Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'civil justice reform'

Page 20 of 49
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs (Part I) Aug 4th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If this is what we're calling justice, then justice has forgotten me. Justice has forgotten Texas.
  • The civil action in these bills just...
  • This bill addresses enforcement and civil penalties.
  • Reforms?
  • Is that civil service file...
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 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 21st, 2025 at 10:08 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • marker="280" data-time="1674"> Resident youth camp emergency plans and preparedness, authorizing a civil
  • We'll fully fund inspectors' duties for the first time, with civil penalties for blatant non-compliance
  • And then, how many counties have a justice of the peace without a medical examiner?
  • That section for the justice of the peace is about justices of the peace.
  • We create a fraud hotline, we assess criminal penalties and civil remedies.
Bills: HB1, HB2, HB3, HB5, HB20, HB22
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on the discussion and passage of several key bills, including SB5, which pertains to supplemental appropriations for disaster relief. This bill was passed unanimously, highlighting the committee's commitment to addressing disaster preparedness. HB20, aimed at reducing fraudulent charitable solicitations during disasters, also saw significant debate, with positive sentiments expressed by its sponsor, Mr. Darby. Additionally, HB22, which expands the authority of the comptroller to fund emergency communication systems, was passed with overwhelming support, indicating a consensus on improving emergency response capabilities within the state. The session concluded with discussions about future legislative measures aimed at strengthening infrastructure against disasters.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 21st, 2025 at 10:08 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • not a medical examiner, SB2 requires the justice of the peace.
  • And then how many counties have a Justice of the Peace without a medical examiner?
  • That section for the Justice of the Peace is about justices of the peace.
  • The point is, what I'm asking for is for the Justice of the Peace to take the training.
  • We assess criminal penalties and civil remedies.
Bills: HB1, HB2, HB3, HB5, HB20, HB22
Summary: The committee meeting conducted a thorough review of multiple bills aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and response in Texas. Key discussions focused on HB1, the Resident Youth Camp Emergency Plans, presented by Mr. Darby, which emphasizes creating emergency plans for youth camps following tragic incidents. The bill received broad support and passed mostly unanimously, highlighting a collective commitment to improving safety for vulnerable populations. Another significant piece of legislation, SB2 by Mr. King, aimed at disaster recovery and preparedness, also saw robust discussions, resulting in a passing vote that underscored the necessity of establishing clear emergency management protocols at local levels.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 1st, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • data-time="2340"> To not rectify the harm done to these doctors would be an incredible miscarriage of justice
  • I guess I'd sum it up this way: I think there's a great opportunity for a civil suit against the hospital
  • This bill is an update and reformed version of House Bill 2414 from last session, which was voted out
  • This bill introduces common-sense reforms, ensures fairness and transparency in PBM pharmacy contracts
  • This committee was instrumental in passing two significant PBM reform pieces during the 87th legislature
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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Apr 7th, 2025 at 10:00 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • intervention services, and seeks to reduce future dependence on state systems like foster care and juvenile justice
  • marker="670" data-time="4014"> at risk of involvement with the child welfare system or the criminal justice
  • ...to Texas, and after the Civil War, started seeing orphans
  • Aerospace industry, and the civil, commercial, and military
  • It delivered long-overdue justice for generations of veterans and their survivors.
Summary: The Committee on Ways and Means convened to discuss several proposed bills, including HB4044, HB103, and HB3045, focusing on tax reform and support for local development initiatives. Representative Troxler introduced a committee substitute for HB103, which was subsequently adopted without objection, demonstrating consensus on its merits. HB3045 sought to incentivize spaceport operations with franchise tax breaks for contracts related to the Department of Defense, emphasizing Texas's commitment to lead in the aerospace industry. The meeting concluded with discussions around the importance of the Property Value Study (PBS) and its impact on equitable taxation, with members addressing concerns about the effective administration of property appraisals and future legislative actions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part III) Apr 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Reforming the Ethics Commission is not just about updating the rules.
  • span> Senate Bill 2403 builds on the original bill's intent to reform
  • Hearings to conduct formal hearings when requested, in contrast to the original bill's more general reform
  • Overall, the committee substitute retains the original bill's core reforms while adding more detailed
  • testifying on behalf of the Texas Civil Justice League, and
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

