Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'school choice'

Page 19 of 49
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs Jul 22nd, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • overall safety of the school.
  • With some arguing it's a matter of personal choice, the truth is the real choice doesn't exist when the
  • And today, you have a choice to make.
  • district if it's a school district.
  • But the large majority of school board members...
Bills: SB5, SB11, SB12
Summary: The committee meeting focused on discussions surrounding public safety and health, particularly in relation to the regulation of THC products through Senate Bills 5, 11, and 12. A significant point of contention was Senate Bill 5, which sought to regulate THC products to prioritize child safety, with law enforcement officials arguing that existing regulations have failed to protect youth adequately. The committee heard several testimonies from both supporters and opponents of the legislation, emphasizing a deep divide on the efficacy of regulation versus prohibition. Lawmakers debated the implications of these bills, with some members advocating for a complete ban while others called for more moderate, regulated approaches to address the concerns surrounding THC consumption and its impact on mental health. Notably, the meeting concluded with a series of votes indicating a strong push towards tightening regulations on THC products to ensure public safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs (Part I) Aug 4th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This law will make schools feel even more unsafe. I know what that's like. I was in those schools.
  • It's not a choice.
  • Girls should go to school.
  • We have children in middle school, high school, and graduates of universities here in Austin.
  • Multiple of the school shooters, including the Tennessee school shooter, were trans.
Bills: SB7, SB14
Summary: The meeting focused on two primary bills, SB7 and SB14, which elicited passionate testimony from various stakeholders. Many speakers opposed SB7, arguing it disproportionally impacts transgender individuals under the guise of protecting women's spaces. Testimonies highlighted concerns about safety, privacy, and the potential for increased harassment against vulnerable populations, such as transgender youth. Supporters of the bill asserted it was a necessary measure for women's safety, yet critics emphasized that it would create further harm rather than protection. SB14 also saw substantial discussion regarding its implications for law enforcement record transparency, with some stakeholders supporting the need for confidentiality while others warned of accountability risks.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • schools and in public schools.
  • two choices.
  • So I sent my kids to school.
  • Being trans is a choice; choosing not to use the restroom is a choice.
  • Your lifestyle is your choice, your body, your choice, right? They don't have that choice.
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on Senate Bill 2043, aiming to provide protections for healthcare professionals against retaliation for reporting unethical practices. Chairman Hughes initiated the discussion, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding medical practitioners' rights. Testimonies from various witnesses highlighted real-life implications of the bill, with some expressing personal experiences of facing significant backlash for whistleblowing on unethical practices within healthcare facilities. Supporters of the bill touted it as a crucial step towards ensuring transparency and accountability in the medical field, particularly concerning the treatment of minors in gender transition procedures.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm proud to be their candidate of choice.
  • Latinos go to your schools. Latinos built your homes.
  • School children this summer and also school children next
  • We have a high school sophomore and a rising junior.
  • I attended Jack Gates Senior High School.
Summary: The House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting convened to discuss a revised congressional redistricting plan as part of a special session. The meeting focused on public testimony regarding potential revisions to the redistricting map due to concerns about representation for Congressional Districts 2, 7, 8, and 9. Several witnesses testified against the proposed changes, expressing worries about gerrymandering and the disproportionate impact on minority communities. Notably, Deborah Allen, a former city council member, implored the committee members to heed the concerns of constituents who fear losing representation during this critical redistricting process. The atmosphere was charged as multiple lawmakers and public members voiced their frustrations about the perceived political motives driving the redistricting efforts rather than addressing urgent local needs. The committee faced questions regarding the lack of concrete maps available for public commentary, raising concerns about transparency in the redistricting process. Some members argued that the hearings should prioritize community engagement across the state rather than being limited to a few locations. Various testimonies highlighted fears that the redistricting plan might undermine the gains made in voter representation, particularly among marginalized groups. As the meeting concluded, it became clear that the committee might need to hold further hearings to ensure the public's voice was adequately represented before moving forward with any decisions.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • We have Jessica Roberts, the President of the Interim Board of Trustees at Emory University School of
  • We at Texans for Vaccine Choice thank Chairwoman Colquhurst
  • In school in the 90s, I did not see a single patient

  • I went to school at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and only saw one person with hemophilia, and
  • So this is about giving people more choices.

