Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'living expenses'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Hank, we're so fortunate to live in Texas.

  • And so that's the world we are living in.
  • since elementary school, and now they are trying to figure out what they're going to do with their lives
  • deal is I'm also dependent upon my Social Security and my retirement money from TRS to benefit my living
  • The rising cost of living is overwhelming.
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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 14th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Business owners report that these fees are now their third largest expense, only behind.
  • For 55 years, my family's owned Sunnyland Outdoor Living.
  • The small savings I will see will be outweighed by the expenses and headaches I will have to endure to
  • We really need to make changes to it, and it’s quite expensive.
  • Credit card fees are the second highest expense that our
Summary: The meeting exhibited a heated discussion on the implications of House Bills 4124, 4061, and 40. Chairman Darby emphasized the importance of reducing credit card swipe fees that adversely affect small businesses in Texas, presenting HB 4124, which aims to exempt sales tax and gratuities from being subject to these fees. Various witnesses, including representatives from the Texas Retailers Association and the National Restaurant Association, supported HB 4124, arguing that it would alleviate financial burdens on local businesses and promote economic fairness. However, several opposing voices raised concerns regarding potential complications and regulatory hurdles that could complicate the business landscape further.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Expenses, right?
  • I speak from lived experience.
  • ...students who have lived their whole lives here.
  • I want my state to help them live their lives, deepen their community connections, and learn.
  • And so they really have to pay that in-state tuition, but they also have to pay for living expenses,
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Education Committee was marked by intense discussions surrounding several key pieces of legislation, particularly focusing on SB1798, which seeks to repeal the Texas DREAM Act. Advocates for the bill argued that it is important to restrict state financial aid to individuals unlawfully present in the United States, asserting that taxpayer resources should primarily benefit legal residents. Conversely, numerous witnesses testified against SB1798, emphasizing the economic contributions of Texas DREAMers and the long-standing positive impacts of the existing DREAM Act on Texas communities and workforce. The heated debate highlighted the stark divisions surrounding immigration policies and their implications on education and opportunity for young Texans who have grown up in the state. The meeting concluded with SB1798 left pending, awaiting further consideration, signifying ongoing concerns and unresolved sentiments among committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session (Part II) Feb 5th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • And what would you think if you lived in a district that didn't have a toll road and it was likely never
  • voucher systems to allow white families to escape integrated schools, so they could return to their lives
  • we should ensure that every single child Whether they live
  • marker="311" data-time="3091"> Providing a billion dollars for people to potentially offset the expenses
  • Close on this bill to create doubt and chaos at the expense
Bills: SB2, SJR36, SB2, SB2, SR29, SB2
Summary: The meeting focused on various legislative issues, with committee members engaging in detailed discussions regarding proposed bills and their implications. Key points included debates on economic policies and public safety initiatives, with members expressing differing viewpoints on certain legislative measures. The atmosphere was collaborative, as various stakeholders provided input on the legislation under consideration. Public commentary was encouraged, contributing to a robust dialogue among committee members and attendees.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Apr 2nd, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That every Texan, no matter where they live, has access to
  • Whether you live in a metropolitan area or not, as you commute, you're going to be coming through a rural
  • For 22 years, I've seen firsthand the critical role that well-equipped EMS services play in saving lives
  • It will allow them to continue saving lives in the great state of Texas.
  • I urge you to remember, ambulances don't save lives

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Finance included the introduction of SB1337 by Senator Krayton. This bill aims to provide a fair and accurate system for calculating tax obligations, mandating the comptroller to assess penalties only on the net tax due from a taxpayer rather than allowing overpayments to offset underpayments under limited circumstances. Senator Krayton elaborated on how the bill ensures that taxpayers who overpay can use that surplus to cover any underpaid taxes of the same type, ensuring fairness for both the state and taxpayers. Several discussions ensued regarding the administration of the bill, with contributions from various members including representatives from the Comptroller's Office.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I live in...
  • I live in Congress.
  • If you'll just mute your live stream there.
  • I have lived in Travis County since 2001.
  • I live in the U.S. Congressional District 10.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting was convened to discuss the redistricting process in light of ongoing concerns over gerrymandering and the potential impact on fair representation, particularly for communities of color in Texas. Chair Phil King welcomed committee members and emphasized the importance of public participation. Throughout the meeting, numerous witnesses provided testimony, raising urgent issues regarding how proposed changes to congressional districts would affect the political landscape, local representation, and disaster response efforts in the wake of recent events. Many speakers highlighted a sense of urgency, as they felt that the focus on redistricting was a diversion from pressing matters such as disaster recovery and climate response.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Jul 23rd, 2025 at 09:07 am

House Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I think they're expensive radios.
  • He lives up there.
  • Their lives are changed forever.
  • There's too many lives at stake.
  • expensive, and there's.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on flood management and response strategies following the recent devastating floods in Texas. Notably, discussions centered around the creation of a flood infrastructure fund and Senate Bill 8, which aims to improve regional flood planning processes. Several experts provided insights into the challenges faced during the floods, including communication barriers, emergency response efforts, and the need for better coordination among local and state agencies. Public sentiments were shared regarding the necessity for improved flood prevention measures, conservation plans, and the expansion of existing infrastructure to cope with future climatic challenges.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • rooted in the religious doctrine of the Imago Dei, the philosophical exhortation of Solzhenitsyn to live
  • June has only lived in Bastrop for two years.

  • save the lives of trans kids.
  • I just live my life. I pay my taxes. I own a ranch.
  • Is true freedom the right to make others live in fear?
Summary: During this meeting of the Senate Committee on State Affairs, significant discussions revolved around Senate Bill 618, which seeks to establish civil penalties for election officials who fail to adhere to the Texas election laws. Proponents, including Dr. Laura Pesce from True Texas Elections, passionately advocated for the bill, emphasizing the need for accountability and integrity in the electoral process. The committee heard testimonies underscoring the importance of consistent application of election laws and the necessity to deter violations that undermine public trust in the elections. Many witnesses detailed personal experiences with administrative overreach and violations of election law that directly affect voters and candidates alike. In addition to SB 618, the committee also reviewed Senate Bill 1999. This bill was met with considerable opposition, particularly from advocates arguing that it would promote discrimination against transgender students and exacerbate bullying within schools. Testimonies portrayed stark contrasts between supporters who claimed it would uphold religious freedom and critics who argued it would harm vulnerable youth by legitimizing discrimination based on gender identity. Ultimately, the meeting evidenced the varied views on legislative intent and societal implications surrounding these bills.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice May 6th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • data-time="36"> ...and victimizing our communities, and to make our communities a safer place for us to live
  • Attorneys are expensive. We deal with cases where we're in litigation for years at a time.
  • lived next door to a known drug dealer, okay?
  • It is very important to me that these parts of his legacy live on. And this is an important step.
  • world that we all deserve to live in.
Summary: The committee meeting predominantly revolved around several significant bills aimed at enhancing public safety and enforcing stricter laws regarding child custody interference and animal control. Key discussions included Senate Bill 2794, which proposes a three strikes law for parents interfering with court-ordered custody, thereby establishing more rigorous consequences for repeated offenders. Public testimonies highlighted the emotional and legal hardships faced by families navigating these situations, emphasizing the widespread support for the urgency of such legislation. Additionally, the Ramon Najera Act was discussed, focusing on stricter regulations for dangerous dogs following a tragic incident, reinforcing the need for community safety measures against violent animal attacks.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...she's living it.
  • or being unable to live normal lives if they chose not
  • They have circumstances where they are not living in their home, such as when they're living in a long-term
  • They were still living and...
  • It's hard to pass those expenses on to customers.
Summary: The committee meeting encompassed a wide range of discussions focusing heavily on various bills aimed at enhancing community safety and legal procedures. Notably, House Bill 2176 was introduced by Chairman Harless as a cleanup bill that seeks to improve courtroom safety. This drew significant attention as witnesses, including Holly Williamson from the Justices of the Peace and Constables Association, testified regarding the alarming increase in security incidents reported in Texas courts, emphasizing the need for reinforced court security measures. The concerns raised about the safety of judges, court personnel, and the public during court proceedings highlighted the gravity of the situation and the necessity for legislative action.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • County, at the expense of providing to somebody on the other
  • The consumer's going to bear that cost, but water is going to get more expensive.
  • we don't, particularly the rural utilities I do some work with, have smart meters because of the expense
  • So gung-ho about living within their limits and helping manage
Summary: During this meeting, the committee had a thorough discussion centered around various Senate Bills primarily related to groundwater management and water utility regulations. Notably, Senate Bill 2661, introduced amendments to enhance penalties for over-pumping water, highlighting the growing concern over depleting aquifers and ensuring compliance with existing water use regulations. Multiple senators voiced their opinions regarding the necessity of tougher penalties and the implications for both water users and conservation methods. Public testimony was heard, with some arguing against the proposed penalties, stating they could unfairly burden farmers and landowners.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part I) Feb 13th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We had to handle a $40,000 or $50,000 expense at the psych board one time, and it required a lot of legal
  • I mean, who doesn't want to live in Texas? Come on.
  • We also incur expenses and expend a lot of resources training
  • cover the cost of living and inflation so that we can retain
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Finance focused on reviewing budget recommendations from various agencies, particularly the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Significant discussions included the authorization of an additional $5 billion for the Texas Energy Fund, which was noted as a critical component for managing the state's energy needs. Chairman Thomas Gleason highlighted the importance of funding for regulatory and oversight roles, ensuring that the PUC continues to effectively manage Texas's growing electricity and water demands. Additionally, representatives from various agencies presented their specific funding requests, emphasizing the need for increased staff to handle rising workloads and maintain efficiency.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Jan 30th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I think it will be much less expensive to restore.

