Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'professional association'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • and who was a Solution Tree associate.
  • I am Noah Jones with the Texas Counseling Association.
  • The Texas Counseling Association has long supported school counselor ratios.
  • I am Michael Fitch, Executive Director of the Texas Association.
  • My 10-year-old son dreams of one day playing professional baseball.
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

Appropriations - S/C on Article III Feb 24th, 2025 at 10:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Article III

Transcript Highlights:
  • Beginning with item one, the impact of educational professional salary increases.
  • I do want to take the time to personally and professionally thank each individual here.
  • What costs are associated with setting up an ESA program?
  • But to do that, y'all need to be aware that there is a cost associated with it.
  • I'm Pamela McPeters, and I represent the Texas Classroom Teachers Association.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on reviewing updates and recommendations related to education funding and legislative measures for public schools. Significant discussions included the implications of the new educational budget proposal, as well as public testimonies advocating for increased funding to support school districts facing financial difficulties. Notably, there was a strong emphasis on adjusting the basic allotment to accommodate inflation and ensure that school funding is based on student enrollment rather than attendance, to better support districts struggling with deficits and operational challenges.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) May 5th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am representing the Texas State Association of Firefighters, as well as the Frisco Firefighters Association
  • ...also employs approximately 250 associates, including 22
  • , legal association, or an approved continuing legal education program.
  • and Regulars Association.
  • Carl Walker, Texas Taxpayers and Research Association.
Summary: The committee meeting saw the discussion of several significant bills aimed at reducing the tax burden on small businesses and addressing public services in municipalities. Notably, Senate Bill 2907, introduced by Senator West, proposes to exempt perishable inventory and pharmaceutical goods from property taxes. This bill received robust support during public testimony, with various stakeholders emphasizing its potential to lower food prices and improve business conditions. Similarly, Senate Bill 1331 addressed the protective measures for smaller municipalities facing threats from petitions to remove municipal services, aiming to reduce the requisite population threshold for such actions. The lively discussions underscored the committee's commitment to supporting local communities and businesses in a challenging economic climate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Developers clearly know the costs associated with their project. What is it? Is it bureaucracy?
  • Nargang, on behalf of the Water Environment Association of Texas.
  • I'm here on behalf of the Water Environment Association of Texas and the Texas Association of Clean Water
  • ACWA is a mission-driven nonprofit organization that empowers water professionals to educate, enhance
  • I'm here on behalf of the Texas Association of Water Companies, registered neutrally on the bill.
Summary: The recent meeting of the Natural Resources Committee covered significant discussions primarily focused on various water-related bills, notably HB685, HB1918, HB2601, and HB2608. Representative Wally introduced HB1918, which seeks to limit water rate increases for Class A utilities to a maximum of 20% every 36 months. The bill is in response to alarming reports from constituents who experienced drastic increases in their water bills, leading to concerns about financial sustainability for residents on fixed incomes. Supporters emphasized the need for better regulations to protect consumers, while opponents argued that the bill could dissuade necessary investments in utility infrastructure, jeopardizing service quality. Public testimony was a vital component, with various stakeholders expressing both support and opposition to the proposals under discussion.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce May 8th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Is that a company or is that a trade association?
  • I'm the president and CEO of the Texas Association of Business, and we are in strong support of HB 14
  • integration of professionals into the state's workforce.
  • This ensures that qualified professionals can more easily continue...
  • These are professionals who have been practicing their occupation, and we should help them out.
Summary: The meeting was a thorough exploration of multiple bills, most notably focused on innovative energy solutions and public safety enhancements. Key discussions centered around HB14, which aims to bolster the state's nuclear energy capabilities through the establishment of a Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office. Senators and expert witnesses discussed the potential of nuclear power as a clean energy source and a strategic necessity for Texas's growth. There was strong support for the bill, with various stakeholders highlighting its importance for the future energy landscape. Additionally, other bills like HB132 addressed the need for enhanced confidentiality protections regarding sensitive information, while HB1584 sought improvements in power restoration procedures during emergencies. Overall, the committee engaged with multiple viewpoints, balancing innovation with safety and ethical considerations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Mar 4th, 2025 at 02:30 pm

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas Classroom Teachers Association, you'll be testifying on
  • The intent is to professionalize really three pathways

