Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'constitutional authority'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Jul 21st, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm not sure it's in my authority to stop or begin redistricting.
  • To ask the author some questions. Do you yield?
  • I believe Senator Huffman was the bill author.
  • We're still subject to constitutional and end-of-session legislative deadlines.
  • Constitution. However, in 2023 we were...
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on the congressional redistricting resolution prompted by the governor's request due to constitutional concerns flagged by the U.S. Department of Justice. Members discussed the procedural steps necessary to establish a special committee on congressional redistricting, emphasizing the need for transparency and public participation. Concerns were raised about the limited number of planned regional hearings and the implications for community input. A strong commitment to include public testimony through both in-person and virtual means was stated, ensuring that Texans can engage with the process regardless of their geographical location. Discussions included the necessity of adopting prior successful procedures similar to those in past sessions, with an acknowledgment of the unique challenges posed by current legal requirements. Members expressed varying viewpoints on balancing the need for thorough public participation while addressing logistical challenges inherent in the redistricting process. Overall, the meeting demonstrated a collaborative atmosphere aimed at crafting a fair and lawful redistricting plan while acknowledging the diverse opinions of constituents throughout Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Apr 24th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Constitution, in part because the individual.
  • Constitution created.
  • The right to vote for this constitutional amendment?
  • than the Constitution itself?
  • The author of the bill laid it out.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on HB5337, which aimed to implement stricter voter identification requirements in Texas. During the session, various stakeholders, including members of the public, expressed their concerns regarding the potential disenfranchisement of eligible voters, particularly among older citizens and tribal populations. Critics of the bill highlighted that many Texan citizens might not possess the necessary documentation to comply with the new requirements, resulting in unintended consequences at the polls. Notably, representatives raised questions about the practicality of enforcing these regulations without negatively impacting voter turnout, especially for vulnerable demographics.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 28th, 2025 at 01:08 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • authority.
  • under either the Texas Constitution or the United States Constitution?
  • The author knows.
  • Constitutional authority prevents obstruction of its proceedings
  • Pursuant to the House's constitutional authority

Bills: SB8, HB7, HB15, HB265, HCR13
Summary: The meeting was centered around discussions on several key bills, particularly HB15 and HB265. HB15, relating to adjustments in regulatory frameworks, sparked considerable debate with members expressing both support and opposition. One representative articulated concerns regarding the effects of the legislation on local businesses and community standards, while proponents argued it is essential for modernizing existing structures. Meanwhile, HB265 focused on enhancing governmental oversight of youth camps, which generated emotional conversations among members, reflecting on tragic incidents that had occurred in the past. This bill was met with a positive response and moved forward smoothly, with significant participation from representatives who shared personal stories about their constituents' safety concerns. Other bills, including SB8, also featured discussions on privacy and safety in public schools, emphasizing a return to traditional standards that resonated with many members and constituents alike.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations Feb 24th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • They're all separately elected; they're constitutional officers.
  • They're all separately elected; they're constitutional officers.
  • That's how the constitution changes.
  • So, there are tools in our Constitution that the framework provides.
  • I won't tell you which river authority, but I've had this happen with a river authority.
Summary: The meeting focused on several crucial issues, including the Texas Water Fund and its implications for development in the state. Various members highlighted the critical need for effective management of water resources, discussing the role of the Water Development Board and their strategies for outreach to local governments. The committee engaged in a thorough examination of funding projects and the sustainable financing necessary for communities facing challenges in meeting their infrastructure needs. Additionally, there was notable discussion regarding promoting workforce development and the alignment of educational programs with the demands of the job market as indicated by recent trends in community colleges.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

State Affairs Aug 26th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 19 and recognizes its author,
  • It would probably take a constitutional amendment to address
  • So this is just a statute and not a constitutional amendment.
  • I think it would be worth it to look at a constitutional amendment and perhaps also consider a constitutional
  • Members, questions of the author? Thank you, Mr.

