration systems to ensure safe drinking water in communities facing water quality issues. Witnesses emphasized the financial burden and the need for more flexibility in solutions to address water contamination without imposing heavy costs on small water systems. The conversation underscored the balance between public health and fiscal responsibility, with various solutions proposed to mitigate the risks of water contamination.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Apr 2nd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate resolution.
  • The chair recognizes Senator Gutierrez on the resolution

  • Senate Resolution 340.

  • Senator Paxton on...

  • This makes it one of the most highly educated counties in our state.
Summary: In this meeting, significant discussions revolved around the passage and modification of various Senate Bills, including SB1388, which pertains to family support services under the Health and Human Services Commission. Senator Kolkhorst advocated for the bill, emphasizing its focus on pro-life, family-centered care. The committee passed the bill after thorough examination, showcasing a collaborative effort among the members to ensure its alignment with successful past initiatives. In another session, Senator Hughes presented SB942, aimed at retroactive child support linked to prenatal care, which sparked a constructive dialogue reflecting bipartisan support for maternal and child welfare.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Hughes sends up the committee substitute; the chair lays out the committee substitute for Senate
  • on Senate Bill 25.
  • Wilkinson, I have one quick question on Senate Bill 731. Is that prospective only on the bill?
  • Committee on Health and Human Services.
  • The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services will reconvene
Summary: The meeting involved in-depth discussions focused primarily on several significant bills aimed at reforming healthcare, improving consumer protection, and enhancing community-based care. Key highlights included House Bill 1919 and House Bill 1763, which address the roles and regulation of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) in Texas. Lawmakers emphasized the need for these bills to create a fairer landscape for independent pharmacies while ensuring patient access to necessary medications. Public testimonies reflected both support for the reforms and concerns regarding their potential implications. Another major topic was Senate Bill 513, which proposes the development of a pilot program for community-based care in rural West Texas, aiming to improve child welfare services in regions facing unique challenges.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Water Committee on Agriculture, Water, and Rural Affairs

  • Tonight, the Chair recognizes Senator Hinojosa on Senate Bill
  • The committee substitute for Senate Bill 3058 is on the table.
  • As the Senate Sponsor, Chairman Perry is on the bill. There is a committee substitute.
  • Chairman Perry is recognized on the committee. Senator Kochoris.
Summary: The meeting of the committee addressed significant issues surrounding groundwater conservation, with a focus on several proposed bills aimed to enhance the management and sustainability of water resources in the region. House Bill 1633 was discussed, which seeks to strengthen criteria used by groundwater conservation districts (GCDs) when permitting, ensuring that they factor in potential impacts on neighboring exempt wells. Positive sentiments were expressed regarding the need for more stringent evaluations of groundwater permits to preserve resources effectively. This bill aims to reinforce accountability among GCDs, emphasizing the criticality of groundwater, especially in rural areas where access is essential for agricultural and domestic use. In addition, House Bill 1689 and Senate Bill 3058 were presented, both aimed at improving how GCDs utilize export fees and manage water conservation measures. Public testimony highlighted the concerns of landowners about excessive pipeline construction fees and a lack of adequate authority to collaborate with counties on water projects. The committee adopted several amendments to these bills to better align the interests of landowners with water conservation goals. The meeting concluded with an acknowledgment of the pressing need to balance development and conservation, signaling a collective intent to move forward with actionable legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 22nd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The House Committee on Public

