Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Mark Butler'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) May 1st, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Why would that be marked out and now put in healthcare practitioner?
  • Kara Young, George DiCicchiella, Pamela Hall, Mark Casanova
  • Mark Casanova, Justine Galambas, Leonore Frisch, and Stroud
  • Mark Casanova. I'm a board-certified internist, palliative care specialist, and clinical ethicist.
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs meeting featured in-depth discussions primarily centered around Senate Bills 2459 and 3055. SB 2459, presented by Senator Birdwell, aims to protect the personal information of judicial officials to reduce security risks associated with data brokers. This bill brought significant public testimony, with supporters highlighting the need for enhanced safety for judges and court personnel, given the increasing threats and incidents reported. The committee also considered amendments to further refine the bill's implementation process, ensuring the effective removal of personal data upon request. Senate Bill 3055 addressed the scope of practice for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in rural Texas, promoting greater healthcare access amidst ongoing shortages of providers. Advocates for the bill, including several nurse practitioners, voiced the necessity for legislative changes that would empower APRNs to practice more independently. Opposing testimony raised concerns regarding patient safety and the need for physician oversight. The meeting concluded with a commitment to review these bills further, reflecting the broader challenges of healthcare access and safety regulations in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

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

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If not, will the chair call Mark Herman?
  • The chair calls Mark Herman, testifying as Harris County Constable Precinct Four for the bill.
  • Yeah, Mark Herman, elected Constable Harris County Precinct

  • I cannot express how much I appreciate you and Mark Herman and the work that you do keeping us safe,
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

Senate Session (Part I) Mar 19th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Henderson-Rusk County is also the home of former Governor Mark White, known to many in this room and
  • This marked a significant moment in our fight for women's rights in Texas and across the nation.
  • I also want to say that this year marks the 100th anniversary of this important milestone.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on a variety of bills, with notable discussions surrounding SB842, which clarifies protections for ringside physicians during combative sports events. This bill aims to enhance the recruitment of these physicians by granting them immunity from civil liability, barring cases of gross negligence. It received unanimous support, passing without objection. Additionally, SB35 was thoroughly debated. The bill, relating to design bill contracts, was also unanimously passed after discussions revealed concerns over how tailored contracts could restrict competition within the bidding process. Senators voiced their support for the bill and acknowledged the balance it strikes between regulation and opportunity.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span> We'll ask for supporting documentation, and if they are marking
  • There's got to be some because I'm not suggesting to you that there aren't people that overly mark up
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

Business and Commerce (Part I) Apr 1st, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Chair calls Mark Bell, Brian Lloyd, David Tice

  • For the record, my name is Mark Bell on behalf of AECT, the Association of Electric Companies of Texas
Summary: The Business Commerce Committee meeting was marked by the successful reporting of several bills, notably Senate Bill 783, SB1238, and SB1706, all of which received unanimous support from committee members. The chair facilitated discussions around the potential implications of these bills, with committee members highlighting the necessity for timely updates to current legislation. Public testimonies were heard regarding Senate Bill 1968, emphasizing its efforts to clarify the agent-buyer relationship in real estate transactions through the introduction of written representation agreements. Additionally, concerns were raised about regulations regarding backup generation for energy loads in the Senate Bill 2321 discussion, reflecting ongoing discussions about balancing energy needs with environmental regulations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce (Part II) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair calls Mark Bell. Thank you for being here. Welcome, Mr. Bell.
  • For the record, my name is Mark Bell, on behalf of AECT, the Association of Electrical Companies of Texas
Summary: The meeting focused on several important legislative proposals, with significant discussions around AI regulation and copyright protections in light of emerging technologies. Notably, Senate Bill 1964, aimed at promoting ethical AI adoption within government bodies, was presented by Senator Parker. The bill received support from witnesses who emphasized the need for transparency and a regulatory framework that safeguards civil rights while fostering innovation. Conversely, concerns were raised about potential overreach and the implications for accountability in AI implementation. Additionally, Senate Bill 1960 sparked a passionate debate concerning the protection of individuals' digital likenesses from unauthorized use, highlighting the rising stakes as digital content increasingly intersects with personal rights.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • span> we will ask for supporting documentation, and if they are marking
  • There's got to be some because I'm not suggesting to you there are not people that overly mark up, but
Summary: The meeting of the committee primarily focused on several significant bills aimed at enhancing accountability and transparency within Texas's Medicaid and long-term care systems. Notably, SB457 seeks to ensure that a substantial portion of Medicaid funds is allocated directly to patient care in nursing facilities, addressing concerns about the misuse of taxpayer dollars. Various testimonies were provided from key stakeholders, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by nursing homes and the pressing need for reform. Notably, AARP Texas endorsed SB457, emphasizing the critical need for improvements in care quality, especially in light of staffing shortages and neglect issues prevalent in some facilities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Feb 11th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • He's joined on the floor by Father Mark, who is the secretary, and Father Joseph, who is the parochial
Summary: The meeting consisted of a comprehensive discussion of several resolutions and bills, with notable emphasis on education and community engagement. Senator Hinojosa recognized the Texas State Technical College for its significant contributions to the education system and workforce development in Texas, highlighting the importance of providing vocational training for students. Members expressed gratitude towards various educational institutions and acknowledged their role in fostering economic growth and skilled labor in the state. The meeting also welcomed a British delegation, reaffirming the strong ties between Texas and the United Kingdom, which have historically supported job creation and bilateral cooperation. Throughout the meeting, various senators took the opportunity to promote significant local initiatives, resolutions, and educational institutions impacting their districts. The tone was collaborative, with appreciation for public service. The meeting concluded with resolutions being adopted unanimously and calls for continued support of educational initiatives and partnerships.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management Apr 17th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • homeowners have received their refunds despite thousands of building permits exceeding the 45-day mark
Summary: The committee meeting focused on a variety of bills, with notable discussions surrounding the challenges faced by municipalities in managing growth and public safety. Bills such as HB447 and HB3897 sparked conversations on the impact of Municipal Utility Districts in high-density areas and the necessity of thorough traffic impact assessments before approving new developments. Representative Cook highlighted concerns over a specific project related to HB3671, which aimed to dissolve a municipal district due to contradictory prior agreements. Public testimonies included concerns from residents, signaling the tension between development needs and public safety requirements.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair calls Mark Bosher, Mary Lynn Pruneda, Mike Maroney
Summary: During this committee meeting, a total of 16 bills were discussed, covering various topics mainly focused on education and support for vulnerable populations. Notably, House Bill 1211 was a significant highlight, aiming to remove the 25th birthday deadline for former foster youth to utilize state college tuition benefits. This bill garnered strong support from multiple members, including personal testimonies from individuals who benefited from such educational support. The conversation around HB1211 emphasized the challenges faced by former foster youth, including lack of awareness and support, which aligns with the bill's objective of extending opportunities regardless of age.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This way, it doesn't actually mark you as having an unexcused absence.
  • The Chair calls Michael Hope, Mark Ruffin, and Kandra

