Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'county fairs'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance May 14th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...County is also added as a county that would qualify if it
  • And David Blackburn, County Judge of Bell County.

  • ...And Bell County is one of those counties.
  • In fact, no county in Texas is more disproportionately impacted than Bell County.
  • My county has been made...
Summary: The meeting covered multiple bills, primarily focusing on House Bill 2802, which relates to the Austin Firefighter Retirement Fund Pension, and House Bill 1056 regarding the establishment of gold and silver as legal tender in Texas. Senator Schwartner introduced several committee substitutes aimed at improving provisions in these bills, with the committee discussing amendments and seeking public testimony on the implications of these changes. Notably, the discussion highlighted varying perspectives on the use of gold as a currency and its constitutional implications, eliciting significant public and legislative engagement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Jul 21st, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • So it's fair to say you're following orders.
  • People move in and out, and I know my home county two years ago was the sixth fastest growing county
  • Is that a fair statement? I believe in the Congress.
  • Well, that's fair.

  • going to be a fair process.
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 1st C.S.

State Affairs (Part II) Aug 4th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We had as many jail deaths in Tarrant County as Harris County did last year without nearly as many people
  • we've been in Tarrant County.
  • It's fair.
  • the Harris County Sheriff's Office.
  • So for Harris County, it's split your file. Harris County is split your file.
Bills: SB7, SB14
Summary: The meeting centered on a heated discussion regarding SB14, which proposed changes to how police misconduct records are managed and accessed. Numerous witnesses, including representatives from civil rights organizations and concerned citizens, expressed strong opposition to the bill, arguing that it would significantly reduce transparency and accountability within law enforcement agencies. Testimonies highlighted historical failures in police accountability and emphasized the importance of public access to misconduct records to restore community trust. The committee received both emotional appeals and expert opinions, painting a vivid picture of the potential negative impacts of the proposed legislation on police-community relations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • of Tarrant County, but I try to represent all of Tarrant County.
  • County for work.
  • In the current map, it goes from Ector County into Bell County.
  • It's just going from Ector County into Bell County, which is just one county north of Travis County,
  • County.
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Congressional Redistricting focused primarily on the discussion of HB4 and SB4, concerning the redistricting process based on the 2020 Census data. Chairman King opened the session, expressing gratitude to the committee members for their attendance and emphasizing the importance of completing redistricting within the special session's 30-day timeframe. Public testimony was a major component, with numerous individuals voicing their opinions both in favor and against the proposed redistricting maps, emphasizing issues of representation and concerns of racial injustices inherent in the process. The majority of witnesses highlighted the need for immediate attention to pressing issues such as flood relief instead of focusing solely on redistricting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence May 7th, 2025 at 07:05 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • As I say, we have always advocated for fair civil justice reform.
  • We're based in Liberty County.
  • And it's just, to me, it's just not fair.
  • I think it's a policy, and we want to pay a fair number.
  • Today, it is absolutely the worst, with Harris County considered the worst county in the nation with
Bills: HB4806
Summary: The Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence Committee meeting convened early to discuss several critical pieces of legislation, notably HB4806, which aims to reform aspects of civil justice, particularly surrounding personal injury claims. The committee faced strong public testimony both supporting and opposing the bill. Advocates argued that the bill would help mitigate excessive costs in litigation and enhance access to care for injured individuals, while opponents expressed deep concerns that it would drastically limit the ability of victims to receive fair compensation for their suffering. The testimony from families affected by injuries painted a poignant picture of the human impact of the legislation, highlighting the potential devaluation of their pain and trauma in court.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management Mar 27th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So how do you determine that fair value?

