Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senator Kolkhorst'

Page 23 of 57
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 May 26th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • the Senate with a recommendation.
  • Senator Bettencourt. Senator MenĂ©ndez.
  • Senator Parker moves adoption.
  • to the full Senate.
  • Now, thank you, Senator. Thank you, Senator Parker.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Education K-16 convened to address several legislative proposals, primarily focusing on bills related to education and public safety. Among the notable discussions was House Bill 121 concerning public school safety measures. Advocates highlighted the need for enhanced security protocols and the commissioning of peace officers, while the committee unanimously passed the bill for further review by the full Senate. Additionally, House Bill 1105, which provides tuition exemptions for certain parent paramedics, sparked an engaging debate about educational incentives and support for emergency responders, resulting in a favorable recommendation from the committee. The session also witnessed an intensive discussion on HB 4623 that intertwines the liability of educational institutions and their employees in the context of student protection, reflecting on the impact of recent testimony on children’s abuse cases heard previously.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice May 22nd, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • ="18">Senator Higginbotham.
  • The Senate sponsor, Senator Miles, will represent Senator
  • Sponsor Senator Cray.
  • Sponsors Senator Creighton and Senator Parker to explain the bill in his lieu.
  • Sponsor Senator Parker.
Summary: The meeting of the committee was marked by extensive discussions on various bills, focusing primarily on enhancing legal measures and protections in criminal cases. Notable among the discussions was HB3073, known as the Summer Willis Act, which aims to provide a clearer statutory definition of consent regarding sexual violence. The bill received overwhelming support as it seeks to close existing gaps in Texas law to better protect survivors. Additionally, HB1871, which increases penalties for attempted capital murder of a peace officer, was presented by Senator Schwartner, emphasizing the need for stronger deterrents against attacks on law enforcement officials. The committee moved several bills to the full Senate with favorable recommendations, showcasing a unified effort towards legislative progress in public safety and survivor protections.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator King, Senator Sparks? Here.

  • Chairman, members, Senate Bill 1534 is co-authored by Senator Tan Parker.
  • Thank you, Senator Birdwell. Members, do you have any questions for Senator Birdwell?
  • Okay, Senator Johnson.
  • So, Senate Bill.
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

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

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This bill passed the Senate 28 to 2, and I appreciate Senator
  • Senate Bill 1277 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 2521 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 2529 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 2541 is left pending.
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

Criminal Justice May 13th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator King, Senator Hagenbuch. Aye.
  • Senator Hinojosa, aye. Senator Huffman, aye. Senator Miles, aye. Senator King, aye.
  • Senator Hinojosa? Aye. Senator Huffman? Aye. Senator Miles? Aye. Senator King? Aye.
  • Senator Hagenbuch.
  • Senator Parker?
Summary: During the meeting, multiple bills were reviewed and discussed, with the most prominent being HB33, known as the Uvalde-Strong Act. This bill aims to improve school safety and preparedness in active shooting situations by implementing stringent security measures and training requirements for law enforcement and educational institutions. The bill generated significant discussion about its provisions, the urgency for enhanced safety protocols, and the lessons learned from previous tragedies. HB1261, which allows for dual publication methods for public notices, was also reported favorably without objections, reflecting a growing need to adapt legislative processes to modern communication standards. The meeting concluded with several bills advancing to the full Senate for further consideration.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Collins, Senator Mullin, Senator Marshall,

  • Senator...
  • Senator Hassan, Senator Hickenlooper, Senator Markey, Senator
  • Kim, Senator Blunt-Rochester, Senator Alsobrooks, Senator Murkowski.
  • Senator Kim.
Summary: The meeting focused on vital health-related nominations, primarily emphasizing the roles of Dr. Jay Bhattacharya for NIH Director and Dr. Monty McCary for FDA Commissioner. During the discussion, various senators expressed their support and concerns regarding these nominations. Senator Sanders voiced opposition to both candidates, highlighting issues related to drug affordability and public trust in health agencies. He emphasized the need for leaders committed to transparency and addressing the epidemic of high prescription drug prices, advocating for action against pharmaceutical industry greed. Overall, the conversation underscored the critical crossroads in public health leadership amidst ongoing challenges such as trust restoration and healthcare accessibility.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development May 5th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So, Senator Johnson and Senator Sparks are present.

