Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Employees Retirement System of Texas'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources (Part I) May 21st, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And obviously, the Texas Gulf Coast is a key flyway, and a lot of that is because of the amount of farming
  • I'm the CEO of the Texas Wildlife Association.
  • It will help wildlife in the state of Texas.
  • Luke Metzger, Executive Director of Environment Texas.
  • of Texas, partnering with New Mexico to produce water.
Summary: The committee meeting covered several significant bills with a focus on environmental concerns and public health implications. Notably, House Bill 2440 was discussed, which aims to prevent state agencies from restricting vehicle ownership based on energy sources, ensuring Texans can choose the vehicles that suit their needs. Representative Curry presented the bill, emphasizing the need for consumer choice and the protection of personal freedoms in transportation policies. The bill left the floor pending after no public testimony was provided.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs Aug 15th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I represent the ACLU of Texas and myself here against...
  • Texas, and women of Texas want this bill.
  • But they cannot because of existing Texas law.
  • These comprise an enormous percentage of the departments in the state of Texas.
  • I am the secretary of the Texas Young Democrats.
Bills: SB6, SB7, SB8, SB11, SB12, SB13, SB15
Summary: This meeting of the committee addressed several significant bills, with strong expressions of support and opposition from various stakeholders. Notably, SB8, a controversial bill concerning gender identity and access to bathrooms, drew extensive public testimony. Many speakers voiced concerns about the implications of such legislation, emphasizing the potential harm to transgender individuals and the necessity for an atmosphere of safety and inclusivity. In contrast, other members supported the bill, arguing for the protection of women's spaces. The committee also discussed SB15 regarding police records, which sparked debates on transparency and accountability in law enforcement. The meeting concluded with the committee members voting favorably on several bills, despite ongoing public dissent and calls for more urgent discussion on flooding relief efforts and community safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Administration May 7th, 2025

