Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Texas Water Code'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Mar 18th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Any Texas resident who wishes to make public comment on

  • I've been coming to the legislature for 40 years to testify for the rights of DeafBlind citizens of Texas
  • Here in Texas, at the age of three, they started to try to instruct me in English.
  • At that time, they sent me to the Texas School for the Deaf, which uses sign language for communication
  • for the Deaf in Big Springs, Texas, and there I met several other students.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on HB64, a significant bill aimed at supporting the DeafBlind community in Texas. Representative Gonzalez presented the bill, highlighting its importance for approximately 2,700 Texans who are deaf and blind. Co-navigators are critical for these individuals to navigate daily life, attending medical appointments and grocery shopping. Gonzalez emphasized that the bill has previously passed through the committee and the House but faced challenges in the Senate. The intent is to ensure its passage this time, as it aligns with the governor's committee on people with disabilities' priorities. The discussion included testimony from several witnesses advocating for the bill, underscoring its impact on the community.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Texas Department of Transportation shows that over 25% of all alcohol-related crashes in Texas are
  • Well, the issue with that is the way the law works in Texas.
  • Government Code, section 508.145.
  • Drop that under the Government Code, section 508.145, subsection D2.
  • They list a lot of different sections of 4904, 4905, and 4906 of the Penal Code.
Summary: The recent meeting of the committee primarily focused on two bills, HB1482 and HB2341, aimed at addressing public safety and rehabilitation in the context of repeat offenders, particularly in relation to intoxicated driving offenses. The discussions highlighted personal testimonies from victims' families and experts advocating for stricter accountability measures against repeat offenders. Representative Leo Wilson emphasized the necessity of such laws to prevent future tragedies stemming from intoxicated driving, citing heart-wrenching cases that have affected the community. The committee also heard contrasting views regarding the effectiveness of increased incarceration versus rehabilitation efforts for offenders, with calls for a balanced approach to ensure public safety without neglecting rehabilitation needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the deputy director of Texas.
  • I'm a correctional officer with TDCJ and a private prison here in Texas.
  • My other question is, we have 101 prisons in the state of Texas, is that correct?
  • The Texas Civil Rights Project shows you are against the bill. Is that correct?
  • Two weeks prior to Grayson's death, there was another young man from Giddings, Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several significant bills addressing public safety and reform within the correctional system. Notably, HB2103 was discussed, which aims to provide mental health leave for correctional officers, amid growing concerns about their wellbeing due to the psychological stress associated with their duties. Support was voiced by various stakeholders, highlighting the need for better support systems for officers facing trauma related to their jobs. This bill was aimed at recognizing the critical role that mental health plays in maintaining a safe working environment for those in the corrections field. In another part of the meeting, HB2017 sparked heated debates, as it sought to instate stricter penalties for intoxication manslaughter committed by undocumented individuals. The discussion brought forth views on fairness and the implications of distinguishing sentences based on immigration status. Several witnesses offered testimony, both for and against the bill, leading to a contentious atmosphere that reflected the broader societal debates about immigration and public safety. Overall, the meeting highlighted the challenges of reforming laws while considering the variables of mental health and immigration status in the context of public safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Apr 14th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Right now, Alpine is specifically restricted by a section of the Texas tax code that requires.
  • Under the current law, in Subchapter C of Chapter 31 of the tax code, 66 Texas cities are authorized
  • of the Texas tax code.
  • House Bill 3196 proposes to amend Subchapter C, Chapter 351 of the Texas Tax Code.
  • Texas' best beach needs Texas' best beach facilities.
Summary: The committee meeting involved a range of discussions focused on local economic development through various House Bills primarily related to hotel occupancy taxes. Noteworthy was the presentation of House Bill 2370, which aims to allow municipalities like Harlingen to use hotel occupancy tax revenue retroactively for convention center expenses, facilitating fiscal responsibility and community involvement via voter approval. Representative Lopez encouraged support for the bill, highlighting its potential benefits for the city's budget and operational flexibility. Testimonies from local leaders, including Harlingen's Mayor, reinforced the need for this legislative change to support vital city projects.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development Apr 7th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • in Chapter 352 of the Texas Tax Code in order to be enabled to impose a hotel accommodation tax.
  • Texas taxpayers.
  • delivering energy economic and clean water benefits to Texas.
  • Texas 2036 appreciates this bill's focus on the integration of the Texas Workforce Commission.