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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 6th, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • This is a A record vote is required by the Constitution.
  • H.B. 918 by Schofield, relating to the authority of

  • H.B. 954 by Spiller, relating to the authority of a

  • H.B. 980 by Wilson, relating to the authority of a

  • authorizing the denial of bail under certain circumstances.
Summary: The meeting focused on celebrating Jim Wells County Day at the Capitol, where various dignitaries from the county, including Judge Pete Trevino and County Commissioners were present. Representative Lozano took the floor to explain the significance of Jim Wells County, highlighting its historical importance, particularly as a once-thriving oil boom town and its cultural contributions, such as Tejano music. The discussion praised ongoing economic development efforts and future plans for water resource management through desalinization initiatives.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • And using that authority, as well as the authority

  • The only exception is if that text violates the Constitution, but again, when it comes to the Constitution
  • And we're bound not just by the Constitution.
  • There's a competing way to read our Constitution. It's called the Living Constitution.
  • It says the Constitution is a living document.
Summary: The meeting focused notably on judicial salaries and the importance of retaining qualified judges in Texas. Chief Justice Jimmy Blacklock discussed the need for a significant pay increase for judges, citing that their base salary has not risen since 2013 despite rising inflation. He made a compelling case that increasing judicial salaries would attract better candidates to serve the public as judges. The Chief Justice emphasized that the state's judicial system relies on highly capable individuals to uphold the rule of law and deliver fair justice to Texans, especially in family law cases where outcomes dramatically affect vulnerable populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • The clerk will read the bills and resolutions regarding the authority of the Board of Regents of the
  • , authorizing a civil penalty for the Committee on Public Health.
  • the United States Space Force in references to military service in this state constitution.
  • H.J.R. 167 by Low proposes a constitutional amendment authorizing
  • to authorize...
Summary: The committee meeting highlighted a series of bills focused on various legislative concerns, including healthcare, education, and regulatory measures. The discussion was notably lively, with several members expressing strong support for initiatives aimed at enhancing workforce development in the healthcare sector. Specific bills such as HB3801 and HB3803 were examined, with members detailing the benefits of establishing dedicated councils to improve local health resonating throughout the meeting. Additionally, the incorporation of advanced technologies in the education system was a focal point, particularly in relation to HB3828 regarding the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 14th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And so the authors are on the right track.
  • the Constitution.
  • of the Texas Constitution.
  • We have a little bit more authority.
  • The Texas Constitution...
Summary: The committee convened to discuss several significant pieces of legislation, primarily focusing on energy policies and public safety regulations. Notable discussions included Representative McLaughlin's HB4341, which mandates energy response maps for critical infrastructure, and received unanimous support for its favorable report. Meanwhile, HB3356 faced substantial opposition due to concerns over its potential to increase consumer costs and the undue penalties it imposes on existing generators. The discussions also touched on Representative Kitzman's HB3120 aimed at improving oversight and regulations for facilities housing unaccompanied minors, reflecting the committee's commitment to child welfare and safety in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

State Affairs Sep 3rd, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Article 3, Section 10 of the Texas Constitution has been interpreted to allow for quorum-breaking.
  • That same section of the Constitution states that the body may
  • Article 3, Section 10 of the Texas Constitution gives us the authority to...
  • Senators, if there are no questions for the author, for the sponsor, we'll.
  • This bill has been acted as an exercise of the legislature's rulemaking authority.
Bills: HB18
Summary: The committee meeting focused on House Bill 18, which aims to establish penalties for lawmakers who intentionally break quorum to obstruct legislative processes. Senator Hinojosa presented the bill, explaining that it prohibits absent legislators from fundraising and incurs civil penalties for violations. Public testimony was taken, with supporters emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency among legislators. Discussions among committee members highlighted the bill's implications and raised questions about its efficacy in preventing planned quorum breaks.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Elections Aug 25th, 2025 at 11:08 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It authorizes civil penalties of up to $5,000, with enforcement through district court proceedings in
  • Would you agree that we have a constitutional right to break quorum? Article 3, sections 10 and 11.
  • I'm just getting at the constitutional right to quorum break in relation to the purpose of this bill.
  • The Texas Constitution has provisions in it to address quorum breaks, including the use...
  • Use the powers that the Constitution allows.
Bills: HB18
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on the discussions surrounding HB18, which aims to prevent legislators from financially benefiting when they break quorum. Chairman Shaheen emphasized that this bill addresses the integrity of the Texas legislature and responds to constituent concerns about lawmakers being absent and raising funds simultaneously. Throughout the meeting, members discussed the implications of enforcing penalties for breaking quorum and the balance between legislative strategy and financial transparency. Various representatives expressed their views, with some supporting the bill for enhancing accountability, while others argued that it imposes unfair restrictions on a constitutional tactic historically used by minority factions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Mar 4th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • We begin each day in prayer in both chambers, and our constitutional freedom exercise clause is about
  • He ratified the Constitution.