Senate Administration Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • the challenges and contributions of the deaf community in Texas.
  • This resolution will redesignate the town of Dripping Springs as the wedding capital of Texas.
  • The state of Texas has a higher rate than all other states, at eight percent of gun violence.
  • There are high gun violence rates in the state of Texas.
  • and the state of Texas.
Summary: The meeting focused on the consideration of multiple House Concurrent Resolutions and House Bills, specifically those that recognize Texas's cultural and historical contributions. Notably, HCR 6 and HCR 50 were discussed, designating Galveston as the official Juneteenth capital and Mardi Gras capital of Texas, respectively. Each resolution was accompanied by public testimony, revealing strong community support for these recognitions. Senate sponsor Senator Milton elaborated on the importance of these designations, which aim to highlight significant cultural events and contribute to local pride.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas and from every one of you members.
  • be consistent with the rest of Texas.
  • of Texas.
  • Texas Council of Government.
  • Yeah, I mean, I think all of Texas has experienced a lot of growth.
Summary: The Committee on Natural Resources convened to discuss two key pieces of legislation, HB2867 and HB2876, focusing on late fees associated with water and sewer services in Texas. Representative Gates laid out HB2867, highlighting the financial implications of payment deadlines and fees that disproportionately affect low-income households. He emphasized the need for limits on late payment fees to protect these vulnerable consumers from potentially abusive practices. A committee substitute was proposed to clarify some ambiguous language within the bill, aiming to promote fairness and transparency for customers. This led to a robust discussion among members and stakeholders present at the meeting, including testimony from representatives of municipal utilities who raised concerns about local control over fee structures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Our ongoing projects include a lot of improvement of existing systems, such as widening ditches.
  • Hale, Texas Association of Builders, to testify on the bill.
  • We'll be the first county in the state of Texas by the end of the year.
  • We have a lot of those systems that are in my precinct...
  • Scott Norman, Jr., on behalf of the Texas Association of Builders, fighting against the bill.
Summary: The meeting of the committee was primarily focused on water management and infrastructure issues, highlighted by discussions surrounding several bills intended to address water supply and flood control. Representative Kitzman presented HB1535, which aims to extend the sunset review date for the Trinity River Authority, ensuring continued governance and operational improvements. Furthermore, HB3915 was introduced as a multi-purpose flood mitigation measure, offering solutions to the severe water scarcity in the region, particularly following recent catastrophic flooding events that emphasized the urgent need for improved water management. Public commentary reflected a strong interest in flood mitigation strategies, especially given the impacts of climate change and rapid population growth in the area.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • San Antonio, Texas, and I'm also a member of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association,
  • In the state of Texas, the rule of capture prevents a landowner from protecting their own private property
  • I'm the Executive Director of the Texas Alliance of Groundwater...
  • for the future water supplies of Texas.
  • injection wells in both of those aquifer systems.
Summary: The recent committee meeting showcased significant discussions around various groundwater management bills, emphasizing legislative accountability and environmental conservation efforts. Notably, HB4896 was presented, which aims to streamline the designation of brackish groundwater production zones, facilitating better management of Texas' water resources. Testimonies from multiple stakeholders underscored the necessity for transparency in groundwater conservation districts and the importance of adapting to climate impacts. Additionally, House Bill 4212 aimed to enhance interagency communication pertaining to land and water conservation, further stressing a collaborative approach to resource management.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce (Part II) May 1st, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • artificial intelligence systems in Texas.
  • I'm the president and CEO of the Texas Association of Business.
  • president of the Texas Automobile Dealers Association.
  • of the Texas Credit Union Association.
  • and current or former employees of the Office of Court Administration.
Summary: The committee meeting focused heavily on the discussion surrounding HB149, an act aimed at establishing a comprehensive framework for the regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) in Texas. The bill seeks to ensure that AI technologies are developed and deployed in a manner that is both innovative and responsible, addressing potential harms while protecting individual rights and privacy. Chairman Schwartner led the conversations, emphasizing the importance of balancing regulatory measures with the need for technological advancement. Several stakeholders, including legal experts and industry representatives, provided testimony in support of the bill, praising its potential to position Texas as a leader in AI governance. Public testimony reflected a mixture of support and caution, with some witnesses advocating for greater accountability and regulatory oversight to mitigate risks associated with AI systems.
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:
  • My name is Brady Mills, I'm the Chief of the Texas Department of Public Safety.
  • the First Peoples of Texas.
  • state of Texas.
  • Texas; I'm representing the whole state of Texas.
  • the Mayor of Lakeway, Texas, and yourself.
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

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

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm from San Antonio, Texas. I'm the proud owner of a...
  • Texas in a huge state of 30 million people.
  • Out-of-state union members working on Texas projects. That's a lot of money.
  • Texas construction workers are not able to work on Texas projects because of these PLAs.
  • In Texas, I'm not aware of nine; I'm aware of two.
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

Local Government (Part I) May 5th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm here with Texas Realtors. I'm the 2025 chairman of the board.
  • I'm president and CEO of the Texas Association of Business, and I'm testifying in strong support of HB
  • As part of that effort, we pulled about 700 businesses from across the state of Texas.
  • I'm the Assistant Director of the Center of Health Communications for the University of Texas at Austin
  • Glenn Hammer, I'm president and CEO of the Texas Association of Business, and we strongly support SB
Summary: The committee meeting saw the discussion of several significant bills aimed at reducing the tax burden on small businesses and addressing public services in municipalities. Notably, Senate Bill 2907, introduced by Senator West, proposes to exempt perishable inventory and pharmaceutical goods from property taxes. This bill received robust support during public testimony, with various stakeholders emphasizing its potential to lower food prices and improve business conditions. Similarly, Senate Bill 1331 addressed the protective measures for smaller municipalities facing threats from petitions to remove municipal services, aiming to reduce the requisite population threshold for such actions. The lively discussions underscored the committee's commitment to supporting local communities and businesses in a challenging economic climate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) May 5th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And just a shout out, we've talked a lot about the age of homeownership in Texas.
  • Senate Bill 2519 is about defending the rights and interests of Texas taxpayers and voters.
  • of business leaders, industry experts, and community members in Central Texas.
  • This project, which utilizes no funding from the state of Texas, is critically important.
  • My name is Ryan Joyce with Michael Joyce Properties out of Rockwall, Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the committee included vigorous discussions on various bills, particularly Senate Bills aimed at creating municipal management districts and local improvement initiatives. Senate Bill 3048, presented by Senator Birdwell, was notably passed with unanimous support, establishing a management framework for a 448-acre community called Blue Bonnet Hills. Concurrently, attention was drawn to SB2559, which received public testimony related to development moratoriums that have affected local businesses, emphasizing the need for legislative safeguards against prolonged restrictions on development projects. The session concluded with plans to continue deliberating on various local bills aiming to amend district management provisions.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Proclamation by the Governor of the State of Texas to all whom
  • Governor Abbott, governor of the state of Texas, by the

