Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'electric utilities'
Page 23 of 40
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management Mar 27th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- What we're tying this to is the requirements that retail public utilities have for water conservation
- Retail public utilities with more than 3,300 connections,
- It's not our business to tell those other utilities what
- So I know from the retail public utility level, it is something that we have a continuing obligation
- In presenting those plans, the utilities rely on.
Keywords:
zoning, public notice, local government, residential development, protests, water conservation, municipal utility districts, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, environmental regulation, groundwater management, nonconforming uses, zoning regulations, land use, property rights, municipal authority, recreational vehicle parks, campgrounds, construction standards, safety regulations, fire protection
Summary:
The meeting addressed significant bills with a focus on housing and property rights, specifically discussing HB2149 and HB2559. Representative Tepper introduced HB2149, which aims to amend amortization and non-conforming land-use procedures to better protect private property rights. The bill received testimony supporting its intent to maintain a balance between property development and municipal zoning regulations. Furthermore, Representative Patterson discussed HB2559, emphasizing the need for establishing reasonable protections against development moratoriums that affect homeowners and builders, highlighting the necessity for adequate notice and a higher threshold for moratorium approvals. Both discussions prompted vigorous dialogue and engagement among committee members as well as the public, illustrating the complexities involved in balancing growth and regulation in real estate development.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management Apr 17th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- relating to the boundaries of and validating certain acts and proceedings of the Creedmoor Municipal Utility
- This is a legislative council draft and it utilizes the MUD
House Bill 5665 is a bill to create Water County Municipal Utility
- It's the Municipal Utility District in Waller County.
One of the key functions of these Municipal Utility
Bills:
HB447, HB897, HB993, HB2673, HB3671, HB3680, HB3897, HB4506, HB4753, HB4812, HB4894, HB5148, HB5437, HB5650, HB5652, HB5654, HB5656, HB5661, HB5665
Keywords:
traffic impact studies, municipal utility district, bonds, road projects, eminent domain, building permits, municipal government, application processing, time limits, local government regulations, cemeteries, municipalities, regulation, health and safety, local governance, municipal utility district, dissolution, local governance, Tarrant County, environmental quality
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on a variety of bills, with notable discussions surrounding the challenges faced by municipalities in managing growth and public safety. Bills such as HB447 and HB3897 sparked conversations on the impact of Municipal Utility Districts in high-density areas and the necessity of thorough traffic impact assessments before approving new developments. Representative Cook highlighted concerns over a specific project related to HB3671, which aimed to dissolve a municipal district due to contradictory prior agreements. Public testimonies included concerns from residents, signaling the tension between development needs and public safety requirements.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Appropriations - S/C on Article II Feb 25th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Appropriations - S/C on Article II
Transcript Highlights:
- So looking at the projected utilization.
- Because do you have, again, an accurate count, do you think, of who would be utilizing this if that's
- And you guys have literally utilized every single square foot in that lab space.
- Our projections for Healthy Texas Women are based off of the agencies' utilization data.
- So, obviously, utilization—what that means is instead of women... You know, they...
Keywords:
SNAP benefits, fraud, Texas Health and Human Services, budget, congenital syphilis, state peace officers, public health
Summary:
The meeting of the House Appropriations Subcommittee focused on the budget and operational needs of the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), with a particular emphasis on addressing the significant issue of SNAP benefit theft. Key discussions included the challenges faced by the agency in combating fraud, the need for increased support for state peace officers, and the implications of rising health concerns such as congenital syphilis, which has seen an alarming increase in Texas. Representatives expressed their concerns about handling these issues effectively and discussed the importance of resource allocation to prevent further fraud and provide adequate care to Texans in need.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local Government (Part III) May 22nd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Utility District Number One would encompass approximately 250
- span> House Bill 5674 is the creation of the River Ranch Municipal Utility
- /span>
House Bill 5671 updates the Johnson County Special Utility
House Bill 5695 creates a Sale Ranch Municipal Utility
Let's see, to make this a template municipal utility
Keywords:
utility districts, Fannin County Improvement District, public testimony, Johnson County, development bills, community concerns
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on the review and recommendations for several bills concerning utility districts and development projects. Among the key bills discussed was HB5671, which updates the Johnson County Special Utility District's provisions to accommodate rapid county growth. Chairman's call for public testimony on various bills indicated broad community interest, though many bills advanced without opposition. Notably, HB5694, aiming to create the Fannin County Improvement District, illustrated strong legislative support, gaining a swift recommendation to pass without any public testimony against it. Additionally, HB5696 saw a proposed committee substitute that resulted from the feedback regarding its statewide implications, highlighting the committee's responsiveness to community concerns regarding localized impacts.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management Mar 13th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Code, it is required to notify the Commissioner's Court of a county where certain proposed municipal utility
- mandating a pre-petition notice to counties for petitioners requesting the creation of a municipal utility
- span marker="130" data-time="774"> ...a high increase and spike in crime in our different municipal utility
- infrastructure projects in municipal utility districts.
