Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senator Hancock'

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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 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.
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.
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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Committee on Criminal Justice Mar 25th, 2025 at 08:00 am

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair calls up Senate Bill 693 and recognizes Senator West.
  • for Senate Bill 693.
  • Senate Bill 781, in recognition of Senator King.
  • Senator King.
  • Senator King.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to deliberate several bills aimed at enhancing the protection of victims in cases of sexual assault and human trafficking. The meeting featured discussions on Senate Bills SB781, SB836, and SB1610, which introduced measures to improve the criminal justice processes related to these serious offenses. Senator King and other members emphasized the necessity of providing law enforcement with the tools needed to combat these crimes while simultaneously safeguarding victims' rights and privacy during trials. Notably, SB836 proposed significant changes that would prevent live streaming of sexual assault trials without consent to protect the dignity of victims, while SB781 sought to standardize the confidentiality of peace officers' personal information to enhance their safety.
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

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 Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 2986, and Senator Campbell lasts.
  • behalf of Senator Kolkhorst.
  • Thank you, Senator. Senator West.

  • Senator Hughes, you're recognized on Senate Bill 2683.
  • Thank you, Senator Hughes. Senator Paxton sends up the committee substitute.
Summary: During the committee meeting, key issues surrounding higher education legislation were discussed, focusing on several significant bills. Notably, discussions revolved around SB2233, which mandates public institutions in Texas to prohibit non-immigrant visa holders from supporting terrorist activities. This bill raised concerns regarding free speech and potential overreach in monitoring students and faculty, with various testimonies highlighting its implications for academic freedom. The bill faced opposition from various civil rights organizations and law students who emphasized that such measures could create a chilling effect on political expression and disproportionately affect marginalized communities. In contrast, SB735 on Holocaust education received strong support, aiming to improve educational resources and awareness amid rising anti-Semitism, with calls for comprehensive training for educators. Other bills discussed included SB2683, which restricts institutional benefits from foreign entities considered to pose a national security risk, further emphasizing the tension between security concerns and academic freedom.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part III) Apr 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Chair lays out Senate Bill 946 and represents, and Senator, and...
  • Thank you, Senator. Thank you, Senators. We'll open testimony on Senate Bill 2044.
  • Thank you, Senator Schwertner.
  • Go ahead, Senator.
  • I appreciate your consideration, Senator. Senator, thank you for your hard work on Sunset.
Summary: The meeting conducted by the committee featured an extensive discussion on multiple bills, particularly focusing on the ethics reform via SB2403, aimed at enhancing the structure and enforcement processes of the Texas Ethics Commission. The conversation revolved around establishing a three-tier system categorizing violations and enhancing procedural fairness and accountability in ethics investigations. Senator Mayes introduced a committee substitute, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that enforcement processes are transparent and just, particularly relating to minor infractions. Public testimonies in favor of the bill highlighted the need for reform, while concerns were raised about maintaining integrity in oversight mechanisms.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Paxton has questions and we'll go to Senator Birdwell.
  • Thanks, Senator. Thank you, Senator.
  • Senators, any questions? Senator Parker, do you have questions?
  • Thank you, Senator.
  • Thank you, Senator Middleton. Senator Birdwell, you're recognized.
Summary: The meeting focused on several legislative measures concerning alcoholic beverages, ethics, and the protection of free speech. Notable discussions included the presentation of Senate Bill 2633, which aims to modernize the framework for alcohol sales in local communities and allow local option elections within designated zones. Additionally, Senate Bill 2713 garnered significant attention, addressing ideological discrimination in professional associations based on political beliefs, urging a need for greater protection of free speech in Texas. Public witnesses provided testimony, with a mix of support and concerns regarding various bills, indicating a vibrant discourse among committee members and the public.
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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 5th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, any questions for Senator Hall on Senate Bill 82?
  • ...back in 2019, the Senate passed Senate Bill 172.
  • , Senator Birdwell, mentioned.
  • of sales, versus Senator ...
  • Senator Hall, you're recognized.
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.

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 1st C.S.