  • The Texas Education Agency and the Texas Higher Education
Summary: The meeting included rigorous discussions on several bills related to energy policy and local government incentives. Notably, SB1754 was a central focus, where many members voiced concerns about its implications for renewable energy projects, suggesting it might hinder the growth of solar and wind energy in Texas. Testimonies from stakeholders, including local residents and industry experts, illuminated the tension between economic incentives for renewable energy and community concerns over land rights and environmental impact. Additionally, the introduction of Senate Bill 1534 concerning workforce development in nuclear and radiological safety drew attention as Texas grapples with a skilled labor shortage in these critical sectors.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The laws that make up the Texas Election Code are merely suggestions if breaking them has no consequences
  • which is a violation of Texas Election Code 127.201(c), failure
  • 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.
  • True Texas Elections compiled the 27 code waivers by the Secretary of State's division, and those have
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 I) Mar 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • My name is Kevin Hale, Libertarian Party of Texas. We are.
  • I spend a lot of time in Giddings, Texas, in that district.
  • of Texas.
  • The Libertarian Party of Texas urges the legislature...
  • Texoga, Texas Royalty Council, and Texas Civil.
Summary: The meeting addressed several key pieces of legislation, including SB1626, which proposes to enhance Texans' ability to pursue legal action against social media platforms for censorship. The bill aims to provide statutory damages, making it easier for individuals to protect their free speech rights. Testimonies were heard from various public representatives expressing support for the bill, emphasizing its importance in maintaining free speech in the digital age. Other bills discussed included SB1719 and SB1494, each receiving varying levels of scrutiny and support.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) May 8th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Texas bishops are committed to using all efforts to end the evil.
  • I appreciate so much the Catholic bishops in Texas standing behind.
  • I am here on behalf of the Children's Advocacy Centers of Texas, or CAC Texas, and I'm testifying in
  • Here in Texas, they're going to go to prison for a long time.
  • And I look forward to a Texas where, as they...
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss critical legislation aimed at preventing child sexual abuse, focusing on HB748 and SB835. Both bills received significant support from various witnesses, including representatives from the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, who emphasized the importance of eliminating non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) that allow perpetrators to escape accountability. Witnesses shared impactful personal testimonies, illustrating the harmful effects of NDAs on survivors and stressing the need for a transparent legal environment to protect vulnerable populations. The atmosphere underscored a collective commitment to reform and to stop allowing predators to hide behind confidentiality clauses.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce Apr 24th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The interest rates in Chapter 342 of the Texas Finance Code have not been modified in nearly 25 years
  • Small dollar credit has not kept pace with the needs of Texans, consumers in Texas.
  • I'm a senior policy analyst at Texas Appleseed, and I am respectfully...
  • My name is Stephanie Mason, and I'm representing AARP Texas and its 2.5 million members.
  • Texas, I think, is about ninth out of 44 states.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Business and Commerce Committee was marked by discussions on several significant bills, with a keen emphasis on legislative updates and committee substitutes. Notably, Senator Blanco presented a new committee substitute for SB2610, which modifies the employee cap from 100 to 250 and extends the update timeline for cyber security programs for small businesses. This substitute was adopted unanimously, reflecting a collaborative agreement among the committee members. Additionally, there were discussions surrounding SB1856 as Senator Crayton provided insights into how stakeholder feedback influenced the bill's committee substitute. The committee ultimately voted in favor, pushing it towards the local and contested calendar, indicating the bill's progression through legislative channels.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Obviously, one of them was the Texas Association of Mid-sized Schools, Texas Association of Community
  • Schools, the Texas PTA, and the Coalition for Public Schools.
  • of the Texas Education Code, which requires schools to
  • We're a convention of over 5,000 churches across the state of Texas.
  • Thank you for your time and commitment to the people of Texas.
Summary: The committee meeting covered a range of important issues, particularly focusing on school safety and the impact of certain proposed bills on vulnerable populations. Notably, Senator Creighton presented Senate Bill 2623, which seeks to establish school safety zones by preventing navigation services near schools, aimed at ensuring the safety of children in educational settings. Concerns were raised regarding the potential adverse effects of this bill on homeless navigation centers, with various stakeholders expressing their positions during the public testimony session. The importance of balancing community services with student safety was a recurring theme throughout the discussions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Under the Texas Education Code, superintendents must report romantic, sexual, or abusive conduct between
  • I'm appalled that it's not already part of our Texas code.
