Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'disabled veterans'

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TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs will come to order.

  • The Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs will stand in recess
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs focused on the discussion and voting of several bills, notably HB101, HB2193, HB5308, and HB5329. Senator Menendez led the proceedings, moving each bill to be reported back to the full Senate with recommendations for passage. Each bill received a unanimous vote of five ayes with no opposition, indicating strong support within the committee. The bills were discussed in a structured manner, with members expressing their opinions and facilitating the voting process efficiently. The session concluded with the acknowledgment of the pending business awaiting further discussion.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 22nd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...places that accept children with disabilities.
  • Major stakeholders of this legislation include the Coalition of Texans with Disabilities and Disability
  • Your supporters have more time and patience around disability because they share the experience.
  • to serve other individuals with disabilities.
  • But as someone without an intellectual disability, there are limits to what I can offer.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several key bills related to health care and adoption services, with a significant emphasis on fostering care systems. Vice Chair Emanuel presented bills that aimed to streamline reporting requirements for the HHSC, while Representative Slauson's bill on voluntary adoption registries prompted a discussion on improving access and procedures within the child welfare system. Each bill was generally met with favorable votes, indicating strong bipartisan support for these initiatives. The committee heard testimonies from various stakeholders who voiced the importance of these legislative efforts in enhancing the quality of life for children and families involved in the welfare system. Notably, the committee also tackled the issue of Medicaid services and accessibility for children needing medical equipment like baby helmets, which have been a burden for many low-income families.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism May 14th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • >

    They have a yearly golf tournament that's set to honor our veterans

  • Veterans Memorial Day, located on land donated by the town,
  • established by the Trophy Club Women's Club and is maintained in collaboration with the Metroport Veterans
Bills: SB2801, SB2232, SCR18
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on reviewing several bills, including SB217, which establishes the historic Friedman Cemetery program, and SB2232, which seeks to designate October 21st as Unplugged Texas Day. The latter bill sparked notable discussions regarding the importance of reducing screen time and encouraging outdoor activities among Texans. Chairperson Metcalfe initiated the agenda, and the public testimony featured passionate arguments for the need for outdoor engagement, emphasizing mental well-being and community bonding. Overall, the bills were met with unanimous support within the committee, advancing toward favorable recommendations for full house votes. Additionally, members voiced concerns about regulations surrounding field trials, as presented in SB2801, which proposes changes to the requirement for hunting licenses during dog field trials. Testimony from various stakeholders showcased a strong desire to facilitate participation in these events while raising awareness of the associated challenges. The meeting concluded with several bills advancing for further considerations, demonstrating a collaborative effort toward legislation that supports both cultural and outdoor initiatives in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • of daily living for elderly people or people with disabilities
  • single-occupancy restrooms, family rooms, and exceptions for emergencies, children, or persons with disabilities
  • As a military veteran and now that a child, the child

  • restrooms are Beneficial for gender-diverse folks, disabled
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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) May 8th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • 36"> It relates to the provision of information regarding a local intellectual and developmental disability
  • require school districts to provide parents or legal guardians of students with an intellectual disability
  • disability or developmental delay written information regarding
  • We serve families statewide who have children and adults with every type of disability.
  • What about our kids with disabilities?
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Education, K-16, revolved around multiple bills, notably HB1188, HB2856, HB3126, HJR5, and HB6. Key discussions highlighted the importance of early intervention for families with special needs through HB1188, which aims to provide better resources for parents. Public testimony included compelling narratives that underscored the personal impact of such legislation. Additionally, the committee engaged in important dialogue concerning student discipline, specifically focusing on vaping in schools and its consequences under HB6.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • >

    The Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety and Veterans

  • The chair recalls House Bill 2026 by Representative Frank from the Subcommittee on Defense and Veterans
  • Tigers, veteran World War II Air Force pilots who flew
  • don't care unless you try to disable the government, of
  • I'm both a proud veteran and a retired Austin firefighter.
Summary: The Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety and Veterans Affairs meeting focused on multiple legislative proposals primarily addressing issues related to safety, security, and law enforcement. Chairman Heffner led the committee through discussions on various bills including HB2318, which establishes a statewide Human Trafficking Data Repository, and HB2363, which expands the authority of peace officers to arrest individuals without a warrant outside their jurisdiction. Testimonies from various stakeholders were heard, emphasizing the importance of these measures in combating crime and enhancing public safety in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session Aug 1st, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • marker="73" data-time="432"> I have heard, and I think it's unfortunate for many people, many of my veterans
  • span> Vendors who make money on food tray contracts every time a veteran
  • Senate Bill 5 restricts access for veterans and other Texans who rely on non-intoxicating hemp products
  • By raising the legal purchasing age to 21, the bill prohibits young adults, including veterans,
  • As a veteran, I have seen what responsible, medically guided cannabis use...
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

Higher Education Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • and as someone who now works in higher education supporting students with disabilities.
  • In high school, a counselor told me I shouldn't go to college because of my disability and encouraged
  • It would help ensure that more students with disabilities have access to programs like these and the
  • development disabilities.
  • But with an intellectual disability, I wasn't sure how I
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on several bills related to education and public safety. Notable discussions included HB1105, which seeks to provide EMS employees with tuition exemptions similar to those received by firefighters and police officers, thus addressing educational parity among first responders. Representative Ward-Johnson presented the bill and highlighted the growing responsibilities of paramedics in the changing landscape of emergency services. Witnesses from the Austin EMS Association spoke in support, emphasizing the importance of quality education for EMS workers in enhancing public safety and service delivery. The committee also discussed HB1705 and HB2290, which aim to improve educational accreditation and health benefits for students, respectively, indicating a broad focus on enhancing the educational framework within the state.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • data-time="432"> Texas' broken health care system, where far too many children, women, seniors, and veterans
  • For a Texas veteran who needs help from their congressmember

  • including here in Texas, ends Medicaid as we know it, and steals food from the mouths of children and veterans
Summary: The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding the proposed redistricting in Texas, primarily driven by perceived political motivations from the Republican leadership. Speaker after speaker emphasized the urgency of stopping what they described as an attempt to gerrymander districts and suppress the votes of marginalized communities. Key figures such as House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries underscored that the current plans threaten not just democratic principles but directly impact the well-being of Texas constituents, particularly minority populations. The meeting stirred passionate debate about ensuring equitable representation and addressing systemic injustices within the electoral process. The persistence of local leaders and their collective stand against these actions was a focal point throughout discussions, showcasing a unified front against manipulation of electoral boundaries.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session (Part I) Feb 5th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • This program prioritizes disabled and income-vulnerable students.
  • So yes, in a lottery situation weighted towards the disabled and low-income, I think it is fair.
  • My concern happens to be with these families with kids with disabilities.
  • Why is there any reason that 504 students are not included under the definition of disability?
  • , so $1,500 more than a student that does not have a disability.
Bills: SB2, SJR36, SB2, SB2, SR29, SB2
Summary: The meeting focused extensively on the amendments and discussions pertaining to SB2, which is aimed at establishing an education savings account program. Various members presented and debated amendments that targeted transparency, accountability, and potential conflicts of interest within the private education sector. Notably, Senator Cook proposed an amendment to require educational service providers to make their budgets public, while Senator Blanco highlighted the need for disclosures relevant to parents of special education and English language learners. The bill saw intense discussion around protecting taxpayer dollars and ensuring that the provisions did not segregate or discriminate against students within the program. Throughout the meeting, the committee demonstrated robust engagement with both proponents and opponents of the bill, examining the implications of the proposed amendments critically. The overall atmosphere suggested a strong desire to balance educational freedom with accountability and oversight. The meeting concluded with calls for diligence in ensuring that public funds are appropriately utilized, setting the stage for future discussions as the bill proceeds through the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • On Defense and Veterans Affairs, heard House Bill

  • ' deaths in Texas, particularly focused on veterans.
  • Chairman, the Subcommittee on Defense and Veterans Affairs voted this bill forward to you on a vote of
  • Chairman, the Subcommittee on Defense and Veterans Affairs voted this bill forward to you with a vote
  • Chairman, the Subcommittee on Defense and Veterans Affairs voted this bill forward to you with a vote
Summary: The meeting of the committee involved extensive discussions around several pieces of legislation aimed at improving law enforcement and addressing social issues in Texas. Notable among the bills was HB2217, introduced by Representative Wharton, which seeks to establish a grant program for equipping law enforcement vehicles with bullet-resistant components to enhance officer safety. The bill received support from multiple members who acknowledged the rising violence against law enforcement. Additionally, HB1775, which focuses on the transparency of the rape kit backlog, was also discussed, highlighting the importance of timely evidence collection in sexual assault cases. The committee heard testimonies both in support of and against various bills, showcasing a vibrant exchange of views on public safety measures and law enforcement accountability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Jeff Miller, Disability Rights Texas.

