Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senator Kolkhorst'

Page 22 of 57
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Apr 14th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Schwertner moves that Senate Bill 30, as substituted, be reported for approval to the full Senate
  • Senator Bedencourt, and Senator Middleton, of course, are ayes on Senate Bill 30, without objection.
  • Senator Hall moves that Senate Bill 1065 be reported for everybody in the full Senate.
  • Senate.
  • Senator Hughes moves that we report Senate Bill 2964 favorably to the whole Senate.
Summary: The meeting of the State Affairs Committee involved deliberations on a series of significant bills addressing issues such as election procedures, mental health crises, and the interplay between homelessness and public safety. Notably, Senator Parker presented Senate Bill 2487, focusing on creating infrastructure for mental health crisis management in urban areas, emphasizing the need for crisis service centers. Testimonies were heard from various stakeholders about the impact of mental health on homelessness, with supporters advocating for more comprehensive care while opposing viewpoints cautioned against conflating mental illness with criminal behavior. Another prominent discussion was around Senate Bill 2876, which proposed increasing penalties for rioting, specifically targeting those who conceal their identities. This stirred public outcry as civil rights advocates raised concerns about potential profiling and freedom of expression.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Hearing none, Senator King sends up a committee substitute for Senate Bill 39 and recognizes Senator
  • Senator Birdwell.
  • Senator Johnson. Senator Johnson, forgive my ignorance. Who owns...
  • Senator Bettencourt moves that Senate Bill 682 be reported to the Senate with the recommendation to be
  • Senate Bill 682 is reported in favor of the full Senate.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on legislative discussions surrounding multiple Senate bills, with a significant emphasis on Senate Bill 2080, which aims to modernize outdated regulations affecting navigation districts and port authorities in Texas. Senator Alvarado led the discussion on this bill, highlighting its potential to streamline operations and enhance flexibility in Texas ports, aligning them with national best practices. Several members of the committee expressed support for this legislation, citing its economic implications for Texas, particularly in relation to job creation and infrastructure improvement. However, concerns were raised by representatives from the city of Corpus Christi regarding provisions within the bill that might expand the port's authority, potentially impacting local governance and tax revenue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Apr 1st, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Middleton moves that Senate Bill 1786 be reported to the full Senate with the recommendation
  • Senator Menéndez moves that Senate Bill 226 be reported to the full Senate with a recommendation that
  • Senator Bettencourt moves that Senate Bill 870 be reported.
  • I would like to thank Senator Paxton on Senate Bill 1750.
  • Bill 1459 by Senator Campbell and Senate Bill 365 by Senator Creighton.
Summary: The committee meeting primarily addressed several education-related bills, notably focusing on strengthening teacher certification pathways and accountability measures within the Texas school system. Notable discussions revolved around Senate Bills 2252 and 2253, which aim to enhance early education and teacher preparation programs. Participants included various committee members who debated the merits of each bill and carefully considered public testimony that presented both support and concerns regarding the implications of the proposed legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources (Part I) Mar 26th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Birdwell, Senator Zaffirini.

  • Senator moves that Senate Bill 2188 be reported to the full Senate with a recommendation that it do pass
  • Senator...
  • Senator Birdwell moves that Senate Bill 879 be reported favorably to the Senate.
  • Senator Parker, Senator Sparks, Senate Bill 879 does pass.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Natural Resources Committee centered around several key pieces of legislation, particularly focusing on the energy and infrastructure sectors. Discussion highlighted Senate Bill SB2037, aimed at expediting the LNG export terminal permitting process, receiving strong support from industry representatives. Notably, SB1758 and SB1759 were also discussed, addressing the contentious interactions between aggregate production operations and semiconductor wafer manufacturing, with testimonies from stakeholders emphasizing the need for careful regulatory oversight to cater to all parties involved. Concern was voiced regarding the vibrations caused by mining operations, potentially impacting manufacturing processes, particularly in Grayson County.
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.
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

Jurisprudence (Part I) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senators, are there any questions for the Dean of the Senate on Senate Bill 1760?
  • Thank you, Senator. Members, any questions for Senator Perry on Senate Bill 302?
  • Senator Hughes, you're recognized on Senate Bill 1774.
  • On behalf of Senator Bettencourt, I'm pleased to lay out Senate Bill 1975.
  • Thank you, Senator Hughes. Testimony now on Senate Bill 1975.
Summary: In this meeting of the committee, significant discussions were held regarding various bills, particularly focusing on the issue of deed fraud, as highlighted by Senate Bill 1734. Senator Hughes advocated for this legislation as a self-help solution for property owners affected by fraudulent deeds, underscoring its timely relevance given the recent uptick in such incidents. Public testimony included supportive statements from a Texas title industry representative, explaining how the bill would streamline the process for victims to clear their titles in a cost-effective manner. The meeting also addressed Senate Bill 1975, which seeks to protect Texas contractors from unfavorable litigation practices imposed by out-of-state general contractors; however, no public testimony was provided on this bill.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Veteran Affairs Apr 15th, 2025