Natural Resources (Part I) Mar 26th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Natural Resources Committee centered around several key pieces of legislation, particularly focusing on the energy and infrastructure sectors. Discussion highlighted Senate Bill SB2037, aimed at expediting the LNG export terminal permitting process, receiving strong support from industry representatives. Notably, SB1758 and SB1759 were also discussed, addressing the contentious interactions between aggregate production operations and semiconductor wafer manufacturing, with testimonies from stakeholders emphasizing the need for careful regulatory oversight to cater to all parties involved. Concern was voiced regarding the vibrations caused by mining operations, potentially impacting manufacturing processes, particularly in Grayson County.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House State Affairs Committee

Summary: The committee meeting centered around several bills, most notably House Bill 1951, which provoked significant debate among members and public witnesses concerning the implications of project labor agreements (PLAs) for public works projects in Texas. Advocates for the bill argued that it aimed to create a more competitive environment for bidding on government contracts, thereby ensuring taxpayer dollars were spent effectively. Opponents, including labor representatives and apprentices, voiced concerns that the removal of PLAs could jeopardize worker safety, fair wages, and job opportunities for local craftsmen, particularly those engaged in union and apprenticeship programs. Testimonies from various workers highlighted the critical role PLAs play in maintaining quality standards and accountability in public infrastructure projects.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This bill introduces two key reforms.
  • Targeted reform to streamline the development of smaller
  • I respectfully ask for your support on this common-sense reform.
  • Should this bill pass, the Ethics Commission will update the reform
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on State Affairs was convened with a quorum present, led by Chair King. A primary focus of the meeting was on House Bill 3782, which addresses the shift from physical newspaper publications to digital platforms for public notices. Chairman Smithy introduced a committee substitute for the bill, highlighting the necessity for government entities to adapt to the declining availability of physical newspapers. The bill proposes allowing these entities to meet public notice requirements through qualified digital publications, ensuring they meet certain standards, including an audited paid subscriber base and reporting on local news.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources (Part II) Mar 26th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Summary: The committee meeting was convened to discuss SB1757, which proposed a new standard permit impacting aggregate production operations (APOs) in Texas. Witnesses from various industries, including the Associated General Contractors and the Texas Aggregate and Concrete Association, provided insights supporting the bill while cautioning about potential overreach in regulation. Many expressed gratitude towards the committee members for their collaboration in achieving regulations that could accommodate operational needs while still being protective of community interests. Concerns were raised concerning the proposed public participation measures and the adequacy of environmental monitoring requirements under the new permit structure. Significant discussions centered around balancing industry growth with community health, particularly regarding air quality and the implementation of best management practices. Some witnesses voiced opposition, insisting that the current version fails to correctly incorporate control requirements and could potentially exacerbate tensions between industry and public health considerations. It was clear that ongoing negotiations were taking place among stakeholders, with a collective aim to refine the bill to better align with both industry and community needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Feb 25th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • marker="22" data-time="126">Bless this body with wisdom, that it might understand righteousness, justice
  • Koch for appointment to the advisory committee to the Texas Board of Criminal Justice on offenders with
  • Justice and the fair application of the law to the facts, irrespective of what station a person comes
  • You make sure that justice is metered.
  • First, Judge Gutierrez, Chief Justice of the 30th Court of Appeals, the first.
Summary: The meeting was marked by significant resolutions recognizing various contributions to Texas and celebrating community initiatives. Key discussions included the adoption of resolutions commemorating Texas Hispanic Judges Day and highlighting the 100th anniversary of Memorial Park. Senators expressed appreciation for the judges' dedication and legacy, with notable mentions of individual judges and their impact on the community and legal landscape in Texas. The Senate also honored students and organizations contributing positively to their communities, showcasing the interconnectedness of public service and the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Mar 17th, 2025 at 11:00 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm thinking like, you're, what do you call those, civil engineers and whatnot, so I think there's like
