Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senators'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation (Part I) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And the Senate, when reviewing that, Senator West having to participate in that, Senator Taylor then
  • And I oppose Senate Bill 39, and I oppose Senate Bill 30.
  • Senator West.
  • Senate Bill 2246.
  • for Senate Bill 278.
Summary: During the committee meeting, significant discussions revolved around three main bills: SB39, HB19, and SB2246. Senator Bettencourt laid out SB39, aimed at revising the admission rule related to commercial vehicle collision cases. The intention behind this bill is to standardize trial procedures by limiting the evidence admissible in the first phase, ensuring that unnecessary complexity does not cloud the issue of fault. Various stakeholders, including trial lawyers and business representatives, provided insights into the impact of these changes, highlighting concerns over insurance costs and practical implications on litigations. Public testimony reflected a mix of support and opposition, showcasing the contentious nature of the bill's modifications. Additionally, the committee addressed SB2246 regarding salvage auto dealers and the process of obtaining titles for vehicles that will not return to the road, which was met with relatively little challenge as stakeholders recognized the necessity for clarity and efficiency in this process. The meeting concluded with promises from members to continue discussions on these important legislative measures, indicating an ongoing commitment to addressing the complex issues at hand.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Hues, Senator Miles, Senator Parker, Senator Paxson,
  • Senator Sparks.
  • Senator Miles, ma'am.
  • Senator Miles.
  • Senator Miles.
Summary: The Senate special committee convened to address issues related to congressional redistricting, particularly focusing on the implications of a recent DOJ letter concerning majority-minority districts. Various senators expressed strong concerns about the motivations behind the proposed redistricting efforts, asserting that they may infringe on the rights of black and brown communities across Texas. Numerous members of the public provided passionate testimony, voicing their fears over potential voter suppression and gerrymandering, while others pushed for greater representation of underrepresented communities in the redistricting process. The committee aims to gather this public input as part of its overall redistricting considerations during the special session.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Of course, here, Senator Perry, Senator Hancock, Senator

  • Hall, Senator Miles, Senator [last name missing].
  • I think that Senate rules allow a senator to testify on bills without registering.
  • Senator Sparks is also present.
  • Senator Miles cannot be in committee this morning, and he is the sponsor and has asked Senator Cook to
Summary: The meeting of the Health and Human Services Committee covered a variety of bills primarily focused on health care service enhancements and legal protections for employees. A notable discussion surrounded HB50, which aims to integrate HIV testing into routine STD screenings, a topic that received unanimous backing due to its potential to reduce the transmission of the virus. There was also significant dialogue around HB2399, which requires courts to provide detailed findings when making safety determinations regarding children's placements, further ensuring transparency and clarity in decision-making processes. The committee deliberated on various aspects of health care accessibility, particularly regarding individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as legislative measures to protect family services workers from damages caused in the line of duty. The session was characterized by thoughtful engagement from committee members and testimonies from various stakeholders.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs May 12th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 2368... Senate Bill 2368 be left pending.
  • Senate Bill 689. Plays out Senate Bill 965.
  • Senate Bill 231 is left pending.
  • I'm testifying in support of Senate Bill 825.
  • Senate Bill 825. The Chair lays out Senate Bill 2601.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on a comprehensive discussion of several key legislative bills impacting agriculture, transparency in data regarding illegal immigration, and updates to emergency management infrastructure. Notably, SB2601 emphasized improving compensation processes for agricultural landowners affected by border-related crimes. The bill was presented by Senator Blanco, highlighting the need for a streamlined claims process and better funding mechanisms to support affected landowners and lessees. In a related yet different area, SB825 was presented to address the need for transparency and data collection on the effects of illegal immigration on Texas, leading to intense discussions about its implications on various sectors, including healthcare and education. Witnesses from organizations such as the Texas Public Policy Foundation and the Texas Farm Bureau provided valuable insights both in favor and against the bills, resulting in a dynamic atmosphere during the testimony segment of the meeting. Overall, the discussions were productive, with many members emphasizing the importance of balancing economic growth, security concerns, and the rights of individuals.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part III) Aug 22nd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • President and members, excuse me, Senator Menendez. Senator West, did you wish to go next?
  • : Senator Zaffirini.
  • I'm a senator, and I enjoy being a senator.
  • Senator Miles, and Senator West, and Senator Menendez, Senator
  • Senate.
Bills: SB2, SB5, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB4
Summary: In the recent committee meeting, the primary focus was on HB4, the congressional redistricting bill. Intense debates ensued regarding the implications of this proposed map on minority voting representation. Senator Zaffirini and other members expressed strong opposition, citing that the redistricting efforts were not only untimely but also undermined the gains made by minority communities in past elections. Significant testimony was provided from the public, showing overwhelming disapproval of the proposed changes, with 98% of the testimonies against the bill. Members highlighted the historical context of disenfranchisement and warned that this redistricting would further dilute the voices of crucial voting blocs in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Aug 26th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate will come to order.