Senate Veteran Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Eckhardt, we're going to ask you to lay out Senator

  • Senator Eckhardt to lay out Senator Zaffirini's bill.
  • Let me recognize Senator Eckhardt, Senator Hall, and Senator
  • Chair recognizes Senator Hagenbue, and the chair lays out the Senate Bill. $2,000.
  • Senator Menéndez and Senator Eckhardt.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs focused on multiple bills aimed at improving services and protections for veterans in Texas. Discussion centered on Senate Bill 2926, which transfers the administration of veterans' mental health initiatives to the Texas Veterans Commission to enhance efficiency and service delivery. Public testimony was heard both for and against the bill, but ultimately it will be left pending. Other notable discussions included Senate Bill 2938, addressing the mental health challenges faced by justice-impacted veterans, aiming to better connect them with necessary resources. Additionally, Senate Bill 2543 and Senate Bill 2545 aimed to expand veteran cemetery locations and housing assistance for veterans, respectively, highlighting the increasing demand for support services in these areas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator.
  • Senate Bill 2850, explain the bill, Senator Mendoza

  • Who's Senator?

    Coakhurst. Senator Coakhurst.

  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 819 by Senator Perry

  • The committee substitute for Senate Bill 2497 is reported favorably to the full Senate.
Summary: The committee meeting was marked by significant discussions around various bills, especially those related to water quality and public utilities. House Bill 2692 was presented to simplify and clarify the enabling legislation for the San Antonio River Authority, highlighting improvements necessary for effective governance and administration. Additionally, there were discussions on Senate Bill 2497, which mandates public water systems to install filtration systems to ensure safe drinking water in communities facing water quality issues. Witnesses emphasized the financial burden and the need for more flexibility in solutions to address water contamination without imposing heavy costs on small water systems. The conversation underscored the balance between public health and fiscal responsibility, with various solutions proposed to mitigate the risks of water contamination.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Natural Resources will now come to order.
  • Senator Birdwell.

  • Senator Blanco?

  • The bill will be reported favorably to the full Senate.
  • Darby, Senate Sponsor, Senator Birdwell.

Summary: The Senate Committee on Natural Resources convened to discuss several bills, including HB1237, HB2663, and HB4384. The committee adopted a committee substitute for HB1237 without objections and recommended it for local and uncontested passage. Both HB2663 and HB4384 were supported by committee members, resulting in their passage with unanimous votes, showcasing a strong consensus among senators. After considering these bills, the committee concluded their session with no additional business.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Feb 25th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate moves to excuse Senator West on important business in the district.
  • Huffman and your Texas Senate.
  • I rise to thank Senator Dean Judy Zaffirini for bringing Senate Resolution 137, recognizing...
  • I rise to thank Senator...
  • at the Texas Senate.
Summary: The meeting was marked by significant resolutions recognizing various contributions to Texas and celebrating community initiatives. Key discussions included the adoption of resolutions commemorating Texas Hispanic Judges Day and highlighting the 100th anniversary of Memorial Park. Senators expressed appreciation for the judges' dedication and legacy, with notable mentions of individual judges and their impact on the community and legal landscape in Texas. The Senate also honored students and organizations contributing positively to their communities, showcasing the interconnectedness of public service and the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

JurisprudenceAudio only. Mar 20th, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Johnson is present and Senator Hinojosa moves.

  • Senator Johnson moves that Senate Bill 1403, as substituted

  • Senate Bill 1404 by Senator West addresses certain orders and
  • Senator Middleton moves Senate Bill 1536, as substituted

  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 711 by Senator Hughes,

Summary: The Senate Committee on Jurisprudence convened to discuss several important bills concerning guardianship, child support, and property owners. Notable discussions included the passage of SB746, a bill aimed at improving guardianship matters, which was reported favorably with unanimous consent. A committee substitute was also adopted, covering essential considerations around local and uncontested statuses, indicating smooth bipartisan support. Furthermore, the committee discussed SB1403 and SB1404, both related to procedures affecting parent-child relationships and support enforcement, demonstrating a focused effort on family law reform.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice (Part II) Feb 12th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Huffman moves the Senate bill.
  • So Senator Huffman will move to Senate Bill 40.