Summary: The meeting focused on various legislative discussions, prominently featuring HB1285 and HJR107, which aimed to address significant issues around energy production and damage prevention. Key discussions involved providing the Railroad Commission with additional tools for inspection and responding to incidents, as articulated by proponents emphasizing the benefits for public safety and efficiency. Members voiced their concerns about balancing energy production with environmental protection, highlighting the ongoing tension between economic development and ecological sustainability. Testimonies from industry experts and environmental advocates framed the debate, with strong support for maintaining Texas's status as a leader in energy while ensuring public health is not compromised. Throughout the meeting, several members expressed their intent to refine policies surrounding utility damage prevention and excavation standards, as current laws have reportedly not evolved to address modern challenges. There was a clear acknowledgment of the technological advancements that necessitate an update to existing regulations. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of optimism for proactive legislation and apprehension regarding potential impacts of energy-related developments. As discussions drew to a close, there was a commitment to revisit these topics in future sessions to ensure thorough consideration of both industry and community perspectives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation (Part I) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I can't say everybody else's intention, only my own, to try to have meaningful reform.
  • We are against this bill because families seeking justice need the jury to hear us.
  • Deserves justice.
  • There are no insurance reforms in the bill at all.
  • We need safety reforms and insurance reforms; we don't need more tort reforms.
Summary: During the committee meeting, significant discussions revolved around three main bills: SB39, HB19, and SB2246. Senator Bettencourt laid out SB39, aimed at revising the admission rule related to commercial vehicle collision cases. The intention behind this bill is to standardize trial procedures by limiting the evidence admissible in the first phase, ensuring that unnecessary complexity does not cloud the issue of fault. Various stakeholders, including trial lawyers and business representatives, provided insights into the impact of these changes, highlighting concerns over insurance costs and practical implications on litigations. Public testimony reflected a mix of support and opposition, showcasing the contentious nature of the bill's modifications. Additionally, the committee addressed SB2246 regarding salvage auto dealers and the process of obtaining titles for vehicles that will not return to the road, which was met with relatively little challenge as stakeholders recognized the necessity for clarity and efficiency in this process. The meeting concluded with promises from members to continue discussions on these important legislative measures, indicating an ongoing commitment to addressing the complex issues at hand.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development May 21st, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Additionally, Senate Bill 2637 creates a civil penalty for violations of this rule and authorizes the
  • In this bill, we don't have a civil penalty or anything like that...
  • Department of Justice, and that's actually classified in federal acts.
  • Justice League.
  • The Texas Civil Justice League on Senate Bill 2713.
Summary: The meeting of the Economic Development Committee was marked by a series of important discussions surrounding a range of bills, including SB315, SB584, and SB7105. SB2670, which aims to protect businesses from misleading solicitations, was highlighted during the session, where its provisions were debated among committee members. Additionally, SB2637 was presented to tackle misinformation disseminated on social media platforms. Witnesses provided insights into the implications of these bills, specifically focusing on consumer protection and the balance between technological advancement and public safety. The chair urged thoughtful consideration of the bills in the context of their impact on both businesses and residents of the state. The meeting concluded with a call for further analysis of several key bills that were left pending, indicating strong interest in ensuring that legislations align with public interests while addressing modern challenges posed by technology and misleading practices. Attendance was robust, with committee members actively engaging with witnesses and each other to ensure comprehensive discussions were had. Notable commentary emphasized the need for regulations to adapt to the evolving digital landscape and protect citizens from dishonest business practices.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation (Part II) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • request of the state auditor's office, the attorney general's office may file a suit to collect a civil
  • It reads, notwithstanding any other law, a county for which a civil
  • The first bill we heard this morning on civil liability and court reform, we're going to leave it pending
Summary: The meeting involved significant discussions around several bills focused on public safety and infrastructure, particularly involving the Texas Toll Road Authority. A prominent topic was SB2722 and its implications for funding essential services at the local level. Various members expressed concerns that the bill could undermine local budgets and infrastructure projects, potentially redirecting funds intended for critical transport services to cover emergency responses without proper oversight. Fire and police representatives emphasized the importance of toll revenue being used for its intended purposes rather than being diverted to address fiscal mismanagement within the city.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources (Part I) Mar 12th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The legislature created criminal and civil offenses