  • This ensures consistency and alignment with the definitions in the Texas Education Code while encompassing
  • This ensures consistency and alignment with the definitions in the Texas Education Code while encompassing
  • public schools by strengthening Section 37.015 of the Texas Education Code, which requires schools to
Summary: The committee meeting addressed critical issues regarding educator misconduct and legislative measures to improve reporting standards. Significant discussions revolved around SB1224, which mandates that superintendents report allegations of sexual or abusive conduct directly to law enforcement rather than relying solely on internal investigations. This bill, presented by Senator Sparks, reflects an ongoing effort to close loopholes in the education system that enable misconduct to persist without proper accountability. Senators emphasized the alarming rise in educator misconduct cases and the need for more stringent reporting practices to protect children in schools.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 17th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I represent Texas Central, and I'm neutral on what we're doing today. I'm not 100% sure.
  • project are on Texas Central, Kleinhein's capital partners,
  • sheet, is it on Texas Central's?
  • This is not going to get done without the help of Texas.
  • Of Texas Central at this point. Okay.
Summary: The committee meeting involved robust discussions focusing on three key bills: HB791, HB1729, and HB2876. HB791, presented by Representative Gortez, quickly passed through the committee with no objections, relating to approval for Central Catholic High School. Next, HB1729, which concerns term limits for commissioners of the free board, also saw no discussion before being moved favorably to the full House. The final bill discussed, HB2876, was pulled back from subcommittee and addressed amendments to a comprehensive development agreement aimed at enhancing portions of State Highway 130. The chair demonstrated an intent to expedite these measures, highlighting a commitment to advancing local infrastructure projects efficiently. Additionally, public testimony was not on the agenda for this meeting, indicating a focus on internal discussions. Members expressed gratitude for the cooperation shown during the session, suggesting a positive working environment. As the meeting adjourned, it was noted that the upcoming agenda would include numerous bills, ensuring ongoing legislative activity in the following weeks.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice May 20th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The current penalty scheme for the Penal Code is based on weight.
  • This is called deadly conduct under the Texas Penal Code, and this alone is illegal.
  • The Texas Penal Code on non-livestock animal cruelty states that a person commits an offense if the person
  • I'm a captain with the Texas Rangers.
  • We do have a public integrity unit with the Texas Rangers.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to discuss a wide range of bills, focusing particularly on topics related to sexual assault, victim compensation, and oversight of parole violators. The meeting was characterized by a series of bills being introduced, each accompanied by testimonies from experts and public advocates. Notably, HB2355, which aims to enhance protections for victims of crime, saw extensive discussion, highlighting how the proposed changes intend to close existing loopholes in current law, ensuring that necessary records are kept confidential and victims' details are handled with the utmost privacy. Other significant bills included HB305, which addresses competency restoration for defendants, and HB47, an omnibus bill centered around sexual assault survivors' protections.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Environmental Regulation Apr 17th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Environmental Regulation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm Robert Sadler with TCEQ's Water Quality.
  • HB 1237 amends the water code to extend the grace period for TCEQ license renewal from 30 days to 12
  • our Alternative Fueling Facilities Program, the Texas Natural Gas Vehicle Program, the Texas Hydrogen
  • water main?
  • HB4400 modernizes Section 7.067 of the Water Code

Summary: The meeting focused on several critical environmental bills primarily related to regulatory processes and emissions management. Key discussions included a thorough examination of HB3997, which aims to streamline LNG terminal permitting processes to boost development efficiency and compliance in Texas. Matt Barr of Chenier Energy emphasized the need for clarity in regulatory timelines to better support export operations and maintain Texas's leading position in LNG exports. Additionally, multiple bills were proposed concerning vehicle emissions testing and transparency requirements in waste management contracts, highlighting the varied approaches lawmakers are taking to environmental regulation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 14th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • repression as a threat to Texas and Texans.
  • Texas is more acutely aware of foreign threats.
  • It would certainly be a tribute to the state of Texas and to the country more broadly if Texas has already
  • Texas has the resources, Texas has the will, and Texas has the leadership to take on this issue—the full
  • You have the actual specific medical code.
Summary: The Senate Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss three critical bills, primarily centered around national security concerns and their implications on civil liberties. Notably, Senate Bill 2514 drew significant scrutiny and opposition from various witnesses who raised alarms about how the bill could infringe upon free speech rights and privacy. The bill aims to establish a framework for identifying and monitoring foreign influence operations against Texas, specifically targeting adversaries like China and Russia. Proponents argued that such measures are necessary to protect the integrity of state governance and prevent malign foreign influence, while opponents warned that it may lead to excessive governmental oversight and potential abuse of power.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The bill amends the Texas Education Code by establishing the Texas Higher Education Accrediting Commission
  • market demands as identified by the Texas Workforce Commission.
