Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'tax refund'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 5th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It was thought at the time that a sales tax was going to be too regressive.
  • ...and that a voluntary non-regressive tax would make more
  • So it's a very tremendously ineffective tax.
  • So it comes to the effectiveness of a tax rate. So the problem they've got...
  • thought was going to be regressive, that this enterprise really would make sales tax blush as far as
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 Regular

Economic Development May 19th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • marker="193" data-time="1152"> ...impact to the community and state on the occasion of a given event in tax
  • receipts, which includes the Sales Tax, Hotel Occupancy Tax, Mixed Beverage Tax, and Motor Vehicle Tax
  • Number one was reducing the inventory tax on small businesses, for which I want to commend the Senate
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Economic Development Committee focused on several key bills aimed at enhancing economic development and addressing infrastructure needs in Texas. Notably, House Bill 5195 was discussed to modernize state agency websites, making them accessible and user-friendly for small businesses. Senator Alvarado emphasized the importance of this legislation in providing a better online experience for Texas residents and businesses alike, noting that outdated websites pose significant barriers. The bill received strong support from both committee members and public witnesses, highlighting its potential to spur economic growth. Furthermore, House Bills 2760 and 2765 were also favorably reported, aimed at refining the unemployment benefit appeal process and expanding resources for rural economic development, respectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Mar 3rd, 2025 at 11:03 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • They produce oil and gas, they pay severance taxes, and severance taxes go into the treasury.
  • They pay sales taxes, they pay ad valorem taxes, and they pay to plug wells.
  • To put that in context, $27 billion in taxes and royalties was paid last year.
  • ...And of course, state severance taxes.
  • This results in lost taxes and other beneficial economic activity that comes with it.
Summary: The House Committee on Energy Resources held its inaugural meeting where members emphasized their commitment to addressing critical issues facing the energy sector in Texas. Chairman Darby initiated discussions focused on legislative priorities, notably the management of inactive and orphaned wells, which have become a significant economic and environmental concern. The committee also discussed the balance between regulatory oversight and industry growth, emphasizing collaborative efforts among members and stakeholders to create effective policy. Testimonies highlighted the importance of tackling concerns related to produced water and ensuring sustainable practices in Texas's vast energy landscape, including innovations in hydrogen production and recycling.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 22nd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • At the 24-25 school year, Port Aransas ISD assessed $39 million in local M&A, no property taxes, and
  • of the basic allotment per student in insurance premiums, while also affording $30 million in local tax
  • marker="118" data-time="702"> As a recapture district, we send a large portion of our locally raised tax
  • exemptions such as the gross receipts tax exemptions for utilities.
  • ...from tax exemptions, as I mentioned, such as the gross
Summary: The committee meeting included discussions centered around educational bills, notably focusing on enhancing inclusivity and accountability within Texas public schools. One significant bill was House Bill 2354, aimed at aligning laws governing charter schools with those of traditional public schools, which received favorable testimonies emphasizing its importance for equal treatment of educational institutions. Representative Morales' House Bill 178 provided a platform for advocates to discuss the need for ethnic studies courses to be counted towards social studies credits, which was met with broad support, showcasing a commitment to diverse educational content. Additionally, House Bill 5201 stirred debate regarding construction oversight for school projects, highlighting the ongoing concerns over management failures in large-scale school construction and its implications for taxpayer funds.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs May 7th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • > In the 86th legislative session, we passed and signed into law the prohibition of local and state tax
  • Abortion tax dollars should not facilitate travel to another
  • I urge you to support Senate Bill 33 to prevent this abysmal use of tax dollars.
  • But cities haven't stopped trying to use tax dollars to fund abortion.
  • But to get to the bottom of things, I'm tired of my tax dollars going to persons who flout...
Bills: SB6, SB11, SB33
Summary: The committee meeting was centered around the discussion of two key bills: SB33 and SB11. SB33 received significant attention as it aimed to close loopholes related to local government funding for abortion travel, which several representatives argued was an overreach of governmental power. Testimonies from supporters highlighted the need for this bill to clarify taxpayer protections, while opponents raised concerns about infringing on local autonomy and access to healthcare. The discussion featured passionate inputs from various stakeholders, emphasizing the societal implications of legislations regarding reproductive rights and healthcare services. At the conclusion of deliberations, both bills were left pending, indicating that further consideration is required before moving forward.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 19th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • dollars per year from state sales tax revenue and depositing
  • We neither levy taxes nor receive state appropriations.
  • And keep in mind, my only goal here is that if increasing costs are 10 to 20 percent, and if you tax
  • Um, do y'all, as a PUA, have tax...
  • Only two of those actually have taxing authority.
Summary: The committee meeting addressed critical water infrastructure issues, focusing primarily on H.J.R. 7 and HB 1400. Members emphasized the urgent need for dedicated funding to tackle Texas's impending water crisis, as population growth and drought significantly strain current water resources. Notable discussions included testimonies from representatives of the Environmental Defense Fund and the Texas Alliance of Groundwater Districts, who expressed strong support for these bills, underlining their importance in improving groundwater management and funding scientific approaches to water conservation. The committee highlighted the necessity of equipping groundwater conservation districts with resources to ensure robust groundwater science and research.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 8th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • > ...industrial corridors, hosting projects that generate jobs, tax
  • That then takes it off our tax rolls, and that land sits there for multiple years.
  • We do not have... we do not levy a tax against them.
  • So these are not tax payments, but they are payments to the port.
  • They're a contract that we've entered into with industry to avoid their requirement to pay taxes for
Summary: The meeting focused on various transportation-related bills, including discussions around essential infrastructure for flood control, electric bicycles, and safety measures for cyclists. Representative Martinez introduced HB3544, highlighting the flooding issues in the Rio Grande Valley and the need for proper stormwater management. The bill garnered attention as it addresses urgent concerns for local emergency services and community safety. Additionally, CSHB4089 outlined regulations for electric bicycles in state parks, promoting access and safety for all park-goers. There was a significant public turnout, with testimonies both in support and against various proposed bills, reflecting community engagement and interest in transportation safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session (Part II) Feb 5th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • lived in a district that didn't have a toll road and it was likely never to have one, and yet your tax
  • Many of them are fantastic schools, but make no mistake: we are moving public tax dollars into private
  • It really doesn't do a whole lot of anything except take public tax dollars and transfer them to private
  • Why are our tax dollars paying for vouchers? What do they even cover?
  • Apply that Texas tax money to a public school student that
Bills: SB2, SJR36, SB2, SB2, SR29, SB2
Summary: The meeting focused on various legislative issues, with committee members engaging in detailed discussions regarding proposed bills and their implications. Key points included debates on economic policies and public safety initiatives, with members expressing differing viewpoints on certain legislative measures. The atmosphere was collaborative, as various stakeholders provided input on the legislation under consideration. Public commentary was encouraged, contributing to a robust dialogue among committee members and attendees.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Mar 11th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We issue licenses, collect excise taxes, and ensure compliance with the Alcoholic Beverage Code, handling
  • are not going to end up being distributed into retail where someone could possibly cheat on their taxes
  • That includes excise taxes and license fees; $255 million of that is from excise taxes, and then $56
  • Excise taxes are collected there, and those auditors ensure that distributors and the wholesalers that
  • are paying excise taxes are doing so correctly.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on legislative discussions surrounding House Bills 11 and 3579, with a significant emphasis on regulatory measures concerning lottery ticket couriers and modernization of licensing systems for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Various committee members engaged in lively debates, particularly around the implications of using couriers within the lottery framework, as this raised concerns about regulatory gaps and the need for clearer oversight. Additionally, there was mention of the agency’s efforts to combat human trafficking through updated regulations and enforcement actions, indicating a priority agenda for the session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 4th, 2025 at 02:02 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • They include important issues such as property taxes,

