Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'county judge'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence May 14th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Judge. Members, any questions for Judge Herman?
  • and statutory county court judges.
  • associate judges, master referees, and magistrate judges.
  • I represent four counties in Northeast Texas: Collin County
  • , Rockwall County, Hunt County, and Kaufman County.
Bills: SB1015, SB2933
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around several significant pieces of legislation, highlighting bills primarily focused on court proceedings, mental health services, and civil liabilities. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 441, which addressed civil liabilities for the promotion of artificial intimate visual material, and SB1164, concerning emergency detention for individuals with mental health issues. Both bills saw no amendments and garnered unanimous support in votes, showcasing the committee's intent to streamline judicial processes concerning these sensitive areas. Additionally, bills regarding guardianships and decedent estates were included, reflecting a commitment to improve the judicial system's handling of family law matters.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 19th, 2025 at 10:05 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • The local administrative judge in each county can establish a process for their jurisdiction.
  • It's basically a circuit judge that travels around, covering multiple counties, I understand.
  • So, a district judge, either in a county with a defendant,
  • A retired Travis County judge set his bond at $190,000.
  • in large counties.
Summary: The committee's meeting was marked by several key discussions surrounding numerous bills and resolutions. Notably, HCR 9 and HCR 40 were adopted, with representatives urging Congress for reimbursement related to border security under Operation Lone Star. Additionally, HCR 118 showed expressions of support for the warship manufacturing industry, reflecting a strong emphasis on local economic development. Senate Bills 1321, 2143, and 2145 passed various readings, which included provisions regarding law enforcement authority and the adaptability of public improvement districts to conduct meetings virtually. The meeting was well attended and featured numerous votes on significant legislative items, showcasing active participation from both members and the public.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Apr 7th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • Is it Harris County or...

    Fort Bend County.

  • County, Fort Bend County, Bexar County, Travis County, and Austin.
  • and county court judges who are ordering this important toolkit every week.
  • I am also the former associate judge of the 247th District Court in Harris County, and one of the things
  • , as well as Dallas County, Bexar County, and Galveston County.
Summary: The committee meeting centered around discussions on HB3284, which focuses on promoting family stability and the commissioning of a task force to evaluate existing regulations affecting marriage and family formation. Chairman Dutton initiated the conversation by emphasizing the need for governmental support in fostering a robust societal framework based on stable family units. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted the declining marriage rates in Texas, prompting discussions on effective strategies to reverse this trend. Public testimony was heard from representatives of Texas Values Action and the Texas Family Law Foundation, both advocating for stronger legislative measures to foster lifelong marriages and family stability.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • And then also, that's for the county commissioners' continuing education hours through the County Judges
  • The county judge...
  • I don't believe on the county side in the Texas Association of County Judges and Commissioners.
  • I've been a County Judge now, and I'm in my 23rd year.
  • Former County Judge Roger Harmon will attest to that as well. Mr.
Summary: The meeting revolved around significant legislative discussions primarily focused on SB8 and SB18. Notably, the committee addressed public testimonies on SB18, which targeted drag performances and LGBTQIA individuals. Testimonies highlighted the potential discriminatory implications of the bill, raising concerns that it undermines constitutional freedoms. Various members of the public expressed both support and opposition, fostering a heated debate about its impact on community rights and protections.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 31st, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The judge. Who? The judge. The judge. But does it prevent it from being discoverable?
  • , "Hey, judge, they...
  • Remember, even though Harris County gets a bad rap, there are lots of judges all over the state that
  • Judge Englehart? Yes.
  • judges than any other county in Texas.
