Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'water utility'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • marker="235" data-time="1404">A facility that is connected outside of this state unless the Public Utility
  • provide benefit to the state, it has to meet the public interest standard that's been developed and utilized
  • data-time="2340"> Sections 4 and 5 of the bill are identical to the preemption language that was utilized
  • We did not have the ability to provide water and sewer service for our property, so there was no benefit
  • They're one of the three legs of our stool, along with property taxes and utility revenues.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce centered around critical legislation including SB2858, SB324, and several others pertaining to regulatory consistency and enforcement in local governments. Notably, SB2858 was introduced to address the apparent noncompliance of some cities with state laws by empowering the Attorney General to enforce regulations more effectively. The members deliberated on the implications of this bill, with public testimony highlighting the need for stronger measures against local governments that ignore state mandates. Aside from regulatory discussions, SB2610 was well-received as it aimed to provide cybersecurity protections for small to medium-sized businesses, encouraging compliance with industry standards while simultaneously minimizing potential legal repercussions for companies against data breaches. The committee aimed to strike a balance between ensuring business security and avoiding undue burden on smaller enterprises.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government May 12th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The committee is utilizing electronic registration.

  • Texas owns and operates five wholesale regional wastewater systems, four wholesale regional drinking water
  • TRA also provides raw water to customers that are primarily municipalities and monitors water quality
  • and participates in regional water and flood planning.
  • All the waters of East Texas, right? I mean, it's true.
Summary: The meeting of the legislative committee was focused on the discussion and voting of several bills, including HB303, HB2740, HB2742, and HB4753. Each bill presented drew attention from various committee members, with detailed debates surrounding their implications and utility. For instance, HB4753, which addresses issues arising from lost certificates of occupancy, prompted a discussion on the difficulties faced by property owners in different municipalities struggling to comply with documentation requirements. In general, the committee expressed support for the bills, as many passed with unanimous votes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • now that say they are tossing them, emptying them out into bushes or emptying them into bodies of water
  • In a bush, that was one report, and the other was a body of water in a pond on the same property.
  • You cannot do it in a closed body of water.
  • It has to be three nautical miles off of the shore and in an open body of water minimum.
  • He paid utilities and he leased an apartment.
Summary: The Senate meeting featured extensive discussions on significant legislative proposals, primarily focusing on the ethical treatment and regulation of unclaimed bodies in Texas. The committee addressed concerns raised by Senator Parker regarding the alarming misuse of unclaimed remains, urging the necessity for stricter guidelines and accountability for organizations involved in anatomical donations. Public testimonies illustrated harrowing experiences of families affected by these practices, prompting legislators to consider more robust regulatory measures, including possible criminal penalties for bad actors in the industry. The committee exhibited a unified stance in advocating for enhanced protections that would ensure the dignity of deceased individuals is respected.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The City Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs

  • Members, the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board

  • A honey bill—can't live without honey and water.
  • streams and clean water.
  • It made it so that we can't even pump the water when there was...
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs was marked by critical discussions surrounding several agricultural bills aimed at addressing the challenges faced by the farming community in Texas. Notably, House Bill 43 was presented, which seeks to update the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority to improve financial support for farmers experiencing crisis due to extensive agricultural losses, exacerbated by drought and supply chain issues. The committee heard testimonies from stakeholders emphasizing the urgent need for these reforms to help secure the agricultural industry’s future and ensure support for farmers during these trying times. Another significant topic was House Bill 4163, which aims to relieve agricultural operations from excessive municipal regulations concerning land management along public roadways, highlighting the burdens placed on farmers by local governments.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development Apr 7th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • gas generating plants with a fourth in the permit stage, the largest BESS in Texas, and two solar utilities
  • Texas had installed utility-scale solar capacity of 9.3 gigawatts
  • position to help Texas meet its load growth challenges while delivering energy economic and clean water
  • state-appointed river authority had to issue an emergency resolution against this project for pollution, water
  • We attempted to navigate the uncharted waters of the early college model in a small rural school and
Summary: The meeting included rigorous discussions on several bills related to energy policy and local government incentives. Notably, SB1754 was a central focus, where many members voiced concerns about its implications for renewable energy projects, suggesting it might hinder the growth of solar and wind energy in Texas. Testimonies from stakeholders, including local residents and industry experts, illuminated the tension between economic incentives for renewable energy and community concerns over land rights and environmental impact. Additionally, the introduction of Senate Bill 1534 concerning workforce development in nuclear and radiological safety drew attention as Texas grapples with a skilled labor shortage in these critical sectors.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations Mar 10th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So there are many different models that schools can utilize to meet that standard.
  • For example, we have the plant versus the water lily. The plant is the bluebonnet, but the...
  • Water lily has a particular kind of water lily.
  • That's just been my experience in the water world.
  • ...focused on water reclamation from produced water out
Summary: The meeting revolved around various critical discussions, primarily focusing on school safety and the challenges surrounding border security. Key testimonies highlighted the significant strides made in reducing illegal crossings but emphasized the need for continued vigilance against crime and drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl. Members expressed gratitude towards the Texas Senate's supportive role in funding for safety measures and strengthening resources to keep the state safe. Conversations also centered around the implementation of new safety protocols in schools, including the establishment of the Office of School Safety and Security, and how schools are addressing vulnerabilities identified from assessments. Furthermore, the importance of mental health resources was underscored as a complement to physical security improvements within educational institutions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 10th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • plant and expand capacity for the chilled water and heating water systems.
  • It's a large item for upgrades to our central utility plant.
  • This plant provides hot and cold water and feeds HVAC services.
  • Isn't that part of the water?
  • So water is actually used for tier two.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting covered a wide range of topics, focusing primarily on pending legislation and various policy issues facing the committee. Discussions were notably animated surrounding several bills, with members expressing both support and concern over their implications. Witness testimonies were heard, shedding light on different perspectives regarding the legislation in question, indicating a robust public interest and engagement in the topics discussed. Members collaborated to address constituents' concerns while seeking solutions that align with the committee's objectives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 30th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Lactation support is offered through the WIC program, utilizing peer counselors for general breastfeeding
  • Under current law, Texas utilizes a binding arbitration process to settle such disputes, with the cost
  • Bill 1876, which was an important step toward ensuring that dialysis was received more promptly and water
  • , and connections for outside water delivery to ensure...
  • for outside water delivery.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services covered multiple bills focusing on healthcare, education, and child welfare. A key highlight was the presentation of Senate Bill 3001, which aims to add medical nutrition counseling as a Medicaid service for patients with chronic conditions. Chairman Korkhorst emphasized the importance of this bill in addressing healthcare needs in low-income communities. Public testimony was gathered, with several professionals supporting the inclusion of nutrition services to improve health outcomes for Texans, particularly those battling chronic diseases. Another notable discussion revolved around Senate Bill 425, designed to enhance the accuracy of investigations into child and adult protective services. Members raised concerns regarding the need for transparency and improved protocols in these sensitive areas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Ways & Means Aug 22nd, 2025 at 10:08 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Or for public utilities, it could be seven water and sewer staff, three utility trailers, three trucks
  • Infrastructure changes or collapse of utilities during an ice storm were.
  • Are you talking about our utilities or just for our general fund?
  • For utilities, etc.
  • If you were to include water, you would be going up.
Bills: HB17, HB23, SB10
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several significant bills, particularly HB17 and SB10, both of which address property tax regulations in Texas. HB17 aims to enhance transparency and accountability in taxpayer notifications regarding property tax rate changes, requiring taxing entities to provide detailed information in notices. The bill received mixed reactions, with some supporting its intention to empower taxpayers while others criticized it as an unfunded mandate. Meanwhile, SB10 proposes to lower the voter approval tax rate for larger municipalities from 3.5% to 2.5%, sparking debates about its potential impact on public safety funding and local governments' financial flexibility. The discussions delved into the challenges posed by budget constraints and the need for efficient local governance in the face of rising costs and public safety demands. Overall, the meeting was well-attended, featuring robust discussions and a variety of perspectives around key legislative initiatives affecting Texas residents.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means May 19th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span> The SMR tax for the city of Coppell is a special sales tax utilized
  • ...streets and sidewalks, in addition to water, wastewater,
  • Like if you go pay your utility bill, you're going to have a convenience charge because the government
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on a series of Senate Bill presentations, particularly highlighting SB1277 which aims to extend the reauthorization period for the municipal street maintenance (SMR) tax in the city of Coppell from four years to ten years. This extension aims to stabilize funding for vital infrastructure projects, helping the city avoid potential financial disruptions and additional tax burdens on residents. Testimonies included insights from public representatives, including Mayor Pro Tem Don Carroll, who emphasized the bill's importance for ongoing maintenance efforts and taxpayer savings.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Delivery of Government Efficiency Mar 19th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So Austin Energy, Austin Water, Resource Recovery, Community Fee, Transportation, Drainage.
  • And so, I don't think that we, I think that by utilizing the resources that we have and resources such
  • There's an overflow room set up in E2012 for anyone who would like to utilize it.
  • In Muleshoe, Texas, last year, there was a water tower that overflowed, and it was later revealed that
  • The far cry dystopian nightmare of a foreign terrorist organization poisoning our water system is a lot
Summary: The meeting held by the committee involved significant discussions surrounding various bills, notably focused on transparency and budgeting processes. There were multiple testimonies from public citizens advocating for improved access to local budgets, emphasizing the need for transparency within governmental operations. One speaker highlighted that enabling public access to finalized budgets within three business days can ensure that community voices are heard prior to important votes, enhancing local governance and accountability. The committee members engaged actively, with questions posed to witnesses to clarify points made regarding public access to financial documentation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Has water become a part of what you're thinking is also at your level on the economic development?
  • ...and these waters.
  • So I hear that they're working toward maybe recycling the water.
  • So yes, ma'am, water.