Summary: The meeting centered around the discussion of SB1150, which is designed to address the issue of inactive wells in Texas. Senator Middleton presented the bill, highlighting the concerns surrounding the current regulations that allow wells to remain inactive indefinitely, which poses various risks to health, safety, and the environment. The proposed legislation includes requirements for owners to plug or return inactive wells to production after certain timelines, with a compliance plan to be evaluated by the Railroad Commission. Several stakeholders participated in the discussion, expressing their support and emphasizing the importance of addressing the rising costs associated with orphaned wells and the financial burden on taxpayers. The bill is seen as a critical step toward sustainable oil and gas management in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...impose civil penalties ranging from $1,000 to $10,000
  • The bill also creates a civil penalty for the responsible officer or employee of the school district.
  • The bill requires a violation to be knowing for a civil penalty to be assessed and limits the civil penalty
  • knowingly for a civil penalty to be assessed.
  • for a civil penalty to be assessed at all.
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened for a detailed examination of SB1065. The session was marked by comprehensive discussions surrounding the potential implications of this legislation. Members engaged in dialogue regarding the bill's objectives, with presentations from the bill's author and various stakeholders, highlighting differing perspectives on its necessity and impact. Public input was also sought, allowing for a range of opinions to be expressed, which enriched the deliberative process. Notably, Senator Haldeman emphasized the importance of the bill for improving community resources and addressing urgent needs in public services.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Mar 4th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • It's named after the great civil rights leader and civil rights attorney, Thurgood Marshall.
  • Clifford Davis dedicated his life to fighting for civil rights and ensuring justice for all.
  • Clifford Davis's extraordinary contributions to civil rights will long be remembered by our nation and
  • Members, Houston lost a giant in the civil rights movement
  • As a champion for social justice and community service,
Summary: The committee meeting covered a range of topics, including memorial resolutions in honor of influential figures such as L. Clifford Davis and Reverend Dr. William Lawson. Senator West spoke warmly about Judge Davis, highlighting his contributions to civil rights, while others praised Reverend Lawson for his community service and leadership. These discussions underscored the committee's focus on recognizing individuals who have shaped Texas's history and values, fostering a deeper appreciation for the state's heritage.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Aug 22nd, 2025 at 08:08 am

House Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • of Civil Engineers 2024 standard, which requires that buildings
  • guarantee accountability, the bill authorizes the Attorney General to bring an action to impose a civil
  • The risk notice requirement will impose a civil penalty of
Summary: The committee meeting addressed multiple bills related to emergency preparedness and flood prevention, with significant discussions on HB48, SB3, and HB75. Representative Darby opened the meeting by advocating for the creation of a nine-member alert notification system to address public saturation with emergency alerts and to streamline the notification process by evaluating the effectiveness and coordination of existing systems. Testimonies from various stakeholders underscored the necessity of reducing alert fatigue among residents while enhancing the state’s overall readiness for impending natural disasters. The meeting featured robust support for HB75, aimed at establishing stricter safety standards for youth camps located in flood-prone areas following recent tragic flooding incidents that highlighted the urgent need for improved safety measures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Feb 27th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • But truly then, justice.
  • Here's what I'll tell you: I learned in law school that justice delayed is justice denied.
  • Justice Delaney, Justice Snide. That was my testimony.
  • ...and restorative justice practices.
  • They believe it is a direct result of restorative justice and zero-harm policies.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on various bills primarily aimed at enhancing parental rights within the educational system. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 204, which mandates the creation of a user-friendly handbook for parents detailing their rights regarding their children's education, and Senate Bill 609, designed to hold school districts accountable to parents and ensure transparency in educational practices. A significant amount of public testimony was offered both for and against these measures, reflecting the contentious nature of the subject matter. Senators emphasized the importance of parental involvement and education reform, fostering a robust dialogue among committee members and constituents alike. The meeting concluded with a commitment to address all bills thoroughly and attentively.

Research Filters

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