  • and recognizes Senator Schwertner to lay out the bill on behalf of Senator Huffman.
  • It's Senate Bill 2565. All right. The chair lays out Senate Bill 2565.
  • Thank you, Senator West. Members, any questions for Senator West?
  • Senator Schwertner. Aye. Senator Sparks. Aye. Senator King. Aye.
Summary: The meeting of the Economic Development Committee focused on various bills aimed at enhancing workforce development and economic incentives in Texas. One of the key discussions centered around Senate Bill 2603, which proposed a collaboration between businesses receiving state and local economic development incentives and local workforce development boards to improve job placement outcomes for participants. Public testimony highlighted the importance of connecting job seekers, especially those receiving public assistance, with potential employers to reduce reliance on state support systems. Additionally, Senate Bill 2607 emphasized interagency cooperation to better serve individuals engaged in workforce reentry programs, ensuring streamlined access to vital services.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • for Senate Bill 1927.
  • Senator Paxton moves that Senate Bill 1927 be reported

  • to the Senate with the recommendation.
  • for Senate Bill 2010.
  • Senate Bill 2010 is reported to the full Senate.
Summary: Additionally, SB2010 was reviewed with a focus on tightening language to prevent misuse of funds related to universal basic income (UBI) programs by political subdivisions. The committee adopted a proposed substitute and reported the bill favorably to the full Senate, citing concerns over the use of state funds in supporting UBI initiatives. The meeting concluded without further business, and the committee chairman signaled a recess.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 May 20th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Senator Zaffirini.
  • Senator Hinojosa, do you have whose bill is left pending? Bill, Senator Sparks? Okay.
  • Thank you, Senator King.
  • Thank you, Senator West.
  • Thank you, Senator West. Thank you, Senator Hagenbuch.
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding various bills aimed at improving educational standards and safety in Texas. Notable discussions included House Bill 121, which was proposed to enhance school safety by allowing the Texas Education Agency to commission peace officers for schools, a measure that received both support and opposition regarding the authority of local school district police. Additionally, House Bill 367 addressed the issue of excused absences for students with serious illnesses, emphasizing the need for clear documentation requirements to assist families and educators in managing these situations. The meeting was marked by public testimonies from various stakeholders, including educators and policy advocates, who provided insights and experiences that illustrated the importance of the legislation being considered.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence May 21st, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, Senate Bill 30.
  • The Senate substituted Senate Bill 835 using our exact language and sent that bill over.
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 66.
  • Seeing none, the chair will withdraw the committee substitute to Senate Bill 1730 and leave Senate Bill
  • The chair now lays out Senate Bill 2501 by Senator Zaffirini
Summary: During this meeting of the Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence Committee, several significant bills were discussed, particularly focusing on Senate Bill 1960, which aims to protect Texans from unauthorized use of their voices or likenesses in the age of artificial intelligence. Chairman Hunter led the presentation, highlighting the importance of preserving artistic integrity while ensuring that First Amendment rights are respected. The committee welcomed public testimony, receiving support for the bill from representatives of the music industry, who expressed concerns about the misuse of AI in recreating artists' performances without consent. The discussion included insight from various stakeholders regarding the implications of such legislation on their professional rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator King sends up the committee substitute for Senate Bill 1835.
  • The chair now recognizes Senator King for Senate Bill 1049.
  • Thank you, Senator. Members, any questions? Senator MenĂ©ndez.
  • Senator West.
  • Thank you, Senator West. Thank you, Senator King.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Education Committee was marked by intense discussions surrounding several key pieces of legislation, particularly focusing on SB1798, which seeks to repeal the Texas DREAM Act. Advocates for the bill argued that it is important to restrict state financial aid to individuals unlawfully present in the United States, asserting that taxpayer resources should primarily benefit legal residents. Conversely, numerous witnesses testified against SB1798, emphasizing the economic contributions of Texas DREAMers and the long-standing positive impacts of the existing DREAM Act on Texas communities and workforce. The heated debate highlighted the stark divisions surrounding immigration policies and their implications on education and opportunity for young Texans who have grown up in the state. The meeting concluded with SB1798 left pending, awaiting further consideration, signifying ongoing concerns and unresolved sentiments among committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 May 27th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Senator Johnson.
  • Senator.
  • Senator West, Senator Middleton, questions?
  • Senator West.
  • Senator Parker moves that Senate Bill 5381 be reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that
Summary: In this committee meeting, various educational bills were discussed, reflecting significant attention on improving public schooling. Notably, the discussion on HB123 focused on foundational literacy and numeracy for public school students, which received widespread support from multiple testimonies emphasizing the need for early intervention in education. Stakeholders highlighted the importance of investing in teacher training to effectively teach critical subjects like math. Additionally, HB1939, aimed at providing financial incentives for school districts to pay recapture payments early, generated a robust discourse around fiscal responsibility and budgeting in education funding. The meeting concluded with all bills being favorably reported to the full Senate for further review.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Vance and Senator Banks.
  • Thank you, Senator Kaine. Senator Ernst.

