Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'housing choice voucher'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs (Part I) Aug 4th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I know you pinned very forcefully, probably not by choice.
  • It's not a choice.
  • Just an arm's length apart, the center was faced with a choice.
  • I am a former member of the Texas House. I represented House District 148.
  • Little House on the Prairie. Heart of God.
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.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • at 3 o'clock in Emancipation Hall, a Congressional medal that was authorized by the Senate and the House
  • He was asked directly and he said, well, difficult choices essentially are going to have to be made.
  • My choices and decisions moving forward directly influenced my way of life and leadership for my son.
  • I truly followed the lifestyle and choices that Jesus had
  • They're deliberate choices with deadly consequences. When we erase identity, we erase ourselves.
Summary: The committee meeting focused primarily on the critical issues surrounding veterans' mental health and suicide prevention. Discussions centered on the reauthorization of essential programs aimed at providing non-clinical support services to veterans, particularly the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program. Senators emphasized the urgent need for adequate mental health resources as the suicide rate among veterans remains alarmingly high. Key testimonies were provided by various advocates and officials, illustrating both successful implementations of these programs and areas needing improvement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health Mar 31st, 2025 at 08:03 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Chair lays out House Bill 27.
  • Members, House Bill 1887.
  • The Chair lays out House Bill 2622.
  • House Bill 1803 passed lawfully.
  • House Bill 1803 is left pending.
Summary: The public health committee meeting convened to discuss a variety of bills aimed at improving health-related policies in Texas. Noteworthy discussions included House Bill 1887, which seeks to enhance access to birth certificates for adult adoptees, and House Bill 754, which mandates medical assistance personnel to complete training on human trafficking. Both bills received positive support from the members present, and there were assurances that the bills would be reported favorably to the full House. Public testimony was also encouraged, allowing stakeholders to voice their opinions on these significant pieces of legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Bill 1022 be reported favorably to the full House

  • Thank you for allowing me to come advocate for House Bill 2290.
  • House Bill 2290 will explicitly allow universities like Rice.
  • The chair lays out House Bill 1705.
  • House Bill 1705 aligns state law with this change.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on the evaluation of several bills related to higher education funding and performance. Notably, the committee discussed HB1868, which was transformed into a study to analyze funding disparities between community colleges and school districts. Representative Wilson highlighted concerns raised by community colleges regarding funding thresholds and the potential fiscal impact, which is estimated at over $1 billion over the next biennium. The committee also passed HB271 after adopting a committee substitute that addresses success rates for students with disabilities, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity in higher education. Overall, the discussions emphasized the need for equitable funding and data-driven decisions for future legislative sessions.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm a regional outreach coordinator for Texans for Vaccine Choice.
  • Can you imagine having buzzards like this sitting on the adjacent houses?
  • The House is where it's at too. This is a big enough bill that we need to close.
  • They talk about consumer choice, but how much choice does our...
  • Let's support consumers and businesses having choices.
Summary: The meeting was convened to discuss various Senate Bills, focusing on issues pertinent to agriculture, environment, and public health. Notably, Senator Perry spearheaded discussions on SB1247 and SB1948, emphasizing the need for committee substitutes to adapt the bills to recent legislative requirements. SB1948, in particular, was introduced to exempt agricultural structures from certain fire safety regulations, reflecting concerns among agricultural producers regarding compliance costs. Multiple members supported this legislation, highlighting the impact on the agricultural sector's operational viability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This is House Bill 2741.
  • House Bill 2750 would simply offer patient choice

  • choices and patient steering.
  • The chair lays out House Bill 9.
  • House Bill 946 accomplishes this.
Summary: The House Committee on Insurance convened to discuss multiple bills aimed at enhancing consumer protection and improving access to essential services. Notable discussions included HB2528, which seeks to eliminate prior authorization requirements for medications treating substance use disorders, thereby expediting access to crucial treatments for Texans. Representative Boosie laid out HB722, addressing transparency in auto insurance valuation processes, prompting engagement from various witnesses on how current practices potentially exploit consumers. Members voiced concerns about the intersection of bureaucratic delays and the urgency of addiction treatment, emphasizing the bill's potential life-saving implications.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Transportation Funding Mar 31st, 2025 at 10:03 am

