Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'policy reform'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Well, it separates charter schools from that policy.
  • And I believe that in other bills, there are those suggested policies, and we still have more of the
  • I believe that you have a lot of good reforms in the bill
  • We have success with students from a policy standpoint.
  • And the policy reason behind that is?
Bills: HB2
Summary: The Senate Education Committee's meeting focused heavily on HB2, which proposes an historic investment of $8 billion into Texas public education. Senator Creighton led the discussion, explaining the components of the committee substitute and emphasizing the importance of increasing funding beyond past measures, highlighting that this package exceeds any previous investment in public education. The committee heard testimonies from public witnesses who expressed strong support for the bill, including educators discussing the positive impacts of the Teacher Incentive Allotment. The meeting adjourned after a vibrant discussion about the various provisions included in HB2, such as adjustments in funding allocations for both traditional and charter schools, and the ongoing issues related to educational equity across districts in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Governing Board Authority, Faculty Senate Reform, and the
  • Follow state law first in the substitute expands on reforms
  • I'm the Director of Public Policy and Advocacy for the Arc of Texas, and we are here in support of the
  • They can waive Rice's policy and continue to use their own plan as long as...
  • It's not just bad policy; it's a betrayal, and it puts our standards, our students, and our economy at
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Education covered various significant bills focused primarily on improving educational accessibility and accountability in Texas. Notably, Senate Bill 2252, aimed at supporting kindergarten readiness and early literacy, received a commendable endorsement from the committee, showcasing a unifying approach towards enhancing foundational education. Additionally, Senate Bill 1962, concerning public school accountability, stirred proactive discussions about the challenges faced by school systems, further bringing forth various stakeholder insights during public testimony. The atmosphere remained engaged as committee members debated the efficacy and implications of each proposal, reflecting a strong commitment to enhancing educational standards across the state. As the meeting progressed, various senators championed their respective bills, emphasizing the importance of flexibility in standardized college entrance exams as highlighted in Senate Bill 1241. The bill proposes to expand acceptable exams beyond the traditional SAT and ACT, reflecting a modernized approach to student assessments. Senators and representatives from key educational organizations contributed testimony, solidifying support for such measures while advocating for the continuous dialogue on educational reforms. With multiple bills reported favorably to the full Senate, the session exemplified a dedicated effort towards fostering educational advancements in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Local Government Aug 1st, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In 2019, the legislature passed Senate Bill 2, which reformed
  • But this is a A big part of these reforms is taking this
  • I represent the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • When you look at tax policy today, what you see are three
  • Dallas has invested heavily in public safety, policy, and staffing.
Bills: SB9
Summary: The Senate Committee on Local Government met to discuss the implications of Senate Bill 9, which focuses on property tax appraisal reforms. The bill's primary goal is to lower the voter-approved tax rate from 3.5% to 2.5%. During the meeting, various stakeholders provided testimony, highlighting concerns about the potential impact of the cap on local governments, especially in rapidly growing areas. Senators engaged in extensive discussions about the balancing act between tax relief and the need for robust public services, emphasizing the need for local flexibility to meet constituents' needs. The bill faced opposition from local officials who argued that the cap could hinder essential services like police and fire departments, as well as infrastructure maintenance.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Mar 11th, 2025 at 02:30 pm

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • /span>

    We show you registered to Stephen Alamon, Senior Policy

  • And that's good policy.
  • We've canceled other promising education reforms for far less negative results.
  • That's not that uncommon a pattern across public policy.
  • The question is, when we have any reform idea, whether it's vouchers or any other reform idea, does it
Bills: HB3
Summary: The meeting centered around critical discussions regarding HB3, particularly focusing on public school funding and educational mandates. There were passionate exchanges among committee members as they debated the implications of the bill on equity in education and funding transparency. Expert testimonies were heard, including an education policy expert who underscored previous findings that highlighted the potential negative impacts of voucher systems on students, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. The discussion raised vital questions regarding how similar programs in other states had fared, emphasizing lessons learned from their experiences.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Aug 21st, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • In the aftermath, we formed select committees to ascertain the facts of the disaster and identify policy
  • Reform efforts for years since I've sat next to you