  • state to be affixed at my office in the city of Austin, Texas, on the 15th day of August 2025.
  • Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas.

  • Senators from the state of Texas to the Congressional Redistricting and Special Committee.
Summary: This meeting of the Texas Senate during the second called special session focused on a variety of pressing legislative issues. Notably, the session included discussions on multiple Senate Bills including SB2, concerning disaster preparedness measures, and SB3, which aimed to improve early warning systems in flood-prone areas. The Governor's announcement to convene the special session triggered robust debates, particularly regarding the incorporation of stricter regulations on hemp products and funding allocation for disaster relief. The members of the Senate participated actively, with motions proposed for immediate hearings on several bills following their introduction, emphasizing the urgency of the issues at hand. The dynamics were marked by a sense of collaboration among members while grappling with complex topics affecting their constituents.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 25th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • wine production within the state of Texas.
  • As I said, I am in support of House Bill 220 on behalf of Texas as it left the House.
  • I'm the Executive Director of Texas Alliance for Life.
  • I'm a published bioethicist and president of Texas Right to Life.
  • Texas front and center as a model for the rest of the country.
Summary: The committee meeting included significant discussions surrounding several bills, notably HB220, HB3336, and HB4904. HB220, which addresses access to emergency contraception for survivors of sexual assault, sparked intense debate among committee members and witnesses. Various stakeholders testified for and against the bill, emphasizing the importance of immediate access to such services while also raising ethical concerns regarding contraception. Public testimony was robust, showcasing strong opinions on both sides of the legislation, with many advocating for the rights and protections of survivors.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) May 25th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This bill simply states that if a vaccine manufacturer chooses to advertise in the state of Texas, they
  • in Texas.
  • vaccine, but for advertising in the state of Texas and then
  • But this is a fantastic way for the people of Texas to start reclaiming.
  • It's a very clever way of kind of going in between what they've done to get rid of the.
Summary: The meeting held by the Committee on State Affairs focused on two significant bills, HB3441 and HB3385. HB3441, aimed at holding vaccine manufacturers liable for harm caused by their advertised products, generated considerable discussion among committee members and witnesses. Senator Hall presented the bill, emphasizing the need for accountability and drawing attention to the lack of liability for vaccine manufacturers under current federal law. The committee heard testimonies from various stakeholders, expressing both support and concern regarding the implications of this bill on public trust and medical practices. Following extended dialogue, HB3441 was reported favorably to the full Senate with a recommendation to pass, gathering a vote of nine ayes to one nay.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 21st, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In August, the Texas Department of Transportation recognized this error regarding the designation of
  • The realities and needs of the Texas-Mexico border are nuanced, but one priority is ensuring smooth and
  • Greyhound Lines, a Texas-based company, is part of Flix North America.
  • Trade and movement of goods between Texas and Mexico continues to fuel the U.S. economy.
  • I'm the Director of Regulatory Affairs with the Texas Independent Auto Dealers Association.
Summary: The committee meeting featured a number of bills focused on local issues, particularly in relation to transportation and public safety. Notably, Senator Alvarado presented HB3966 regarding the relocation of a Greyhound bus terminal to a residential area, which has raised community safety concerns due to increased crime. The bill aims to require commercial bus companies to notify residents before opening new locations, fostering accountability and transparency. The meeting highlighted testimonies from both supporters and opponents regarding the implications of such legislative changes on community dynamics.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Mar 4th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • the state to all of Texas.
  • of Texas at the Rio Grande Valley.
  • Ronnie Merritt, the president of the Baptist General Convention of Texas and the pastor of the First
  • Merritt and the members of the Baptist General Convention of Texas to their state Capitol.
  • Nurses take care of Texas, so we must listen to them and take care of them too.
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 Regular