  • Lori Christensen, Harris County Fire Marshal, and I am in favor of the bill.
  • I had you registered as a Harris County Commissioner's Court, is that correct? Yes, sir.
  • I’m appointed by the Harris County Commissioner's Court.
  • as the Harris County Fire Marshal.
Summary: The meeting addressed significant bills with a focus on housing and property rights, specifically discussing HB2149 and HB2559. Representative Tepper introduced HB2149, which aims to amend amortization and non-conforming land-use procedures to better protect private property rights. The bill received testimony supporting its intent to maintain a balance between property development and municipal zoning regulations. Furthermore, Representative Patterson discussed HB2559, emphasizing the need for establishing reasonable protections against development moratoriums that affect homeowners and builders, highlighting the necessity for adequate notice and a higher threshold for moratorium approvals. Both discussions prompted vigorous dialogue and engagement among committee members as well as the public, illustrating the complexities involved in balancing growth and regulation in real estate development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • transfers, and it applies the Deceptive Trade Practices Act, as well as both the state and federal Fair
  • This bill seeks to improve procedural fairness and transparency in how wage complaints are handled on
  • So I urge passage of this just for fairness for the

  • ...by giving county prosecutors six months to act.
  • We are looking to develop an area in Webb County.
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 Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 5th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Yes, sir, that's fair to say, Senator Hall?

  • I'm sure San Francisco County will welcome you to do

  • , but I'm glad there are some counties that are respecting the Second Amendment.
  • So that everyone understands how Texas was moved from what started as a luck-of-the-draw fair.
  • As you've heard today, they're neither fair nor just, nor do they promote human flourishing in Texas.
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs held a comprehensive meeting focused on several noteworthy bills, particularly those related to the Texas Lottery Commission and foreign adversaries. Discussions were led by various members, including Senator Hall, who expressed serious concerns regarding the legality and integrity of practices within the Lottery Commission, alleging that it has enabled a series of fraudulent activities. Testimonies were heard from stakeholders advocating for House Bill 130, aimed at protecting Texans' genetic information from foreign access. The committee also reviewed House Bills 119 and 581, which tackle transparency in dealings with lobbyists connected to foreign adversaries and address child safety against evolving technological threats, including deepfake technology, respectively. The atmosphere was engaging, with active participation from both committee members and witnesses from various organizations arguing for or against the proposed legislation. The meeting concluded with gratitude expressed towards the committee staff for their efforts in facilitating a productive session, acknowledging both the importance of the issues at hand and the various testimonies provided. The members agreed on the significance of regulating the Lottery Commission more effectively and ensuring the protection of Texans from potentially harmful external influences. All bills were left pending for further discussion and refinement in future meetings.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Ways & Means Aug 22nd, 2025 at 10:08 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It's fair to do that.
  • : Dallas County, Denton County, and Collin County.
  • or Lubbock County.
  • I'm in Ector County, Texas, Odessa. We are not a blue county.
  • There have been tons of them—Harris County, Hays County, tons of them.
Bills: HB17, HB23, SB10
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several significant bills, particularly HB17 and SB10, both of which address property tax regulations in Texas. HB17 aims to enhance transparency and accountability in taxpayer notifications regarding property tax rate changes, requiring taxing entities to provide detailed information in notices. The bill received mixed reactions, with some supporting its intention to empower taxpayers while others criticized it as an unfunded mandate. Meanwhile, SB10 proposes to lower the voter approval tax rate for larger municipalities from 3.5% to 2.5%, sparking debates about its potential impact on public safety funding and local governments' financial flexibility. The discussions delved into the challenges posed by budget constraints and the need for efficient local governance in the face of rising costs and public safety demands. Overall, the meeting was well-attended, featuring robust discussions and a variety of perspectives around key legislative initiatives affecting Texas residents.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 5th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We think that's a fair model.
  • Another factor that's important is fair risk allocation and fair contractual...
  • And they range from Orange County up to Hunt County where the reservoir where the river basin starts.
  • Economic growth in Orange County all the way up to Hunt County and Sabine.
  • Augustine, and Newton County, they qualify for the contract. That's how poor of a county they are.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on water management issues related to the ongoing drought in Texas, particularly concerning the need for new water sources such as seawater desalination. Testimonies highlighted the critical status of local water supplies and the urgency of projects designed to secure future water availability. A noteworthy discussion revolved around the upcoming Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus and desalination plant in Corpus Christi, which is aiming to become Texas's first municipally owned facility of its kind. Various stakeholders emphasized the importance of timely state support and funding in expediting these projects to mitigate water shortages and their potential economic impacts on the region.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Apr 14th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I represent myself as a landowner and a pecan farmer in southwest Kimble County.
  • My parents live in northwest Harris County where I was born and raised.
  • However, that raises significant questions about the fairness of the process.
  • Transparency is essential in maintaining trust and fairness in these agreements.
  • They're at the county clerk's office and that's all good.
Summary: The committee meeting centered around the discussion of several bills, primarily focusing on environmental and transparency issues related to oil and gas operations. Notably, a bill introduced by Representative Rosenthal (HB5105) aimed to enhance transparency for royalty owners concerning suspension of payments, requiring operators to notify them of any reasons for such suspensions. During the meeting, multiple witnesses testified, emphasizing the necessity of protecting landowners' rights and ensuring responsible management of hazardous waste from oil operations. Additionally, the committee heard about HB4572, which aimed to require landowner consent before the burial of waste on their properties, highlighting the importance of land and groundwater protection amidst growing concerns of contamination from reserve pits used in the oil and gas industry.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I believe it's a fair bill.
  • So I think we have a fair, agreed-to bill at the end of the day, and that's why Ms.
  • It dealt with an exemption from certain motor fuel taxes for counties.
  • It gave counties a...