  • Dean of the Senate moves to excuse Senator Eckhardt on matters
  • Dean of the Senate moves to excuse Senators Miles and

  • Motion by Senator Hughes.
  • The Senate stands in recess until 5.

Bills: SB2, SB3, SB10, SB16, SB5, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, SB19, SB54, HB23, HB17, HB16
Summary: The meeting of the Senate involved significant discussions revolving around various bills, including HB17, HB23, SB19, SB53, SB54, HB16, HB1, HB3, and HB27. Notably, Senator Hughes initiated motions to suspend the rules, allowing the Senate Committee on State Affairs to take up Senate Bill 19, alongside other bills. The atmosphere was collaborative as members worked together to move the legislative process forward, reflecting a commitment to addressing pressing community needs. The invocation led by Senator King highlighted the challenges faced by legislators away from home, emphasizing the importance of peace and focus during their deliberations. The meeting concluded with motions adopted unanimously, showcasing unity among members.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine certain pending nominations. Apr 30th, 2025 at 09:15 am

Senate Judiciary Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Before I call Senator Graham, Senator Moody's going

  • Senator Graham, go ahead.
  • Thank you, Senator. Senator Blumenthal.

  • Thank you, Senator.

    Senator Hawley.

  • Senator?
Summary: The committee meeting centered on the urgent crisis of fentanyl abuse and the government’s response to the drug trafficking epidemic. Key discussions revolved around the nomination of Terrence Cole as the Administrator of the DEA and Judea Serrata as Director of the U.S. Marshals Service. Cole emphasized his commitment to combating the fentanyl crisis, highlighting the rising number of overdose deaths and the necessity of bipartisan efforts to dismantle drug cartels. Members engaged in dialogue on the effectiveness of various strategies and the importance of education aimed at preventing drug-related deaths among youth. Additionally, the challenges of social media in drug trafficking were highlighted, indicating a need for greater accountability in how platforms handle such issues. Senators voiced concerns about the impact of administration policies on judicial security and the resources available for marshals to perform their critical roles.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

State Affairs Sep 3rd, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Hinojosa, Senator Zaffirini, you are recognized

  • Senator Hinojosa.
  • Thank you, Senator Hall.
  • Senator Hinojosa, thanks for mentioning Senate Bill 19.
  • Thank you, Senator Middleton.
Bills: HB18
Summary: The committee meeting focused on House Bill 18, which aims to establish penalties for lawmakers who intentionally break quorum to obstruct legislative processes. Senator Hinojosa presented the bill, explaining that it prohibits absent legislators from fundraising and incurs civil penalties for violations. Public testimony was taken, with supporters emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency among legislators. Discussions among committee members highlighted the bill's implications and raised questions about its efficacy in preventing planned quorum breaks.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs Jul 22nd, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Senator. Appreciate it. Thank you, Chairman. Thank you, Senator.
  • Senate Bill 5.
  • Absolutely, Senator.
  • Good afternoon, Senators, my Senator, Dr. Schwertner.
  • I’m sorry, Senator.
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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part I) Aug 22nd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • , Senators Perry and Floyd.
  • Thank you, Senator King.
  • Thank you, Senator King, for answering my question. Thank you, Senator.
  • Do you yield, Senator King? Of course. Recognize Senator Miles. Thank you.
  • Senate District 18, Senate District 9 was cracked.
Bills: SB2, SB5, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB4
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on the discussion of HB4, which pertains to redistricting. Chairman King emphasized the legal compliance of the proposed map and elaborated on its political advantages, stating that the map improves compactness while benefiting Republican candidates. The meeting saw extensive public testimony, with numerous participants voicing concerns about the map's legality and its implications on minority representation. Representative Smith highlighted that the overwhelming majority of public submissions expressed opposition to the redistricting bill, arguing that it disregards the constituents' voices. Debate ensued regarding the necessity and legality of the changes made, particularly concerning minority districts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part I) Jan 28th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • Which page, Senator?
  • **Senator Kohlhorst**: I did, Senator Flores.