- Our member districts include Municipal Utility Districts, Water Control and Improvement Districts, and
Keywords:
third-party review, property development, local government, permits, construction inspection, regulatory authority, land development, liability, occupancy certificate, municipal utility district, petition, county clerk, water code, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, traffic impact studies, municipal utility district, bonds, road projects, eminent domain, extraterritorial jurisdiction
Summary:
The meeting was convened by Chairman Gates, focusing primarily on discussions of several key bills including HB363, HB954, and others pertaining to municipal utility districts (MUDs). Notably, a public testimony highlighted the need for comprehensive reform in the MUD process, emphasizing the importance of pre-petition notices to counties to ensure transparency and effective community involvement. The committee members engaged in a dialogue about the necessity of legislative measures to improve notification processes, public safety, and county jurisdiction in these developments. Representative Bell presented HB363, detailing the need for timely notifications to affected parties, which was heavily supported during the discussions.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management Apr 24th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- ...prompted the city water utility to invest hundreds of
- It's also creating areas where the water utility would need to stop over-sizing because of that Swiss
- the City of Manor, which is their only option for utilities once they are annexed.
- County Municipal Utility District No. 1.
- Utility District Number 40.
Bills:
SB840, HB2025, HB2512, HB3139, HB3798, HB3892, HB4373, HB4398, HB4582, HB4689, HB5187, HB5658, HB5666
Keywords:
municipality, extraterritorial jurisdiction, residents rights, local governance, petition, Edwards Aquifer, municipal utility district, bond issuance, county authority, water management, Ashe juniper, tree removal, municipal regulation, military base, property rights, environmental impact, county regulation, infrastructure planning, subdivisions, building codes
Summary:
The committee meeting included extensive discussions on various bills, with a notable focus on housing issues. The members deliberated on HB3892, which aims to address ambiguities in local government regulations and improve the accessibility of affordable housing in Texas. Public testimony was received from multiple stakeholders, including city representatives who voiced support for the bill, highlighting its significance in balancing development and local regulations. The chair also laid out additional bills such as HB5437 to establish a new municipal utility district and HB5650 focused on land use optimization, all of which were passed unanimously with zero nays.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local Government (Part II) May 22nd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
My intention is to discuss the Municipal Utility Districts
- If you'd like to approach the bench, you'll be the first of the Municipal Utility District bills.
- span>
In 2017, the district was designated as a municipal utility
- ...local laws code to allow Harris County Municipal Utility
- District to be known as Fort Bend County Municipal Utility District 263.
Keywords:
municipal management district, economic development, Mansfield, Fort Bend County, public testimony
Summary:
The committee meeting primarily focused on a series of municipal management district bills, including several proposals for new districts across various counties. Notably, House Bill 5696 was discussed, which aims to establish a reserve municipal management district in Mansfield, projected to facilitate economic growth through a mixed-use development. During the session, multiple bills such as HB5665, HB5670, and HB5637 were moved forward, passing unanimously with recommendations for further evaluation. Public testimony for these bills was minimal, with no significant opposition raised against any provisions during discussions.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services May 12th, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
Increasingly, local governmental entities are utilizing
- Chairman, you highlighted the city of Amarillo, who utilized TANs to go around that particular failed
- So you don't even need to utilize COs.
- I'm not really aware of any school districts that utilize COs, so...
- I believe that under Section 1, they utilize the term "anticipation note" to pay.
Keywords:
money transmission, public finance, certificates of obligation, tax anticipation notes, consumer protection, First Amendment, voter will
Summary:
The meeting focused on the discussion of two significant pieces of legislation: SB512 and SB1024. SB512 aims to protect users of money transmission services by preventing penalties imposed by service providers for violating terms of service. Representative Hayes explained that this bill responds to troubling practices observed among money service businesses. Public testimonies were presented both in support and opposition to the bill, highlighting concerns over First Amendment rights and the implications for consumer protection. The committee ultimately left the bill pending for further consideration.