House S/C on Transportation Funding

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair lays out House Bill 2876.
  • I am speaking in opposition to House Bill 1402.
  • And that's why we oppose House Bill 1402.
  • Transportation choice is transportation freedom.
  • Well, that could be anything, including housing.
Summary: The recent committee meeting focused heavily on transportation infrastructure, with significant discussions surrounding multiple bills aimed at addressing funding and operational strategies. Notably, HB263 aimed to update grant distribution from the Transportation Infrastructure Fund to better reflect the needs of rural and energy-producing counties, thereby ensuring equitable support for necessary infrastructure improvements. Public testimonies in favor of the bill highlighted its importance to local communities impacted by oil and gas activities on their roads. Additionally, HJR58 was discussed, proposing to permit the Texas Department of Transportation to allocate funds toward transit-oriented projects, marking a shift toward multi-modal transportation strategies to reduce congestion and foster economic development. However, opposition arose regarding the potential misuse of gasoline taxes for non-road purposes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Mar 18th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the political director for Texans for Vaccine Choice.
  • I have been involved in vaccine choice.
  • House bill? No, on this bill. Yes.
  • Many times, I was told that I did not have a choice in the matter, or my hand...
  • It's a wonderful extension of the efforts on House Bill 711 from last session.
Summary: The meeting of the committee was focused predominantly on various bills concerning healthcare and insurance policies, reflecting significant discussions on how these laws impact the community. Notably, Senate Bill 660 was introduced to enhance safety measures at healthcare facilities, discussing the necessity for bollards to prevent unauthorized vehicular access, highlighting a bipartisan understanding of public safety. Senator West emphasized the importance of these regulations, citing real-world incidents that necessitate such actions. Public testimonies complimented this discussion, providing insight into community needs for enhanced security in hospitals.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Mar 31st, 2025 at 04:03 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • to recall House Bill 2716.
  • This is also a refile of House Bill 1542.
  • Yeah, I think we'll go with House Bill 2495.
  • House Bill 2495 is closed; we'll mark it as pending.
  • All right, we're on House Bill. House Bill 3181.
Summary: The meeting of the Family and Judiciary Committee was productive, with in-depth discussions focused on multiple bills that address important aspects of family law. Notable conversations revolved around HB2495, which aims to clarify the rights of parents regarding their children's education amidst existing ambiguities in lower court rulings. Testimony supporting this bill highlighted the necessity for legal clarity to ensure children can be enrolled in school without delays. The committee also discussed HB3181, which seeks to enhance the enforcement of child possession orders by linking repeated contempt findings to custody modifications, reinforcing accountability for parents who violate court orders.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm here to testify on House Bill 2667. TLA is an advocacy organization.
  • House Bill 4130 adjusts that timeline to 180 days to allow.
  • House Bill 4130 mitigates and eliminates some of those effects to ensure.
  • I ask for your favorable consideration of House Bill 4130.
  • House Bill 4131 is the last bill in this package.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on several key bills pertaining to the accountability and operational continuity of single-source continuum contractors within the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). Representative Davis presented three related bills: HB4129, HB4130, and HB4131, which were designed to strengthen DFPS's enforcement mechanisms, clarify contract termination timelines, and enable swift action in cases of non-compliance by services providers. Each bill was discussed in detail, highlighting their importance for ensuring services for children and families remain uninterrupted and meet quality standards. Witnesses from various stakeholders provided testimony both in support and in critique of the proposed legislation, indicating the significant impact these bills could have on service delivery across the state. A notable moment during the meeting was when the discussion surrounding HB4130 revealed concerns regarding current 60-day notice requirements for contract terminations, which were deemed insufficient. The proposed extension to 180 days is aimed at ensuring a seamless transition without service disruption. The meeting concluded with the decision to leave the bills pending further consideration, demonstrating a commitment to address the pressing issues raised by the lawmakers and community members involved.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health Apr 17th, 2025 at 09:04 am

