Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'witnesses'
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TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Trade, Workforce & Economic Development May 7th, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- We do have some witnesses here today to testify on this bill.
- On this one, I kind of echo the concerns of the previous witness.
- Reagan Miller, resource witness, available for questions.
- Well, I know you are the expert witness.
- So each witness has up to two minutes for testimony time.
Bills:
HB1087, HB2504, HB4113, HB5144, HB5146, HB5377, HB5543, SB140, SB264, SB1244, SB1343, SB2121, HR868
Keywords:
property owners, board vacancy, special election, association governance, community management, property owners' association, resale certificate, fees, real estate regulation, homeowners, fraudulent filing, financing statement, secured transactions, Business & Commerce Code, legal liability, affidavit, termination statement, filing office, court action, data broker
Summary:
The Committee on Trade, Workforce and Economic Development convened to discuss a range of bills addressing workforce policies, business practices, and data privacy issues. A highlight was the presentation of HB5146, aimed at expanding subsidized childcare eligibility to include parents pursuing non-credit workforce training, which drew significant support from both committee members and witnesses. Additionally, SB2121 was introduced to rectify clerical errors within the data broker law, ensuring better consumer protections around the collection and use of personal data. Various other bills saw quick passages with unanimous support, reflecting broad agreement among members regarding workforce development and operational efficiency.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I just want to say thank you to both of the witnesses.
- As a Muslim, I've witnessed incredibly harmful misconceptions about my community being spread within
- Any questions from our witness?
- And you, Amanda, you are here as a resource witness.
- So, members, we have Amanda Cochran-McCall, a resource witness from UT Austin.
Bills:
SB2972, SB1909, SB2815, SB735, SB2233, SB800, SB1069, SB2683, SB2986, SB2058, SB2310, SB2055, SB1032
Keywords:
expressive activities, freedom of speech, public forum, higher education, protests, student rights, antisemitism, higher education, public institutions, disciplinary policy, student organizations, antisemitism, higher education, public institutions, disciplinary policy, compliance, antisemitism, higher education, public institutions, institutional policy
Summary:
During this meeting of the Senate Education Committee, multiple bills were discussed, focusing on educational policies and procedures. Notably, Senate Bill 1241 was introduced by Senator Middleton, which proposed a committee substitute for establishing standardized college entrance exams accepted by Texas public universities. The committee engaged in significant dialogue about the necessity of addressing concerns surrounding exam equivalency standards, and the need for a data-driven approach to admissions decisions. Various committee members voiced their support for the enhancements proposed in the substitute, leading to its unanimous adoption and favorable recommendation to the full Senate.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Okay, and you're the resource witness. What is your role, sir?
- We have two resource witnesses to talk about how this program is expanding.
- Members, any other questions for our resource witness? Okay, we do have two invited witnesses.
- We'll hear from the witnesses later. So my thoughts are...
- Chairman, just out of curiosity, how many more witnesses do we have?
Keywords:
higher education, tuition rates, financial support, immigration status, Texas law, athletic scholarships, foreign students, higher education, Texas Senate Bill, public universities, charter school, adult education, high school diploma, liability protection, performance metrics, enrollment capacity, school start date, education, local control, district of innovation
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
Veteran Affairs (Part I) May 23rd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Here with us this morning, I believe, we have a resource witness
- 58" data-time="342">We do have Brian Stevens here with the Texas Military Department as a resource witness
- We do have the Texas Military Department here as a resource witness.
- We have a resource witness from the Texas Veterans Commission to answer any questions.
Keywords:
veterans benefits, HB2193, support system, public testimony, Texas Veterans Commission, military education, state tuition assistance
Summary:
During the meeting of the Veteran Affairs Committee, legislators discussed several significant bills aimed at providing support to the veterans community. House Bill 2193 was introduced by Representative Guillen, focusing on creating a comprehensive study to improve veterans' access to benefits statewide. Senator Eckhardt emphasized the growing population of veterans living far from military bases and the need for a geographically responsive support system to ensure that veterans receive the assistance they deserve. Public testimony was opened, but no witnesses registered to speak, leading the committee to leave the bill pending for further consideration.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management May 22nd, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
Reminder to our witnesses.
- Please complete the witness affirmation forms that the monitor
Members, are there any questions for the witness?