  • Mark Ruffin.
  • We're gonna show Mark Ruffin in a red shirt on behalf of
  • That mark in time is 2017. And so I think this bill sort of refocuses on something that might.
Summary: The committee meeting predominantly focused on educational reform, discussing several bills designed to enhance school safety and address chronic absenteeism. In particular, House Bill 6 was scrutinized for its proposals to modify disciplinary measures within schools, specifically allowing longer in-school suspensions for students who cause significant disruptions. Advocates and experts presented testimonies emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe learning environment while also addressing behavioral issues in a manner that supports at-risk students. The discourse highlighted the need for balancing discipline with educational support, particularly for students with disabilities who may exhibit challenging behaviors due to their conditions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Feb 18th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • We joined Senator Cindy Cryer, marking the first time in Texas when more than one woman served in the
Bills: SJR1, SB9, SB40, SJR36, SJR1, SJR5, SB9, SB40
Summary: During the latest committee meeting, a range of resolutions and bills were introduced and discussed, including significant recognitions for various organizations and communities. Notably, several resolutions were adopted to honor Alabama Coushatta Tribe of Texas Day and to recognize key contributions from the manufacturing sector in Texas. Senators shared personal anecdotes and expressed gratitude towards the tireless efforts of Texas game wardens who play a critical role in community safety and environmental conservation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 22nd, 2025 at 11:04 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • impose a risk stabilization fee on the districts that choose to get back into TRS before the five-year mark
Summary: The committee meeting focused on multiple bills pertaining to educational reforms and initiatives. Notable discussions included the passage of HB824, which aims to expand civics education in Texas high schools, emphasizing the importance of understanding government functions and participation in democracy. The bill received unanimous support from the committee members, reflecting broad consensus on the need for enhanced civic education. Similarly, HB1581 and HB1579 were discussed, aiming to improve bilingual education and establish a state seal of bilingualism and biliteracy for high school students, respectively, thereby emphasizing the educational framework's inclusivity and quality enhancement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Delivery of Government Efficiency Mar 19th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair calls Mark White.
  • span>

    Well, Chair, members of the committee, my name is Mark

  • From Councilman Mark White, we've got members of the county
Summary: The meeting held by the committee involved significant discussions surrounding various bills, notably focused on transparency and budgeting processes. There were multiple testimonies from public citizens advocating for improved access to local budgets, emphasizing the need for transparency within governmental operations. One speaker highlighted that enabling public access to finalized budgets within three business days can ensure that community voices are heard prior to important votes, enhancing local governance and accountability. The committee members engaged actively, with questions posed to witnesses to clarify points made regarding public access to financial documentation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 24th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Mark Brower. Broadhurst.

