Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Texas Leadership Scholars Program'

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US
Transcript Highlights:
  • This is an unusual change in leadership in this committee, and yet an issue which we took up very seriously
  • Pezzurro is a former commander of the New Jersey Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program.
  • span marker="283" data-time="3384">Despite its critical role, the Internet Crimes Against Children program
  • Um, you're familiar with the SAFER program?
  • Do social media platforms all use similar programs?
Summary: The committee meeting focused on the pressing issues surrounding child safety online, with a particular emphasis on recent legislative efforts aimed at curbing child sexual exploitation and harmful content accessible through social media platforms. Senators engaged in a heated discussion regarding the implications of Big Tech's lobbying efforts against vital bills such as the Stop CSAM Act and the Kids Online Safety Act. Noteworthy testimonies highlighted real-life impacts of online dangers, including tragic cases of child exploitation and drug-related fatalities linked to social media interactions. The bipartisan nature of the committee's commitment to address these issues showcased a collective determination to make the digital environment safer for the younger generation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs Aug 11th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So what's happening in Texas today?
  • What's happening in Texas today?
  • So, if a citizen of a blue state sends abortion pills into Texas or does illegal abortions in Texas,
  • I'm the Public Policy Advisor for the Southern Baptist of Texas Convention, which has over 2,800 Texas
  • Texas ranks 37th out of 50 states.
Bills: SB10, SB16, SB6
Summary: The committee meeting featured discussions on several key legislative issues, particularly focusing on human trafficking and related victim protections. Notably, Senate Bill 10 was presented by Senator Parker, aiming to provide an affirmative defense for victims of trafficking charged with crimes committed under coercion. The bill garnered significant support as witnesses provided personal testimonies highlighting the struggles faced by survivors, emphasizing the need for legal recognition of their circumstances. Additionally, Senate Bill 6 concerning the regulation of medication used in abortions was debated, with concerns raised about its potential implications on women's health rights and judicial protections for healthcare providers. The meeting included a robust exchange of views, reflecting a wide array of stakeholder interests including public health and law enforcement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Apr 1st, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • My name is Kelly Kishnik, Vice President of Policy with Texas Business Leadership Council, testifying
  • Sam is the fourth largest university-based educator preparation program in Texas.
  • Members, this bill relates to the creation of the Texas Mental Health Profession Pipeline Program by
  • Texas does not prepare enough teachers through high-quality programs, as you all have heard today.
  • And as always, thank you for your leadership to the great state of Texas.
Summary: The committee meeting primarily addressed several education-related bills, notably focusing on strengthening teacher certification pathways and accountability measures within the Texas school system. Notable discussions revolved around Senate Bills 2252 and 2253, which aim to enhance early education and teacher preparation programs. Participants included various committee members who debated the merits of each bill and carefully considered public testimony that presented both support and concerns regarding the implications of the proposed legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs Aug 15th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • protecting civil rights in Texas.
  • I'm a transgender person and Vice President of the Texas Transgender Non-Discrimination Scholars.
  • Leadership that Texas belongs to only to those who look like them, worship like them, or think like them
  • Do you participate in the Texas Compassionate Use Program?
  • I would love to have them testify with us for the Thrive of Our Community Texas Families program, which
Bills: SB6, SB7, SB8, SB11, SB12, SB13, SB15
Summary: This meeting of the committee addressed several significant bills, with strong expressions of support and opposition from various stakeholders. Notably, SB8, a controversial bill concerning gender identity and access to bathrooms, drew extensive public testimony. Many speakers voiced concerns about the implications of such legislation, emphasizing the potential harm to transgender individuals and the necessity for an atmosphere of safety and inclusivity. In contrast, other members supported the bill, arguing for the protection of women's spaces. The committee also discussed SB15 regarding police records, which sparked debates on transparency and accountability in law enforcement. The meeting concluded with the committee members voting favorably on several bills, despite ongoing public dissent and calls for more urgent discussion on flooding relief efforts and community safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This is a violation of Texas Election Code 1.012 E through H.
  • Texas Election Code 122.001 states that election systems must be accurate.
  • It happened to me in Texas family courts. Speech should not be coerced.