  • data-time="888">Every day the House doesn't act on priority legislation, like finally ending property taxes
  • The chair recognizes Mayor Jason Harper, County Tax Assessor
  • we could take action on today if we wanted to, and they include important issues such as property taxes
  • If the House doesn't act, priority legislation, like finally ending property taxes, risks failing.
Summary: The committee meeting highlighted several key resolutions, including the recognition of various days to celebrate regions and groups within Texas. Notably, H.R. 127 was passed, recognizing February 4th, 2025, as Texas Energy Day, underscoring the significance of the oil and gas industry in Texas' economy. During discussions, Representative Harrison voiced strong opposition to SCR 11, expressing concerns over legislative inaction and advocating for tackling pressing issues like property taxes and educational reform. His remarks underscored frustrations with the current leadership’s handling of significant legislation, suggesting a pattern of strategic inaction to avoid accountability.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • In fact, the law prohibits us, in the tax bill that Senator Cantwell referenced, from looking at Social
  • In fact, the law prohibits us, in the tax bill that Senator Cantwell referenced, from looking at Social
  • and take out of Social Security and give tax breaks to billionaires
  • billions of dollars out of Social Security to give to a tax
  • In fact, the law prohibits us, in the tax bill that Senator Cantwell referenced, from looking at Social
Summary: The meeting of the Finance Committee primarily focused on the nomination of Frank Bisignano for Commissioner of the Social Security Administration. Members discussed the nominee's qualifications extensively, raising concerns about his past connections to Doge and the implications for Social Security. Several Senators expressed doubts about Bisignano's ability to improve the existing issues faced by the Social Security Administration, particularly related to staffing, customer service, and the potential for service cuts that could ultimately harm beneficiaries. The atmosphere was contentious, with divisive opinions visible among the committee members as they scrutinized Bisignano's past dealings and strategies.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on International Relations Apr 14th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House S/C on International Relations