  • for folks with disabilities.
  • For certain people that have long-term disabilities, they
  • CTD is a cross-disability advocacy organization advocating for Texans with disabilities to live and thrive
  • We need to make sure that older adults and people with disabilities are not.
Summary: The meeting brought forward significant discussions centered on various bills related to child welfare and mental health support, particularly focusing on the well-being of children in the custody of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). Notable bills such as HB2789 and HB2809 were thoroughly reviewed, where stakeholders highlighted the critical need for improved data collection on suicide attempts among youth in foster care. The interventions proposed aim to enhance early identification and support for these vulnerable populations. The committee members engaged with professionals and advocates who emphasized the urgency of addressing these mental health challenges.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 7th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This effort is backed by local leaders, veterans, and most importantly, the Taylor and Lenz families.
  • He was an eight-year veteran of the Army National Guard and had been with our sheriff's office for eight
  • Senate Bill 2515 would honor Jimmy Wayne's legacy as a Hall of Fame fire chief and Vietnam veteran.
  • Army veteran who served with the Texas Highway Patrol, tragically lost his life in the line of duty.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on reviewing a series of bills with significant implications for local memorials and dedication of roads to honor public servants. Notably, House Bill 1708 was presented by Senator Hinojosa, which aims to designate a section of State Highway 302 as Trooper Kevin Ramirez Vasquez Memorial Highway, in honor of the fallen trooper who lost his life in the line of duty. The bill was supported by different members and received public testimony, highlighting the commitment of law enforcement to honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Additionally, discussions surrounding House Bill 2415 and House Bill 2523 also captured the testimonies of various community members and officials, further emphasizing the community's dedication to memorializing public servants.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I was diagnosed with a learning disability when I was a child.
  • for over a hundred years, and I have a lot of veterans
  • crosswalk, where the boy is hit, strikes the windshield, and will require lifelong care or will be disabled
Summary: The committee meeting addressed several key bills, with significant discussions surrounding HB778, which focuses on insurance coverage for individuals undergoing gender transition and those wishing to detransition. During the presentations, the bill's author, Chairman Leach, emphasized the importance of ensuring coverage for potential adverse effects from gender transition procedures. However, concerns were raised by various witnesses regarding the potential implications of limiting coverage for transgender care, leading to heated debates and a range of testimonies from both supporters and opponents of the bill. HB2517 and HB2213 also received attention, with discussions centered on insurance premiums and board eligibility for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, respectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And despite his physical disability, he pursued an education
  • students, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, mixed-status families, and those with disabilities
  • Greater Dallas Bank Chamber of Commerce, San Antonio Hispanic Chamber, and Blas Hermosillo, a Navy veteran
Summary: The meeting revolved around discussions on House Bill 232, which seeks to amend the Texas Dream Act regarding in-state tuition for undocumented students. Key testimonies were presented, with numerous advocates opposing the bill, arguing it would harm talented Texas youths by denying them affordable education opportunities. Speakers included community leaders and affected students who shared personal stories illustrating the bill's potential drawbacks, emphasizing the negative economic impact that could result from limiting access to education for Dreamers and the associated societal benefits. The committee also explored House Bill 5154, which updates the Joint Admission Medical Program to improve access for economically disadvantaged students, receiving positive feedback and support from committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part I) Feb 4th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • My beautiful daughter, Christy, had IDD and severe disabilities. She required 24/7 care.
  • My name is Susan Johnson, and I am the mother of an adult with intellectual disabilities.
  • My youngest son, age 24, is severely disabled.
  • My beautiful daughter, Christy, has IDD and severe disabilities. She required...
  • My youngest son, age 24, is severely disabled.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting focused on public testimony regarding key health and human services issues affecting various groups in Texas. Notable discussions included funding requests for recovery housing, maternal health programs, and behavioral health services. Testimonies addressed the urgent need for additional resources to improve recovery housing availability, with advocates pushing for an increase in the number of accredited recovery homes and mentioning that Texas currently ranks low in recovery housing access. Similar testimonies highlighted the rising maternal mortality rates, particularly among minority populations, and the necessity for robust funding for maternal health initiatives. The session also saw voices advocating for better support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, emphasizing the critical need for transformed waiver services and improved provider accountability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 23rd, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • A United States Marine Corps veteran, Deputy Boesecker