  • My name is Mark Broadhurst.
  • Mark Enoch? E-net, E-net. Thank you.
  • I'm Mark Enoch, a member of the board. I stand in opposition to this bill.
Summary: The meeting was centered around the discussions of several bills, primarily focusing on HB3187, which proposes to reduce DART's funding by 25%. This bill drew significant opposition from various members and public witnesses who argued it would severely impact public transportation services in North Texas, especially with the upcoming FIFA World Cup in 2026. Many speakers highlighted the economic consequences, job losses, and diminished accessibility for residents that would result from passing this legislation. Members of the committee engaged in heated debates, with some representatives advocating for the preservation of DART's funding and others supporting the proposed cuts based on financial grievances from certain cities. The meeting ended with a resolve to consider future negotiations among local municipalities instead of pursuing state intervention on the funding issue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Mar 4th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • 10044"> Steve Swanson, Dan Hinkle, Rocio Fierro, Perez, Mark
  • My name is Mark... Lugo.
Summary: The Senate Education Committee meeting addressed several bills aimed at enhancing educational opportunities in Texas, notably focusing on virtual education and its implications. Senate Bill 569, introduced by Senator Betancourt, garnered considerable support, emphasizing the need for accessible high-quality virtual education. The committee heard public testimony from various stakeholders, including educators and students, who highlighted the significance of flexible learning environments in meeting diverse student needs. Key testimonies underscored that virtual education is not just beneficial for struggling learners but also advantageous for high-achieving students seeking more flexibility in their academic pursuits.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Apr 8th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair calls Mark Denson.
  • Mark Denson with Onsite Towing out of Houston, Texas

Summary: The meeting was marked by thorough discussions regarding several pivotal bills aimed at addressing safety and regulatory reforms within various sectors. Notably, House Bill 3352 was a focal point, where industry representatives highlighted the urgent need for enhanced driver safety training in work zones due to a rise in fatalities. Supporters argued that including work zone safety in driver education programs could significantly improve awareness and reduce accidents. Additionally, House Bill 2186 drew scrutiny from small business owners who expressed concerns about the regulatory burden it would impose on electricians and the potential impact on employment within the industry. Despite the commitment to improve safety, stakeholders warned of unintended consequences that could affect operational viability for non-signatory firms.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation (Part I) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • injured, by somebody like that wreck on I-35 last week, you've got a foreign national with a question mark
  • That's just how it works, and then they mark it up for their margins.
Summary: During the committee meeting, significant discussions revolved around three main bills: SB39, HB19, and SB2246. Senator Bettencourt laid out SB39, aimed at revising the admission rule related to commercial vehicle collision cases. The intention behind this bill is to standardize trial procedures by limiting the evidence admissible in the first phase, ensuring that unnecessary complexity does not cloud the issue of fault. Various stakeholders, including trial lawyers and business representatives, provided insights into the impact of these changes, highlighting concerns over insurance costs and practical implications on litigations. Public testimony reflected a mix of support and opposition, showcasing the contentious nature of the bill's modifications. Additionally, the committee addressed SB2246 regarding salvage auto dealers and the process of obtaining titles for vehicles that will not return to the road, which was met with relatively little challenge as stakeholders recognized the necessity for clarity and efficiency in this process. The meeting concluded with promises from members to continue discussions on these important legislative measures, indicating an ongoing commitment to addressing the complex issues at hand.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Apr 14th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ="1570" data-time="9414"> The chair calls Angela Ott, Onyinye Okujo, Adam Haynes, Sonia Burns, and Mark
  • Mark Escott.
Summary: The meeting of the State Affairs Committee involved deliberations on a series of significant bills addressing issues such as election procedures, mental health crises, and the interplay between homelessness and public safety. Notably, Senator Parker presented Senate Bill 2487, focusing on creating infrastructure for mental health crisis management in urban areas, emphasizing the need for crisis service centers. Testimonies were heard from various stakeholders about the impact of mental health on homelessness, with supporters advocating for more comprehensive care while opposing viewpoints cautioned against conflating mental illness with criminal behavior. Another prominent discussion was around Senate Bill 2876, which proposed increasing penalties for rioting, specifically targeting those who conceal their identities. This stirred public outcry as civil rights advocates raised concerns about potential profiling and freedom of expression.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Mar 6th, 2025 at 08:03 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • argument to make, or does that miss the mark?
Bills: HB2
Summary: The Public Education Committee meeting primarily focused on discussions related to House Bill 2, which addresses public education funding and the need for increased Texas teacher salaries. Testimonies were provided by various educators and stakeholders expressing concerns about the existing funding levels, particularly highlighting the inadequacy of the proposed $220 per student increase, which many believe falls short of what is necessary to meet inflation and the growing costs of education. During the testimony, members emphasized the need for a substantial increase to at least $1,300 per student, citing a critical shortage of certified teachers and the impact this has on student learning outcomes. Witness statements indicated that without a significant funding overhaul, students and teachers would continue to suffer from underfunded programs and resources.

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