  • I have never in my life felt more at home in Texas than I do now. That is until Texas...
  • I'm the Vice President of the Texas Transgender Non-Discrimination Scholars, and I'm a transgender Texan
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

State Affairs (Part II) May 15th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas Values is the family policy council for Texas, and we joined a coalition of about 40 other similar
  • It would really hurt Texas.
  • Texas Transgender Non-Discrimination Scholars.
  • Using trans and intersex people as political pawns is anti-Texas, is anti-American; it betrays the Texas
  • I'm a transgender Texan and vice president of the Texas Transgender Non-Discrimination Scholars.
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 1st C.S.

State Affairs (Part I) Aug 4th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas Women's Privacy Act.
  • I'm a transgender Texan and vice president of the Texas Transgender Non-Discrimination Scholars.
  • Central Texas.
  • to the SDC in Texas.
  • Texas.
Bills: SB7, SB14
Summary: The meeting focused on two primary bills, SB7 and SB14, which elicited passionate testimony from various stakeholders. Many speakers opposed SB7, arguing it disproportionally impacts transgender individuals under the guise of protecting women's spaces. Testimonies highlighted concerns about safety, privacy, and the potential for increased harassment against vulnerable populations, such as transgender youth. Supporters of the bill asserted it was a necessary measure for women's safety, yet critics emphasized that it would create further harm rather than protection. SB14 also saw substantial discussion regarding its implications for law enforcement record transparency, with some stakeholders supporting the need for confidentiality while others warned of accountability risks.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Director on behalf of the Texas School Safety Center at Texas State University.
  • , two of whom are in 504 programs.
  • ...Texas and West Texas.
  • Those of the Texas Education Agency—I am currently in their leadership fellowship.
  • advising program include funding for those programs under the Foundation School Program, which will
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
Transcript Highlights:
  • This is Texas. This is Texas.
  • And now Texas Republican leadership is behind closed doors
  • My daughter is a presidential scholar at Texas Southern University, so my money...
  • It's about fear: fear of a Texas that's younger, a Texas that's stronger, and a Texas that's more diverse
  • Greg Abbott in Texas.
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on public testimonies regarding the revised congressional redistricting plan. Numerous witnesses presented their concerns about how the proposed changes could potentially dilute representation for minority communities. A consistent theme throughout the testimonies was the fear that the redistricting effort was not aimed at serving constituents but rather at securing power for political parties. Several participants expressed a strong opposition to what they perceived as gerrymandering tactics, claiming they would negatively impact African-American and Hispanic communities in Texas. The meeting revealed a clear public sentiment against the redistricting proposals, with nearly all witnesses speaking out against the changes. The Chair noted an overwhelming number of testimonies opposing the redistricting, indicating a strong community response to the proposed changes and their implications on fair representation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations Feb 18th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am the Chief Program and Services Officer at the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.
  • ...program is called T-Chat, the Texas Child Health Access
  • This program was developed in response to a need identified by the Texas Maternal Morbidity and Mortality
  • When we started this program, there were 27 first-year slots across the state of Texas.
  • Our program integrity is something in our Medicaid programs, both in Texas and, of course, nationally
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on reviewing the proposed budget for the upcoming biennium, with substantial discussions around House Bill 1 and its implications for public education, healthcare, and border security. The Comptroller presented a revenue overview indicating a total of $194.6 billion available for general purpose spending, which reflects a slight decrease compared to previous years due to fluctuating economic conditions. Members raised questions regarding spending limits and the impact of federal funding on state programs, highlighting concerns about the sustainability of funding in light of potential changes at the federal level.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 19th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The "See Something, Say Something" program is a national program
  • I'm Steve Bresnan here on behalf of Texas.
  • This is not Texas. That is not freedom.
  • I live in Lubbock, Texas.
  • In the Greenspoint area of Houston, Texas, it is one of the worst places in Texas as far as crime.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on various legislative proposals, with significant discussions surrounding bills aimed at enhancing legal protections for citizens and jury privacy. Notably, House Bill 1110, presented by Chairman Shaheen, addresses safeguards for citizens reporting suspicious activities, ensuring they are protected from legal repercussions when acting in good faith. There was unanimous support for HB 349, which relates to civil liabilities associated with removing individuals from vehicles, illustrating the committee's commitment to providing social protections amid rising concerns around public safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Mar 4th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • They've just come out of Texas Tech University or Texas A&M.