Summary: The Senate Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss several critical pieces of legislation including SB30 and SB38. Senator Betancourt introduced a committee substitute for SB38 which underwent a smooth adoption process, moving it favorably toward the Senate. The meeting featured a mix of invited testimonies where both proponents and opponents took the floor. One notable highlight included a testimony from Melissa Casey, who criticized the current legal state as prone to fraud and detrimental to both insurers and the public at large, contending that it inflated insurance costs across the board. The discussions delved deeply into the implications of the bills on judicial processes and potential insurance ramifications, with spirited debates surrounding issues of non-economic damages and jury rights. The atmosphere remained engaged as committee members heard varied perspectives on the bills, showcasing a robust democratic process. The meeting underscored the importance of public testimony in shaping legislation, ensuring that multiple voices were considered as the committee pressed on towards making decisions that affect the legal landscape of Texas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • If it's a single unit, it's your county judge.
  • At the county level, it's the county judge.
  • like Kerrville, or the county judge in Kerr County, would be the actual decision maker in a small county
  • historically, the county judge is your first point of contact.
  • The county judge and I talked, and I think...
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several critical bills related to disaster response and water conservation. Senate Bill 1, the Natural Disaster Omnibus Bill, was extensively discussed, with testimonies reflecting on recent flooding incidents in Texas. Senator Perry emphasized the need for policy solutions to prevent future tragedies following historic flooding that resulted in significant loss of life. The committee adopted the committee substitutes for both SB1 and SB13 without objection, highlighting the broad support for these initiatives aimed at water conservation and improved emergency response protocols. Additionally, members expressed the importance of training and educating officials involved in disaster management to ensure they are equipped to handle emergencies effectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Aug 18th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • The county judge was quoting 8%, which was the old rollback.
  • And those four rural county judges testified that they...
  • Nothing prevented those county judges or those county commissioners from coming to us directly and saying
  • They called the Victoria County judge, the Victoria County judge engages with our office.
  • Judges Association from contacting our county judges, and our county judges in turn contacting me, which
Summary: The committee meeting focused on flood response and preparedness legislation in the wake of recent natural disasters. Key discussions revolved around Senate Bills 2, 3, and 5, which are aimed at improving disaster management and enhancing public safety through the installation of outdoor warning sirens in flood-prone areas. Senator Bettencourt and Senator Huffman led significant discourse on these bills, emphasizing the urgent need for robust funding and systems to protect communities. The meeting was marked by unanimous support for the bills, showcasing a collective commitment to implementing effective disaster response strategies.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Mar 27th, 2025 at 10:03 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I've participated as a presiding judge and an alternate judge in Central Count, and this also...
  • The district judge? Yes.
  • It's always Harris County.
  • Harris County.
  • Harris County is a big place, y'all; it often takes more than an hour to get across the county.
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
Transcript Highlights:
  • 'Judges' is a name, not a title.
  • And in Harris County and Dallas County, there are a thousand precincts; that tape would be miles long
  • We have this in Dallas County.
  • County, Texas, for over 25 years.
  • In Williamson County, in...
Summary: The committee meeting conducted significant discussions around various bills, notably focusing on House Bill 223, which was reported favorably with recommendations for a full Senate pass. Several members, including Senator Middleton, participated in laying out the bill, emphasizing its potential impacts. Senator Gann's HB521 also garnered attention, receiving approval with aim to accommodate voters' needs, particularly those with disabilities. Throughout the meeting, members exhibited collaboration despite differing views on certain propositions, reflecting a commitment to legislative progress. Public testimony was sought for various bills, expanding the dialogue with stakeholders on topics affecting their communities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations Mar 10th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Judge Lance Long was appointed to the 100th District Court in Harris County on New Year's Day of this
  • Prior to taking the bench, Judge Long was an assistant district attorney in Harris County, a staff attorney
  • Judge Long, go ahead.
  • I was appointed at the beginning of this year to be the judge of the 183rd District Court of Harris County
  • There was a judge several years ago in Harris County who one day decided to declare the death penalty
Summary: The meeting revolved around various critical discussions, primarily focusing on school safety and the challenges surrounding border security. Key testimonies highlighted the significant strides made in reducing illegal crossings but emphasized the need for continued vigilance against crime and drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl. Members expressed gratitude towards the Texas Senate's supportive role in funding for safety measures and strengthening resources to keep the state safe. Conversations also centered around the implementation of new safety protocols in schools, including the establishment of the Office of School Safety and Security, and how schools are addressing vulnerabilities identified from assessments. Furthermore, the importance of mental health resources was underscored as a complement to physical security improvements within educational institutions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Mar 4th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • the counties saw the backlog.