  • We have Senator Tuberville followed by Senator Duckworth.
  • You're hearing Senator Banks and Senator Schmidt; many of us, Democrats as well, like that.
  • Thank you, Senator Sullivan.
Summary: The meeting focused on critical defense and security matters, particularly concerning the ongoing geopolitical tensions involving China and Russia. There were discussions surrounding U.S. military readiness, with significant emphasis on the potential threats posed by China in the Indo-Pacific region. Members expressed concerns about America's military capabilities in relation to the growing Chinese fleet and the importance of maintaining strong alliances with nations like Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. Additionally, the notion of prioritizing the defense industrial base was highlighted, emphasizing the need for effective procurement and modernization efforts to counter adversarial threats. Furthermore, notable commentary included a reference to President Zelensky's remarks regarding peace negotiations with Ukraine, expressing a willingness for further cooperation with the U.S.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Committee on Criminal Justice Mar 25th, 2025 at 08:00 am

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair calls up Senate Bill 693 and recognizes Senator West.
  • for Senate Bill 693.
  • Senate Bill 781, in recognition of Senator King.
  • Senator King.
  • Senator King.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to deliberate several bills aimed at enhancing the protection of victims in cases of sexual assault and human trafficking. The meeting featured discussions on Senate Bills SB781, SB836, and SB1610, which introduced measures to improve the criminal justice processes related to these serious offenses. Senator King and other members emphasized the necessity of providing law enforcement with the tools needed to combat these crimes while simultaneously safeguarding victims' rights and privacy during trials. Notably, SB836 proposed significant changes that would prevent live streaming of sexual assault trials without consent to protect the dignity of victims, while SB781 sought to standardize the confidentiality of peace officers' personal information to enhance their safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Apr 24th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 2846.
  • Senate Bill 2847 by Senator Hagen-Buch.
  • Senate Bill 2847.
  • in Senate Bill 3039.
  • Senate Bill 199 is available.
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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means May 12th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 467 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 2779.
  • Senate Bill 263 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 1030 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 1453 is left pending.
Summary: The meeting of the committee involved extensive discussions on various important pieces of legislation. Notable among them was SB2206, which aims to extend and improve the state's research and development tax credits, ensuring Texas remains competitive in innovation-driven industries. This bill received strong support from the Texas Association of Manufacturers and other stakeholders, emphasizing the need for continued investment in R&D to bolster economic growth and job creation. Additionally, SB2779 was discussed, which focuses on proper allocation and use of hotel occupancy taxes (HOT) for beach maintenance in coastal communities, specifically addressing concerns about the oversight and management of these funds by local park boards.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part III) Apr 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Chair lays out Senate Bill 946 and represents, and Senator, and...
  • Thank you, Senator. Thank you, Senators. We'll open testimony on Senate Bill 2044.
  • Thank you, Senator Schwertner.
  • Go ahead, Senator.
  • I appreciate your consideration, Senator. Senator, thank you for your hard work on Sunset.
Summary: The meeting conducted by the committee featured an extensive discussion on multiple bills, particularly focusing on the ethics reform via SB2403, aimed at enhancing the structure and enforcement processes of the Texas Ethics Commission. The conversation revolved around establishing a three-tier system categorizing violations and enhancing procedural fairness and accountability in ethics investigations. Senator Mayes introduced a committee substitute, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that enforcement processes are transparent and just, particularly relating to minor infractions. Public testimonies in favor of the bill highlighted the need for reform, while concerns were raised about maintaining integrity in oversight mechanisms.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Paxton has questions and we'll go to Senator Birdwell.
  • Thanks, Senator. Thank you, Senator.
  • Senators, any questions? Senator Parker, do you have questions?
  • Thank you, Senator.
  • Thank you, Senator Middleton. Senator Birdwell, you're recognized.
Summary: The meeting focused on several legislative measures concerning alcoholic beverages, ethics, and the protection of free speech. Notable discussions included the presentation of Senate Bill 2633, which aims to modernize the framework for alcohol sales in local communities and allow local option elections within designated zones. Additionally, Senate Bill 2713 garnered significant attention, addressing ideological discrimination in professional associations based on political beliefs, urging a need for greater protection of free speech in Texas. Public witnesses provided testimony, with a mix of support and concerns regarding various bills, indicating a vibrant discourse among committee members and the public.

Research Filters

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