  • You've heard me on this before; the committee brings up insurance.
  • We'll move on to testimony.
  • Education Committee.
  • I urge this committee to support the passage and implementation of H.B. 178 not as an elective add-on
Summary: The committee meeting included discussions centered around educational bills, notably focusing on enhancing inclusivity and accountability within Texas public schools. One significant bill was House Bill 2354, aimed at aligning laws governing charter schools with those of traditional public schools, which received favorable testimonies emphasizing its importance for equal treatment of educational institutions. Representative Morales' House Bill 178 provided a platform for advocates to discuss the need for ethnic studies courses to be counted towards social studies credits, which was met with broad support, showcasing a commitment to diverse educational content. Additionally, House Bill 5201 stirred debate regarding construction oversight for school projects, highlighting the ongoing concerns over management failures in large-scale school construction and its implications for taxpayer funds.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session (Part I) Feb 5th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate finance, House appropriations.
  • This is bill number one on the Senate floor for this session.
  • I appreciate you working on this in committee with us, Senator Paxton, and making sure those clarifications
  • I'll keep working on you, Senator Alvarado.
  • Senator Creighton on the amendment.
Bills: SB2, SJR36, SB2, SB2, SR29, SB2
Summary: The meeting focused extensively on the amendments and discussions pertaining to SB2, which is aimed at establishing an education savings account program. Various members presented and debated amendments that targeted transparency, accountability, and potential conflicts of interest within the private education sector. Notably, Senator Cook proposed an amendment to require educational service providers to make their budgets public, while Senator Blanco highlighted the need for disclosures relevant to parents of special education and English language learners. The bill saw intense discussion around protecting taxpayer dollars and ensuring that the provisions did not segregate or discriminate against students within the program. Throughout the meeting, the committee demonstrated robust engagement with both proponents and opponents of the bill, examining the implications of the proposed amendments critically. The overall atmosphere suggested a strong desire to balance educational freedom with accountability and oversight. The meeting concluded with calls for diligence in ensuring that public funds are appropriately utilized, setting the stage for future discussions as the bill proceeds through the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part I) Aug 18th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Would everyone in the gallery please stand and everyone on the floor.
  • The invocation by Senator Dan Parker.
  • We pray your blessing on our families. We pray.
  • On an objection hearing none, the motion is adopted.
  • I move that the Senate stand in recess until 6 PM today, Monday, August.
Summary: The meeting began with an invocation led by Senator Dan Parker, who prayed for guidance in legislative decisions and comfort for families affected by recent tragedies in Central Texas. Following the invocation, the Secretary called the roll, establishing the presence of numerous members. The session focused on legislative initiatives addressing pressing community issues, with members expressing their thoughts on various bills. Notably, discussions included concerns surrounding public safety and community support initiatives aimed to alleviate hardships faced by the constituents.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 22nd, 2025 at 11:04 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • on camping in a public place for the Committee on State Affairs.
  • Thank you for the Committee on Transportation.
  • and is referred to the Committee on Elections.
  • This bill is referred to the Committee on Energy.
  • the Committee on Environmental Regulation.
Summary: The meeting was a significant session of the committee, focusing on a wide range of bills including issues related to water utility rates, worker's compensation hearings, and consumer protection in the realm of artificial intelligence. Representative Montgomery championed HB685, which aims to prohibit municipalities from imposing unfair utility rates on tax-exempt entities, ensuring fair pricing practices. The bill passed unanimously, highlighting the committee's commitment to safeguarding public interests. Additionally, HB2488 emerged as a crucial legislative effort, enabling virtual hearings for worker's compensation cases, which enhances accessibility for injured workers and reduces costs associated with legal representation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 1st, 2025 at 10:05 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Committee on State Affairs will meet today.
  • McQueenie to attend a meeting on the Committee on State Affairs on motion of Mr. Harris.
  • Davis to attend a meeting on the Committee on State Affairs on motion of Mr. Harris.
  • Committee to attend a meeting of the Committee on Public Education on the motion of Ms. Davis.
  • interest on their financing option.