  • Many counties, including Harris County, including Dallas County, and others.
  • His name was Judge Ted.
  • Many counties, including Harris County, Dallas County, and many others...
  • His name was Judge Ted...
Summary: The meeting of the Texas Juvenile Justice Committee focused on addressing key issues within the juvenile justice system, particularly outlining a severe staffing shortage that impacts service delivery to youth in secure facilities. The Director of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department presented significant findings, including a spike in violence among youth and a concerning increase in youth with heightened aggressive behaviors and mental health needs. The committee emphasized the urgent need for additional staffing and funding to enhance the living and working conditions in juvenile facilities and ensure adequate programming for the youth involved.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Administration Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Administration Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • As the marriage capital of Texas, Rockwall County is

  • This is a resolution authorizing the burial of Judge Guy
  • Judge Herman was first elected as the judge of Travis County.
  • I think he is the longest-serving state judge, I think, but I'd have to double-check that.
  • Judge Herman has served as the presiding judge for the Statutory Probate Judges of Texas since 1998.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Administration commenced with a quorum established, led by Chairman Hall. The committee discussed and voted on several bills, including SB2232 which promotes an annual 'Unplug Texas Day' aimed at encouraging outdoor activities and community interactions among Texans. Senator Hinojosa presented the bill, highlighting its potential health benefits and community strengthening. Testimonies were invited but none were provided, leading to a smooth passage of the bill to the full Senate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 1st, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Even when a county can get enough jurors, Even when a county
  • counties to backfill their jury pools.
  • I'm the Constable of Loving County.
  • My name is Judge Shepard, and I'm a policy...
  • I believe my great-great-grandfathers were both named Judge, and no, neither one of them were judges
Summary: The committee meeting featured extensive discussions focused on time legislation, including HB1393 and SB692. The primary subject was the proposal to adopt permanent daylight saving time, which sparked diverse opinions from committee members and witnesses. Supporters like Erica Boyd, President and CEO of the Texas Travel Alliance, advocated for the benefits of extended daylight for outdoor activities and tourism, while others expressed health concerns and the disruption that early darkness in winter months could cause to families. Testimony revealed a split in public sentiment, further complicating the legislative decision-making process. Additional bills, such as SB2943 regarding religious freedom protections for occupational licenses, also received attention, showcasing the breadth of topics covered in this meeting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice (Part II) Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And I think just about every one of my county judges and commissioners would agree with you in that assessment
  • judge that I represent, every county commissioner that I represent would make a similar statement.
  • And quite frankly, the Hidalgo County Jail is full. We're now leasing from Willis County.
  • counties.
  • county, you know...
Summary: The meeting of the committee was marked by critical discussions surrounding several bills focused on enhancing public safety and addressing criminal activities. Notably, Senate Bill 1208 sparked significant debate as several members expressed concerns regarding its implications for free speech and civil rights. Testimonies from various public participants highlighted fears that the increased penalties could infringe on First Amendment rights by deterring individuals from holding law enforcement accountable. The committee also tackled Senate Bill 1646, aiming to combat copper theft, which has surged significantly across Texas, affecting essential infrastructure and emergency services.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs (Part II) Aug 4th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • we've been in Tarrant County.
  • the Harris County Sheriff's Office.
  • You know, you go judge by judge, it may be different what
  • But it gives the judge that discretion, and if the judge is making a decision, that's something that
  • So for Harris County, it's split your file. Harris County is split your file.