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services focused primarily on several key bills aimed at improving health care regulations and patient rights. Notably, Senator Hall introduced SB125, aiming to allow for direct and autologous blood donations, which sparked passionate debates among committee members and invited witnesses. Concerns were raised regarding the bill's implications for patient safety and the feasibility of the proposed 72-hour notice period for hospitals. Testimonies highlighted personal experiences, including that of the Lehrer family, advocating for the bill based on their children's health needs and the challenges faced due to current regulations. Conversely, several representatives from blood centers expressed opposition, cautioning that the bill could burden the blood donation system and adversely impact the quality of care for patients with special needs. Additionally, SB315 was present to address genetic privacy issues, aiming to grant Texans property rights over their DNA and genetic information. This bill also brought forth discussions about the ethical implications of genetic testing and data privacy in light of technological advancements. As the meeting progressed, representatives underscored the importance of balancing legislative intentions with practical outcomes, initiating further discussions on amendments and committee substitutes that would refine the proposed laws.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This includes medical and veterinary schools.
  • or schools of veterinary medicine.
  • pursue medical school.
  • My body, my choice, is what it ought to be.
  • For some, it's just a personal choice.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services primarily focused on several pieces of legislation aimed at improving mental health care in Texas, especially for vulnerable populations. Notable discussions were held around SB719, which seeks to conduct a comprehensive assessment of inpatient psychiatric bed capacity in Texas, addressing the significant shortages faced by facilities. There was widespread support from committee members and public testimonies praising the need for improved mental health resources and proactive measures to enhance service delivery. Witnesses highlighted the critical situation surrounding mental health admissions, emphasizing the human impact of ongoing bed shortages and the tragic consequences for patients awaiting treatment.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 19th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • But sometimes they make an irreversible choice before they can get the help they need simply because
  • churches, summer camps, schools, and ministries.
  • You know, I had my other share of trouble and choices.
  • It was all the choices that didn't align with my character and who I am.
  • This happened once or twice a month for the rest of my high school.
Summary: The committee meeting centered around the discussions of three key bills: HB865, HB1928, and HB748. Notably, HB865, presented by Speaker Moody, received significant attention as it aims to clarify liability protections for federal firearms licensees, emphasizing its importance for supporting veterans' mental health and safety. Testimonies were provided by various stakeholders, including city council members and law enforcement representatives, who underscored the pressing need for legislative support in the wake of alarming suicide rates among veterans. The committee engaged in comprehensive discussions, highlighting the bill’s potential impact on improving public safety and mental health support within the veteran community. Throughout the session, the committee showed commitment to addressing issues within the statutory probate court system as well, referring HB1928 directly to a relevant subcommittee for further evaluation. The meeting concluded with a strong emphasis on collaboration among committee members and public input, setting the stage for further review and action on these significant legislative proposals. Overall, the meeting was efficient and well-attended, with active participation from both committee members and the public.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It is a parent's choice. In the state, there are roughly 13,000 childcare providers.
  • Earlier I said it was a parent's choice. We have a list of 7,000 plus providers.
  • We don't drive parents to a provider; it's the parent's choice, just like any other parent.
  • It is the parent's choice. It should be the parent's choice.
  • I've been talking to some of the schools...