  • My name is Joe Munoz, Executive Director of the Texas Music Educators Association and co-chair of the
  • My name is Lauren McKenzie, and I'm the Senior Policy Associate for Early Learning at Texans Care for
  • A few examples of the costs associated with providing specialized services include students with severe
Bills: HB2
Summary: The meeting focused on House Bill 2, which aims to reform funding for special education in Texas. Various stakeholders, including educators and administrators, testified on the importance of the bill, highlighting current funding gaps and the need for increased resources to adequately support students with disabilities. Testimony revealed that many school districts are experiencing a significant funding shortfall, forcing them to seek additional local funding sources to cover the costs of necessary services. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for a new tiered funding system, which was met with cautious support due to the ambiguities surrounding its implementation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 7th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This bill created a fund to pay for costs associated with obtaining a driver's license for youth in foster
  • It's extremely important that medical professionals have
  • Not only will this bring peace of mind to healthcare professionals in this situation.
  • This bill will support women by ensuring medical professionals are properly informed about the law.
  • ...but it also ensures that the medical professionals are
Summary: The meeting involved several key discussions surrounding new legislation, notably SB801, which addresses barriers faced by unhoused young adults in obtaining necessary documentation like birth certificates. Witnesses, including Maria Benavides from SA Youth, testified on how these hurdles impact access to jobs and housing, emphasizing the importance of removing financial barriers to obtaining identification. Additionally, the committee examined SB1200, aimed at increasing transparency in lawsuits against defense contractors connected to foreign adversaries, highlighting national security concerns. Senator Cole Corse articulated the bill's aim to disclose relationships between plaintiffs and adversarial nations, promoting accountability in litigation funding.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) May 15th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am the State Policy Director at the Computer and Communications Industry Association (CCIA), testifying
  • These adjustments were made in consultation with the Library Association.
  • It is the most modern library in the country, family-friendly, and run by true professionals.
  • Now, I'm not an OBGYN, a biologist, a sociologist, or even a professional scientist.
  • I'm the Strategic Policy Associate for Texas Values Action.
Summary: During the meeting of the committee on state affairs, multiple bills were discussed, with a significant focus on HB186, which aims to implement age verification for social media usage among minors. Public testimony highlighted concerns regarding potential invasions of privacy, the overreach of governmental authority, and the impact on children's mental health. Advocates for the bill argued that it protects children from harmful online content, while opponents expressed worries about its broader implications on free speech and social connectivity for young people. The meeting attracted a diverse audience, including experts, advocates, and concerned citizens, each contributing passionately to the dialogue surrounding these important legislative issues.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 15th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Now, in a hospital setting, our peers, our other nurses and medical professionals who have similar life-saving
  • I'm the Executive Director of the Texas Private Schools Association.
  • I'm the Executive Director for the Texas Association of Rural Schools, and I'm testifying on SB1581.
  • Full-time professional coaching, whereas some students are
  • this—and it's really important—is when we passed HB547, I don't recall there being any funding associated
Summary: The meeting of the committee primarily addressed several significant bills, including SB2398 which aims to ensure that students recovering from concussions receive timely accommodations to support their academic, social, and behavioral needs. Senator Campbell presented the bill, emphasizing its importance in preventing long-term setbacks for affected students. The committee heard from various stakeholders, and testimony reflected strong support for the bill's intent, although concerns were raised regarding implementation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures May 6th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • United States Swim School Association.