Bills: SB7, SB14
Summary: The meeting centered on a heated discussion regarding SB14, which proposed changes to how police misconduct records are managed and accessed. Numerous witnesses, including representatives from civil rights organizations and concerned citizens, expressed strong opposition to the bill, arguing that it would significantly reduce transparency and accountability within law enforcement agencies. Testimonies highlighted historical failures in police accountability and emphasized the importance of public access to misconduct records to restore community trust. The committee received both emotional appeals and expert opinions, painting a vivid picture of the potential negative impacts of the proposed legislation on police-community relations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence May 6th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • There's an in-camera examination by the judge.
  • And then it lists a few situations where a judge can admit evidence.
  • I am the Deputy Chief of the Juvenile Division in Dallas County.
  • It took a minute to file the paperwork and for the judge to set it for a hearing.
  • So, what if a judge is in plain clothes?

Summary: The meeting convened to discuss various bills primarily focused on juvenile justice and legal representation standards. Notable discussions included House Bill 437, which addresses the placement of youth in detention facilities according to regulations, as explained by Representative Cook. House Bill 507, which pertains to legal representation for indigent defendants, also sparked a debate that resulted in tight voting, showcasing the divergent opinions among committee members. Additionally, Senate Bill 40 underwent a reconsideration, reflecting substantial amendments aimed at balancing non-profit and for-profit entity payments related to bail bonds, which highlighted the complexities of legislative amendments and the procedural adherence required to maintain order in discussions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means May 19th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • All right, seeing none, the Chair calls Judge Shepard.
  • "Judge" is a name, not a title, so I just wanted to get that out there.
  • Thompson is here on behalf of the County Judges and Commissioners Association of Texas.
  • Rick Thompson, representing the County Judges and Commissioners Association.
  • I'm not aware of any or many counties out there abusing this, but this is something that our counties
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on a series of Senate Bill presentations, particularly highlighting SB1277 which aims to extend the reauthorization period for the municipal street maintenance (SMR) tax in the city of Coppell from four years to ten years. This extension aims to stabilize funding for vital infrastructure projects, helping the city avoid potential financial disruptions and additional tax burdens on residents. Testimonies included insights from public representatives, including Mayor Pro Tem Don Carroll, who emphasized the bill's importance for ongoing maintenance efforts and taxpayer savings.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session Aug 1st, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • , "Often many of my fellow county judges, especially in rural counties, cannot express enough how detrimental
  • Members, the judges who were there included Judge Lane Carter, Republican from Tom Green County, Judge
  • Sheree Hardin, Republican from Mason County, and Judge Frank Troll, Republican.
  • , Judge Jody Fowley, Republican from San Saba County, and Judge Brandon Corbin, Republican from Menard
  • judges, "Do you find value in the Texas Association of Counties?"
Bills: SB5, SB11, SB12
Summary: The committee meeting held a vigorous debate primarily concerning Senate Bills 11, 12, and 5, each addressing significant legislative issues including taxpayer-funded lobbying, election integrity, and the regulation of hemp-derived THC products. Proponents of SB12 defended it as necessary for transparency and fiscal responsibility, emphasizing the suppression of taxpayer-funded lobbying as a means to protect taxpayer interests. In contrast, opponents raised concerns that the bill would silence local government voices and hinder advocacy from smaller communities, arguing that it undermines local control and representation in the legislative process. Throughout the discussions, key testimonies illustrated the political divides over these legislative priorities, generating significant public interest and engagement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 26th, 2025 at 09:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • and to stay as judges.
  • But don't do this for the judges.
  • and to stay as judges.
  • Even though the judges' jobs are so much more important and the judges wield so much more power.
  • But don't do this for the judges.
Summary: The meeting featured a address by Chief Justice Jimmy Blacklock, who emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the legal system and ensuring fair access to justice for all Texans. He addressed the challenges facing the judiciary, notably the need for increased funding for district judges, which has not seen a raise since 2013. The Chief Justice highlighted how inadequate compensation has affected the ability to attract and retain qualified judges. He urged the legislature to consider a substantial increase in judicial salaries as a matter of public interest and necessary for the state's judicial system.

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