- The next witness is Travis Holler.
- I've witnessed a lot of testimony.
Keywords:
historic landmark, property designation, municipality control, historic district, owner consent, compensation, property rights, zoning ordinances, municipal law, historic preservation, Texas legislature, SB2215, SB2639, public testimony, transparency
Summary:
The meeting focused on the review of two bills: SB2215 and SB2639. SB2215, presented by Representative Alders, aims to enhance property owners' rights by clarifying their ability to challenge municipal zoning ordinances that are improperly enacted without due process. The bill garnered support from various stakeholders who emphasized the need for accountability in zoning practices. Conversely, SB2639 sparked significant debate, as it seeks to provide further transparency in historic designations and ensure fair compensation for property owners impacted by such designations. Testimonies from developers and preservationists highlighted the ongoing tension between property rights and the safeguarding of historic sites, illustrating the complexities and implications of these bills on Texas communities.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services Apr 1st, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- To all that want to witness.
- The committee uses electronic witness registration.
- I have two witnesses. Thank you.
- If not, we will hear from the next witness.
- So we do have witnesses, but we're working on...
Bills:
SB331, SB883, SB926, SB1137, SB1138, SB1144, SB1151, SB1236, SB1270, SB1522, SB1869, SB2207, SB2422
Keywords:
healthcare, cost disclosure, transparency, administrative penalties, health facility compliance, COVID-19, off-label use, prescription drugs, patient access, medical standards, healthcare, insurance, physician ranking, incentives, fiduciary duty, health plan issuers, first responders, emergency response, group homes, local government
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
Transcript Highlights:
- I do believe you have some witnesses.
- There's one resource witness from.
- Any other witnesses?
- I'm not showing any witnesses.
- witnesses.
Bills:
HB106, HB144, HB145, HB252, HB1732, HB2221, HB2467, HB2468, HB2517, HB2518, HB2963, HB3016, HB3689, HB3960, HB4386, HB4490, HB4751, HB5247, HJR175, HB2213
Keywords:
electric utility, distribution poles, inspection, public safety, compliance plan, wildfire mitigation, utilities, electric service, liability, risk management, self-insurance, Texas Division of Emergency Management, employment compensation, state agencies, salary payments, general appropriations, government efficiency, massage therapy, regulation, licensing
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Business and Commerce convened to discuss a wide range of bills, including key pieces of legislation such as HB1922 and HB145, which address utilities' wildfire mitigation efforts. There was a notable emphasis on the importance of strengthening Texas' approach to dealing with electric utility liabilities and improving operational strategies in the event of wildfires. Public testimony was heard, with various stakeholders advocating for and expressing concerns about elements of the proposed regulations, highlighting the nuanced positions citizens and organizations hold regarding energy management and environmental safety. Additionally, several bills were reported favorably to the full Senate, indicating a smooth legislative progress during the meeting.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 2nd, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee
Transcript Highlights:
Members, there's a resource witness also from TWC who
- We do have some witnesses, I believe. Yes, yes.
- I'm going to respectfully ask all the witnesses to come forward.
- I know the witness before mentioned that the states that have adopted this have seen great benefits.
- I'm here as a resource witness if you have any questions.
Keywords:
science park district, economic development, technology innovation, higher education collaboration, infrastructure development, Texas Economic Development Office, workforce development, unemployment benefits, state average unemployment rate, benefit year, economic support, Texas Workforce Commission, property owners' association, free speech, assembly rights, government officials, political candidates, floodplain, landlord, tenant
Summary:
The meeting convened to discuss HB2214, a bill aimed at clarifying notification requirements regarding flood risks for tenants. Chairman Wallace articulated the bill's intent, discussing how it adjusts previous legislation to alleviate duplicative notifications for temporary leases or short-term rentals. The committee engaged in vibrant dialogue about the implications of this legislation, with representatives expressing support and raising questions about its implementation and effectiveness. Public testimony included insights from realtors and stakeholders, which highlighted the balance between tenant rights and landlord responsibilities in the wake of flood events.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Madam Chair and members, I believe we have a few witnesses.
- They are interviewing more collateral witnesses.
- They need to be doing discovery and preparation, getting witnesses and good cases ready.
- And I have the resource witness.
- I reserve the right to close and I have witnesses here who can testify.