  • programs.
  • You're representing the Texas Association of Scholars

  • I guess you could call them new programs. How many new programs are in this bill?
  • The state's investment in effective educators through this program enables more Texas students.
Bills: HB2
Summary: The committee meeting was focused on discussing HB2, a significant piece of legislation aimed at reforming school finance in Texas. During the discussion, members highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by school districts, including the impact of county appraisal districts failing the comptroller's property value study, which has led to budget reductions for many districts. Concerns were raised about ensuring that schools receive their entitlement funding and the need for potential amendments to address unresolved issues permanently. Various members expressed appreciation for the efforts made in HB2 to increase funding for at-risk students and improve overall educational outcomes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations Feb 18th, 2025 at 08:02 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am the Chief Program and Services Officer at Texas Health and Human Services Commission.
  • The first program is called T-Chat, the Texas Child Health
  • There are programs that Texas has that try to reach out to schools early on to get individuals in.
  • If you turn to the next slide, you can see the different managed care programs that Texas offers to individuals
  • something in our Medicaid programs, both in Texas and, of course, nationally.
Summary: The meeting involved a series of discussions around various legislative matters, focusing primarily on proposed bills and amendments. Members of the committee voiced their opinions on the implications of each bill, and several public witnesses offered testimony supporting and opposing different initiatives. Notable conversations revolved around fiscal responsibilities and the impact of these legislations on local communities. Overall, the dialogue was constructive, highlighting the differing perspectives among committee members and witnesses.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • span marker="107" data-time="1272"> ...thousand Venezuelans under the Temporary Protective Status Program
  • data-time="1848">Professor Bray, in your testimony before the committee, recalled a decision by a Texas
  • I recall when that issue came before the court in Texas, and the judge issued a universal injunction
  • on a broader scale, for the scope of birthright citizenship to differ in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas
  • This happened in the Texas Medford-Preston case.
Summary: During this meeting, the committee focused on the implications of universal injunctions, which have become a significant concern in recent years. The discussion centered around various legislative proposals aimed at addressing the perceived overreach of district judges who issue nationwide injunctions that affect policies across the entire country. Several members expressed the belief that such injunctions undermine judicial authority and disrupt the balance of power between the judiciary and executive branches. Expert witnesses testified about the historical context of universal injunctions and the necessity for reforms that would limit the power of courts to grant remedies benefitting non-parties.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 12th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas is different. Texas was founded on ideals of freedom and liberty.
  • Texas is different. Texas loves freedom, but House Bill 32 threatens these fundamental rights.
  • Texas Tenants Union, formerly in Dallas, Texas.
  • , Texas.
  • It's even harder in Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence Committee included discussions on critical bills impacting public safety and tenant rights. Representative Garcia-Hernandez presented HB923, which aims to add two public members to the Texas Medical Disclosure Panel, thereby enhancing informed consent for medical procedures. This move sought to enhance transparency and public trust, especially since the panel previously lacked any public representation. The committee also received testimonies both for and against the bill, highlighting the importance of public input in health-related decisions. The bill faced opposition mainly due to concerns about balancing medical expertise with public representation. Another significant discussion revolved around HB32, which seeks to streamline the eviction process in Texas. While proponents argue that the bill addresses inefficiencies affecting landlords, opponents, including activists and legal experts, expressed concerns that the bill could exacerbate homelessness and undermine tenant rights. They stressed the need for adequate protections and due process for tenants. As the committee moved through multiple bills, the need for careful consideration of both landlord and tenant rights remained a focal point of debate, indicating the complexities surrounding housing legislation in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs Jul 22nd, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That's all that was tested and certified under the USDA for the Texas Health Program.
  • You said that the TCUP program in Texas is the most robust program in the nation.
  • Texas.
  • like the Texas Compassionate Use Program, but what we are seeing is not medical use.
  • The Texas Compassionate Use Program is not...