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

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Bill 2677 is left pending.
  • House Bill 475. Thank you very much.
  • And House Bill 821 is left pending. The chair lays out House Bill 2659 in recognition.
  • House Bill 2060 is left pending.
  • And House Bill 632 is left pending.
Summary: The committee meeting engaged in comprehensive discussions surrounding various health-focused bills aimed at improving community services and mental health care access. Notably, House Bill 475 was refiled by Representative Johnson, highlighting the deficiencies in Texas Medicaid regarding community-based care for youth at risk for criminal behavior. The committee examined the merits of the bill, emphasizing the need for evidence-based intervention programs. Meanwhile, House Bill 2060 received attention for its focus on ensuring automatic Medicaid coverage for infants, addressing gaps in access highlighted by a report indicating a significant number of newborns missed enrollment at birth. Members expressed strong support for this initiative, delineating the critical nature of health coverage for Texas’ youngest citizens.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 May 19th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair lays out House Bill 2, sponsored by Senator

  • 54">To public education and public school finance members, there is a new committee substitute for House
  • Committee substitute for House Bill 2 that was considered at
  • And so therein lies the choices that we have to make.
  • House Bill 2 will be reported favorably to the full Senate.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Education K-16 convened to discuss House Bill 2, which focuses on public education funding and reforms. Senator Creighton presented amendments to the bill, highlighting significant increases in funding for special education and enhancements to teacher pay. Notably, the committee adopted a new substitute version of the bill after thorough discussions regarding its implications on districts and educators. Several senators expressed their concerns and support for the bill, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that all educational stakeholders are adequately compensated and that the bill addresses ongoing educational challenges in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 8th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Bill 34 comes to us from Chairman Metcalfe over in the House.
  • House Bill 34.
  • Chairman, I also have the House bill to look at. Thank you.
  • But I appreciate very much what the House bill does.
  • If I choose not to use it, that's my choice.
Summary: The meeting held by the committee covered multiple critical bills focusing chiefly on the implications of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) related to child sexual abuse and the prohibition of state investments in companies tied to nations deemed as threats, such as China and Russia. Debate around HB34 emphasized the necessity of protecting Texas taxpayers and maintaining national security by avoiding investments in these adversarial nations. Additionally, House Bill 748 spurred poignant reflections and testimonies from abuse survivors aiming to combat the silencing effect of NDAs on victims. The legislators expressed a consensus on the urgency of these issues, particularly the need for Trey's Law, which aims to empower survivors and diminish the influence of NDAs that shield abusers from accountability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 14th, 2025 at 09:04 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Bill 5015...
  • House Bill 4736.
  • So they have relatively few choices.
  • Are there any objections against House Bill 4609?
  • That's my choice.
Summary: The meeting involved extensive discussions around several house bills, with notable emphasis on HB700, which aims to increase transparency in the merchant cash advance (MCA) sector. Representative McQueen provided a detailed explanation of the issues small business owners face due to aggressive tactics and lack of regulation in this area. The committee also examined HB4609, which focuses on updating the Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) benefits to provide clearer options for cities regarding cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), allowing cities to offer retirement benefits in a more flexible and informed manner. Additionally, the meeting featured a strong public testimony segment, where witnesses voiced their support and concerns, especially regarding the implications of digital currencies framed in HB703.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