  • The LAR submitted includes all program area operating expenses within the base limit.
  • Also included is $189.6 million in all funds for operating expenses.
  • , and certainly our lives as Texans.
  • , and certainly our lives in government and the services we provide.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting focused on several critical budget recommendations for various state agencies, including the Texas Facilities Commission, which proposed significant funding changes. Chair George Purcell highlighted a reduction in appropriations, along with the introduction of new funds aimed at refurbishing the Rudder Building and supporting facilities operations. Discussions also touched on border security, where it was reported that Governor Abbott formally requested congressional support to reclaim $11 billion in funding for Texas operations. The ongoing dialogue regarding the maintenance and responsibilities relating to border wall constructions was emphasized, noting the complexity and the need for clear allocation of responsibilities as discussions with federal authorities develop. Throughout the meeting, there were notable conversations about operational efficiencies, particularly in the context of expanding cyber threats and the need for improved cybersecurity measures at state agencies. Members engaged in deliberating the future hiring of staff and resources necessary for maintaining effective service delivery amidst increasing demand. The discussions concluded with a commitment to keeping an open line with constituents regarding the implications of these funding decisions and the overall strategic direction of the agencies involved.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 3rd, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We're motivated to certainly get this done, but not at the expense of anyone.
  • object that's going to change the lives of so many Texans
  • They are old, and they happen to live on the other side
  • There is an emotional attachment to the lives being lost out there.
  • But our crew lost their lives, two people.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on discussions surrounding HB2003, the high-speed rail project proposed by Texas Central. Representative Harris presented the bill, highlighting the need for increased transparency and accountability regarding the project's funding and operational dynamics. Witnesses testified both for and against the bill, with concerns raised by Texas Central representatives about the potential impact of the proposed requirements on financial confidentiality and competition. The committee heard testimony from various stakeholders, emphasizing the balance between necessary oversight and encouraging private investment in critical infrastructure.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health Apr 17th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health

Transcript Highlights:
  • When we talk about health, those living in gaps of our

  • "> Chairman, I think about the mothers in my neighborhood, Houston said, "We'll Ndobadio," where I live
  • Wage disparity, inflation, and the cost of living and

