Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senator Birdwell'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development Mar 24th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 1728.
  • Senator Blanco, Senator Alvarado, and Senator Hinojosa for their leadership on this issue.
  • Senate Bill 519, as a matter of pending business, Senator Schwertner moves that Senate Bill.
  • Senator Sparks moves that Senate Bill 875 be reported favorably to the full Senate.
  • Senator Johnson?
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Economic Development Committee featured substantial discussions around several key bills aimed at advancing various sectors in Texas. Notably, Senate Bill 529 was supported by multiple stakeholders, including the Mayor of Midland, emphasizing its importance in allowing the city to access sales tax incentives that could bolster economic growth. The committee unanimously recommended several bills for certification, indicating a strong consensus among members on the proposed legislation's benefits. The focus on job creation and supporting local economies was prevalent throughout the meeting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Mar 4th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • 10 by Senator King and Senate Bill 11 by Senator Middleton.
  • Senator Bettencourt. Aye. Senator Middleton. Aye. Senator King. Aye. Senator Paxton. Aye.
  • Senator Bettencourt? Aye. Senator Middleton? Aye. Senator King? Aye. Senator Paxton? Aye.
  • Senator Abboud? Aye. Senator Rodriguez? Aye. Senator Buerkle? Aye. Senator Klum? Aye.
  • Senator Rubio? Aye. Senator Libous? Aye. Senator Nielsen? Aye. Senator Parker? Aye.
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

Health and Human Services Apr 30th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • While Senate Bill.
  • Senate Bill 905.
  • Thank you, Senator Parker. Thank you, Senators.
  • Senator Perry moves that Senate Bill 128 be reported to the Senate with the recommendation that it do
  • Senator Ingald, Senator Hall, Senator Miles, Senator