Bills: HB1520, HB1545, HJR110, HJR203, HB245, HB1465, HB1482, HB294, HB793, HB809, HB3928, HB334, HB2037, HB1973, HB285, HB4341, HB4264, HB1043, HB837, HB1234, HB1193, HB1194, HB1646, HB1729, HB2498, HB1314, HB2295, HB1353, HB1531, HB1988, HB5398, HB3960, HB3923, HB1407, HB1764, HB2221, HB2214, HB2517, HB2518, HB2213, HB5008, HB5092, HB3421, HB3663, HB3748, HB3800, HB3756, HB2613, HB3782, HB5246, HB4344, HB4044, HB4066, HB2702, HB2807, HB2869, HB2898, HB3181, HB3250, HB4153, HB2091, HB2115, HB2542, HB2768, HB3349, HB3352, HB4406, HB1593, HB1899, HB3133, HB4432, HB4960, HB3214, HB3915, HB3508, HB2145, SB304, SB608, SB2312, SB494, SB530, HB45, HB2520, HB35, HB47, HB318, HB349, HB554, HB1359, HB1373, HB2254, HB2259, HB2853, HB3073, HB3088, HB353, HB355, HB786, HB762, HB705, HB932, HB849, HB1119, HB3041, HB713, HB3104, HB3970, HB4042, HB4490, HB1731, HB2607, HB3689, HB1788, HB1612, HB138, HB15, HB1971, HB1338, HB2989, HB267, HB1201, HB2954, HB5265, HB1804, HB5061, HB1520, HB1545, HJR110, HJR203, HB1887, HB1914, HB2402, HB2306, HB1809, HB2350, HB3000, HB3237, HB3326, HB3211, HB1056, HB2081, HB2187, HB3092, HB3308, HB3526, HB3750, HB3527, HB4219, HB4230, HB4290, HB5238, HB4804, HB4749, HB245, HB1465, HB1482, HB294, HB793, HB809, HB3928, HB334, HB2037, HB1973, HB285, HB4341, HB4264, HB1043, HB837, HB1234, HB1193, HB1194, HB1646, HB1729, HB2498, HB1314, HB2295, HB1353, HB1531, HB1988, HB5398, HB3960, HB3923, HB1407, HB1764, HB2221, HB2214, HB2517, HB2518, HB2213, HB5008, HB5092, HB3421, HB3663, HB3748, HB3800, HB3756, HB2613, HB3782, HB5246, HB4344, HB4044, HB4066, HB2702, HB2807, HB2869, HB2898, HB3181, HB3250, HB4153, HB2091, HB2115, HB2542, HB2768, HB3349, HB3352, HB4406, HB1593, HB1899, HB3133, HB4432, HB4960, HB3214, HB3915, HB3508, HB2145, HCR6, HCR12, HCR34, HCR50, HCR55, HCR58, HCR70, HCR71, HCR72, HCR74, HCR75, HCR78, HCR80, HCR93, HCR100, HCR107, HCR116, HCR117, HCR90
Summary: The meeting involved extensive discussions centered around multiple resolutions and bills focused on state designations and welfare initiatives. Notably, there were debates regarding the designation of various capitals of Texas, including HCR 55, which established Poteet as the official strawberry capital, and HCR 58, which recognized Derby as the wedding capital. Both resolutions passed unanimously, reflecting strong support among committee members. The session featured significant consideration of bills aimed at enhancing public safety and welfare, such as HB 554, which addresses fireworks sales during Juneteenth, and HB 1359, which focuses on assistance for retail electric customers.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Chair, Vice Chair Charles Perry, Senator Bob Hall, Senator Angela Paxton, and Senator Mayes Middleton
  • On behalf of AARP Texas and our 2.5 million members across the state, we are here to support Senate Bill
  • and we thank Senator Blanco for his leadership on this important bill.
  • 40 organizations who support Senate Bill 911 for one simple reason.
  • We thank Senator Blanco for his leadership on this important bill.
Bills: SB2, SJR36, SB2, SB2, SR29, SB2
Summary: The committee meeting centered around the discussion of SB911, the Heal Texans Act, aimed at improving access to healthcare in underserved areas of Texas. Senator Cesar Blanco opened the discussion by highlighting the healthcare crisis affecting millions of Texans, emphasizing the need for immediate reform to allow nurse practitioners (APRNs) to deliver essential services without cumbersome regulations. The senator expressed gratitude towards his colleagues, including Vice Chair Charles Perry, for their joint efforts in advocating for this critical legislation. The need for SB911 was reiterated by several speakers, including healthcare advocates and those impacted by the lack of accessible care, underscoring personal stories that illustrated the dire situation faced by many rural residents who cannot easily reach medical care.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means May 19th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...close on Senate Bill 1277.
  • Seeing none, the chair recognizes Chair Button to close on Senate Bill 2521.
  • Seeing none, the chair recognizes Chair Izquierdo to close on Senate Bill 1531.
  • Seeing none, the chair recognizes Chair Pursuit to close on Senate Bill 2541.
  • The chair recognizes Vice Chair Noble to close on Senate Bill 2520.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on a series of Senate Bill presentations, particularly highlighting SB1277 which aims to extend the reauthorization period for the municipal street maintenance (SMR) tax in the city of Coppell from four years to ten years. This extension aims to stabilize funding for vital infrastructure projects, helping the city avoid potential financial disruptions and additional tax burdens on residents. Testimonies included insights from public representatives, including Mayor Pro Tem Don Carroll, who emphasized the bill's importance for ongoing maintenance efforts and taxpayer savings.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Aug 27th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • President, I move to concur on House amendments to Senate Bill 3.
  • Senator Bettencourt moves that the Senate concur on House
  • Thank you, Senator, and thank you for the work on the bill.
  • I move to suspend the 24-hour posting rules, Rule 709 and Rule 1119, so that the Senate Committee on
  • Rules 11.10 and 11.18 so that the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services can hear the following
Bills: SB3, SB16, SB2, SB5, SB10, HB17, SB54, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB8, HB25, HB26, HB192
Summary: The meeting featured crucial discussions surrounding several bills, notably Senate Bill 3, which focuses on establishing effective flood warning systems in Texas. Senator Betancourt introduced the bill, emphasizing its potential to save lives, especially in flood-prone areas. The legislation aims to identify high-risk locations, install outdoor warning systems, and provide necessary funding for implementation. Senator Hinojosa also discussed Senate Bill 16 Regarding real property fraud, which involves amendments requested by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. The discussions reflected the urgency for these measures in light of recent events and highlighted collaborative efforts among legislators.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Local Government will come to order.