State Affairs Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • One of the ways that the people of Texas are able to hold
  • Again, we can ensure that the representatives of Texas truly represent Texas.
  • Tony McDonald, I represent Grassroots Texas, a lot of times pro bono in the last couple of weeks.
  • You're testifying on behalf of ACLU of Texas, and you're against the bill. Is that correct?
  • Wade, as well as Financial Commission of Texas v.
Summary: The committee meeting featured extensive discussions on various bills, with a notable emphasis on public testimony regarding energy efficiency and electoral ethics. HB5323 was presented, aiming to establish the Texas Energy Waste Advisory Committee, which seeks to tackle energy waste and improve power system reliability across Texas. Supporters highlighted the importance of coordination among state agencies to enhance existing programs and reduce energy consumption especially during high-risk periods. The bill progressed amidst a supportive public sentiment and promises of accountability through regular reporting to the legislature.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Sep 3rd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Chairman of the Texas Tech University System, and whereas a native of Conroe and an eighth-generation
  • system that includes Texas Tech University.
  • Chancellor of the Texas Tech University System, and extends to him sincere thanks.
  • Texas Tech made the right decision for all of Texas.
  • the people of Texas.
Bills: SB8, SB1, SB2, SB5, SB10, HB27, HB7, HB17, HB1, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB20, HB18
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several significant legislative actions, particularly in relation to youth camp safety reforms. Senator Perry presented the committee substitute for HB1, emphasizing the collaborative effort with the House to enhance youth camp emergency preparedness following tragic events in the community. The bill, which maintains essential safety provisions, was received positively and passed without opposition. Additionally, discussions highlighted the importance of funding for flood management and the need for ongoing dialogue around public safety enhancements, including interoperability among emergency services. Overall, the meeting reflected a strong commitment to community safety and legislative integrity.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part I) Sep 3rd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • It turns Texas into a state of surveillance, not safety.
  • deserts, nearly half of Texas counties, a new mother gives birth far from home.
  • He clearly doesn't care about the court system, or separation of powers, or the rule of law.
  • Texas is engaged in the systematic abusive isolation of women.
  • the history of quorum breaks in Texas, Senator?
Bills: SB8, SB1, SB2, SB5, SB10, HB27, HB7, HB17, HB1, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB20, HB18
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on the discussion and passage of several significant bills, including HB20, which aims to prevent and reduce fraudulent charitable solicitations during disasters. Representative Perry highlighted the importance of this bill in ensuring that legitimate organizations receive donations while deterring scams that occur in the aftermath of disasters. The bill was passed unanimously with discussions around its necessity and the impact on victims of fraud. Further, House Bill 18 was discussed concerning penalties for legislators attempting to break quorum, a topic that stirred some debate on legislative integrity and rules enforcement. Members voiced varying opinions on the implications of the bill, leading to its eventual passage amid objections from some members who raised concerns about its enforcement mechanisms and potential for misuse. Overall, the meeting was well-attended, with members actively debating key issues while striving for legislative progress on these critical bills. The audience included public stakeholders who expressed their views, showcasing the engagement between legislators and constituents on pressing matters.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • the Public Utility Commission of Texas to integrate large oil and gas loads into the system.
  • relating to the influence of out-of-state money in Texas elections.
  • You're registered on behalf of Texas.
  • of Texas, the significance of the power grid cannot be understated.
  • Morris serves on the Texas Department of Transportation's Texas Technology Task Force.
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.

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