  • That's the reality, and I live in a historic legacy.
  • I don't live. But it was, yeah, okay, so the chair moves that the subcommittee stand...
Summary: The meeting revolved around critical discussions regarding health-related bills, particularly focusing on women's health and food access issues highlighted in HB1786 and HB231. Representative Howard proposed HB1786 to reinstate the Women's Health Advisory Committee, emphasizing its necessity to address women's healthcare challenges in Texas due to the dissolution of the committee, which had previously facilitated valuable collaboration among healthcare providers. The discussions included testimonials from various stakeholders including health professionals and representatives from advocacy groups, all supporting the need for an advisory body that could effectively address women's health concerns. Additionally, there was strong support for HB231, which aims to study the impact of food deserts on vulnerable populations, as articulated by Representative Morales, making a case for equitable access to nutritious food across the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session (Part I) Feb 5th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • So your school district, where you live, you represent
  • Students cannot learn if they are living in fear.
  • Members, this amendment encourages program recipients to be able to reach a live person when they're
  • It's that expensive.
  • How many children are living at 200% FPL?

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
Transcript Highlights:
  • They get up to two years to live there as they get back on their feet.
  • You know, my mom also lived with us in her final years.
  • I had a whole litany of questions here about the expense...
  • We have lives, and lives are difficult at times.
  • People live in the shadows.
Summary: The recent Senate meeting primarily covered two resolutions, HCR65 and HCR19, both of which were passed unanimously with little to no opposition. HCR65 was introduced in memory of Tracy Lee Vincent of Longview, while HCR19 was presented to honor the late Terrell Lynn Roberts of Angleton. The meeting included brief addresses from several senators, who shared personal reflections on the impacts of the individuals being honored and expressed gratitude for their contributions to the community. This collaborative atmosphere showcased the members' capacity for camaraderie and respect, emphasizing the importance of human connection in legislative proceedings.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 5th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Well, that's really good if you live in Austin, if you live in San Antonio, if you live in Houston—you
  • I do Second Amendment law for a living, so.
  • On the next page, we take a look at income characteristics regarding households—households living in
  • They've gone from the price of a Snickers bar at a dollar to the most expensive product in the store,
  • Then you have an administrative cost that goes to pay expenses.
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs held a comprehensive meeting focused on several noteworthy bills, particularly those related to the Texas Lottery Commission and foreign adversaries. Discussions were led by various members, including Senator Hall, who expressed serious concerns regarding the legality and integrity of practices within the Lottery Commission, alleging that it has enabled a series of fraudulent activities. Testimonies were heard from stakeholders advocating for House Bill 130, aimed at protecting Texans' genetic information from foreign access. The committee also reviewed House Bills 119 and 581, which tackle transparency in dealings with lobbyists connected to foreign adversaries and address child safety against evolving technological threats, including deepfake technology, respectively. The atmosphere was engaging, with active participation from both committee members and witnesses from various organizations arguing for or against the proposed legislation. The meeting concluded with gratitude expressed towards the committee staff for their efforts in facilitating a productive session, acknowledging both the importance of the issues at hand and the various testimonies provided. The members agreed on the significance of regulating the Lottery Commission more effectively and ensuring the protection of Texans from potentially harmful external influences. All bills were left pending for further discussion and refinement in future meetings.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • 4623 as someone whose family has lived the long, painful
  • It is occurring at the state's expense and with the state's knowledge.
  • They're not just statistics; these are children whose lives have been destroyed.
  • In terms of the expenses...
  • These are real lives, and there is... this cannot happen.
Summary: The committee meeting covered significant legislative discussions, focusing largely on educational reform bills, particularly the committee substitute for HB4 which aims to replace the STAAR test with a simpler, nationally-normed assessment model. This proposed shift intends to reduce testing fatigue while providing timely feedback for teachers and parents. Senator Bettencourt presented reinforcing points for HB4, arguing it would create a more equitable education system that aligns classroom assessment with state standards. Feedback from numerous education stakeholders highlighted the urgency for a transparent and reliable evaluation framework. The conversation also included contrasting public testimonies, where some community members voiced concerns about the perceived inadequacies of the reform efforts, citing a need for genuinely transformative changes in education policy. The session concluded without final votes on the bills, leaving several pending for further review and consideration.

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