  • To make certain that there was policy to address it, Valde
  • Common-sense policy for each and every camp.
  • They may have a flooding event, but it was already policy for Longhorn and any of these...
Bills: SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, SB1, HB4
Summary: The meeting focused on the discussion and passage of SB1, known as the Heaven's 27 Camp Safety Act, which aims to implement critical safety measures for youth camps following a tragic flood incident that resulted in numerous fatalities. Senator Perry led a profound dialogue stressing the importance of ensuring that all campers and camping facilities are adequately prepared for emergencies, emphasizing the need for comprehensive evacuation plans and safety standards. Members expressed heartfelt sentiments toward the families affected by the tragedy, and many voiced their commitment to preventing such an event from occurring again in the future. The overall tone was somber yet dedicated, with a strong emphasis on moving forward in honor of those lost.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Public Education Aug 21st, 2025 at 10:08 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • On key education policy issues.
  • Given the large number of students affected, this policy merits further review.
  • LaVonda Loney, and I represent the Texas Educational Policy Institute.
  • I'll show you registered as Katrina Frazier, policy director on behalf of the...
  • I'm the Director of Education and Workforce Policy at Texas 2036.
Bills: HB8
Summary: The committee meeting focused on HB8, which proposes significant changes to the assessment and accountability system in Texas education. Key discussions involved the transition from the previous STAR testing framework to a new instructionally supportive assessment program that aims to provide timely feedback to enhance instructional strategies. Proponents of the bill argue that it encourages a growth-oriented approach, while opponents express concerns about the potential increase in high-stakes testing and the makeup of the advisory committee, which has limited educator and parental representation. Numerous witnesses spoke, highlighting both support and apprehension regarding the bill's implications for students, educators, and accountability standards.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Delivery of Government Efficiency Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Rahul Srinivasan, Director of Government Reform and Fiscal Policy with Texas 2036.
  • I'm the Director of Technology Policy at Cicero Action, a think tank based in Austin, Texas.
  • We show that you registered as David Dunmoyer on behalf of Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • So, cancellation and moving to procurement reform.
  • The policy lies within that.
Summary: The meeting of the committee involved detailed discussions surrounding several key pieces of legislation, most notably focused on the implications of artificial intelligence through HB149. This bill was presented by Chairman Capriglione as a comprehensive framework aimed at addressing potential harms associated with AI usage in Texas, emphasizing consumer protection and accountability. Witnesses from various organizations provided input, highlighting the bill's aim to create clarity around acceptable AI practices while simultaneously fostering innovation. Some members raised concerns over specific provisions related to political viewpoint discrimination and local preemption, indicating a need for adjustments to ensure comprehensive protections without infringing on existing rights.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Of course, the Senate did pass those measures on my bill last week related to reforms in Chapters 380
  • or good economic policy.
  • Brent Bennett, Texas Public Policy Foundation, testifying in favor of Senate Bill 1754.
  • This strikes me as not a very good policy.
  • Foreign policy and partnerships.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on various bills aimed at workforce development and economic growth, particularly in rural areas. Key discussions revolved around Senate Bill 2448, which aims to support rural small businesses and enhance technical assistance in workforce development. Testimonies from several stakeholders underscored the necessity of aligning education with local workforce needs, showcasing the lack of resources in rural regions. The testimony highlighted how the proposed bills could bridge the gap between education and employment opportunities for Texans, especially focusing on youth who are disconnected from education and the workforce.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs May 6th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • While well-intended, this policy has unintended consequences
  • this committee so desires, ensuring transparency and accountability as we work to improve housing policies
  • In this case, the original intent of the policy is lost.
  • as mentioned by Representative Cunningham, HB3753 does not entirely remove education from housing policy
  • These reforms… Allowed municipal, county, and state elected
Summary: The meeting of the committee featured several active discussions regarding various bills, with notable emphasis on matters of affordable housing and local governance. House Bill 3753 was a focal point, aimed at addressing the allocation of low-income housing credits, which raised concerns among members over its implications for local communities. Representative Cunningham provided compelling arguments for the bill, emphasizing its potential benefits for teachers and residents struggling with housing issues, triggering a dialogue on transparency and accountability in housing decisions. Additionally, the committee reviewed House Bill 293, which proposed uniformity in transparency requirements across different housing tax credit programs, underscoring the complexity of legislative processes in housing development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Apr 24th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • /span>

    Last session, the Texas Legislature passed historic reforms

  • As part of these reforms, the legislature authorized community

  • actually meeting this morning, having one of their quarterly board meetings, and transfer is the major policy
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.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine reforming SBIR-STTR for the 21st century. Mar 5th, 2025 at 01:30 pm

Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • marker="115" data-time="1368">Okay, the Innovate Act is a bill to reauthorize and comprehensively reform
  • These reforms will enable more flexible use of SBIR

