Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senator Menendez'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This bill passed the Senate 28 to 2, and I appreciate Senator
  • Senate Bill 1277 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 2521 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 2529 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 2541 is left pending.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on a series of Senate Bill presentations, particularly highlighting SB1277 which aims to extend the reauthorization period for the municipal street maintenance (SMR) tax in the city of Coppell from four years to ten years. This extension aims to stabilize funding for vital infrastructure projects, helping the city avoid potential financial disruptions and additional tax burdens on residents. Testimonies included insights from public representatives, including Mayor Pro Tem Don Carroll, who emphasized the bill's importance for ongoing maintenance efforts and taxpayer savings.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator King, Senator Sparks? Here.

  • Chairman, members, Senate Bill 1534 is co-authored by Senator Tan Parker.
  • Thank you, Senator Birdwell. Members, do you have any questions for Senator Birdwell?
  • Okay, Senator Johnson.
  • So, Senate Bill.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on various bills aimed at workforce development and economic growth, particularly in rural areas. Key discussions revolved around Senate Bill 2448, which aims to support rural small businesses and enhance technical assistance in workforce development. Testimonies from several stakeholders underscored the necessity of aligning education with local workforce needs, showcasing the lack of resources in rural regions. The testimony highlighted how the proposed bills could bridge the gap between education and employment opportunities for Texans, especially focusing on youth who are disconnected from education and the workforce.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice May 13th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator King, Senator Hagenbuch. Aye.
  • Senator Hinojosa, aye. Senator Huffman, aye. Senator Miles, aye. Senator King, aye.
  • Senator Hinojosa? Aye. Senator Huffman? Aye. Senator Miles? Aye. Senator King? Aye.
  • Senator Hagenbuch.
  • Senator Parker?
Summary: During the meeting, multiple bills were reviewed and discussed, with the most prominent being HB33, known as the Uvalde-Strong Act. This bill aims to improve school safety and preparedness in active shooting situations by implementing stringent security measures and training requirements for law enforcement and educational institutions. The bill generated significant discussion about its provisions, the urgency for enhanced safety protocols, and the lessons learned from previous tragedies. HB1261, which allows for dual publication methods for public notices, was also reported favorably without objections, reflecting a growing need to adapt legislative processes to modern communication standards. The meeting concluded with several bills advancing to the full Senate for further consideration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Administration Apr 14th, 2025

Senate Administration Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 2053 and recognizes Senator Hinojosa
  • Senator Hinojosa of Nueces for Senator Birdwell to explain

  • Senator Hinojosa moves that Senate Bill 2053 be reported favorably
  • Senator Hinojosa moves that Senate Bill 2053 be recommended
  • Senator Ackerman.
Bills: SB2053, SCR19, SCR23, SCR29
Summary: The committee meeting covered several important bills, including SCR19, which proposes the construction of the Texas Life Monument on the Capitol grounds to honor the sanctity of life and motherhood. Senator Parker explained that the monument would be funded privately and aim to create a public space for reflection. Public testimony offered support from pro-life organizations, emphasizing the monument's significance in celebrating the role of mothers and the value of life. The discussions surrounding this resolution were passionate and involved testimonies from individuals and organizations dedicated to celebrating family values in Texas. In addition to SCR19, the meeting featured SB2053, aimed at establishing the Governor's Medal of Service Award to recognize exceptional public service contributions. The bill gained positive acceptance among committee members and public attendees alike. Public testimonies reflected the importance of recognizing local heroes and encouraging public engagement. Overall, the meeting highlighted the committee's commitment to advancing legislation that honors both individual contributions and collective values within Texas society.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Collins, Senator Mullin, Senator Marshall,

  • Senator...
  • Senator Hassan, Senator Hickenlooper, Senator Markey, Senator
  • Kim, Senator Blunt-Rochester, Senator Alsobrooks, Senator Murkowski.
  • Senator Kim.
Summary: The meeting focused on vital health-related nominations, primarily emphasizing the roles of Dr. Jay Bhattacharya for NIH Director and Dr. Monty McCary for FDA Commissioner. During the discussion, various senators expressed their support and concerns regarding these nominations. Senator Sanders voiced opposition to both candidates, highlighting issues related to drug affordability and public trust in health agencies. He emphasized the need for leaders committed to transparency and addressing the epidemic of high prescription drug prices, advocating for action against pharmaceutical industry greed. Overall, the conversation underscored the critical crossroads in public health leadership amidst ongoing challenges such as trust restoration and healthcare accessibility.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 15th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Kolkhorst, Senator Perry, Senator Hancock, Senator