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services covered multiple bills focusing on healthcare, education, and child welfare. A key highlight was the presentation of Senate Bill 3001, which aims to add medical nutrition counseling as a Medicaid service for patients with chronic conditions. Chairman Korkhorst emphasized the importance of this bill in addressing healthcare needs in low-income communities. Public testimony was gathered, with several professionals supporting the inclusion of nutrition services to improve health outcomes for Texans, particularly those battling chronic diseases. Another notable discussion revolved around Senate Bill 425, designed to enhance the accuracy of investigations into child and adult protective services. Members raised concerns regarding the need for transparency and improved protocols in these sensitive areas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence May 14th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 1015.
  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 2933 by Senator Menendez.
  • the other thing I mentioned is both of these amendments are also gribbled to the Senate author, Senator
  • Senate Bill 1839, this is Senator Zaffirini's bill, sponsored by Chairman Dutton.
  • chair lays out Senate Bill 1923.
Bills: SB1015, SB2933
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around several significant pieces of legislation, highlighting bills primarily focused on court proceedings, mental health services, and civil liabilities. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 441, which addressed civil liabilities for the promotion of artificial intimate visual material, and SB1164, concerning emergency detention for individuals with mental health issues. Both bills saw no amendments and garnered unanimous support in votes, showcasing the committee's intent to streamline judicial processes concerning these sensitive areas. Additionally, bills regarding guardianships and decedent estates were included, reflecting a commitment to improve the judicial system's handling of family law matters.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 1211.
  • So the Chair lays out Senate Bill 15, the committee substitute for Senate Bill 1574, Senator.
  • full Senate.
  • to the full Senate.
  • Senate Bill 2900.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several key bills including SB2873, SB2900, HJR4, SB1574, and SB2774. Senator Nichols played a prominent role in discussing and moving multiple bills forward, indicating strong bipartisan support as votes consistently showed 'aye' without any dissent in the committee. Public testimony was received during discussions of these bills, notably around HJR4, which addresses concerns from the financial sector regarding the imposition of new taxes on transactions, and SB2774, which modifies the tax definitions to better include industrial uniform rental businesses. The discussions highlighted the importance of economic implications as well as sector-specific needs and benefits, ensuring various sectors were represented in the discourse. The committee adjourned with all bills reported favorably for further consideration by the full Senate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 214.
  • Senate Bill 1901 will be reported favorably to the full Senate.
  • Senator Nichols moves that Senate Bill 1030 be recommended to the full Senate with the recommendation
  • All right, Senator Paxton moves that Senate Bill 2018 be reported favorably to the full Senate with a
  • Senate Bill 2018 will be reported favorably to the full Senate. The chair lays out Senate Bill.
Summary: The meeting focused on several key pieces of legislation, including Senate Bills 2018, 2206, and 1901. SB2018 aims to establish a tax credit for businesses contributing to non-profits that promote family stability, while SB2206 proposes a transition in Texas' R&D tax structure to support innovation and small businesses. Each bill drew significant attention and public testimony, highlighting their potential economic impacts and the importance of supporting local communities. Notably, public testimony revealed strong support and concerns regarding SB2206, particularly in relation to new job creation and economic growth versus the need for fiscal responsibility.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) Mar 31st, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Paxton moves that Senate Bill 2406 be reported to the full Senate with a recommendation that
  • Senator Nichols moves that Senate Bill 2407 be reported to the full Senate with a recommendation that
  • Senator Paxson.
  • Senator Nichols, sorry. Thank you. And Senator Gutierrez.
  • Senator West?
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Local Government was marked by significant discussions on multiple bills aimed at enhancing governance and protecting taxpayer interests. Among the notable legislations was SB1951, where Senator Paxton emphasized reforms to reduce erroneous penalty notices imposed by appraisal districts, eliminating the financial incentive for such penalties. The session concluded with public testimonies that highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability in taxpayer dealings. Additionally, Senator Middleton presented SB1504 and SB2237, focusing on the operational frameworks of local authorities and executive severance payments, respectively, both of which sparked considerable debate among committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) May 26th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Paxton.
  • We worked on the House side and Senator Paxton is left to "May." Thank you, Senator.
  • Senator West, the state representative, has sponsored the bill as well as the Senator.
  • to the full Senate.
  • Go ahead, Senator Nichols.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Local Government convened to discuss various important bills, primarily focusing on housing and local governance issues. Significant discussions included House Bill 5509, aimed at enhancing municipal powers against human trafficking by allowing the suspension of hotel occupancy certificates when crimes are suspected. The committee thoroughly reviewed the proposed committee substitutes for several bills, stressing stakeholder input and the importance of due process in legislative changes. Additionally, public testimony highlighted community support for the new amendments designed to ensure safety and welfare, particularly concerning vulnerable populations. House Bill 5663, addressing vital infrastructure needs and associated funding, also received a favorable recommendation from the committee, advancing its path through legislative scrutiny.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Jurisprudence (Part II)Audio only. May 14th, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator.
  • Senator Johnson moves that Senate Bill 1538, as substituted,
  • of the full Senate.
  • favorably to the full Senate.
  • favorably to the full Senate.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Jurisprudence convened to discuss a series of bills concerning various legal topics, notably the rights of custodial parents, barratry, and civil liabilities. Throughout the meeting, each bill was presented by committee members, who moved for favorable recommendations to the full Senate. Among the bills discussed, HB2495 addressed the rights of the sole managing conservator in relation to school enrollment, and HB2733 focused on barratry and solicitation of employment. All bills discussed received unanimous support, reflecting a cooperative atmosphere among committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development May 19th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Alvarado, Senator Johnson, Senator Schwertner, Senator
  • Senator Alvarado? Aye. Senator Johnson? Aye. Senator Sparks? Aye. Senator King? Aye.
  • Okay, Senator.
  • Senator Alvarado? Aye. Senator Johnson? Aye. Senator Sparks? Aye. Senator King? Aye.
  • Senator Alvarado? Aye. Senator Johnson? Aye. Senator Sparks? Aye. Senator King? Aye.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Economic Development Committee focused on several key bills aimed at enhancing economic development and addressing infrastructure needs in Texas. Notably, House Bill 5195 was discussed to modernize state agency websites, making them accessible and user-friendly for small businesses. Senator Alvarado emphasized the importance of this legislation in providing a better online experience for Texas residents and businesses alike, noting that outdated websites pose significant barriers. The bill received strong support from both committee members and public witnesses, highlighting its potential to spur economic growth. Furthermore, House Bills 2760 and 2765 were also favorably reported, aimed at refining the unemployment benefit appeal process and expanding resources for rural economic development, respectively.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Senator, for that.
  • Thank you, Senator, for that.
  • Thank you, Senator.
  • **Senator Perry**: Okay, Senator Perry.