  • Byerly, you work for the Texas Public Policy Foundation, correct?
  • The University of Texas at Austin is a leader in innovation.
  • of higher education, allowing Texas to reclaim oversight from private.
Summary: During this meeting of the Senate Committee on Education, members engaged in detailed discussions surrounding three bills, mainly focusing on enhancing the accreditation processes for higher educational institutions. Senator Haynes and Senator Middleton contributed significantly by reintroducing SB1322 and SB2355, which aim to tackle the monopolistic nature prevalent in the current accreditation system, particularly concerning the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). The senators highlighted the need for a more competitive marketplace that can better serve the interests of students and educational institutions alike, as well as align educational outcomes with workforce demands in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This will strengthen educational outcomes and economic outcomes for Texas.
  • State Technical College, Temple College, Texas A&M, and UT Austin.
  • investment of the Texas CHIPS Act.
  • The Texas TRUE Initiative, the Texas Reskilling and Upskilling Initiative, and we put about $50 million
  • Texas State Association of Firefighters.
Summary: During the meeting, the committee engaged in extensive discussions surrounding several key pieces of legislation, including SB1961, which focuses on improving the data reporting on post-secondary outcomes for graduates. The bill was supported by various stakeholders, including workforce development representatives from Samsung, highlighting the importance of aligning educational outcomes with job market needs. Multiple testimonies were provided that underscored the need for robust data to aid both students and institutions in making informed decisions regarding career paths and education. Additionally, the committee addressed SB1325, which was subject to amendments and subsequently passed, with motivations surrounding the effective distribution of respiratory distress medication in schools. The meeting concluded with the passage of several bills to favorable reports for further consideration in the Senate, reflecting a collaborative effort to enhance educational compliance and workforce development initiatives throughout Texas. Members actively participated in both providing essential context for these bills and facilitating public input, emphasizing the shared commitment to benefiting the state's educational infrastructure and workforce readiness.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections May 15th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Texas election code has gradually evolved, incorporating adjustments for convenience, like varying
  • Where is that in the code? Paper code?
  • But registering to vote in Texas...
  • In fact, it has already processed over 6 million registrations in Texas—online registrations in Texas
  • This bill is a Texas solution to a Texas problem.
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Elections covered several significant bills, particularly focusing on election integrity and voter registration processes. Notable discussions included the challenges posed by election irregularities and the introduction of electronic voter registration aimed at enhancing efficiency and security. Representative Swanson presented SB 505, which would strengthen oversight in election irregularities, while HB 311, discussed in detail, proposed an electronic voter registration system modeled after successful implementations in other states. Both bills sparked robust discussions among committee members and witnesses, highlighting various perspectives on improving electoral processes. The members indicated a shared goal of maintaining transparency and accountability in Texas elections, though differing opinions on specific measures were apparent throughout the meeting. The meeting adjourned with many bills left pending, awaiting further consideration as the committee seeks a consensus.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Mar 25th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • " data-time="162">My name is Carla Jackson, and I'm a registered interior designer in the state of Texas
  • span> My grandfather actually immigrated from Germany to Central Texas
  • in 1845, right before Texas became a state.
  • I graduated from Texas Tech University in 1982 with a

  • In 1991, when Texas passed the Interior Design Title

Summary: The meeting of the committee predominantly focused on several key bills aimed at addressing significant social issues, particularly around human trafficking and workforce development. Among the notable discussions was House Bill 491, which seeks to empower local attorneys to collect penalties from illicit massage parlors to fund anti-human trafficking efforts. Testimonies revealed the alarming rise of such establishments in Texas and underscored the importance of effective legislative solutions. There were also discussions surrounding House Bill 1757, introduced to create an additional pathway for CPA licensure, addressing workforce shortages in the accounting field, which has become increasingly urgent as Texas experiences a population boom.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice (Part I) Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I’m with Texas Immigration Law Council in the Texas

  • Government Code.
  • Thank you for all you do for Texas.
  • Penal Code Section 38.14.
  • Penal Code definition of firearm.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice covered several significant legislative proposals aimed at improving the efficiency and safety of the Texas criminal justice system. Lead discussions focused on SB2405, which received attention for its comprehensive approach towards modernizing the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) and addressing recommendations made by the Sunset Advisory Commission. The bill includes provisions for enhanced staff planning and updated rehabilitation programs that are expected to yield substantial cost savings while promoting public safety. Senators engaged actively, expressing their support and raising questions about the implications of the proposed changes, especially concerning parole processes and facility management.

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