In contrast, SB1024 addresses public finance issues, specifically the misuse of voter-rejected projects through certificates of obligation and tax anticipation notes. Senator Betancourt described instances where municipalities have circumvented voter will by issuing debt for projects previously rejected in elections. The committee heard extensive public testimony critiquing the proposed restrictions in the bill, with arguments centered around the potential unintended consequences for local governments and necessary infrastructure projects. Both bills generated lively discussions among committee members, leading to wider considerations of public finance ethics and the relationship between voters and local governments.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services May 19th, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- As you'll see, the first involves Northeast ISD, which in 2020 utilized $2 million from a 2015 bond to
- As a grouchy fiscal conservative, what I would argue is that school districts ought to be utilizing that
- And yet the district is finding a way around the will of the voters by utilizing...
- 130" data-time="774"> A fair amount of money is sitting off to the side that the district can later utilize
- My understanding is that this new institution would be utilized to fund projects that it deemed had some
Keywords:
school funding, bonds, education, finance, Texas Education Code, public banks, bond proceeds, voter transparency, Texas legislation, Senate Bill 621, Senate Bill 414
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several key bills impacting public funds, particularly regarding the use of unspent bond proceeds and mandated transparency during bond elections. Notably, Senate Bill 621 was discussed, which seeks to prohibit political subdivisions from establishing public banks, emphasizing core governmental functions and preventing taxpayer exposure to financial risks. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted concerns about the appropriateness of using public funds for non-essential projects, which led to vigorous debate amongst committee members. Additionally, Senate Bill 414 was addressed, which requires clear disclosures about estimated interest costs in bond proposals, aiming to enhance voter awareness and accountability.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Who's unable to utilize these online options?
- Into the system to be able to utilize it.
- So we have been utilizing that for a number of years on the list maintenance side.
- With utilizing the online portal? No.
- With utilizing the online portal? No.
Keywords:
election integrity, Senate Bill 924, polling locations, worker recruitment, election security, 2024 elections, voter confidence
Summary:
The House Committee on Elections convened a session to evaluate recent legislative changes and their implications on the electoral process. A key focus was on enhancing election integrity and procedures, including discussions about Senate Bill 924, which aims to address challenges related to polling locations and worker recruitment in Texas counties. Various members acknowledged the crucial role local election officials play in implementing reforms and managing elections amidst growing scrutiny and challenges such as natural disasters and security threats. The session highlighted the resilience and coordination efforts of election officials across the state.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Probably not as often as some other offenses that are utilized.
- If it is utilized, is that a tool you want to leave in the
- I think it's probably less utilized as an act of terrorism.
- That's not to say that it can't be utilized in the facilitation of a terrorist event.
- The local utility, you know, water purification system, something
Keywords:
firearm acquisition, gun smuggling, criminal offenses, ammunition, terrorism, public safety, HCR40, HB214, border security, Operation Lone Star, public testimony, firearm offenses, terrorism, legislation
Summary:
The committee convened to discuss two significant bills: HCR40, regarding reimbursement for border security costs, and HB214, which addresses the prosecution of firearm and ammunition-related offenses. Senator Flores represented HCR40, urging Congress to reimburse Texas for expenses incurred under Operation Lone Star, citing ongoing issues with illegal crossings and drug trafficking. Though there was a commendable attempt at public testimony, none was received, and the bill was left pending with intentions for further discussions. Much emphasis was placed on the state's security responsibilities and federal inaction that led to a substantial financial burden on Texas taxpayers.
In discussing HB214 introduced by Chairman Birdwell, key points included the need for refinement in identifying which offenses classify as terroristic. The members engaged in a comprehensive debate surrounding the expansion of offenses related to firearms smuggling and terrorism. Members expressed concern over including overly broad definitions that could lead to misuse of power and mislabeling of offenses. The committee's focus shifted towards creating a more precise framework that separates economic offenses from true acts of terrorism. The meeting emphasized collaboration and careful consideration in drafting legislation aimed at enhancing public safety without infringing on rights.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I just kind of get the impression that one of the scare tactics of not banning it is or not utilizing
- The inputs—seed, diesel, fertilizer, electricity, et cetera—are all about the same.