  • We asked our association members how many of them no longer offered the Parent's Night Out events.
  • Swim School Association require a minimum of a at least 40
  • Swim School Association members reported that teachers will be teaching over 12 million lessons.
  • We followed all existing state laws and lottery rules while maintaining a transparent and professional
Summary: The meeting of the committee primarily focused on discussing various bills, including HB1800, which aims to establish safety standards for swim schools. The bill was introduced by Ms. Garcia, who shared a heart-wrenching personal story about her son, Mitchell, who drowned during a swim program due to inadequate safety protocols. This led to strong public testimony both supporting and opposing the bill, with many witnesses emphasizing the need for stringent regulations to protect children in swim schools. In contrast, some representatives voiced concerns about over-regulating well-established programs that already have safety measures in place.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm also the president of the Texas Association of Family Defense Attorneys, which is a statewide association
  • It has to be really associated with abuse and neglect.
  • Thank you, and Carol Smith from the Private Providers Association of Texas is next.
  • As an association, the Texas Council represents.
  • Carl Isitt in Texas, like, representing the Child Care Association?
Summary: The committee meeting encompassed a comprehensive discussion regarding various legislative matters, including the critical examination of HB741, HB341, HB582, and HB471. Representative Gervin Hawkins presented HB741, aimed at enhancing financial support for relative caregivers, ensuring an alignment in assistance with licensed foster parents to foster kinship placements. This initiative was met with supportive testimonies from several stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of keeping children connected with their families for stability. Furthermore, representatives voiced differing views on the proposed regulations in HB341 and HB582, leading to a vibrant debate where several public members provided insight into practical implications and potential consequences of the bills.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 1st, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Hendrick Wolfe, associate professor of economics at Simon Fraser
  • rules, regulations, or policies that hinder an individual's ability to obtain, maintain, or renew professional
  • religious freedom, while maintaining professional standards
  • No Texas professional should fear the government taking away their livelihood because of their faith,
  • expect that the primary impact of this bill will apply in the areas of health care providers, professional
Summary: The committee meeting featured extensive discussions focused on time legislation, including HB1393 and SB692. The primary subject was the proposal to adopt permanent daylight saving time, which sparked diverse opinions from committee members and witnesses. Supporters like Erica Boyd, President and CEO of the Texas Travel Alliance, advocated for the benefits of extended daylight for outdoor activities and tourism, while others expressed health concerns and the disruption that early darkness in winter months could cause to families. Testimony revealed a split in public sentiment, further complicating the legislative decision-making process. Additional bills, such as SB2943 regarding religious freedom protections for occupational licenses, also received attention, showcasing the breadth of topics covered in this meeting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Intergovernmental Affairs Aug 22nd, 2025 at 10:08 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Hale, Texas Association of Builders, for the bill.
  • of the Texas Association of Builders.
  • Hill, Texas Association of Builders.
  • You're paid by a private association.
  • You professionally testified today, is that correct?
Bills: HB26, HB73, SB14, HB46
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding fiscal responsibility in local governments, particularly the implications of House Bills 46 and 73. Proponents argued that these bills would help limit unnecessary spending and ensure that expenditures are tied to inflation and population growth, addressing taxpayer concerns about rising local budgets. However, numerous city officials and representatives from various organizations voiced strong opposition, claiming that these measures would hinder essential services and infrastructure improvements, particularly in rapidly growing areas. Current spending practices were deemed inadequate for meeting the demands of public safety and community services, especially in light of increased costs in areas like public water systems and emergency response. The meeting was characterized by passionate debate, as stakeholders lined up to express their views both for and against the proposed legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Feb 27th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Many report that professional development for teachers has turned into politics.
  • or educational professionals.
  • I'm a grandparent, professional engineer, and business executive who is retired.
  • I am a Texas school counselor speaking on behalf of the Texas Counseling Association.
  • I was able to order it because my district believed in my professionalism.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on various bills primarily aimed at enhancing parental rights within the educational system. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 204, which mandates the creation of a user-friendly handbook for parents detailing their rights regarding their children's education, and Senate Bill 609, designed to hold school districts accountable to parents and ensure transparency in educational practices. A significant amount of public testimony was offered both for and against these measures, reflecting the contentious nature of the subject matter. Senators emphasized the importance of parental involvement and education reform, fostering a robust dialogue among committee members and constituents alike. The meeting concluded with a commitment to address all bills thoroughly and attentively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Delivery of Government Efficiency Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Their professionalism was bar none.

  • I have Adobe Acrobat Professional, yes.