  • Reforms in the 2022 reauthorization, but we have found that
  • are, and what reforms should Congress consider?
  • So, I think the question is that they want to align the PPBE reform commission with...
Summary: The meeting focused on the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Programs (SBIR-STTR), emphasizing the critical reforms necessary to enhance their effectiveness. Chair Ernst introduced the Innovate Act to streamline processes, ensuring funding is awarded based on merit and addressing existing abuses within the system. The discussion was robust, with numerous members expressing concerns about phase transitions and the need for targeted funding to support impactful technological innovations. The conversation also highlighted the program's importance in fostering economic growth, particularly for small businesses in rural areas, and the urgency for legislative changes as the program's authorization approaches expiration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism Apr 8th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • He has always focused on protecting vulnerable Texans, spearheading reforms that preserve dignity and
  • On that statewide level, he has been a leader in guardianship and mental health reform and he's been
  • Welcome, we have you registered, Sally Bacow, Director of Policy and Governmental Relations with the
  • I'm the Director of Policy and Governmental Relations for
  • I'm the Director of Policy and Governmental Relations for the City of Galveston.
Summary: The meeting of the committee facilitated in-depth discussions on several key bills, including HB3887, HB3129, and HCR resolutions such as HCR34 and HCR116. Notably, HB3887 related to contractor requirements within the Parks and Wildlife Department, which was reported favorably to the full House without amendments. There was strong consensus among committee members with unanimous votes, indicating well-supported proposals. Other resolutions touched on designating Newton County as the forest capital of Texas and recognizing the Texas Almanac as the official state book, reflecting an agenda focused on cultural and environmental legacies.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance May 20th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Schwertner, and I appreciate the opportunity to give it a full hearing and thoroughly consider the policy
  • The policy question before us, I think, is whether requiring

  • is going to change their rates for their policies.
  • The PML issue you've touched upon, that's a policy

  • high due to all the lawsuits after Ike, which the bill that Larry Taylor put into effect for tort reform
Bills: SB1642, SB1643, SB2530
Summary: The committee meeting held extensive discussions on multiple pieces of legislation focused primarily on insurance and healthcare. A significant portion of the meeting revolved around SB1643, which proposes changes to how property and casualty insurance rates are regulated in Texas by requiring prior approval from the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) for any rate changes exceeding 10%. Members expressed mixed feelings about this proposal, with concerns that it might lead to increased costs for consumers while discussing the balance between consumer protection and maintaining a competitive insurance market. Witnesses offered testimony both in favor and against the bill, highlighting the importance of thoughtful regulatory frameworks amidst rising insurance costs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That's certainly policy directives that we, the legislature
  • Well, we've already addressed those by adopting the policies that Sunset has recommended that we adopt
  • A lot of them had to do with reforming our audit practices and had some statutory recommendations on
  • I think the question is, and this is a policy decision...
  • Over the interim, we've spent a good deal of time assessing policies related to resiliency.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on the activities and initiatives of the Public Utility Commission (PUC) since the last legislative session. Key discussions included the implementation of Senate Bill 1929 regarding large crypto miners in Texas, which has led to 12 companies registering with the PUC and a projected demand of around 4,000 megawatts. Additionally, the committee addressed system resiliency plans authorized by HB2555, which allows electric utilities to file these plans to better handle extreme weather events and security threats. The meeting showcased the ongoing efforts to ensure infrastructure can meet growing demands, particularly in the rapidly expanding Permian Basin, and highlighted the need for minimum standards for utility infrastructure design, construction, and maintenance to improve resiliency against adverse conditions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session (Part I) Aug 6th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Voted to pass Senate Bill 2, which reformed the property
  • From pre-2019 reforms, school taxes were going up by an incredible 18 percent per year; it's now down
  • What this does is create enforcement on the governmental entities that need to set these policies to
  • The board had to come up with all of their policies.
  • A standard statewide policy.
Bills: SB15, SB9, SB7
Summary: During this committee meeting, significant attention was directed towards property tax relief and reform, notably through discussions led by Senator Bettencourt regarding the upcoming options for homestead exemptions that would be voted on in November. The committee also reviewed a series of bills, including Senate Bill 9, which was presented as a committee substitute. There was a strong emphasis on how the legislation aims to streamline tax guidelines for local government expenditures while balancing taxpayer relief against budgetary constraints. The meeting was characterized by a collaborative atmosphere where committee members shared insights and feedback on the various bills under consideration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships May 5th, 2025 at 02:05 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • I just want good policy, but I'm not so sure that the judges' qualifications are in question here.
  • Again, my name is Carrie Giudice, and I am the Director of Policy and Advocacy at TexProtects, where
  • "298" data-time="1782"> It says here you're testifying for the bill on behalf of the Texas Public Policy
  • My name is Nora Torres, and I'm a policy scholar at the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • we should work on legislation that reforms child custody,
Summary: The meeting of the Subcommittee on Family and Fiduciary Relationships focused on a range of bills concerning child support, child welfare, and probate law. Notable discussions included HB1980, which aims to require fathers to provide financial support from the moment of conception. This bill was presented by Representative Hicklin, who highlighted the economic challenges faced by single mothers and the importance of ensuring paternal responsibility. Public testimonies were received both in favor and against this bill, including criticisms about the fairness of imposing retroactive child support. The committee members expressed varied opinions, leading to a nuanced debate about the implications of the bill on family dynamics and economic responsibilities . Other bills discussed included SB1923, which allows child support payments to follow the child to non-parent caregivers, thus aiming to better serve children in kinship care situations. This bill was supported by advocates highlighting the financial strain on kinship caregivers without custody. Additionally, HB5642 addressed clouded titles in real estate and the importance of providing clear information to homebuyers regarding estate planning. Overall, the meeting was productive and well-attended, with substantial participation from committee members and the public.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the Director of Public Policy for Texas CASA, here in support of Senate Bill 513.
  • And we advocate for pro-business, free-market policies that
  • If these policies are too burdensome for the state's own interests, we need to do something about it.
  • Association of Manufacturers and 72 of the Fortune 100 companies have come out nationally for PBM reform
  • Some even buying TV ads trying to promote its passage because PBM reform is a big issue nationally.
Summary: The meeting of the committee witnessed significant discussions surrounding several Senate Bills aimed at healthcare and child welfare. Notably, Senate Bill 916, presented by multiple representatives, garnered positive testimonials from various stakeholders including emergency medical service leaders who emphasized the bill's potential to promote transparent billing practices, thereby reducing the financial burden on patients. The committee also heard extensive testimony supporting Senate Bill 1122, which aims to regulate pharmacy benefit managers to ensure that cancer patients are not forced into medication access issues. Stakeholders argued for and against the bill, suggesting that it may raise healthcare costs for Texas businesses in the long run, eliciting a vigorous debate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Apr 7th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • We are dedicated to ending forced and child marriage through direct services and policy change.
  • The Chair at this time calls Anna Decker, who's with the Houston Post, Policy and Advocate Manager, to
  • span>