- data-time="30564"> ...an experienced user, and I would never suggest that somebody who has never utilized
- know, I heard the mention of milligram caps earlier, and that concerns me, not only as someone who utilizes
- I have a high tolerance," and I don't have a product that they can utilize.
Bills:
HB5
Keywords:
hemp, cannabinoids, regulation, occupational licenses, consumable products, marketing, criminal offenses, labeling requirements, health and safety, House Bill 5, THC regulation, public health, cannabis testimony, hemp regulation, legalization debate
Summary:
The meeting of the Public Health Committee focused primarily on discussions surrounding HB5, which seeks to regulate THC consumables in Texas. Numerous witnesses provided testimony, both in favor and against the bill, highlighting concerns regarding public health and safety as well as the economic implications of regulation versus prohibition. Chairman Van Dever and other committee members actively engaged with witnesses to clarify the potential impact of the proposed legislation. The testimonies brought to light intense disagreements over how best to approach the management of hemp and cannabis products, demonstrating a division between those advocating for strict regulations versus those calling for responsible oversight without outright bans on THC.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- It can be very safe and secure, efficient, and utilize great technology.
- And then, of course, we have all the special utility districts, which I would wonder if that is also
- And then, of course, we have all the special utility districts, which I would wonder if that is also
- Does that include schools and all the special utilities? Thank you.
- And with the utilization of AI and other technologies, we
Bills:
SB1
Keywords:
appropriations, budget, state funding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, budget recommendations, Texas Facilities Commission, border security, cybersecurity, Governor Abbott, operational efficiency
Summary:
The meeting focused on several critical budget recommendations for various state agencies, including the Texas Facilities Commission, which proposed significant funding changes. Chair George Purcell highlighted a reduction in appropriations, along with the introduction of new funds aimed at refurbishing the Rudder Building and supporting facilities operations. Discussions also touched on border security, where it was reported that Governor Abbott formally requested congressional support to reclaim $11 billion in funding for Texas operations. The ongoing dialogue regarding the maintenance and responsibilities relating to border wall constructions was emphasized, noting the complexity and the need for clear allocation of responsibilities as discussions with federal authorities develop.
Throughout the meeting, there were notable conversations about operational efficiencies, particularly in the context of expanding cyber threats and the need for improved cybersecurity measures at state agencies. Members engaged in deliberating the future hiring of staff and resources necessary for maintaining effective service delivery amidst increasing demand. The discussions concluded with a commitment to keeping an open line with constituents regarding the implications of these funding decisions and the overall strategic direction of the agencies involved.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- In utilizing the electronic system registration, if you wish
- District 61 and also Harris County Municipal Utility District 248, which we operate in our particular
- Where land can be annexed, it's tied to the utility system that's in place.
- My concern is that personal data can be utilized as a threat.
- I serve on the Board of Directors of Harris County Municipal Utility District Number One.
Bills:
SB434, SB844, SB898, SB1177, SB1214, SB1454, SB1920, SB1927, SB1935, SB1965, SB2010, SB2046, SB2068, SB2073, SB2183, SB2260, SB3034, SB907
Keywords:
housing authorities, tax exemptions, local government code, multifamily residential development, municipal housing authority, municipal regulation, tree removal, Ashe juniper, military base, property protection, property owners' association, board governance, homeowner regulation, declarant control, assessment limits, guaranteed income, financial assistance, local government, public funds, employment programs
Summary:
The meeting covered several significant bills, primarily focusing on enhancing transparency and accountability within local government and homeowners' associations. Notably, Senator Hinojosa introduced SB1935, aimed to reform the operations of Property Owners Association Boards, addressing concerns over insufficient representation and transparency for homeowners. The bill drew a mix of support and opposition, with testimonies highlighting the need for greater homeowner engagement in decisions affecting their communities. Additionally, SB2046 was discussed, which would enhance penalties for public officials engaging in bid rigging, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement of competitive bidding processes to curb misconduct within government contracts.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Texas law contains various requirements that apply to certain insurers when engaging in utilizing...
- It is important to note that House Bill 1818 does not add any new utilization review requirements.
- I mean, each examination of the utilization?
Yes.