  • Hall, Senator...
  • Senator Miles, Senator Hughes, Senator Blanco, Senator Sparks
  • , Senator Kolkhorst.
  • I want to recognize Senator Miles and Senator Blanco as being present.
Summary: The committee meeting showcased extensive discussions surrounding multiple bills, predominantly focusing on the health sector and legislative processes. Senator Cook presented Senate Bill 1310, emphasizing the need for independent living facilities to develop disaster response plans to better protect vulnerable residents during emergencies. This bill sparked discussions on the importance of balancing regulatory oversight with compliance implementation, showcasing testimonies from stakeholders who supported the proactive measures outlined in the bill. Together, the members evaluated the relevance of continuing legislation aimed at strengthening emergency preparedness for Texas' senior population, illustrating a palpable concern for their welfare and safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance May 23rd, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Senator Hinojosa.
  • Thank you, Senator Zaffirini.
  • Just saying, Senator West.
  • Senator Fowler—I mean, excuse me, Perry Fowler, I'll call you Senator already.
  • Thank you, Senator.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee featured extensive discussions surrounding several important bills, notably House Bills 500, 4486, and 3010. Chair Huffman presented HB500, a supplemental budget addressing vital state services, in which $2.5 billion was allocated for water infrastructure projects. The committee approved the bill unanimously, showcasing bipartisan support for its critical provisions including enhancements to Texas's cybersecurity and disaster response capabilities. Discussions also revolved around HB4486, which was substituted and subsequently reported back to the full Senate, indicating ongoing legislative refinement and collaboration among members. Additionally, HB3010, aimed at facilitating disaster recovery for rural infrastructure, was brought forward by Senator Nichols, emphasizing the state's commitment to assisting communities impacted by natural calamities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development May 5th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So, Senator Johnson and Senator Sparks are present.

  • and recognizes Senator Schwertner to lay out the bill on behalf of Senator Huffman.
  • It's Senate Bill 2565. All right. The chair lays out Senate Bill 2565.
  • Thank you, Senator West. Members, any questions for Senator West?
  • Senator Schwertner. Aye. Senator Sparks. Aye. Senator King. Aye.
Summary: The meeting of the Economic Development Committee focused on various bills aimed at enhancing workforce development and economic incentives in Texas. One of the key discussions centered around Senate Bill 2603, which proposed a collaboration between businesses receiving state and local economic development incentives and local workforce development boards to improve job placement outcomes for participants. Public testimony highlighted the importance of connecting job seekers, especially those receiving public assistance, with potential employers to reduce reliance on state support systems. Additionally, Senate Bill 2607 emphasized interagency cooperation to better serve individuals engaged in workforce reentry programs, ensuring streamlined access to vital services.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 1st, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Senator Bettencourt. Senators, any other questions? Thanks for being here.
  • Senator Bettencourt.
  • Senators, any questions?
  • Thank you, Senator Sparks.
  • Bill 2459 by Senator Creighton and Senate Bill 3055 by Senator Middleton, and we will be hearing them
Summary: The committee meeting featured extensive discussions focused on time legislation, including HB1393 and SB692. The primary subject was the proposal to adopt permanent daylight saving time, which sparked diverse opinions from committee members and witnesses. Supporters like Erica Boyd, President and CEO of the Texas Travel Alliance, advocated for the benefits of extended daylight for outdoor activities and tourism, while others expressed health concerns and the disruption that early darkness in winter months could cause to families. Testimony revealed a split in public sentiment, further complicating the legislative decision-making process. Additional bills, such as SB2943 regarding religious freedom protections for occupational licenses, also received attention, showcasing the breadth of topics covered in this meeting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • for Senate Bill 1927.
  • Senator Paxton moves that Senate Bill 1927 be reported