  • > Joint Resolution 85, both by Senator Bettencourt, and I will ask Senator
  • Then we'll open it up for public testimony on both Senate Bill 23 as well as the H.
  • In 1979, Senator Grant Jones passed Senate Bill 621, which changed the entire property tax system.
  • day, one of you will believe me.
Bills: SB23, SJR85
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee focused on significant property tax legislation, predominantly revolving around SB23 and HJR85, both introduced by Senator Bettencourt. These proposals aim to enhance the homestead exemption for senior and disabled taxpayers, raising it from $10,000 to $60,000. Senator Bettencourt expressed enthusiasm about the potential impact of these bills, which he emphasized as the most significant tax relief measure for seniors in Texas in decades. The discussion included estimated savings of $950 per qualifying homeowner, which drew positive remarks from committee members regarding the importance of making property taxes more manageable for vulnerable populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 19th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members of the committee, this is Senate Bill 2199 by Birdwell

  • that's going on.
  • this one.
  • I respectfully ask that Senate Bill 25A 9B be reported. All in favor of the committee, thank you.
  • Senate Bill 2245 will be left pending at this time. The committee needs to recess for the day.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on various legislative proposals, particularly those related to transportation and public safety. A significant point of discussion was Senate Bill 35, which seeks to limit the Texas Department of Transportation's ability to utilize design-build contracts for infrastructure projects. Advocates for the bill expressed concerns over financial implications and the efficiency of project delivery, while opponents emphasized the need for flexibility and innovation in addressing Texas's growing infrastructure needs. Several stakeholders, including the Texas Trucking Association, engaged in debates over the impacts of the proposed limitations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Jan 22nd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • and reference to the committee.
  • Senate Bill One by Huffman, the General Appropriations