Senate Session Aug 1st, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • and Senator Hinojosa.
  • Thank you, Senators.
  • It was by Senator Hughes.
  • Senator Mayes, final passage of Senate Bill 12. Thank you, Mr. President, members.
  • Senate stands adjourned.
Bills: SB5, SB11, SB12
Summary: The committee meeting held a vigorous debate primarily concerning Senate Bills 11, 12, and 5, each addressing significant legislative issues including taxpayer-funded lobbying, election integrity, and the regulation of hemp-derived THC products. Proponents of SB12 defended it as necessary for transparency and fiscal responsibility, emphasizing the suppression of taxpayer-funded lobbying as a means to protect taxpayer interests. In contrast, opponents raised concerns that the bill would silence local government voices and hinder advocacy from smaller communities, arguing that it undermines local control and representation in the legislative process. Throughout the discussions, key testimonies illustrated the political divides over these legislative priorities, generating significant public interest and engagement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Jan 27th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • **Senator Kolkhorst**.
  • Thank you, Senator.
  • Thank you, Senator.
  • **Senator West**, and then **Senator Hall**, I see you down there.
  • **Senator West**, and then **Senator Hall**, I see you down there.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Finance Committee was marked by extensive discussions around the budget proposals for various judicial services and the impact of proposed salary increases on staffing. Notably, there were concerns raised regarding a significant attorney shortage in rural areas, which has seen a 27% decline in attorneys taking positions compared to previous years. Scott Ehlers highlighted a crucial $12 million funding request aimed at addressing this shortfall to maintain the adequate operational capacity of indigent defense services across the state. The committee members, led by Chairman Hinojosa, emphasized the importance of finding solutions to improve legal access and representation in underserved areas to respond effectively to this critical issue.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair lays out House Bill 5674 by Representative Wilson, with Senator Pete Flores as the Senate sponsor
  • to the full Senate.
  • I represent Kerwin, sponsor Senator King, and recognize Senator
  • Sponsor Senator Birdwell.
  • So at this point, Senator Paxton.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on the review and recommendations for several bills concerning utility districts and development projects. Among the key bills discussed was HB5671, which updates the Johnson County Special Utility District's provisions to accommodate rapid county growth. Chairman's call for public testimony on various bills indicated broad community interest, though many bills advanced without opposition. Notably, HB5694, aiming to create the Fannin County Improvement District, illustrated strong legislative support, gaining a swift recommendation to pass without any public testimony against it. Additionally, HB5696 saw a proposed committee substitute that resulted from the feedback regarding its statewide implications, highlighting the committee's responsiveness to community concerns regarding localized impacts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Jurisprudence Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Bill 2878 will close, and Senate Bill 2878.
  • I am here in support of Senate Bill 2165.
  • Generally, Senate Bill 2342.
  • That's Senator Perry's bill, and Senator Middleton sends up a committee substitute.
  • Senator Middleton is recognized.
Summary: The meeting included significant discussions surrounding several bills focusing on children's welfare, particularly regarding foster care and supportive decision-making agreements. Notably, Senate Bill 2165 was presented, which addresses the issue of foster children who go missing and the legal implications of dismissing their cases while they are unaccounted for. The bill aims to ensure that courts retain jurisdiction over these cases to provide continuous support and monitoring until the children reach adulthood. Several witnesses, including legal experts and advocates, expressed fervent support for the bill, highlighting the vulnerabilities of youth in the foster care system and the risks of human trafficking associated with missing children. The importance of maintaining oversight and support for these youth was a common sentiment throughout the testimony.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Senator Miles.
  • Senator Alvarado. No. Senator Hinojosa. No. No.
  • Senator Hughes? Yes. Senator Miles? Not no, but hell no.
  • Senator Parker, Senator Paxson, Senator Sparks, Senator

  • Senator Akin? Aye.
Summary: The meeting of the special committee on congressional redistricting was convened to discuss and vote on HB4, a key bill aimed at revising congressional district maps in Texas. Chairman King presented the bill, which is a companion to SB4 that had already passed out of the Senate. The discussion focused on minor differences between HB4 and SB4, primarily revolving around the political implications of the proposed changes. Several senators highlighted concerns over the lack of public testimony for the amendments, raising questions about the inclusiveness of the redistricting process. The committee ultimately voted to report HB4 favorably to the Senate, with a narrow vote of 5 to 3. This spirited debate underscored the contentious nature of redistricting and its impact on electoral outcomes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Mar 31st, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, any questions for Senator Parker on Senate Bill 1698?
  • At this point, Senate Bill 1698, Senate Bill 1313.
  • Senate Bill 1313, Senate Bill 1314, and Senate Bill 1316
  • I am here in support of Senate Bill 1698 by Senator Parker.
  • Bill 1313, Senate Bill 1314, Senate Bill 1316, or Senate Bill 1698?
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on State Affairs featured intense discussions centered around the regulation of tobacco and e-cigarette products, with a particular focus on protecting minors from harmful marketing practices. Senators presented various bills addressing the marketing of these products, which included SB1313, SB1314, and SB1316. Senator Cook laid out SB1313, aimed at prohibiting deceptive marketing techniques that entice minors, alongside testimony from concerned parents advocating for stronger regulations against smoke shops near schools. The committee also examined the App Store Accountability Act, led by Senator Paxson, which aims to ensure age verification for app downloads and hold app stores accountable for protecting minors online. Public testimony played a crucial role in the discussion, with parents and experts weighing in on the necessity of stringent regulations to safeguard youth from exploitation by marketers of addictive products.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Yes, Senator.
  • Thank you, Senator Shaheen. Senator Cotton.
  • Thank you, Senator Blumenthal. Senator Rounds.
  • Thank you, Senator Rounds. Senator Hirono.
  • Thank you, Senator. Thank you, Senator Rosen.
Summary: The meeting centered on the nomination of retired Lieutenant General Dan Kane for Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, delving into various security concerns and the strategic environment facing the U.S. today. Testimonies highlighted the growing threats from adversaries such as China and Russia, with discussions around the necessity of maintaining and modernizing military capabilities to address these challenges. The need for agility in military operations and enhancing collaboration among various defense agencies was underscored. Further, concerns were raised regarding the defense budget and the importance of a strong national defense strategy were prevalent throughout the discussions. The committee members collectively emphasized the need for superior readiness and modernization to keep pace with global threats.

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