  • to the Senate with the recommendation.
  • for Senate Bill 2010.
  • Senate Bill 2010 is reported to the full Senate.
Summary: Additionally, SB2010 was reviewed with a focus on tightening language to prevent misuse of funds related to universal basic income (UBI) programs by political subdivisions. The committee adopted a proposed substitute and reported the bill favorably to the full Senate, citing concerns over the use of state funds in supporting UBI initiatives. The meeting concluded without further business, and the committee chairman signaled a recess.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Mar 5th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We will begin by laying out Senate Bill 263 by Senator Perry.
  • Senator Hinojosa, will you recognize me on Senate Bill 260, please?
  • We will begin by laying out Senate Bill 263 by Senator Perry.
  • Senator Hinojosa, will you recognize me on Senate Bill 260, please?
  • Senator Swager.
Bills: SB260, SB263, SB293, SJR18
Summary: The committee meeting centered around discussions on Senate Bill 260, which aims to enhance school safety through increased funding. Senator Huffman highlighted the initiative to double both the per-student and per-campus safety allotments. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including educators and mental health advocates, underscored the importance of addressing both physical safety and mental health needs in schools. The discussions revealed a strong consensus on the necessity of adequate resources for effective school safety measures while acknowledging the financial challenges faced by districts in meeting legislative mandates. The meeting concluded with a positive recommendation for the bill's passage to the full Senate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence May 21st, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, Senate Bill 30.
  • The Senate substituted Senate Bill 835 using our exact language and sent that bill over.
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 66.
  • Seeing none, the chair will withdraw the committee substitute to Senate Bill 1730 and leave Senate Bill
  • The chair now lays out Senate Bill 2501 by Senator Zaffirini
Summary: During this meeting of the Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence Committee, several significant bills were discussed, particularly focusing on Senate Bill 1960, which aims to protect Texans from unauthorized use of their voices or likenesses in the age of artificial intelligence. Chairman Hunter led the presentation, highlighting the importance of preserving artistic integrity while ensuring that First Amendment rights are respected. The committee welcomed public testimony, receiving support for the bill from representatives of the music industry, who expressed concerns about the misuse of AI in recreating artists' performances without consent. The discussion included insight from various stakeholders regarding the implications of such legislation on their professional rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 May 27th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Senator Johnson.
  • Senator.
  • Senator West, Senator Middleton, questions?
  • Senator West.
  • Senator Parker moves that Senate Bill 5381 be reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that
Summary: In this committee meeting, various educational bills were discussed, reflecting significant attention on improving public schooling. Notably, the discussion on HB123 focused on foundational literacy and numeracy for public school students, which received widespread support from multiple testimonies emphasizing the need for early intervention in education. Stakeholders highlighted the importance of investing in teacher training to effectively teach critical subjects like math. Additionally, HB1939, aimed at providing financial incentives for school districts to pay recapture payments early, generated a robust discourse around fiscal responsibility and budgeting in education funding. The meeting concluded with all bills being favorably reported to the full Senate for further review.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Apr 24th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 2846.
  • Senate Bill 2847 by Senator Hagen-Buch.
  • Senate Bill 2847.
  • in Senate Bill 3039.
  • Senate Bill 199 is available.
Bills: SB2847, SB3039
Summary: The Senate Committee on Education K through 16 convened to discuss two significant bills, SB2846 and SB2847, with a focus on enhancing educational structures in Texas. Senator Hagen-Booe introduced SB2847, which aims to provide greater flexibility in core curricula for bachelor's degree programs. The discussion highlighted the potential positive implications of this bill, particularly in terms of aligning education with workforce needs and reducing barriers for students seeking technical degrees. However, there was no public testimony registered for either bill, which limited the input from stakeholders outside the legislative body. The committee chair indicated that further review of SB3039 would be necessary, pending additional discussions and data collection on student transfer issues from community colleges to four-year universities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator King sends up the committee substitute for Senate Bill 1835.
  • The chair now recognizes Senator King for Senate Bill 1049.
  • Thank you, Senator. Members, any questions? Senator Menéndez.
  • Senator West.
  • Thank you, Senator West. Thank you, Senator King.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Education Committee was marked by intense discussions surrounding several key pieces of legislation, particularly focusing on SB1798, which seeks to repeal the Texas DREAM Act. Advocates for the bill argued that it is important to restrict state financial aid to individuals unlawfully present in the United States, asserting that taxpayer resources should primarily benefit legal residents. Conversely, numerous witnesses testified against SB1798, emphasizing the economic contributions of Texas DREAMers and the long-standing positive impacts of the existing DREAM Act on Texas communities and workforce. The heated debate highlighted the stark divisions surrounding immigration policies and their implications on education and opportunity for young Texans who have grown up in the state. The meeting concluded with SB1798 left pending, awaiting further consideration, signifying ongoing concerns and unresolved sentiments among committee members.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Vance and Senator Banks.
  • Thank you, Senator Kaine. Senator Ernst.