  • The chair calls up Senate Bill 40.
  • Senate Bill 40 will be reported to the full Senate with a favorable record.
  • Senate Joint Resolution 5 will be reported to the full Senate with a favorable recommendation.
Summary: The Senate Committee for Criminal Justice convened to discuss several significant pieces of legislation, including SB999, SB1047, SB40, SJR1, and SJR5. Notably, SJR5 sparked a robust debate among committee members and witnesses regarding its potential implications on pre-trial detention practices. Witnesses expressed concerns about the risks of pre-emptive detention outlined in the bill and the associated human costs, particularly for those who are innocent. Testimonies highlighted the disparity in how such legislation could disproportionately affect marginalized communities and lead to increased incarceration rates without addressing the root causes of crime. Overall, the committee displayed a commitment to ensuring public safety while wrestling with the balance of due process rights for individuals.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) May 15th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I recognize the Senate sponsor, Senator Agnew.
  • Senate Bill 3038 is by Senator Huffman, and the chair recognizes Senator Cook to explain the bill.
  • Recognized Senate Sponsor Senator Hughes to explain the bill.
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 3065 by Senator Paxton and recognizes Senator Gutierrez to explain the
  • Senate.
Summary: The meeting of the committee covered significant legislative matters, emphasizing the discussion around several bills such as HB2025, which aims to streamline the process of filing plats with tax receipts to prevent rejections. Representative Tepper and Senator Hughes led extensive discussions to clarify the implications of this bill, which resulted in public testimony that was ultimately closed with no opposition. Additional discussions included SB3065 regarding the creation of specific municipal management districts, where the committee expected to reconcile drafting errors in a forthcoming committee substitute. Besides, the committee reviewed HB4506, which proposes electronic delivery of zoning notices to enhance communication efficiency in municipalities. Overall, the meeting demonstrated a focused approach towards improving housing and governance-related processes within the community.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 21st, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Alright, Senator Higinbotham.
  • Senator Hinojosa.
  • Senator Hinojosa.
  • Senator Nichols now moves it.
  • Bill 3062 by Senator Hughes.
Summary: The committee meeting featured a number of bills focused on local issues, particularly in relation to transportation and public safety. Notably, Senator Alvarado presented HB3966 regarding the relocation of a Greyhound bus terminal to a residential area, which has raised community safety concerns due to increased crime. The bill aims to require commercial bus companies to notify residents before opening new locations, fostering accountability and transparency. The meeting highlighted testimonies from both supporters and opponents regarding the implications of such legislative changes on community dynamics.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 15th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Chair recognizes Senator Campbell on Senate Bill 2398 and asks Senator Campbell to explain her bill
  • Now recognizes Senator Alvarado on Senate Bill 865.
  • Senate Bill 1972 will be left pending. Thank you, Senator Middleton.
  • Senate Bill 401.
  • Thank you, Senator Nichols. We'll open up public testimony now on Senate Bill 2540.
Summary: The meeting of the committee primarily addressed several significant bills, including SB2398 which aims to ensure that students recovering from concussions receive timely accommodations to support their academic, social, and behavioral needs. Senator Campbell presented the bill, emphasizing its importance in preventing long-term setbacks for affected students. The committee heard from various stakeholders, and testimony reflected strong support for the bill's intent, although concerns were raised regarding implementation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • author, Senator...
  • Senator Johnson sends up the committee substitute for Senate Bill 1250, and Senator Henderholtz is recognized
  • and Senator.
  • Senator Johnson sends up the committee substitute for Senate Bill 1520, and Senator Alvarado is recognized
  • Thank you, Senator.
Summary: The meeting was marked by an extensive discussion of several bills aimed at enhancing Texas' economic landscape and infrastructure. Notably, SB2925 focused on modernizing the state's manufacturing sector by promoting automation and digital technology, which received strong support from industry representatives, emphasizing its potential job growth impact. Public testimonies reflected a consensus on the need for Texas to lead in innovation to remain competitive in the manufacturing arena. Furthermore, SB1520, which seeks to create the Texas Bicentennial Trail, also garnered significant support, particularly for its vision of connecting historical sites across Texas without resorting to private property condemnation. The committee faced a good turnout of stakeholders, which added depth to the discussions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Jurisprudence Mar 26th, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, thank you, Senator.
  • Thank you, Senator. Welcome.
  • Senator West.
  • Thank you, Senator West.
  • Senator Johnson moves that Senate Bill 1536, as substituted, be reported favorably to the full Senate
Summary: The meeting involved discussions primarily focused on family law and child protection cases, featuring several bills aimed at clarifying legal standards and fee schedules. Notably, Senator Byrd introduced SB2052, which reinforces the parental rights in child custody matters, establishing a presumption that parents act in the best interest of their children. This bill drew support and testimonies from various stakeholders, highlighting the need for clarity in legal proceedings regarding child custody. Additionally, Senator Zaffirini's SB1838 addressed the compensation of attorneys in child protection cases, emphasizing the importance of clear fee schedules to ensure fair compensation. Testimonies from legal experts underscored the existing confusion around attorney fees and the need for standardized procedures. Overall, the committee acknowledged the importance of these bills in protecting children's rights and ensuring fair legal representation for families.

Research Filters

States
Terms / Sessions
Date Range
Chamber Records
Meetings / Events / Calendars