Summary: The meeting primarily focused on the implementation and impacts of the Texas CHIPS Act, aimed at bolstering the semiconductor industry within the state. Legislators praised its potential to create jobs and capital investment. The discussion also highlighted recent international business development missions undertaken by Governor Abbott, including visits to India, the UK, and Taiwan, to foster stronger economic ties and attract foreign investment. Chairwoman Button emphasized the importance of a robust economic development strategy to maintain Texas's leading position in job and economic growth.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Public Education Aug 21st, 2025 at 10:08 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • What the bill says is it allows for a school district or open enrollment charter school to submit students
  • But I want our school—when I'm looking at the schools and how well my school is doing—I don't think that
  • As a public school educator and parent...
  • ...of school-aged children that attend public schools in
  • of achievement, public school performance ratings, and interventions and sanctions under the Public School
Bills: HB8
Summary: The committee meeting focused on HB8, which proposes significant changes to the assessment and accountability system in Texas education. Key discussions involved the transition from the previous STAR testing framework to a new instructionally supportive assessment program that aims to provide timely feedback to enhance instructional strategies. Proponents of the bill argue that it encourages a growth-oriented approach, while opponents express concerns about the potential increase in high-stakes testing and the makeup of the advisory committee, which has limited educator and parental representation. Numerous witnesses spoke, highlighting both support and apprehension regarding the bill's implications for students, educators, and accountability standards.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I think the high school cigarette use rates are as low as they've ever been.
  • Students in Texas public schools are using student advocates as ambassadors.
  • ...schools.
  • So Texas is a member of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Yes.
  • However, in the process of clarifying the existing choice, institutions are.
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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Workforce Apr 29th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Workforce

Transcript Highlights:
  • This custom network provides more limited choices to

  • ...law school. I worked here 30 years ago.
  • You're out there fixing a school bus or whatever for the kiddos, and you get hurt on the job.
  • Throughout high school and college, I experienced homelessness.
  • Twenty percent did not graduate from high school.
Summary: The meeting of the committee included significant discussions centered around various bills, particularly those related to workers' compensation, opportunity youth, and sexual harassment. Representative Patterson spearheaded a discussion on HB2369, a bill aimed at reforming the workers' compensation system for first responders, stressing the need for swift evaluations and treatment to facilitate quicker recovery. Several members voiced their support, citing the bill's importance in ensuring that injured first responders can return to work more efficiently. Public testimony highlighted personal stories that underscored the critical impact of the legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 May 19th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That $800 million is 10% of the new dollars in the legislation that schools will receive.
  • of the funding that's flowing to our schools.
  • And so therein lies the choices that we have to make.
  • but also for charter schools because we've seen.
  • , but also in charter schools, etc.
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.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine big fixes for big tech. Apr 1st, 2025 at 01:30 pm

Senate Competition Policy, Antitrust, and Consumer Rights Subcommittee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Messaging across platforms offers genuine consumer choice
  • Consumer choice must be protected. Ultimately, the un...
  • To provide choice to consumers.
  • Kindt, how do small businesses benefit from having multiple choices?
  • There's no other choice.
Summary: The meeting, titled 'Big Fixes, Big Tech', marked the first hearing of the Senate antitrust competition policy and consumer rights subcommittee in the 119th Congress. Chairman Lee opened the session focusing on the urgent need for effective solutions regarding anti-competitive behavior among major tech firms like Google and Facebook, highlighting several ongoing court cases regarding monopolistic practices in the digital advertising and search markets. Key discussions included the limitations imposed on small businesses and innovation due to the dominance of these tech giants, with many testimonies advocating for stronger legislative measures, including the America Act. The act aims to disrupt the monopolistic capabilities of these firms and restore competitive integrity in the marketplace, which has suffered under their oppressive market control.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine the nomination of Linda McMahon, of Connecticut, to be Secretary of Education. Feb 13th, 2025 at 09:00 am

Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The failures of the traditional K-12 schools are leading