  • I hope that more House members will co-author House Bill 1425 soon.
  • Since 2021, this legislature has used its authority to impose.
  • You had a key role in getting the First Amendment put onto the Constitution.
Summary: The Senate Education Committee meeting addressed several bills aimed at enhancing educational opportunities in Texas, notably focusing on virtual education and its implications. Senate Bill 569, introduced by Senator Betancourt, garnered considerable support, emphasizing the need for accessible high-quality virtual education. The committee heard public testimony from various stakeholders, including educators and students, who highlighted the significance of flexible learning environments in meeting diverse student needs. Key testimonies underscored that virtual education is not just beneficial for struggling learners but also advantageous for high-achieving students seeking more flexibility in their academic pursuits.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs May 27th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Essentially, SB 700—I'm sorry, House Bill 7—would authorize

  • , such as the First Amendment, or any other provisions within the Constitution.
  • Constitution, I guess, and once it's determined, we would by
  • ="34" data-time="198"> could not go out and assist federal authorities in taking away your guns.
  • and within their constitutional authority to do it, but they
Summary: The meeting of the committee primarily focused on House Bill 796, which seeks to establish a framework for the legislature to declare federal directives unconstitutional. Senator King introduced a committee substitute that provided a detailed explanation of the bill's intent, emphasizing the importance of state sovereignty in opposing what they deem unconstitutional actions from the federal government. The discussion included various viewpoints on how effective the bill would be in empowering the state against federal overreach. Senator Birdwell moved to adopt the substitute without any objections, indicating broad support for the measure. The bill was subsequently reported favorably to the full Senate for further consideration. In addition to HB796, SB707 was mentioned as part of the discussions but did not receive as much focus as the primary bill. The committee sessions were indicative of a collaborative effort amongst the senators to assert Texas's legal stances on federal directives, pushing forward with legislation intended to protect state rights. With a quorum present, the session was efficient and concluded with a sense of purpose and agreement on future proceedings.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Elections Aug 25th, 2025 at 11:08 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The bill authorizes civil penalties of up to $5,000 per violation, with enforcement through district
  • I'm just getting at the right of constitution of quorum break to the purpose of this bill.
  • The Texas Constitution has provisions...

  • That means that House Bill 18 punishes lawmakers for exercising a constitutional tactic.
  • Use the powers that the Constitution allows you to do, but do not go in front of it.
Bills: HB18
Summary: In the meeting, the primary focus was on HB18, which aims to prohibit legislators from fundraising while breaking quorum without an excused absence. The bill sparked a lively discussion among committee members, highlighting concerns regarding the financial benefits that legislators may receive while hindering the legislative process. Members debated the implications of enacting such a law, with some arguing that it could unfairly penalize minority parties exercising their constitutional rights. Notably, testimony was heard from constituents who expressed their discontent with fundraising efforts that coincided with quorum breaks, presenting a strong case for the necessity of the bill. The committee ultimately chose to leave the bill pending for further discussion.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Constitution and the Texas Constitution, I believe it's Article 6, Section 4, states that...
  • I'm happy to work with the author on some language.
  • Senate Bill 2964 by the bill's author, it’s in there.
  • Are there any questions for the author on SCR 63?
  • Are there any questions for the author on SCR 63?
Summary: The committee meeting covered numerous bills focusing on election integrity and transparency, alongside various regulatory measures. Senator Middleton presented SB1717, aimed at transferring the regulation of charitable bingo, and it was reported favorably to the Senate. Key discussions also revolved around SB1845 concerning registration for lobbyists engaged in activities on behalf of foreign adversaries, which received unanimous support. Another significant bill was SB2216, which addresses the security of election system equipment; it also passed with no opposition. The session was marked by contributions from various senators, emphasizing accountability and the integrity of the electoral process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 20th, 2025 at 10:08 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • [insert number] proposing a constitutional amendment specifying the authority of the attorney general
  • No. 9 by Tepper proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to set lower limits
  • No. 18 by Bella Montgomery proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to limit
  • No. 19 by LaHood proposing a constitutional amendment authorizing the provision of an exemption from
  • No. 24 by Cook proposing a constitutional amendment to authorize the legislature to limit the maximum
Bills: HB4
Summary: The committee meeting included extensive discussions on various bills, primarily focusing on ad valorem tax regulations and implications for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and disabled. Representative Schofield presented HB4, which revolves around setting limitations on ad valorem taxes for homesteads of disabled, elderly, and their surviving spouses. The bill sparked a thorough debate among committee members, leading to significant public testimony. Additionally, HJR No. 25 proposed by Cook focused on exempting part of the assessed value of property owned by certain disabled veterans from taxation, highlighting a priority for veteran support within the session's agenda. Overall, the meeting was marked by a strong turnout from both committee members and the public, showcasing a high level of engagement on these critical issues.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I move to suspend the constitutional rule that bills be read on three days.
  • I am proud to co-author this legislation.
  • Acceptable to the author. I move adoption.
  • You recognize to suspend the constitutional three-day rule.
  • Question for the author.
Bills: SB2, SB3, SB10, SB16, SB5, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, SB19, SB54, HB23, HB17, HB16
Summary: The committee meeting led by Senator Perry addressed various legislative measures including discussions around House Bill 23, which clarifies tax exemption for charitable organizations serving agricultural youth in populous counties. The bill was successfully passed with unanimous support after being brought up for expedited consideration. Notably, the discussion around Senate Bill 10 became contentious as Senator Bettencourt moved to not concur with House amendments citing potential tax increases, initiating a discussion about the implications and future direction of the bill. Furthermore, the importance of tax rate transparency was highlighted in the presentation of House Bill 17, aimed at improving communication regarding property tax rates to taxpayers, ensuring broader public engagement in tax matters and hearings as feedback and participation in the past had been low.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span>