Bills:
HB741, HB1199, HB2070, HB2402, HB2542, HB2665, HB2789, HB3096, HB3396, HB3595, HB3747, HB4116, HB4127
Keywords:
child welfare, relative caregiver, monetary assistance, Department of Family and Protective Services, child custody, family law, emergency power, nursing facilities, assisted living, generator requirements, health and safety, emergency generators, nursing facilities, assisted living, power outage, health and safety, emergency generator, nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, power source
Summary:
The meeting convened with Chair Hull overseeing the discussions, and a quorum was confirmed with all members present. The primary focus was on voting several bills that had been discussed in previous hearings. Notable among them was HB1155, which relates to monetary assistance from the DFPS to certain parents. The committee adopted a substitute for the bill without objection and subsequently moved it forward with recommendations for favorable approval to the full House. Another significant topic was HB136, which aimed to include lactation consultation in Medicaid coverage, which also passed out of committee with a substitute.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- We will have the Attorney General's office here as a resource witness, I think.
- Members will need the resource witness on this one. Very well.
- Chairman, I was wondering if we have a resource witness from the GLO?
We'll hear from each witness.
- There are some more witnesses.
Keywords:
minors, sexually explicit materials, public libraries, age verification, civil penalties, library collection review, alcohol storage, airline permits, beverage regulations, airport, commercial flights, alcoholic beverages, local option election, zoning regulations, municipality control, land use, state law, social media, bot accounts, misinformation
Summary:
The meeting focused on several legislative measures concerning alcoholic beverages, ethics, and the protection of free speech. Notable discussions included the presentation of Senate Bill 2633, which aims to modernize the framework for alcohol sales in local communities and allow local option elections within designated zones. Additionally, Senate Bill 2713 garnered significant attention, addressing ideological discrimination in professional associations based on political beliefs, urging a need for greater protection of free speech in Texas. Public witnesses provided testimony, with a mix of support and concerns regarding various bills, indicating a vibrant discourse among committee members and the public.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine perspectives from the field, focusing on farmer and rancher views on the agricultural economy. Feb 26th, 2025 at 09:30 am
Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- I would like to thank our witnesses for taking time away from your families and your farms to share your
I look forward to hearing from today's witnesses, and
Our witnesses today are going to shed light on the
Before we begin introducing our first panel of witnesses
- Chairman, very much, and it is my pleasure to introduce one of our witnesses today from Mississippi.
Keywords:
agriculture, avian flu, bipartisan farm bill, economic challenges, poultry, dairy, specialty crops
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on crucial discussions surrounding the challenges faced by the agriculture sector, particularly concerning avian flu and its impact on poultry and dairy producers. Members provided insights into the economic struggles within the industry, emphasizing the need for a new bipartisan farm bill that addresses the diverse needs of specialty crop and livestock producers. Witnesses from various agricultural sectors spoke about their experiences, illustrating the high costs, regulatory burdens, and emerging diseases that threaten their operations. The meeting underscored a commitment to exploring solutions that will help maintain market stability and ensure food security.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I do have a couple of witnesses here: James Quintero from TPPF and President Ed Johnson.
- Ed is the only witness who registered to testify for or against.
- We have some expert witnesses here who are very knowledgeable about the problems.
- There are two invited witnesses, Steve Gassenberger and Will Hilliard.
- Chairman, and I thank each witness. Thanks for staying up, staying late with us.
Keywords:
public school funding, education, budget allocation, financial transparency, state law, local control, fiduciary responsibility, public retirement systems, investment management, proxy voting, financial factors, public retirement systems, fiduciary responsibility, investment management, proxy voting, financial factors, insurance, political shareholder proposals, fossil fuels, greenhouse gas emissions
Summary:
The meeting conducted by the committee featured an extensive discussion on multiple bills, particularly focusing on the ethics reform via SB2403, aimed at enhancing the structure and enforcement processes of the Texas Ethics Commission. The conversation revolved around establishing a three-tier system categorizing violations and enhancing procedural fairness and accountability in ethics investigations. Senator Mayes introduced a committee substitute, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that enforcement processes are transparent and just, particularly relating to minor infractions. Public testimonies in favor of the bill highlighted the need for reform, while concerns were raised about maintaining integrity in oversight mechanisms.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education Apr 10th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education
Transcript Highlights:
- p>
As always, we will limit public testimony to two minutes per witness
- Actually, don't go anywhere; I don't believe we have any witnesses.