  • Veterans and active duty Rangers have asked for this recognition, and I believe Texas should answer the
  • ...duties, including active duty and veterans.
Summary: The meeting conducted by the Senate Transportation Committee focused on the evaluation and passage of various bills, including House Bills 1960, 2012, 2686, 3642, 3815, 3928, and 4520. Notably, HB1960 honors the late Lieutenant Milton Gabriel Veracendez for his service, and saw minimal public testimony, indicating broad support. Additionally, HB3815 proposed the creation of specialty license plates for U.S. Army Rangers, eliciting emotional and supportive responses from representatives and witnesses alike. All bills discussed were passed with unanimous votes without opposition, reflecting a cooperative effort among committee members to advance significant legislative initiatives. During the meeting, the atmosphere was congenial, with committee members commending each other for their collaborative spirit and contributions to public service. The committee declared its intention to adjourn after resolving the current bills, indicating a successful conclusion to the meeting. Public participation was limited, suggesting that stakeholders in the community largely supported the bills.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • ="49" data-time="288"> criminal offenses that target the abuse of children, the elderly, and the disabled
  • our law by creating an offense to target those who abuse elderly individuals, children, and the disabled
  • I'm sorry, who abused the individual children and the disabled
  • or disabled

  • , we must ensure that we protect those who cannot protect themselves: our children, elderly, and disabled
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on discussing various bills addressing public safety and criminal penalties within Texas. Notable discussions included the introduction of HB544, which aims to expand consecutive sentencing for crimes against children and vulnerable adults. Representative Gervin Hawkins highlighted the urgent need for this legislation by referencing a shocking case in Bexar County involving severe abuse, illustrating the limitations of current law in imposing adequate penalties. The bill received public support and raised awareness of the ongoing issues surrounding the safety of vulnerable populations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Currently, what is the Border Security Committee and then the Veterans
  • Affairs Committee would be combined into a new Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs Committee.
Bills: SB2, SB10, HB27, HB18, HB17, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB18, SR1, SR2, SR5
Summary: The meeting convened to address significant resolutions, including the formation of a committee to investigate the catastrophic flooding events in July 2025 that resulted in tragic losses across Texas. Senator Flores introduced Senate Resolution 2, aiming to conduct a comprehensive examination of the flooding's impacts and the effectiveness of immediate legislative responses. The resolution was adopted unanimously, indicating a shared commitment to understand and improve future disaster preparedness. Additionally, Senate Resolution 5 was discussed, which proposed amendments to the Senate rules regarding committee structure, particularly in creating a new combined committee for Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs. This resolution also received unanimous support, showcasing a collaborative effort to streamline legislative functions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 30th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am the Director of Veterans and the Councilman for the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas.
  • I am also a combat veteran. Throughout my path, I...
  • As an artist, I participated this year in the Department of Veteran Affairs National Art Festival and
  • You know, we have doctors, veterans, and educators here with
  • Santa Maria also houses a veterans program and specialized recovery programs for survivors.
Summary: During this meeting, various important bills were discussed, including HB5573, which aims to provide whistleblower protections for public employees reporting wasteful government spending. Representative Bojani emphasized the need to encourage ethical governance and transparency in government operations. The committee adopted a key amendment to enhance protections against retaliatory actions towards these whistleblowers, highlighting a commitment to fostering accountability within the government. Additionally, HB5623 and HB4921 were moved forward with favorable reports, focusing on energy efficiency projects and the prohibition of state funds benefiting companies that outsource jobs, respectively, reflecting concerns about job retention in Texas.

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