Bills: SB5, SB11, SB12
Summary: The committee meeting focused on discussions surrounding public safety and health, particularly in relation to the regulation of THC products through Senate Bills 5, 11, and 12. A significant point of contention was Senate Bill 5, which sought to regulate THC products to prioritize child safety, with law enforcement officials arguing that existing regulations have failed to protect youth adequately. The committee heard several testimonies from both supporters and opponents of the legislation, emphasizing a deep divide on the efficacy of regulation versus prohibition. Lawmakers debated the implications of these bills, with some members advocating for a complete ban while others called for more moderate, regulated approaches to address the concerns surrounding THC consumption and its impact on mental health. Notably, the meeting concluded with a series of votes indicating a strong push towards tightening regulations on THC products to ensure public safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 27th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas citizens.
  • The Texas...
  • Family Program makes available here in Central Texas.
  • and South Texas.
  • Texas babies.
Summary: The meeting focused on discussions surrounding several proposed bills, notably SB31, SB33, and SB2880, which address abortion and related healthcare regulations. Prominent advocates for these bills included medical professionals and attorneys who argued for the necessity of stricter regulations to protect unborn children and prevent the indirect funding of abortion-related services. Testimonies featured intense debate, with supporters claiming the bills would enhance accountability and protect both mothers and children, while opponents raised concerns about potential negative impacts on women's health and constitutional rights.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • We've gotten conflicting information from our leadership here in the state of Texas who's...
  • in the great state of Texas for Texas to remain great.
  • Southeast Texas is different from West Texas and East Texas.
  • in Texas?"
  • Not the Texas that stands up. Not the Texas that leads.
Summary: The meeting focused heavily on congressional redistricting, centering around the discussion of HB4, a bill that aims to revise the congressional map based on population shifts and other demographic factors. Notable was Vice Chair Rosenthal's critique of the process and the lack of transparency regarding the bill's plans which he characterized as a 'rigged matter'. Multiple public hearings were conducted prior to this meeting, allowing citizens to register opinions about the congressional lines, and numerous testimonies were presented both for and against the proposed changes in the districts. The testimony revealed significant concern over how the redistricting could impact various communities and representations moving forward. Discussions included the implications of changing demographics, and members addressed how the modifications aimed to promote fair representation while considering historical voting patterns. As the committee adjourned, there were hints of continued deliberation on the matter with members expressing intention to finalize the bill in a subsequent session. The meeting demonstrated the committee's commitment to addressing public sentiment and legislative responsibility regarding district boundaries.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 1st, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This is from the Texas Medical Board.
  • , yet we're making it harder on Texas doctors.
  • here in Texas?
  • Madison Drug in Marshall, Texas is closed.
  • I'm a pharmacist from Longview, Texas.
Summary: The meeting centered on multiple significant legislative proposals aimed at healthcare reforms, notably focused on the operations of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and their impact on local pharmacies. Senator Hughes led the discussion on SB1236, which aims to regulate PBMs to prevent anti-competitive practices that have led to the closure of numerous community pharmacies. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including pharmacists, highlighted the challenges posed by current PBM practices, such as aggressive audit tactics and contract terms that disadvantage small pharmacies. The bill was generally supported in the committee due to its potential to restore balance and fairness in pharmacy operations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government Feb 11th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And that's a hobby scholar.
  • The equal and uniform remedy in Texas is unlike any in any other state.
  • I'm here representing Texas Realtors on the Public Policy Oversight.
  • We have represented the older population in Texas for the last 40 years.
  • Sixty-two percent of Texas households are homeowners.
Bills: SB4, SJR2
Summary: The committee meeting centered around significant discussions regarding property tax relief, particularly through Senate Bill 4 (SB4) and Senate Joint Resolution 2 (SJR2). Chairman Bettencourt and other committee members expressed strong support for increasing the homestead exemption to $140,000, emphasizing the necessity of this adjustment in light of a multi-billion dollar revenue surplus. Public testimonies revealed a mix of support and opposition, highlighting the complexities of local government spending and its impact on tax relief effectiveness. Witnesses articulated concerns about rising property taxes and urged the committee to consider systemic reforms to enhance the efficacy of tax relief initiatives.

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