  • more families to try other education options proven to help students succeed, like charter schools.
  • for charter schools to apply for federal grants, impeding
  • I'm hearing from schools across the country that they have
  • This includes increasing access to school choice, perhaps also called parental choice, so families can
Summary: The committee meeting engaged in discussions focused primarily on educational reform, the influence of federal grants on local education systems, and the growing disparities in wealth and access to quality education. Members expressed concerns about the bureaucracy surrounding federal funding that hampers schools' ability to obtain necessary resources for improvement. Several members highlighted personal anecdotes from constituents, emphasizing the urgent need for reform to help students succeed in both K-12 and higher education environments. The meeting included public testimonies that provided insights into various community perspectives on these pressing issues.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I want to lead research, and I want to support our schools.
  • 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 School for Civic Leadership.
  • I can still remember some of my elementary school teachers.
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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • With school choice, children are no longer solely tied

  • due to school choice.
  • Accountability, housing security, and family choice are essential to building strong schools and strong
  • performance and putting the most recent school performance in.
  • School districts should be out unless they're very old.
Summary: The meeting of the committee effectively reviewed and voted on multiple bills pertaining to public safety, affordable housing, and local governance. Notably, Senator Cook introduced SB2262, which grants municipalities authority to regulate automated defibrillators, aiming to enhance public health responses in urban areas. Public testimony was heard on several bills, illustrating community support and concerns, particularly around affordable housing issues raised by Senator Menendez's SB2137, which seeks to improve access to low-income housing by altering existing criteria used by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Additionally, the discussions also touched on the impact of various bills on local governance and property rights, highlighting the committee's aim to address essential services within communities effectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 27th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm in my third year of law school here at...
  • I am in my final year of law school at the University of Texas School of Law, and I'm here today to oppose
  • I currently live in Austin and attend law school at UT.
  • They think it's their body, their choice, but they're still guilty."
  • Pulling out my schoolteacher skills there on the first day of school.
Summary: The meeting focused on discussions surrounding several proposed bills, notably SB31, SB33, and SB2880, which address abortion and related healthcare regulations. Prominent advocates for these bills included medical professionals and attorneys who argued for the necessity of stricter regulations to protect unborn children and prevent the indirect funding of abortion-related services. Testimonies featured intense debate, with supporters claiming the bills would enhance accountability and protect both mothers and children, while opponents raised concerns about potential negative impacts on women's health and constitutional rights.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm speaking here on my own personal capacity, not on behalf of the school.
  • district where Latinos are able to elect their candidates of choice directly.
  • The choice is yours.
  • of choice over time.
  • I paid my way through school, you know.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting was convened to discuss the redistricting process in light of ongoing concerns over gerrymandering and the potential impact on fair representation, particularly for communities of color in Texas. Chair Phil King welcomed committee members and emphasized the importance of public participation. Throughout the meeting, numerous witnesses provided testimony, raising urgent issues regarding how proposed changes to congressional districts would affect the political landscape, local representation, and disaster response efforts in the wake of recent events. Many speakers highlighted a sense of urgency, as they felt that the focus on redistricting was a diversion from pressing matters such as disaster recovery and climate response.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 14th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It is who I am; it is not a choice.
  • I'm a former high school English teacher and a public school educator. I was interested in what Mr.
  • , or elementary school, or high school.
  • Is it high school age?
  • as a school district collection development policy.
Summary: The committee meeting was characterized by extensive discussions on several bills concerning public libraries, energy utilities, and health care. Notably, HB3225 aimed to protect minors from accessing sexually explicit material in public libraries, which sparked significant public testimony both in favor and against the bill. Proponents argued for the necessity of safeguarding children, while opponents raised concerns about censorship and the implications for freedom of information. Similarly, HB4503 addressed patient privacy and health care information but faced scrutiny regarding its potential impact on medical records access for minors. The session concluded with multiple bills left pending for further review.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Mar 27th, 2025 at 10:03 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Six southern states use ranked-choice voting.
  • If there is a runoff election, then that ranked-choice voting ballot is opened, and their choice—the
  • ranked-choice voting's fault.
  • These are not ranked-choice voting problems.
  • Ranked-choice voting is a valuable electoral tool.
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.

Research Filters

States
Terms / Sessions
Date Range
Chamber Records
Meetings / Events / Calendars