  • It gave counties a...

Bills: SB771, SB2345, HB135
Summary: The Senate Finance Committee meeting covered crucial legislative discussions surrounding several important bills, particularly focused on firefighter pension reforms and tax equity for diesel fuel. Senate Bill 771, presented by Senator Hinojosa, seeks to rectify a gap in state tax law regarding tax credits for diesel fuel used in auxiliary power units. The bill drew support from several witnesses who emphasized its importance for maintaining fairness in tax treatment across fuel types. Additionally, House Bill 135, aimed at providing tax exemptions for exotic game sales, was discussed with fervent support from stakeholders within the industry. Public testimonies highlighted the positive economic impact of the bill on rural communities in Texas. The committee also reviewed Senate Bill 2345, another pension-related bill, which showcased collaboration between the city and the firefighters' association.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the Chambers County Commissioner for Precinct 3.
  • County Judge Jimmy Silvio has not traveled for this hearing.
  • Fair enough. Thank you.
  • Representative LaHood in Bexar County had 11 fatalities.
  • People don't conceive that as being fair.
Summary: The committee meeting included significant discussions surrounding several bills, particularly focusing on infrastructure projects and their implications for the community. House Bill 2989 initiated a dialogue around modernizing the legal framework for Cedarport National Park, which is vital for enhancing maritime transport and reducing truck traffic. Supporters emphasized the economic benefits and the project's potential to create a more efficient and sustainable transport network, highlighting testimonies from local officials who noted the bill's importance for regional growth and safety. Representative Metcalfe and others advocated strongly for the bill, underscoring its necessity in addressing the increasing container demand due to recent shifts in shipping patterns. The meeting was well-attended and included various testimonies for and against bills, showcasing the passionate involvement of community members and stakeholders. One key point mentioned was the need for grade separations to improve safety around railway crossings. In particular, concerns were raised about the impact of long trains blocking intersections in residential areas, prompting discussions about potential solutions. Overall, the meeting highlighted the ongoing collaboration between legislators, industry representatives, and community leaders to enhance infrastructure and ensure public safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Agriculture & Livestock Mar 18th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House Agriculture & Livestock Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Will this bill ensure that products from small producers in rural counties are paid a fair market value
  • We're the only county that...
  • By happenstance, our county extension agent found it.
  • Currently, TSCRA collects brand information from county governments.
  • Yes, you do have to go to your county clerk.
Summary: The Committee on Agriculture and Livestock convened to address several pressing bills concerning agriculture, food systems, and hemp regulation in Texas. Notable discussions revolved around HB1113, which focuses on the production and regulation of hemp, ensuring alignment with federal regulations. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Hemp Coalition, indicated broad support for the bill, citing its potential to enhance agricultural practices and promote research. Additionally, members expressed concerns regarding the implications of food insecurity, advocating for HB1203, aimed at establishing an Office of Food Systems Security and Resiliency to address access to nutritious foods across Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V

Transcript Highlights:
  • And so, on the team side, that's the two cybersecurity for the three counties.
  • There are currently 22 FTEs providing team oversight to the counties.
  • Is that fair?