  • And so they're actually using less water than before.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on the implementation and impacts of the Texas CHIPS Act, aimed at bolstering the semiconductor industry within the state. Legislators praised its potential to create jobs and capital investment. The discussion also highlighted recent international business development missions undertaken by Governor Abbott, including visits to India, the UK, and Taiwan, to foster stronger economic ties and attract foreign investment. Chairwoman Button emphasized the importance of a robust economic development strategy to maintain Texas's leading position in job and economic growth.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • into natural and private oyster beds, as well as coastal Waters
  • For example, if a reef dies off from fresh water and needs
  • >

    We can meet our state's energy needs and still protect our water

  • puts a government agency at the center of wind energy developments in a way that not even the Public Utility
  • /span>

    Or water

Summary: The meeting focused on the discussion of several bills, with members engaging in detailed commentary on the implications of each legislative proposal. Notably, House Bill 3724, aimed at supporting oyster mariculture along the Texas coast, was highlighted by Representative Villalobos, who provided insights into its potential ecological benefits. Public testimony was sought, and Representative de Villalobos garnered support from environment advocates who emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy oyster populations for ecological balance. The discussion around this bill reflected a collaborative approach to environmental legislation, indicating a consensus on the need for sound management practices. In addition, House Bill 3556 was introduced, which mandates notification to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for the construction of tall structures that may pose risks to migratory birds. Representative Flores expressed concerns over potential exemptions for spaceflight structures, indicating the complexities of balancing development with environmental protection. The meeting concluded with several bills left pending, emphasizing a commitment to careful scrutiny and consideration of the legislative impacts before final decisions are made.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So in the example that we've utilized here, but I've...
  • 589" data-time="3528"> work on that, but whenever you have an easement, you have the easement for utilities
  • You don't know who's coming on that; you just trust that whoever hired the utility people has done their
  • Um, the water people come on your property to check the water
  • Judges are welcome to utilize Zoom court or video court

Summary: The committee meeting featured extensive deliberations on several bills, most notably House Bill 1110, concerning civil suits against individuals reporting suspicious activity in good faith, proposed by Chairman Shaheen. The committee expressed unanimous support for the bill, and it was reported to the full House without amendments. Additionally, House Bill 865, introduced by Speaker Moody, addressing civil liability related to firearm hold agreements, also garnered unanimous approval, underscoring a collaborative effort among committee members. Public testimony highlighted concerns regarding proposed bills, specifically criticisms of House Bill 1748, aimed at exempting municipal courts from language certification requirements, which raised significant opposition related to equitable access to justice for non-English speakers.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security Feb 27th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span marker="232" data-time="1386"> Employing advanced tools to repel would-be illegal aliens and utilizing
  • changed somewhat from the time we had the catch and release situation, which really overwhelmed our water
  • We have committed to the water, so in many respects