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas depend on this, and termination of this trade agreement would result in what I call a tomato tax
  • This tax would only apply to Mexican tomatoes and not to any other tomatoes.
  • It would essentially function as a tax.
  • Property taxes for the same acreage in Arizona are $4,000, but because we have greenhouses, it's almost
Bills: HCR108, HCR127
Summary: The committee meeting focused on two significant resolutions: HCR108 and HCR127. HCR108 urges the U.S. Department of Commerce to maintain the tomato suspension agreement, which has been pivotal for Texas's economy and food security since its inception in 1996. Numerous stakeholders, including county commissioners and mayors, testified on the agreement's importance, claiming that its termination could jeopardize over 30,000 jobs and lead to a $4.5 billion loss in the Texas economy. The tomatoes imported under this agreement are crucial not only for fresh produce availability but also for maintaining a stable market for local farmers and businesses. The chair acknowledged the testimony and discussed the economic ramifications of potential changes to trade policies, insisting on the need for support to continue the current agreement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government Apr 29th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Estimated ad valorem taxes were included because that was
  • marker="127" data-time="756"> Deadlines for good cause are added, along with a provision denying the tax
  • exemption to residential developments for taxes imposed by Water Conservation, Reclamation, and Emergency
  • Legislative Counsel C.C.H.C. users are required to enter into a written agreement for payment in lieu of taxes
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Local Government focused on evaluating a series of bills crucial to local governance and housing development. A notable highlight was the advancement of various bills, including SB2250 and SB375, both of which received unanimous support from committee members. Additionally, SB867 was passed with the introduction of a committee substitute, demonstrating the committee's willingness to adapt and negotiate terms to ensure suitable legislation. The members voiced their opinions on the importance of these bills in addressing housing and community development needs while ensuring efficient use of resources.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Right now, there is a 3% tax that promoters pay into general

  • The tax is based on ticket sales and their broadcast rights.
  • We have a rider recommendation asking that half of that tax be made available to TDLR.
Summary: The meeting focused on various aspects of the Department of Licensing and Registration, highlighting the need for enhanced staffing to manage increased demand in several programs such as combative sports and industrialized housing. Notably, discussions included the establishment of new examination centers to improve service delivery and licensing processes, with emphasis on the Waco center's contribution. There was also deliberation on cybersecurity measures, showcasing the department's efforts to protect infrastructure from breaches, alongside mention of the Financial Crimes Intelligence Center's successes in preventing financial crimes in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 5th, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • HB 764, relating to authorizing certain taxing units for
  • the year following the year in which a disaster occurs to adopt an ad valorem tax rate that exceeds the
  • voter-approved tax rate without holding an election, or to approve the adopted tax rate making conforming
  • data-time="5400"> HB 829 by Harrison, relating to the text of a ballot proposition that increases taxes
  • number of residence homesteads of certain property owners on which the owners are receiving certain tax
Summary: The committee meeting began with a moment of silence dedicated to the memory of the late Congressman Sylvester Turner, acknowledged by multiple members who spoke eloquently about his legacy and contributions to the community. This emotional tribute was followed by a series of announcements, including recognizing distinguished guests and discussing significant upcoming dates such as Alamo Day. The atmosphere of the meeting reflected a blend of mourning and celebration of service, as members recounted personal anecdotes and expressing gratitude for Turner's guiding influence in their political paths.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Feb 4th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • It's a growing economy, ranking second in sales tax per