  • I believe **Senator Zaffirini**, then **Senator Bettencourt**. Thank you, Madam Chair.
  • Thank you, Senator Bettencourt.
  • Thank you, Senator Creighton.
Summary: The meeting of the committee primarily focused on the Office of the Attorney General, where General Ken Paxton and his staff presented budget recommendations, highlighting a proposed decrease of $163.9 million from the 2024-25 biennium budget. Discussions included essential service funding such as the Crime Victims Compensation Program, which is facing challenges due to revenue shortfalls and increased demand. The committee raised concerns regarding the method of finance swaps that impacted the overall budget, leading to a $38 million cut that the Attorney General’s office deemed an error. Representatives from the LBB were also questioned about the implications of these funding changes.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate will serve him well as a commissioner.
  • Okay, then I recognize Senator Wicker for a motion.
  • Hickenlooper, Congressman Valadão, along with Senator Cruz and Senator...
  • In the Senate, I am very glad to have Senators Rosen, Cornyn, and Lujan on board.
  • Are there any other senators wishing to be recognized?
Summary: The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held an important meeting where they discussed various bills aimed at addressing pressing issues like consumer protection, technology, and environmental management. Chairman Cruz opened the meeting by emphasizing the role of subpoenas in ensuring accountability and oversight, highlighting a recent compliance from several parties following such threats. The meeting progressed to consider several bills, including the Romance Scam Prevention Act championed by Senator Blackburn, which seeks to protect vulnerable populations from online dating scams that have resulted in enormous financial losses, particularly among seniors. The committee also nominated Michael Kratios for the Office of Science and Technology Policy and Mark Medder for the Federal Trade Commission, underscoring the significance of leadership in fostering innovation and consumer protection in technology sectors.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Jun 1st, 2025 at 01:06 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 293, as presented in Senate Resolution 6-2.
  • of Senate Bill 1660.
  • The Senate, our Senate author, Charles, Senator Perry, and our Senate conferees, Senator Betancourt,
  • Senator Hancock, Senator Hinojosa, and Senator Huffman.
  • It's just the other senators, Senator Perry, Senator Bettencourt, Senator Huffman, and the others over
Bills: HCR158, HCR159, HCR160, HCR161, HCR162, HCR163, HCR164, HR174, HR427, HR790, HR810, HR857, HR866, HR882, HR883, HR962, HR966, HR1001, HR1045, HR1085, HR1097, HR1127, HR1138, HR1141, HR1150, HR1152, HR1292, HR1296, HR1304, HR1305, HR1306, HR1308, HR1309, HR1310, HR1311, HR1312, HR1313, HR1315, HR1317, HR1318, HR1320, HR1321, HR1322, HR1323, HR1324, HR1325, HR1327, HR1328, HR1329, HR1330, HR1331, HR1332, HR1333, HR1334, HR1335, HR1338, HR1340, HR1341, HR1342, HR1343, HR1344, HR1345, HR1346, HR1347, HR1348, HR1349, HR1352, HR1353, HR1354, HR1355, HR1358, HR1359, HR1360, HR1361, HR1362, HR1363, HR1364, HR1365, HR1366, HR1368, HR1369, HR1370, HR1380, HR1383, HR1384, HR1385, HR1386, HR1387, HR1388, HR1389, HR1390, HR1392, HR1393, HR1396, HR1397, HR1398, HR1399, HR1400, HR1402, HR1403, HR1404, HR1405, HR1406, HR1407, HR1408, HR1409, HR1410, HR1411, HR1412, HR1413, HR1414, HR1415, HR1417, HR1418, HR1419, HR1420, HR1421, HR1422, HR1424, HR1425, HR1426, HR1427, HR1428, HR1429, HR1430, HR1431, HR1432, HR1433, HR1434, HR1435, HR1436, HR1437, HR1438, HR1440, HR1441, HR1442, HR1443, HR1444, HR1445, HR1447, HR1448, HR1449, HR1450, HR1452, HR1453, HR1454, HR1455, HR1456, HR1458, HR1459, HR1460, HR1461, HR1462, HR1463, HR1464, HR1465, HR1466, HR1467, HR1469, HR1470, HR1471, HR1472, HR1473, HR1475, HR1477, HCR132, HCR154, HR17, HR49, HR170, HR275, HR355, HR356, HR364, HR369, HR672, HR690, HR755, HR756, HR759, HR762, HR763, HR781, HR785, HR848, HR1240, HR1265, HR1303, HR1307, HR1314, HR1316, HR1319, HR1326, HR1336, HR1337, HR1350, HR1351, HR1367, HR1371, HR1372, HR1373, HR1374, HR1375, HR1376, HR1377, HR1378, HR1379, HR1382, HR1391, HR1395, HR1451, HR1457, HR1468, HR1474, HR1476, SB1637, SB2878, HB2885, HB2017, HB5246, SB8, SB2308, SB1405, HB119, SB3059, SB15, SB568, SB2900, HB3642, HB3909, SB268, HB493, SB2217, HB2516, SB650, HB2963, SB1610, HB705, SB2972, SB1540, HB40, SB2753, SB1660, SB2024, HB1545, HB46
Summary: The meeting convened to address a variety of bills, with substantial attention devoted to the conference committee reports on multiple pieces of legislation. Notably, the discussion included SB268, where a fix was made to restore language regarding serious bodily injury referrals to law enforcement. Members expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts during the conference committee stages of the bills, with several members highlighting the enhancement of the legislative process through a united front. Additionally, notable discussions surrounded HB5246 and SB2308, which focused on drug trials and the necessity of establishing clear protocols moving forward. The meeting concluded with significant voting outcomes, showcasing the supportive stance of the majority on various measures discussed.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Mar 20th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Senator Kolkhorst.
  • and Senate Bill 1489.
  • on and Senate Bill 37.
  • Bill 724 will close, and Senate Bill 724 will be left pending.
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 1741 by Senator Parker