    The chair now lays out Senate Bill 618 and recognizes the author

  • Thereby ensuring this authority is not abused.
  • Committee members, any questions for the author?
  • Constitution.
  • This bill usurps policymaking authority from schools.
Summary: During this meeting of the Senate Committee on State Affairs, significant discussions revolved around Senate Bill 618, which seeks to establish civil penalties for election officials who fail to adhere to the Texas election laws. Proponents, including Dr. Laura Pesce from True Texas Elections, passionately advocated for the bill, emphasizing the need for accountability and integrity in the electoral process. The committee heard testimonies underscoring the importance of consistent application of election laws and the necessity to deter violations that undermine public trust in the elections. Many witnesses detailed personal experiences with administrative overreach and violations of election law that directly affect voters and candidates alike. In addition to SB 618, the committee also reviewed Senate Bill 1999. This bill was met with considerable opposition, particularly from advocates arguing that it would promote discrimination against transgender students and exacerbate bullying within schools. Testimonies portrayed stark contrasts between supporters who claimed it would uphold religious freedom and critics who argued it would harm vulnerable youth by legitimizing discrimination based on gender identity. Ultimately, the meeting evidenced the varied views on legislative intent and societal implications surrounding these bills.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session Aug 12th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Constitution and its election standards.
  • You're recognized for the constitution.
  • To ask the author a few questions.
  • With that, I believe it's acceptable to the author. It is acceptable to the author.
  • I just wonder because we had heard testimony that the River Authority of the Upper Guadalupe River Authority
Bills: SB8, SB4, SB43, SB1, SB2, SB13, SB6, SB10, SB16, SB14, SB3
Summary: The meeting of the legislative committee prominently featured discussions surrounding several critical bills, including SB1, which addresses natural disasters and emergency preparedness in Texas. Senator Perry presented detailed amendments focusing on enhancing the state's response capabilities to flooding, which included the establishment of better training protocols for first responders and the development of a statewide flood monitoring system. Public testimony was actively solicited, with multiple witnesses providing input regarding the implications of SB1, highlighting the need for comprehensive disaster management strategies following recent floods that impacted the community severely. Additionally, considerable dialogue took place around SB6, relating to abortion-related civil liabilities, where senators debated the bill's implications on women's health and wellness in Texas, leading to contentious voting results and reflections on the bill's social impact.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Aug 18th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • As for the authority data, they have changed their mind.
  • This is TECO also has the authority to do that if TECO...
  • This amendment is agreeable with the author.
  • Move to suspend the constitutional three-day rule.
  • This bill would restore that authority.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on flood response and preparedness legislation in the wake of recent natural disasters. Key discussions revolved around Senate Bills 2, 3, and 5, which are aimed at improving disaster management and enhancing public safety through the installation of outdoor warning sirens in flood-prone areas. Senator Bettencourt and Senator Huffman led significant discourse on these bills, emphasizing the urgent need for robust funding and systems to protect communities. The meeting was marked by unanimous support for the bills, showcasing a collective commitment to implementing effective disaster response strategies.

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