    My name is Katarina Deschert, and I am the Houston Policy

  • marriage, and we have the opportunity today to protect those teens who were left unprotected by the 2017 reform
  • There are still child marriages happening in Texas since the 2017 reform.
Summary: The committee meeting covered various legislative issues and allowed members to discuss key topics affecting their constituents. Noteworthy discussions included the implications of recent legislative changes, and several members vocalized their positions on proposed bills. The atmosphere was collaborative, with members sharing insights and engaging in debates about the best course of action for the upcoming legislative session. Various stakeholders, including experts and citizens, were invited to testify, contributing to the richness of the dialogue. Overall, the meeting represented a comprehensive effort to address pressing matters within the legislative framework, reflecting a commitment to transparency and public involvement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am the food policy analyst for Every Texan.
  • We are a nonpartisan grassroots advocacy group focused on advancing policies.
  • I am the Policy Director for Everybody Texas.
  • I'm the VP of Public Policy for the Texas Assisted Living Association.
  • Reforms were done, and so now the process has worked historically.
Summary: The committee meeting covered a wide range of legislative proposals, with significant focus on addressing child welfare, language access, and transparency in funding for children's advocacy centers. Representative Richardson presented HB5136, aimed at strengthening governance and accountability in child advocacy centers, reflecting concerns over transparency due to recent scandals. The bill was discussed extensively as members expressed the need for better oversight in organizations receiving public funding. Additionally, HB4838 was championed for enhancing language access in emergency services, with witnesses emphasizing its critical importance for non-English speakers during crises. Overall, strong engagement from both representatives and the public was evident, with passionate testimonies highlighting the necessity of these legislative measures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Juvenile Justice Apr 3rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Juvenile Justice

Transcript Highlights:
  • My name is Kate Stoops, and I'm the public policy and

  • When we passed this reform back in 2015, it was done across a span of many sessions.
  • 2124"> ...and Justice Project, I often see how this regime of criminalizing truancy, even after the reforms
  • 2013 under this regime, but we saw basically, after the reforms
Bills: HB2947, HB3276, HB3513
Summary: The Subcommittee on Juvenile Justice convened a meeting where they voted on several bills, notably HB1988, which allows the Texas Juvenile Justice Department to disclose personally identifiable information about former juvenile offenders with their consent. The motion to advance HB1988 passed with a four to one vote. The committee also discussed HB3276, aimed at holding individuals working with juveniles accountable for misconduct, which received considerable support from the committee members. The discourse highlighted the importance of protective measures for the juvenile justice system, ensuring that any individuals found unfit to serve would be effectively barred from such roles.

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