    OK. All right.

  • That's fair.
  • You can write about the counties that exist.
Summary: The meeting of the appropriations committee focused on a range of topics including budget adjustments for various state departments and agencies. Key points of discussion included the Texas Department of Criminal Justice budget, which saw considerations for funding adjustments to support both community supervision and correction programs. The committee members exhibited keen interest in mental health resources, with some discussions revolving around a proposed additional funding for staff and programs aimed at improving support for vulnerable populations in the justice system. Additionally, there were discussions regarding the adequacy of existing resources for elderly inmates, and the potential need for policy changes around this issue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • would also prevent discrimination against non-union contractors and labor groups, thereby promoting fair
  • ...for fair work.
  • Is that a fair statement?
  • Without these agreements, The promise of fair wages, job
  • marker="472" data-time="2826"> providing a consistent and uninterrupted supply of skilled labor at fair
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

Intergovernmental Affairs Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Cameron County, Pecos County, and the city of Pleasanton.
  • We're a public non-profit, so I'm not a county employee or a county representative.
  • The counties are for this.
  • County HFC.
  • Well, it's a fair point.
Summary: The meeting highlighted significant issues regarding housing funding mechanisms, particularly surrounding the complexities of Housing Finance Corporations (HFCs). Members voiced their concerns about the financial impacts these HFCs have on local government revenues, given that many property tax exemptions are given while maintaining market-rate rents. This discussion was sparked by alarming statistics indicating a rapid increase in tax dollars removed from local jurisdictions due to HFC activities, stressing the need for regulatory reforms to preserve affordable housing without financially jeopardizing municipalities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Delivery of Government Efficiency Mar 12th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Is that a fair assessment?
  • Would that be a fair assessment? I don't think so.
  • They're tough, but they're fair at the same time.
  • Our number one mission is to ensure free and fair elections.
  • Before the counties?
Bills: HB10, HB12, HB675
Summary: The meeting featured extensive discussions surrounding the Local Government Purchasing Cooperative, emphasizing approaches to enhance procurement processes for efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Representatives from Pearland City Council provided firsthand insights regarding their experiences with cooperative purchasing. Key topics included the complexities of contracts, the challenge of aligning with state procurement laws, and the importance of supporting local vendors through cooperative initiatives. The session also included invited testimony, exploring how the cooperative model influences municipal and educational budgets across Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Mar 11th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We are making sure they keep a fair marketplace out

  • So it's fair to say that someone who comes with that situation has an average processing time of seven
  • But in fairness, this is something you could have done in 2023.
  • And did, in fact, in my opinion, show a risk to, for instance, integrity, security, and fairness.
  • What is the perception of fairness in our lottery games?
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on legislative discussions surrounding House Bills 11 and 3579, with a significant emphasis on regulatory measures concerning lottery ticket couriers and modernization of licensing systems for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Various committee members engaged in lively debates, particularly around the implications of using couriers within the lottery framework, as this raised concerns about regulatory gaps and the need for clearer oversight. Additionally, there was mention of the agency’s efforts to combat human trafficking through updated regulations and enforcement actions, indicating a priority agenda for the session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs Jul 22nd, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Is that a fair statement?
  • Is that a fair statement?
  • Is that a fair statement?
  • That's not fair.
  • So, 179 working with 254 counties, with typically five county judges in each county.
Bills: SB5, SB11, SB12
Summary: The committee meeting focused on discussions surrounding public safety and health, particularly in relation to the regulation of THC products through Senate Bills 5, 11, and 12. A significant point of contention was Senate Bill 5, which sought to regulate THC products to prioritize child safety, with law enforcement officials arguing that existing regulations have failed to protect youth adequately. The committee heard several testimonies from both supporters and opponents of the legislation, emphasizing a deep divide on the efficacy of regulation versus prohibition. Lawmakers debated the implications of these bills, with some members advocating for a complete ban while others called for more moderate, regulated approaches to address the concerns surrounding THC consumption and its impact on mental health. Notably, the meeting concluded with a series of votes indicating a strong push towards tightening regulations on THC products to ensure public safety.

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