Members, any questions for the witness?
Members, any questions for the resource witness?
Keywords:
teacher salary, retirement benefits, career education, work experience credit, Texas Education Code, career education, technical training, workforce development, grants, education funding, career and technical education, HB1876, HB1057, data reporting, teacher compensation, workforce development, education reform
Summary:
The meeting convened to discuss two key bills, HB1876 and HB1057, which focus on advancing career and technical education in Texas. Representative Tepper presented HB1876, which proposes a reporting grant program to improve the collection and analysis of CTE data by school districts. The bill aims to enhance the effectiveness of CTE programs by providing better tracking of student engagement and outcomes, ensuring that graduates are prepared for high-demand job markets. The discussion was lively, with several committee members and stakeholders providing input on the necessity of upgrading reporting mechanisms within the educational framework.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services Mar 18th, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Bailey as an invited witness. Thank you.
- The Chair calls up invited witness Kevin Wren.
- David Gerber is an invited witness.
- I think we have a resource witness available.
- Sheila, you're the only witness if you want to.
Keywords:
immunization, written informed consent, civil liability, health care provider, vaccine compensation, administrative penalty, health care, licensing, complaint procedure, disciplinary action, law enforcement, conscience protection, health care services, civil remedy, disciplinary action, health care providers, patient access, hospital safety, emergency room, bollards
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
Transcript Highlights:
- Members, any questions for the witness?
- Christina Atkinson, if you could come up, please, as a resource witness.
- I'm just asking because the last witness talked about how the courts would take...
- Members, any questions for the witnesses? Thank you, sir, very much for being here.
- I’d like to call the resource witness.
Keywords:
education reform, budget allocation, teacher retention, student performance, accountability measures, election law, volunteer deputy registrar, renewal application, appointment, training requirements, elections, registrar, volunteer, renewal, training, appointment, election supplies, ballots, criminal offenses, election conduct
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused primarily on various election-related bills, with significant discussions revolving around HB1783, HB1090, and HB1478. Notably, HB1783 faced opposition from representatives of the Texas Civil Rights Project, who argued that the bill would impose undue restrictions on local governments regarding ballot proposition language, potentially hindering timely responses in elections. Another contentious bill, HB1090, proposed prohibitions on certain individuals serving as volunteer deputy registrars, which drew criticism for its implications on accessibility and fairness in the electoral process. Public testimony included voices both in favor and against these bills, highlighting the ongoing debates over election integrity and administrative efficiency.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and Commerce (Part II) Apr 3rd, 2025
Senate Business & Commerce Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Renzo Soto as a witness. There we go.
- I know we've got some great resource witnesses from DIR as well.
- There are witnesses testifying today who can talk more about that.
Resource witness, yes thank you.
- Corona from the PUC as a resource witness. Welcome, Mr. Perez.
Bills:
SB231, SB584, SB600, SB668, SB841, SB986, SB1003, SB1244, SB1625, SB1960, SB1963, SB1964, SB2026, SB2056, SB2368
Keywords:
heirs' property, cotenants, partition action, right of first refusal, real property, public information, government transparency, bad faith requests, expedited response, attorney general authority, open records, renewable energy, distributed generation, compensation, ERCOT, electricity generation, renewable energy, distributed generation, compensation, ERCOT
Summary:
The meeting focused on several important legislative proposals, with significant discussions around AI regulation and copyright protections in light of emerging technologies. Notably, Senate Bill 1964, aimed at promoting ethical AI adoption within government bodies, was presented by Senator Parker. The bill received support from witnesses who emphasized the need for transparency and a regulatory framework that safeguards civil rights while fostering innovation. Conversely, concerns were raised about potential overreach and the implications for accountability in AI implementation. Additionally, Senate Bill 1960 sparked a passionate debate concerning the protection of individuals' digital likenesses from unauthorized use, highlighting the rising stakes as digital content increasingly intersects with personal rights.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- So it's a horrible practice that we're witnessing. It's shocking to our conscience.
- I believe we have a witness here from Enterprise that will speak to their experience.
- We have a long list of witnesses, and we do have to enforce the two-minute rule.