- Of things already on our books that maybe we're not utilizing
- marker="961" data-time="5760"> Under this bill, and we said the requirements of this bill to do utilization
Keywords:
advanced practice registered nurse, health maintenance organization, preferred provider, insurance, healthcare access, healthcare, insurance, provider ranking, cost-sharing, fiduciary duty, patient choice, insurance, annuities, health coverage, trade practices, rebates, inducements, health promotion, wellness programs, insurance
Summary:
The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance was a significant gathering that focused on various health-related bills, including HB138, AB388, HB1942, and others. The committee heard testimony from multiple stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Medical Association, who emphasized the importance of health insurance transparency and compliance. Notably, HB1818 garnered attention as it aims to enhance the oversight of utilization review processes, which has previously faced challenges from both insurers and healthcare providers. The committee also discussed measures to improve the prescribed burning insurance under HB2563, a critical topic due to the increasing risk of wildfires in Texas. Several witnesses provided insights into the urgent need for a robust insurance framework to support prescribed burn managers, highlighting the current limitations and risks posed by the lack of coverage in the market.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I'm a pathologist; I sit on utilization review committees for hospitals and other things.
- is not to utilization review itself.
- Utilization review that we created under this bill is for laboratory claim reviewers.
We have a utilization committee.
- The rates that are being utilized now are excessive.
Bills:
HB854, HB1052, HB1642, HB2076, HB3042, HB3695, HB3787, HB4062, HB4092, SB213, SB493, SB896, HB5519, HB4635
Keywords:
insurance, replacement cost, homeowner's policy, renter's policy, condominium insurance, property damage, claims process, telemedicine, teledentistry, telehealth, health benefit plan, insurance coverage, out-of-state services, health benefit plan, anxiety, pain management, contraceptive devices, insurance coverage, women's health, medical procedures
Summary:
The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance focused on several significant bills, including HB854, which aims to reform insurance payment structures to improve accessibility for homeowners needing urgent repairs. Representative Garcia-Hernandez strongly advocated for this bill, highlighting the struggles faced by constituents unable to cover upfront repair costs. Additionally, HB4092 was discussed, which seeks to clarify regulations surrounding pre-suit notices in insurance claims, emphasizing the importance of protecting policyholders' rights. The meeting included various testimonies, with both supporters and opponents voicing their concerns about how these bills could impact consumers and the insurance industry.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local Government (Part I) May 26th, 2025
Senate Local Government Committee
Transcript Highlights:
The committee will be utilizing the electronic registration
- and improvements to their water infrastructure, the process is generally designed with municipal utility
Okay, so you've got a special utility district in this
TRWA represents over 900 water and wastewater utilities
- Next one, this is the Special Utility Districts, the water
Keywords:
Lake Houston, dredging, maintenance district, flood control, environment, public works, industrial development, county development districts, bonds, economic incentives, sales tax, human trafficking, hotel regulation, occupancy certificate, municipal authority, law enforcement, human trafficking, municipal powers, House Bill 5509, due process
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Local Government convened to discuss various important bills, primarily focusing on housing and local governance issues. Significant discussions included House Bill 5509, aimed at enhancing municipal powers against human trafficking by allowing the suspension of hotel occupancy certificates when crimes are suspected. The committee thoroughly reviewed the proposed committee substitutes for several bills, stressing stakeholder input and the importance of due process in legislative changes. Additionally, public testimony highlighted community support for the new amendments designed to ensure safety and welfare, particularly concerning vulnerable populations. House Bill 5663, addressing vital infrastructure needs and associated funding, also received a favorable recommendation from the committee, advancing its path through legislative scrutiny.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- makes three changes:
Number one, it adds municipal utility
- data-time="90"> Organizations, public institutions of higher education, school districts, municipal utility
- span>
And three, the substitute gives priority to municipal utility
Keywords:
House Appropriations, committee substitute, water infrastructure, HB188, HB265, HJR35, HJR47, SB1901, bipartisan support
Summary:
The House Appropriations Committee convened to discuss several significant legislative bills, including HB188, HB265, HJR35, HJR47, and SB1901. During the session, each bill was presented, and members engaged in lively discussions about their implications. Notably, the committee adopted a committee substitute for HB188, which expanded eligibility for grants related to water infrastructure. The substitute aimed to prioritize municipal utility districts, garnering a generally positive reception among committee members. Both HJR35 and HJR47 were reported favorably for consideration by the full House, demonstrating strong bipartisan support despite some dissenting votes.