  • We have Senator Tuberville followed by Senator Duckworth.
  • You're hearing Senator Banks and Senator Schmidt; many of us, Democrats as well, like that.
  • Thank you, Senator Sullivan.
Summary: The meeting focused on critical defense and security matters, particularly concerning the ongoing geopolitical tensions involving China and Russia. There were discussions surrounding U.S. military readiness, with significant emphasis on the potential threats posed by China in the Indo-Pacific region. Members expressed concerns about America's military capabilities in relation to the growing Chinese fleet and the importance of maintaining strong alliances with nations like Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. Additionally, the notion of prioritizing the defense industrial base was highlighted, emphasizing the need for effective procurement and modernization efforts to counter adversarial threats. Furthermore, notable commentary included a reference to President Zelensky's remarks regarding peace negotiations with Ukraine, expressing a willingness for further cooperation with the U.S.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Tonight, the Chair recognizes Senator Hinojosa on Senate Bill
  • Senator Hancock.
  • for Senate Bill 612.
  • Senator Kochhorst moves the adoption of the committee's substitute to Senate Bill 3058.
  • Senator Kochhorst moves that.
Summary: The meeting of the committee addressed significant issues surrounding groundwater conservation, with a focus on several proposed bills aimed to enhance the management and sustainability of water resources in the region. House Bill 1633 was discussed, which seeks to strengthen criteria used by groundwater conservation districts (GCDs) when permitting, ensuring that they factor in potential impacts on neighboring exempt wells. Positive sentiments were expressed regarding the need for more stringent evaluations of groundwater permits to preserve resources effectively. This bill aims to reinforce accountability among GCDs, emphasizing the criticality of groundwater, especially in rural areas where access is essential for agricultural and domestic use. In addition, House Bill 1689 and Senate Bill 3058 were presented, both aimed at improving how GCDs utilize export fees and manage water conservation measures. Public testimony highlighted the concerns of landowners about excessive pipeline construction fees and a lack of adequate authority to collaborate with counties on water projects. The committee adopted several amendments to these bills to better align the interests of landowners with water conservation goals. The meeting concluded with an acknowledgment of the pressing need to balance development and conservation, signaling a collective intent to move forward with actionable legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means May 12th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 467 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 2779.
  • Senate Bill 263 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 1030 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 1453 is left pending.
Summary: The meeting of the committee involved extensive discussions on various important pieces of legislation. Notable among them was SB2206, which aims to extend and improve the state's research and development tax credits, ensuring Texas remains competitive in innovation-driven industries. This bill received strong support from the Texas Association of Manufacturers and other stakeholders, emphasizing the need for continued investment in R&D to bolster economic growth and job creation. Additionally, SB2779 was discussed, which focuses on proper allocation and use of hotel occupancy taxes (HOT) for beach maintenance in coastal communities, specifically addressing concerns about the oversight and management of these funds by local park boards.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Aug 27th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • ="144">Senate Bill 12,

    Senate Bill 14,

  • Senator West asked that the Senate concur in the House

  • Amendment to Senate Bill 16.
  • Senator Hinojosa moves that the Senate concur in Senate

  • amendments to Senate Bill 3.
Bills: SB3, SB16, SB2, SB5, SB10, HB17, SB54, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB8, HB25, HB26, HB192
Summary: The meeting featured crucial discussions surrounding several bills, notably Senate Bill 3, which focuses on establishing effective flood warning systems in Texas. Senator Betancourt introduced the bill, emphasizing its potential to save lives, especially in flood-prone areas. The legislation aims to identify high-risk locations, install outdoor warning systems, and provide necessary funding for implementation. Senator Hinojosa also discussed Senate Bill 16 Regarding real property fraud, which involves amendments requested by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. The discussions reflected the urgency for these measures in light of recent events and highlighted collaborative efforts among legislators.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

State Affairs Aug 26th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Birdwell, you're recognized. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, Senator Bettencourt.
  • Thank you, Senator.
  • Okay, Senator Bettencourt.
  • So we're going to call a roll on Senate Bill 54. The clerk will call the roll. Senator Hughes.
  • full Senate.
Bills: SB53, SB54, HB16, SB19
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss several significant bills, including SB19, SB54, HB16, and SB2217. A major focus was the potential changes to fundraising rules during special legislative sessions, aimed at aligning policies for regular and special sessions. Senator Bettencourt presented SB19, which prohibits political contributions during special sessions, raising questions about the implications for ongoing fundraising activities. Additionally, the committee reviewed SB54, which seeks to amend recent changes around voting procedures to prevent misunderstandings related to voter registration within counties. The session featured robust discussions, particularly surrounding the balance of regulations and the need for clear public policy. The meeting concluded with several bills moving forward positively, highlighting the collaborative effort among members.

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