  • Act to finance.
  • Senate Bill One by Huffman, the General Appropriations

  • Act to finance.
Bills: SJR36, SB1, SJR36, SB1
Summary: This meeting of the Senate included the introduction and discussion of several key legislative items, notably SJR36, which proposes a constitutional amendment pertaining to the preservation of historical items, and SB1, the general appropriations act for financing. The session was notably affected by inclement weather, as members were advised about travel conditions and attendance was impacted as a result. There were specific discussions led by Senator Hall regarding the significance of the proposed amendment, with emphasis on the importance of historical conservation in the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 24th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Point and Senate Bill 7 and the committee substitute really
  • I really want to thank the committee and Chairman Harris for that leadership on expanding that list.
  • Jeremy with Texas 2036, here today in support of the committee substitute for Senate Bill 7.
  • It requires that the board report to the committee on the state's progress and achievement towards expanding
  • Thank you for Senator Perry's leadership on this as well.
Bills: SB7
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on Senate Bill 7, which aims to enhance Texas's water infrastructure amid growing population and environmental challenges. Various stakeholders, including representatives from engineering firms, environmental organizations, and water associations, testified in support of the bill, emphasizing its potential to address pressing water supply issues and improve infrastructure reliability. Key topics of discussion included water reuse, flood infrastructure funding, and the need for legislative oversight to ensure effective management of financial resources. The testimony underscored the importance of adapting to aging water systems while promoting innovative solutions for sustainability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Feb 20th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Okay, the Senate Committee on Education, K-16, will come to order.

  • First of all, let the record show that Senator Mays Middleton was the one who sent the committee substitute
  • Good afternoon, esteemed members of the Senate Committee on Education.
  • On for or against the committee substitute bill, Senate Bill
  • , and upon a motion by Senator Parker, the Senate Committee on Education, K-16, will stand in recess.
Bills: SB26
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Education featured an extensive discussion on Senate Bill 26, aimed at reforming teacher compensation in Texas. Notable highlights included testimonies emphasizing the urgent need for meaningful salary increases for teachers across the state. Members discussed the historical nature of the proposed pay raises, which would establish a permanent salary allotment for teachers, allowing for dispatches of nearly $5 billion aimed at boosting educator retention. The importance of addressing teacher safety and equality across various educational roles was also a significant point of focus during this meeting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Mar 3rd, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Am I on for or against Senate Bill 810?
  • Please vote no on Senate Bill 3.
  • My name is Andrea Salas-Daniels, and I testify before the Texas Senate Committee on behalf of the Texas
  • This evening for the Senate Committee on State Affairs.
  • With that, the Senate Committee on State Affairs

Summary: The meeting of the Senate State Affairs Committee provided a platform for discussing a comprehensive agenda featuring multiple bills, particularly focusing on concerns surrounding THC regulations and its implications for public safety. Notably, Senate Bill 3, which seeks to ban consumable hemp products containing THC, drew strong public testimony from various stakeholders who expressed both support and opposition. Supporters argued the necessity to curb the proliferation of high-potency THC products in schools and among youths, while opponents warned of the potential negative economic impacts and push towards unregulated markets if such a ban were implemented.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs May 13th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • on the city or county.
  • They're strong, but these things that are going on don't need to go on.
  • I respectfully ask that you vote no on Senate Bill

  • If anybody ever wants to have coffee and talk about it more one-on-one, I'd love to entertain you.
  • At this time, Senate Bill... do you want to try one

Summary: The committee convened to discuss Senate Bill 2858, which aims to provide stronger enforcement mechanisms for compliance with state laws by local governments. The bill was met with significant opposition from various stakeholders including city council members and representatives from urban counties. They raised concerns that the provisions threaten local autonomy and could lead to severe financial penalties without due process. Specific testimonies highlighted the potential disruption to local budgets and public safety services due to immediate withholding of funds pending litigation outcomes. As such, the supporting and opposing views were thoroughly debated, reflecting the tension between state authority and local governance.

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