  • Thank you, Senator.
Summary: The meeting involved a comprehensive review of various legislative bills, with members voicing their opinions and concerns on each. Significant discussions centered around land use policies, education reforms, and public health initiatives. A number of witnesses were called to share their insights, providing both supportive and opposing perspectives on the proposed bills. The committee demonstrated a commitment to thorough deliberation, ensuring all voices were heard before taking votes on the legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Schwertner, are you ready on Senate Bill 2345?
  • Senate Bill 2345.
  • Senate Bill 771 will be reported favorably to the full Senate.
  • Senator Hinojosa moves that Senate Bill 771 be reported favorably to the full Senate with a recommendation
  • Senate Bill 771 will be reported favorably to the full Senate.
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

Jurisprudence Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It is similar to Senate Bill 2048, which was passed unanimously by the Senate.
  • Senators, are there any questions for the Dean of the Senate?
  • Thank you, Senator. Members, any questions for Senator Perry on Senate Bill 302?
  • Senator West notes that.
  • On behalf of Senator Betancourt, I'm pleased to lay out Senate Bill 1975.
Summary: The Committee meeting involved significant discussions around several bills concerning property law and contractor protections. Notably, Senate Bill 1975 and Senate Bill 1734 were at the forefront, where SB1975 focused on protecting Texas contractors from being forced to litigate in foreign jurisdictions, ensuring local disputes are resolved within Texas. The testimony highlighted the need for such protections due to the previous challenges encountered by local contractors when large out-of-state entities imposed unfavorable contractual terms. The bill passed without any opposition during the committee session, highlighting its urgent importance for the local construction community. In addition, the committee addressed Senate Bill 1734, which aims to provide property owners with a systematic approach to remedy deed fraud. This discussion included public testimonies shedding light on the recent rise in fraudulent deeds, emphasizing the need for legislative measures to streamline the rectification process. The public's input, especially from those in the title insurance industry, offered critical insights into the practical implications of the bill. The committee's deliberations were comprehensive and featured no substantial challenges to any of the bills, leading to a productive session overall.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 14th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Perry?
  • Chairman, and Senator Perry.
  • Chairman and Senator Perry.
  • Let Senator West sit up.
  • Okay, so, Senator West. Senator Nichols on House Bill 3751 by Ashby.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Transportation Committee included crucial discussions surrounding various bills pertaining to transportation and public safety. Notably, House Bill 647 was presented to streamline the process for individuals who have undergone corrective eye surgery, allowing them to update their driver's licenses without needing to visit the Department of Public Safety in person. This bill was celebrated for potentially decreasing traffic at DMV offices and optimizing resources, with members expressing general support and a positive sentiment surrounding its passage. Additionally, public testimony was gathered for House Bill 2003, concerning high-speed rail projects, where witnesses voiced differing opinions, emphasizing the bill's relevance to current transit challenges and community impacts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • 39 by Senator Byrd.
  • Hearing none, Senator King sends up a committee substitute for Senate Bill 39 and recognizes Senator
  • Senator Johnson. Senator Johnson, forgive my ignorance. Who owns...
  • Thank you, Senator.
  • Senator King, Chair.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several bills aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of Texas transportation and port authorities. Key discussions included the implications of SB2080, which seeks to streamline operations for navigation districts by raising procurement authority, exempting security discussions from recording requirements, and aligning Texas ports with national standards to foster economic growth. Senator Alvarado advocated fervently for the bill, emphasizing its positive impact on competitiveness with ports in states like Virginia and New Jersey. Public testimony reflected mixed responses, with strong support from industry representatives but opposition from some municipal authorities concerned about the potential overreach of port authorities into local development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce May 8th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator King.
  • Senator Zaffirini moves that Senate Bill 2344 be reported favorably to the full Senate.
  • Senate Bill 1978.
  • Thank you, Senator. Gavel back over to Senator King.
  • , Senator...