- Any other questions, members, for this witness? Thank you, Mr. Patel. Thank you.
- I witnessed up close a system that exploits animals and deceives their customers.
Bills:
HB74, HB175, HB460, HB576, HB2271, HB2294, HB2874, HB3016, HB3133, HB3191, HB3458, HB3929, HB4063, HB4115, HB4394
Keywords:
Puerto Verde, Port Authority, eminent domain, bonds, tax assessments, economic development, infrastructure, transportation, public welfare, child care, certifications, Texas Rising Star Program, grant program, disability inclusion, child care, family income, affordability, economic impact, state study, child care
Summary:
This committee meeting predominantly focused on the discussions surrounding several significant bills aimed at enhancing child care accessibility and addressing the issues related to deepfake technology. Representative Bojani introduced HB3133, which seeks to create a clear reporting process for deepfake material, ensuring social media platforms take accountability for harmful content. The bill aims to safeguard users from digital manipulations. Notably, the representatives engaged in a robust dialogue regarding the rising need for responsible management of deepfake content, establishing that Texas could take a leading role in this area.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local Government (Part I) Mar 31st, 2025
Senate Local Government Committee
Transcript Highlights:
We will have invited testimony limited to five minutes per witness
Any questions for the witness?
Are there any questions for the witnesses?
- Any other questions for the witnesses?
Are there questions for the witness?
Bills:
SB1079, SB1243, SB1504, SB1579, SB1708, SB1844, SB1851, SB1879, SB1921, SB1951, SB2237, SB2238, SB2406, SB2407
Keywords:
public utility agency, dissolution, local government, regulatory framework, municipal authority, telecommunication, board meetings, Gulf Coast Authority, conference call, videoconference, abandoned property, tax delinquency, urban development, receivership, local governance, disannexation, municipality, services, property owners, jurisdiction
Summary:
The committee meeting on [date] focused on several key pieces of legislation, primarily addressing land use and city governance issues. Prominent discussions included SB1579, which seeks to empower municipalities in El Paso County to manage abandoned properties through a court-appointed receiver process. This bill aims to tackle long-standing challenges posed by undeveloped and neglected land parcels that hinder community growth. Public testimonies highlighted concerns regarding safety, illegal dumping, and the economic potential of reclaiming these properties for housing and development. Notably, Mayor Rudy Cruz Jr. of Socorro expressed strong support for the bill, emphasizing the need for a clear process in handling unoccupied land.
Additionally, SB1851 was discussed, aimed at addressing audit compliance for Texas cities to improve financial transparency and accountability. Senator Nichols presented this bill, arguing for its necessity in ensuring cities cannot raise taxes without adhering to established audit requirements. Public testimonies underscored the experiences of city officials facing obstacles due to outdated audit practices, with calls for legislative action to protect taxpayers while enforcing compliance. The meeting was characterized by substantial participation from public officials, showcasing a collaborative effort to address these pressing issues.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Transportation Funding Apr 14th, 2025 at 10:04 am
House S/C on Transportation Funding
Transcript Highlights:
- I believe there is a resource witness from TxDOT available to answer any questions.
- There are no witnesses registered.
- You got a few witnesses, and we'll bring you back up to close. Thank you, Chair.
- You've got a couple of witnesses.
- There are no witnesses and one resource witness, if needed. Members?
Bills:
HB1589, HB2208, HB2297, HB2560, HB2725, HB3080, HB4417, HB4473, HB4520, HB4662, HB4888, HB4905, HB4906
Keywords:
toll collection, vehicle registration, electronic notices, administrative fees, nonpayment penalties, Adopt-a-County Road, funding, road maintenance, county partnership, public recognition, toll discounts, emergency responders, transportation, discount programs, public service, roadway funding, border security, transportation facilities, commercial motor vehicles, local government
Summary:
The committee meeting centered on several key legislative bills focused primarily on transportation and toll road policies. Notable discussions included HB1589, which aims to require voter approval before any new toll road can be constructed. Representative Dirty emphasized that Texans should have a voice regarding tolling roads they didn't vote for, while opponents argued that this could impede necessary road funding. HB2725, which proposed toll exemptions for first responders, also received significant attention as it seeks to alleviate financial burdens on those who serve the community during emergencies. Witnesses testified on behalf of these bills, providing personal stories and statistics to support their positions.