  • I think the Attorney General's office talked about being like water, waiting to see what the Trump administration
Summary: The meeting of the Border Security Committee was marked by intensive discussions surrounding the ongoing initiatives related to Operation Lone Star. Members shared updates on border security measures, underscoring the significant operational changes resulting from shifts in federal policies. General Salter provided extensive insights into the deployment of state resources, highlighting the 5,000 active personnel engaged in various border control operations. The various strategies employed for enhancing surveillance and interdicting drug smuggling were also covered, emphasizing the importance of strong collaboration between state and federal agencies.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Article III Feb 24th, 2025 at 10:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Article III

Transcript Highlights:
  • include funding for Phase 3B of the campus master plan, which would upgrade the school's central utility
  • plant and expand capacity for the chilled water and heating water.
  • Campus are serviced by that utility plant.
  • We have been able to utilize some one-time funds to increase the technology that's in our classrooms,
  • AISD's budget deficit was recently updated to an eye-watering $100 million.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on reviewing updates and recommendations related to education funding and legislative measures for public schools. Significant discussions included the implications of the new educational budget proposal, as well as public testimonies advocating for increased funding to support school districts facing financial difficulties. Notably, there was a strong emphasis on adjusting the basic allotment to accommodate inflation and ensure that school funding is based on student enrollment rather than attendance, to better support districts struggling with deficits and operational challenges.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development May 19th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span> It would raise the threshold to 200,000, including public utilities
  • Manufacturing teeters on available roads and utilities.
  • economy, protect Texas landowners, and sustain Texas working forests, which provide clean air and clean water
  • These maps will include key information like building layouts, utility shutoffs, and the location of
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

Local Government (Part II) Apr 24th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...wastewater and water services.
  • exemptions granted to housing authorities do not apply to taxes imposed by a district that provides water
  • The key benefit of utilizing third-party reviewers

Summary: The meeting of the local government committee covered several important bills, notably Senate Bill 1454, Senate Bill 1237, and Senate Bill 2520. Senator Betancourt presided over the proceedings, guiding the discussion on the multiple committee substitutes proposed for each of these bills. SB1454 focused on tax exemptions for housing authorities, with amendments that included stricter compliance measures for municipalities. The committee unanimously recommended that the bill proceed to the full Senate without objection.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • separating, removing some of the water and other potential
  • ...water out of beer, it allows you to put honey and ferment
  • Services like Favor were utilized by different groups.
  • This will utilize the existing framework to codify.
  • DNCs utilize digital technology networks to provide on-demand and highly automated delivery services.
Summary: The committee meeting was held to discuss a variety of bills concerning state regulations and community needs. Key discussions revolved around HB2885, which aims to allow local political subdivisions to call for option elections regarding alcoholic beverage sales. The bill was well received, passing favorably without amendments. Another notable bill discussed was HB2996, relating to gambling offenses, which also passed favorably, indicating a broader support for regulatory improvements in these sectors. Public testimony was provided on several bills, emphasizing community engagement and the importance of local governance in decision-making processes.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • For you, I'll talk about a water project. Kevin, sorry, I knew I'd get a smile.
  • For you, I'll talk about a water project. Kevin, sorry. I knew I'd get a smile.
  • Was there any accountability measure put into place to ensure that the money was effectively utilized
  • about 75%, will go directly to the counties with the greatest needs as defined by our assessments, utilizing
  • This is similar to other programs that we run where we utilize

Summary: The meeting involved a comprehensive review of various legislative bills, with members voicing their opinions and concerns on each. Significant discussions centered around land use policies, education reforms, and public health initiatives. A number of witnesses were called to share their insights, providing both supportive and opposing perspectives on the proposed bills. The committee demonstrated a commitment to thorough deliberation, ensuring all voices were heard before taking votes on the legislation.

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