Summary: The committee meeting was marked by significant discussions surrounding various legislative proposals, particularly Senate Bill 1741, which aims to tackle espionage and intellectual property theft within Texas public institutions of higher education. Senator Parker took the floor to present the bill, highlighting its importance in safeguarding the state’s educational institutions from foreign threats. The conversation around this bill was substantive, with public testimonies being invited to gather a range of opinions on the proposed regulations. Another critical aspect discussed was Senate Bill 724, which addresses the attendance of governing board members in person during meetings, a vital issue raised post-COVID due to a lack of quorum in past gatherings. The committee's chair, Senator Kolkhorst, emphasized the necessity for physical presence to maintain the integrity of board meetings and deliberations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • As Senator Kolkhorst noted, things...
  • I would be remiss if I didn't thank Senators Kolkhorst and Bettencourt, as authors of Senate Bill 2361
  • Now, Senator Kolkhorst is a juggernaut.
  • Senator Bettencourt, Senator Middleton, and Senator King, we will now go on to Senate Bill 530 and recognize
  • Senator Sparks to explain the bill.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Education convened to discuss several important bills, prominently featuring Senate Bill 2361, which proposes the transition of the University of Houston-Victoria into the Texas A&M University System. Testimonies from community leaders such as Mayor Dwayne Crocker highlighted the significant positive implications this shift could have for local education and economic development. The consensus was that the integration would not only elevate educational opportunities but also enhance the region's workforce alignment with industry needs, particularly in fields like engineering and agriculture. Additionally, SB 530 was introduced, focusing on removing restrictions on which accrediting bodies universities can engage for accreditation, a move that aims to modernize Texas educational regulations to align with recent federal changes.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine certain pending nominations. May 1st, 2025 at 08:30 am

Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel

Transcript Highlights:
  • Yes, Senator.
  • Senator, I think I heard all of the question.
  • Thank you, Senator.
  • Senator Ernst. Thank you very much, Mr.
  • Thank you, Senator Scott.
Summary: The meeting was primarily focused on discussing nominations for key positions within the Department of Defense, specifically for roles such as the Undersecretary of the Air Force and the Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security. Senators expressed urgent concerns about global security threats, the need for robust military readiness, and the emphasis on effective collaboration with NATO allies amidst rising tensions with adversaries such as Russia and China. Several senators highlighted the challenges facing military infrastructure and defense capabilities, suggesting a critical need for improvements and investment in these areas to ensure national security.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health May 12th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This is a bill, as you see, by Senator Perry that passed unanimously in the Senate.
  • Senate Bill 268 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 331 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 1467 is Senator Hinojosa's bill.

  • I support Senate Bill 2024.
Summary: The meeting featured vigorous discussions around several significant bills, including SB2024 concerning youth vaping and its potential consequences. Witnesses presented compelling testimonies highlighting the dangers of e-cigarette use among teenagers, emphasizing how marketing tactics cleverly target this demographic. The bill faced no opposition during discussions but was left pending for further review and amendments. Additionally, HB5537 aimed to empower psychologists to prescribe medication, spurred different viewpoints from committee members about mental health measures and prescription regulations. Amidst these discussions, there was a focus on ensuring access to care while maintaining safety and quality standards.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources (Part I) May 7th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Zaffirini, Senator Alvarado, Senator Blanco, Senator

  • Flores, Senator Hancock, Senator Hughes, Senator Parker, Senator Sparks.
  • Madam Clerk, please note that Senator Parker and Senator Alvarado have joined us.
  • I'm going to move to Senator Parsons. Senator Middleton is not yet here with us.
  • Senator Parker?
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources focused on several key bills, including HB206, HB1238, and HB2890. Senator Birdwell introduced HB206, which prohibits counties from mandating cash bonds for pipeline construction, a move aimed at facilitating energy infrastructure development. The bill was supported by witnesses from the industry who voiced their experiences regarding the financial burdens of cash bond requirements. Following this discussion, public testimony was heard but ultimately concluded without any opponents present, leading to the bill being left pending further consideration. Senator Parker then laid out HB2890, which seeks to establish an interstate compact to protect and enhance liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports along the Gulf Coast. The bill aims to improve interstate communication and collaboration while addressing economic impacts due to recent regulatory challenges faced by the LNG industry. Public testimony for this bill was also minimal, with no witnesses registered to testify, but it was noted as an important step for Texas's energy future. The meeting concluded with discussions about pending votes on the bills, indicating a need to reconvene at a later time to finalize actions on these proposals.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Is that right, Senator Bozeman? Yes.
  • Thank you, Senator Ricketts.

    Senator Booker.

  • Thank you, Senator. Senator Curtis. Thank you, Mr.
  • Thank you very much, Senator Keene. Next up is Senator Hagerty.
  • Senator, that's us.
Summary: The committee meeting was focused on various key issues, including the implications of recent violence in the Middle East and U.S. foreign policy in relation to Israel and Panama. Members discussed the need for diplomatic efforts between the U.S. and Israeli officials following the recent attack by Hamas. Governor Huckabee emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong U.S.-Israel relationship and reiterated the need for accountability for terrorist organizations involved in violent acts against civilians. Senators shared their concerns regarding the ramifications of U.S. actions in Panama and the presence of Chinese influence, highlighting the significance of the Panama Canal in terms of trade and security.

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