Summary: The meeting was a thorough exploration of multiple bills, most notably focused on innovative energy solutions and public safety enhancements. Key discussions centered around HB14, which aims to bolster the state's nuclear energy capabilities through the establishment of a Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office. Senators and expert witnesses discussed the potential of nuclear power as a clean energy source and a strategic necessity for Texas's growth. There was strong support for the bill, with various stakeholders highlighting its importance for the future energy landscape. Additionally, other bills like HB132 addressed the need for enhanced confidentiality protections regarding sensitive information, while HB1584 sought improvements in power restoration procedures during emergencies. Overall, the committee engaged with multiple viewpoints, balancing innovation with safety and ethical considerations.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Are you going to do Senator Perdue? Okay. Have at it.
  • Are you going to do Senator Perdue? Okay. Have at it.
  • Are you going to do Senator Perdue? Okay. Have at it.
  • to do Senator Perdue?
  • Are you going to do Senator Perdue? Okay. Have at it.
Summary: The meeting of the committee was marked by significant discussions regarding various bills, including HB22 and SB5. A notable moment was the introduction of nominees Senator David Perdue and Ms. Monica Crawley, which led to discussions on the implications of their roles, particularly in relation to U.S.-China relations and foreign policy. Members exchanged views on the nominees' qualifications, emphasizing the importance of leadership in foreign diplomacy. Additionally, the committee heard testimonies from several witnesses both supporting and opposing certain bills, showcasing the diverse perspectives present.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 12th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And Senator, I...
  • Yes, Senator.
  • Senate Bill 1.
  • Senator West.
  • Kolkhorst**, **Senator Zafirini**, and **Senator West**.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The committee meeting addressed various pressing issues, notably the funding and appropriations for transportation and housing programs. Presentations focused on $40.4 billion in funding for highway projects, which is directed towards construction, maintenance, and infrastructure development for the upcoming biennium. Discussions highlighted the importance of addressing the capacity for project delivery amid increasing demands due to population growth and increased vehicle miles traveled in Texas. Additionally, Senator Hinojosa pushed for clarifying the funding available for driver education programs, especially for homeless and foster youth, which underscored a need for legislative support to ensure adequate resource allocation. Public testimonies lent depth to these discussions, presenting the human impact of legislative decisions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 5th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Senator.
  • Wynne Rosser.** Yes, Senator.
  • What **Senator Campbell** and **Senator Hinojosa** are talking about is very important.
  • What **Senator Campbell** and **Senator Hinojosa** are discussing is crucial.
  • Last session, we had Senate Bill 25 that passed, led by **Senator Kolkhorst**.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting focused on the funding recommendations for public health-related institutions and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. During the session, significant discussions were held around the $4.2 billion in total funding recommended for the 2026-27 biennium, which reflects a notable decrease compared to the previous biennium. Key highlights included an increase in funding for various educational support programs like the Graduate Medical Education expansion, and the need for modern data systems in colleges to ensure educational programs meet workforce demands. Testimonies from representatives highlighted both concerns about budget cuts and optimism for enhanced funding initiatives.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • ="1" data-time="0">Senator Miles,

    Senator.

  • ="4" data-time="18">Senator Cook.
  • Senate.
  • That's when Senator Hall sponsored Senate Bill...
  • it's Senator Hancock or Senator Cook or Senator Hughes, you may be chairing the committee.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services focused primarily on several key bills aimed at improving health care regulations and patient rights. Notably, Senator Hall introduced SB125, aiming to allow for direct and autologous blood donations, which sparked passionate debates among committee members and invited witnesses. Concerns were raised regarding the bill's implications for patient safety and the feasibility of the proposed 72-hour notice period for hospitals. Testimonies highlighted personal experiences, including that of the Lehrer family, advocating for the bill based on their children's health needs and the challenges faced due to current regulations. Conversely, several representatives from blood centers expressed opposition, cautioning that the bill could burden the blood donation system and adversely impact the quality of care for patients with special needs. Additionally, SB315 was present to address genetic privacy issues, aiming to grant Texans property rights over their DNA and genetic information. This bill also brought forth discussions about the ethical implications of genetic testing and data privacy in light of technological advancements. As the meeting progressed, representatives underscored the importance of balancing legislative intentions with practical outcomes, initiating further discussions on amendments and committee substitutes that would refine the proposed laws.

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