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

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The expansion of the Texas Compassionate Use Program and the intent of House Bill 46 provide a choice
  • The White House requested reports from us, and I've sent daily situation reports to the White House.
  • those choices available to us.
  • They're making choices, right?
  • We want to give consumers a choice.
Bills: HB5
Summary: The meeting of the Public Health Committee focused primarily on discussions surrounding HB5, which seeks to regulate THC consumables in Texas. Numerous witnesses provided testimony, both in favor and against the bill, highlighting concerns regarding public health and safety as well as the economic implications of regulation versus prohibition. Chairman Van Dever and other committee members actively engaged with witnesses to clarify the potential impact of the proposed legislation. The testimonies brought to light intense disagreements over how best to approach the management of hemp and cannabis products, demonstrating a division between those advocating for strict regulations versus those calling for responsible oversight without outright bans on THC.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism May 1st, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Chair moves that SCR4, without amendment, be reported favorably to the full House.
  • They have no choice but to cross busy roads to find a mate or to find food.
  • Is there anyone else who wishes to testify for or against House Bill 5259?
  • If there is no objection, House Bill House Bill 5259 will
  • House Bill 5259 will be left pending.
Summary: The meeting of the Culture, Recreation, and Tourism Committee centered on several important bills primarily aimed at enhancing Texas's wildlife management and cultural initiatives. One of the standout discussions was around HB5259, which advocates for the development of a wildlife corridor action plan by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The bill aims to address the high number of animal-vehicle collisions in Texas, proposing to set up designated areas to connect wildlife populations and habitats. Witnesses, including wildlife conservationists, testified in support of this bill, stressing its potential to significantly reduce accidents and protect endangered species like ocelots. The committee also deliberated on multiple Senate Bills aimed at streamlining hunting licenses and supporting state historical initiatives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health Apr 21st, 2025 at 12:04 pm

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Bill 216 is left pending.
  • House Bill 2035 is left pending.
  • With that, House Bill 2264.
  • on behalf of Texans for Vaccine Choice and myself for House
  • Chair lays out House Bill 4466.
Summary: The Committee on Public Health convened to discuss various bills related to mental health, public health initiatives, and animal care. Notably, representatives presented House Bill 2264, which aims to facilitate communication between mental health patients and their families, allowing family members to provide important medical information during emergencies. The bill sparked a substantial discussion, with advocates from the National Alliance on Mental Illness supporting its intention to improve patient outcomes. Other significant bills included HB 1747, introduced to create a council for mental health and substance use, fostering collaboration among affected systems, and HB 2684, which focuses on palliative care options for parents facing life-limiting diagnoses for their unborn children. Public testimonies supported these measures, highlighting their importance in enhancing care and support for vulnerable populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Apr 30th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Committee on Elections will come to order.

  • This is House Senate Bill 1470 and recognizes Chairman Shaheen.
  • Chairman and members, for the opportunity to lay out House Bill 4309.
  • I think it does also limit people's choice because there is only one option.
  • House Bill 4309.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused primarily on discussions surrounding HB4309, aimed at allowing third parties to handle filing fees similarly to major political parties. Witnesses from the Libertarian Party, including Wes Benedict, expressed the need for equitable treatment in political financing, highlighting how fees imposed on them currently do not assist their party in any meaningful way like they do for Republicans and Democrats. Concerns were raised regarding the lack of accountability for fees collected from third parties, with committee members discussing potential oversight mechanisms.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs Aug 15th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • There are more important issues, like the flooding victims, like housing, like.
  • I am a woman, that's who I am; it's not a choice.
  • But most of you helped a like one into our White House. Let me remind you that...
  • Adults 21 and older deserve the freedom in America to make their own choices.
  • wouldn't have made that same choice.
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

Higher Education May 6th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And so it's not our fault that he made bad choices.
  • I'm sorry if it was a bad choice, but it was the choice that she made.
  • The House is better than the Senate.
  • There's that House and Senate thing again.
  • Vice Chair Howard moves that House Bill 4848 as substituted be reported favorably to the full House with
Summary: The committee meeting focused on heated discussions surrounding SB37 and HB4848, with numerous testimonies given by concerned citizens, educators, and students. Advocates for SB37 emphasized the need for educational reform, arguing that current higher education standards are overly influenced by political ideologies and do not adequately prepare students for the workforce. Opponents voiced strong concerns about the bill's potential to undermine academic freedom and lead to the removal of essential courses from the curriculum, which would diminish the quality of education in Texas. The meeting highlighted a clear divide on the future of educational policies and governance in universities, reflecting broader social and political tensions.

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