  • My name's Jeff Giles, I'm a Senior Associate Attorney with Parkland Health.
  • of School Boards and the Texas Association of Counties.
  • It has a non-profit state association.
Summary: The meeting focused on a series of bills, notably HB2467, which aims to address pay disparities for peace officers in the state fire marshal's office. Representative Van Deaver highlighted the critical services provided by these officers, who perform essential law enforcement duties yet face compensation below their counterparts. Witnesses, including those from law enforcement, testified in favor of the bill, emphasizing the need for equitable pay. The committee showed support for the bill, agreeing to leave it pending for further evaluation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Feb 25th, 2025 at 11:00 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am the Associate Deputy Controller for Tax Administration at the Comptroller's office.
  • There are penalties associated if the business owner fails to render or if they file a late rendition
  • ...any federal requirements associated with it.
  • ...Research Association, is that correct?
  • The Texas Taxpayers and Research Association has existed for about 50 years, and we advocate for tax
Summary: The House Committee on Ways and Means conducted a productive meeting addressing several key issues related to taxation and budget projections. The meeting opened with invited testimony from representatives of the Comptroller's Office and the Legislative Budget Board, focusing on the biennial revenue estimates and significant funding changes. Members participated actively, posing questions about specific budget allocations and the impact of tax policies on both local governments and residents. A significant discussion revolved around property tax relief, with calls for higher measures of relief to support taxpayers amid growing financial burdens. Furthermore, recommendations for financial reforms were proposed, stressing the importance of sustaining the benefits from previous tax relief efforts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 7th, 2025 at 03:30 pm

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm a professional here in the state of Texas.
  • I'm an owner at Compliance Professionals here in Austin, Texas, and I oppose House Bill 28.
  • I'm an owner at Compliance Professionals here in Austin, Texas, and I oppose House Bill 28.
  • I'm an owner at Compliance Professionals here in Austin, Texas, and I oppose House Bill 28.
  • I'm an owner at Compliance Professionals here in Austin, Texas, and I oppose House Bill 28.
Bills: HB28, SB3
Summary: The meeting featured significant discussions regarding HB28, where the chair outlined the plans to bring forward a substitute for the bill. The chair emphasized the importance of maintaining order and decorum during the proceedings. Members engaged in deliberations, and a number of public witnesses were invited to testify, thereby enriching the discussion around the bill. This interaction provided valuable insights into public sentiment regarding the issues at hand.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Public Health Aug 13th, 2025 at 09:08 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Police Chiefs Association and yourself.
  • I'm also president of the Texas Association of Crime Lab Directors.
  • associated with the use of...
  • I'm not here representing any company or industry association.
  • The violence associated with it makes our streets less safe.
Bills: HB5
Summary: The meeting of the Public Health Committee focused primarily on discussions surrounding HB5, which seeks to regulate THC consumables in Texas. Numerous witnesses provided testimony, both in favor and against the bill, highlighting concerns regarding public health and safety as well as the economic implications of regulation versus prohibition. Chairman Van Dever and other committee members actively engaged with witnesses to clarify the potential impact of the proposed legislation. The testimonies brought to light intense disagreements over how best to approach the management of hemp and cannabis products, demonstrating a division between those advocating for strict regulations versus those calling for responsible oversight without outright bans on THC.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Mar 11th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Hi, Heather Sheffield with the Association of Texas

  • Professional Educators, but I also want to know.
  • Texas faces a growing shortage of qualified special education professionals.
  • The Texas Health Care Association will make that

  • I'm with the Texas Hospital Association.
Bills: SB568, SCR5, SB57, SB1447, SB27, SB24
Summary: The committee meeting centered around special education funding and safety provisions for children with disabilities. Key discussions were led by Senator Bettencourt regarding the transformative potential of SB568, which proposes a transition to an eight-tier service intensity funding model. This model is designed to better accommodate the needs of special education students, ensuring they receive the necessary services tailored to their unique requirements. The bill received strong support from stakeholders and included testimony from educators and advocates highlighting the importance of early intervention and the need for ongoing funding support.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part I) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And Texas Association of Health Plans.
  • I'm the CEO of the Texas Association of Health Plans, and we are.
  • I'm representing the Texas Medical Association and Texas Pediatric Society.
  • I'm with the Texas Hospital Association, and I'm testifying against Senate Bill 407.
  • Association.
Summary: The meeting of the Health and Human Services Committee covered a variety of bills focused on improving health care access, patient protections, and enhancing oversight of health-related services. Key discussions were held around SB1640, which aims to broaden the scope of criminal history checks for Medicaid providers to enhance accountability and prevent fraud. Senator Hagenbooth explained the committee substitute, emphasizing the necessity of strengthening vetting processes within Medicaid programs. Additionally, SB1784 was introduced, which seeks to protect patients from unexpected medical debt collection practices by mandating advance written notices before debt collection actions are initiated. Discussion around this bill reflected a collective concern for transparency in medical billing and the financial wellbeing of patients.

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