  • It's a growing economy, ranking second in sales tax per person
  • We have a low property tax rate, making our city attractive

  • It's a growing economy, ranking second in sales tax.
  • Among Texas cities with over 100,000 residents, McAllen was ranked highly in 2024, with low property tax
Bills: SB2, SJR36, SB2, SR19, SR27, SR30, SR32, SCR11
Summary: The meeting focused on several resolutions, notably including House resolutions which recognized the academic achievements of the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and its merging with the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio. Senator Menendez and others praised the benefits of the merger, highlighting its potential for advancing research and education in Texas. Furthermore, various senators acknowledged the presence of community leaders and representatives, emphasizing the importance of local contributions to state development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 27th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 33 is about the tax dollars being used in a certain way.
  • But it's a completely different matter when you allow tax dollars to be spent that way.
  • As a taxpayer, I don't support my taxes supporting the U.S. military intervention in...
  • And they could even do it with your own tax dollars. No! No!
  • If I don't support how my taxes are being spent, I'll express that at the ballot box.
Summary: The meeting focused on discussions surrounding several proposed bills, notably SB31, SB33, and SB2880, which address abortion and related healthcare regulations. Prominent advocates for these bills included medical professionals and attorneys who argued for the necessity of stricter regulations to protect unborn children and prevent the indirect funding of abortion-related services. Testimonies featured intense debate, with supporters claiming the bills would enhance accountability and protect both mothers and children, while opponents raised concerns about potential negative impacts on women's health and constitutional rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on County & Regional Government Apr 14th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House S/C on County & Regional Government

Transcript Highlights:
  • Lowe, when you say the taxpayers, pay taxes, everybody pays taxes.
  • It's not just a certain party who pays taxes; everybody in the state pays taxes.
  • Well, I will say that every additional program that we create creates new taxes and more costs.
  • The idea that someone or a county could have their sales tax...
  • I don't think I've ever heard TPPF advocate to spend tax money. Thank you.
Summary: The meeting was productive, primarily focusing on the discussions surrounding several key bills, notably HB2012, HB3174, and HB5580. The bills addressed significant issues like public health, immigration enforcement, and developmental initiatives. Notably, HB3174 aims to combat the spread of blood-borne diseases through syringe exchange programs in specific counties, with robust support from public health officials. Throughout the meeting, there was an active exchange of perspectives on the efficacy and implications of these bills, particularly regarding how they would impact public safety and health in Texas. Concerns were raised about the potential burden on law enforcement and the appropriateness of mandating immigration mechanisms in local jails under HB5580, generating passionate discussions among committee members and public testimonies alike.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 29th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • My family has been in taxes to Keller ISD for 40 years

  • " data-time="324">I would like to point out that in 1985, Keller ISD started taking and collecting taxes
  • We have been paying taxes for 40 years.
  • We have poured our tax dollars, our energy, and our trust into Keller ISD.
  • These are things that we have invested in—our children, our tax dollars, our bonds.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on House Bill 5089, concerning the creation of new school districts through detachment of existing territories. During the discussions, multiple committee members expressed significant concerns about the implications of the bill, emphasizing the need for community involvement and public voting whenever major district changes are proposed. Witnesses from the Keller Independent School District testified against the bill, highlighting the potential for confusion and the erosion of local control if school boards could make such determinations without voter approval. The testimonies painted a picture of a heated community reaction regarding the handling of the detachment process and underscored a general agreement that any significant changes should require a public vote to ensure accountability and transparency.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The decision to take on additional measures to raise taxes should take place with an engaged public.
  • The election date for the authorization of the issuance of bonds or a tax increase.
  • The cap on the county tax rate exempts the cost of law enforcement, doesn't it?
  • having to significantly raise its tax rate to cover the
  • And I want us to remember, we are trying to do property tax relief here.
Summary: The recent Senate meeting primarily covered two resolutions, HCR65 and HCR19, both of which were passed unanimously with little to no opposition. HCR65 was introduced in memory of Tracy Lee Vincent of Longview, while HCR19 was presented to honor the late Terrell Lynn Roberts of Angleton. The meeting included brief addresses from several senators, who shared personal reflections on the impacts of the individuals being honored and expressed gratitude for their contributions to the community. This collaborative atmosphere showcased the members' capacity for camaraderie and respect, emphasizing the importance of human connection in legislative proceedings.

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