Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'policy'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span marker="25" data-time="144">We have one witness registered, John Banura from the Texas Public Policy
  • I'm a policy analyst with the Texas Public Policy Foundation
  • span> resulting in outcomes that no longer reflect the original policy
  • with what you've already heard this morning, but my name is Sally Bocco, and I'm the director of policy
  • I'm Amanda Possen, a senior policy analyst at Every Texan.
Summary: The meeting was marked by an extensive discussion of several bills aimed at enhancing Texas' economic landscape and infrastructure. Notably, SB2925 focused on modernizing the state's manufacturing sector by promoting automation and digital technology, which received strong support from industry representatives, emphasizing its potential job growth impact. Public testimonies reflected a consensus on the need for Texas to lead in innovation to remain competitive in the manufacturing arena. Furthermore, SB1520, which seeks to create the Texas Bicentennial Trail, also garnered significant support, particularly for its vision of connecting historical sites across Texas without resorting to private property condemnation. The committee faced a good turnout of stakeholders, which added depth to the discussions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism May 1st, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm Megan Benton, the Strategic Policy Associate for Texas Values Action.
  • The organization, the Women's Sports Policy Working Group, says that there are I'm the Policy Director at the Transgender Education
  • I use he/him pronouns, and I'm the policy coordinator for TENT, the Transgender Education Network of
Summary: The committee meeting extensively discussed SB1350, which aims to establish a commission for the Bicentennial Anniversary of Texas Independence in 2036. Several witnesses, including Lacey Finley and Russell Molina, testified in support of the bill, emphasizing the importance of extensive planning and community engagement for this significant celebration. They argued that the bicentennial should encompass the diverse history and culture of Texas and encouraged the committee to include a non-profit structure to facilitate fund-raising and coordination efforts. Furthermore, HB738 was debated, focusing on the preservation of Rosenwald schools and their potential use as community learning centers, with members advocating for support to maintain this integral part of Texas's educational heritage.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 25th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So my point overall from a policy perspective is when there are very serious views, we have to lean into
  • However, in seeking to support survivors, we must ensure policies do not compound trauma by introducing
  • Prior to working in state policy, I was a victim advocate, and I coordinated a sexual assault response
  • They should not be left floundering when a facility has policies in place that prohibit its providers
  • That is not our policy.
Summary: The committee meeting included significant discussions surrounding several bills, notably HB220, HB3336, and HB4904. HB220, which addresses access to emergency contraception for survivors of sexual assault, sparked intense debate among committee members and witnesses. Various stakeholders testified for and against the bill, emphasizing the importance of immediate access to such services while also raising ethical concerns regarding contraception. Public testimony was robust, showcasing strong opinions on both sides of the legislation, with many advocating for the rights and protections of survivors.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Sep 3rd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Receive the lion's share of the policy reforms that have been
  • He approaches education policy not as a partisan issue, but as a moral one.
  • live on through the students whose futures you shaped, the institutions you strengthened, and the policies
  • He's worked tirelessly, and the policies that he's been able to pass over the years will really transform
  • A certain legislation that was not good public policy

Bills: SB8, SB1, SB2, SB5, SB10, HB27, HB7, HB17, HB1, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB20, HB18
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several significant legislative actions, particularly in relation to youth camp safety reforms. Senator Perry presented the committee substitute for HB1, emphasizing the collaborative effort with the House to enhance youth camp emergency preparedness following tragic events in the community. The bill, which maintains essential safety provisions, was received positively and passed without opposition. Additionally, discussions highlighted the importance of funding for flood management and the need for ongoing dialogue around public safety enhancements, including interoperability among emergency services. Overall, the meeting reflected a strong commitment to community safety and legislative integrity.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • One of the few areas in education policy where we can

  • My name is Gabe Grantham, and I serve as the public education policy advisor at Texas 2036.
  • Back when I was in school, funding wasn't just some policy debate; it was the difference between...
  • I'm the Director of Public Policy and Advocacy for the Arc of Texas.
  • I'm the policy manager for Teach Plus Texas.
Bills: HB2
Summary: The meeting focused prominently on the discussions surrounding HB2, which entails significant investments in public education and aims to reform funding mechanisms to better support students and teachers. Multiple stakeholders, including educators and policymakers, conveyed their support while also voicing concerns about the bill's potential shortcomings. Witnesses discussed the urgent need for increased funding for special education and the necessity of expanding pre-K eligibility for students with disabilities. The testimony highlighted the historical context of the funding model and emphasized the importance of creating equitable solutions for all public school districts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Aug 22nd, 2025 at 08:08 am

House Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • instrumental in providing agencies and legislators with the data to make informed decisions about policy
  • Work with you to develop policies to safeguard every child
  • However, Texans are suffering from floods and from the policy failures that made them worse.
  • It's simply a direction, policy change, and law change to start making everyone look towards.
  • We're asking for a tactical policy.
Summary: The committee meeting addressed multiple bills related to emergency preparedness and flood prevention, with significant discussions on HB48, SB3, and HB75. Representative Darby opened the meeting by advocating for the creation of a nine-member alert notification system to address public saturation with emergency alerts and to streamline the notification process by evaluating the effectiveness and coordination of existing systems. Testimonies from various stakeholders underscored the necessity of reducing alert fatigue among residents while enhancing the state’s overall readiness for impending natural disasters. The meeting featured robust support for HB75, aimed at establishing stricter safety standards for youth camps located in flood-prone areas following recent tragic flooding incidents that highlighted the urgent need for improved safety measures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part I) Feb 4th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • My name is Andy Keller, and I lead the Meadows Mental Health Policy

  • Madam Chair, members, my name is Sabrina Gonzalez Saucedo, and I serve as the Director of Public Policy
  • I would like to start by recognizing an area of Texas Medicaid budget policy that I think is working
  • I'm also the director of policy for Recovery People and co-chair for the Texas Coalition for Healthy
  • Medicaid budget policy that I think is working very, very
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting focused on public testimony regarding key health and human services issues affecting various groups in Texas. Notable discussions included funding requests for recovery housing, maternal health programs, and behavioral health services. Testimonies addressed the urgent need for additional resources to improve recovery housing availability, with advocates pushing for an increase in the number of accredited recovery homes and mentioning that Texas currently ranks low in recovery housing access. Similar testimonies highlighted the rising maternal mortality rates, particularly among minority populations, and the necessity for robust funding for maternal health initiatives. The session also saw voices advocating for better support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, emphasizing the critical need for transformed waiver services and improved provider accountability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Feb 4th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • discussions and their debates would be both productive and effective, that actions would be taken and policies
  • and effective, that actions would be taken and policies enacted
  • Texas is forever grateful for their service and dedication, and we remain committed to policies that
  • 148" data-time="882"> ...and we remain committed to policies
  • Any of you who are involved in Houston policy know that they are the premier business association in
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

Appropriations Feb 19th, 2025 at 08:02 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • At present, the policy of the state of Texas is not to spend any money on people who wish to become teachers
  • For districts and hiring talented and trained teacher candidates, our recommendation is to see both policy
  • /span> If you want to require schools to stay open, these are policy
  • So that's a potential policy change that could be made.
  • Discipline policy is governed by Chapter 37 of the Education Code.
Summary: The meeting hosted various discussions surrounding legislative measures impacting community resources and public safety. Notable discussions included a focus on environmental initiatives, which spurred passionate debates among committee members regarding the potential economic and ecological impacts. Several members raised concerns about the implementation timeline for new policies, while proponents emphasized the need for swift action to address pressing environmental challenges. Public testimony was also a significant part of the meeting, with citizens voicing their opinions on recent bills.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Skills in international business, law, trade, trade policy
  • changes two of the provisions to give the Higher Education Coordinating Board more flexibility on policy
  • Now, I do policy advocacy professionally.
  • I'm a senior policy analyst at Texas Appleseed.
  • have adopted the required policies.
Summary: The committee meeting led by Chair Wilson focused on higher education legislation, notably addressing bills related to tuition fee exemptions, financial assistance for students, and combating fentanyl abuse on campuses. Significant discussions revolved around HB1527, which proposes fee exemptions for peace officers at public institutions, and HB3062, aimed at implementing educational initiatives to raise awareness of fentanyl dangers among students. Several representatives expressed support for these measures, citing the crucial need for educational programs to combat substance abuse and provide equitable access to education.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • State agencies can buy insurance policies to help offset
  • Premiums for state-sponsored insurance policies are often affected by market fluctuations and events
  • Functionally, it's similar to raising your deductible on your insurance policy.
  • One piece from a policy perspective is dealing with enforcement, right?
  • Self-defense is good policy in Texas. A lot of these folks in rental communities...
Summary: The Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Employment held a meeting focused on various bills related to workforce development, consumer protection, and business regulations. Notably, HB5317, aimed at establishing a self-insured retention fund to lower insurance costs for state agencies, received significant attention, with discussions on its potential fiscal benefits. The committee also reviewed bills concerning unemployment benefits, regulation of food service surcharges, and property rights for homeowners, particularly in the context of water conservation amid ongoing drought conditions. Public testimony highlighted concerns over transparency in mandatory fees charged by food service establishments, with stakeholders advocating for clearer disclosures to protect consumer trust.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • >

    My name is Lissette Galvan, and I serve as the Public Policy

  • My name is Nicole Malone, and I'm a policy fellow with the National Association of Social Workers, Texas
  • mental health and well-being of Texans through strategic grant making, research and learning, and policy
  • I am the policy specialist with the housing and transportation team at Disability Rights Texas, and we
  • My name is Lauren Juveros, and I'm a public policy manager at the Texas Council on Family Violence.
Summary: The meeting of the Intergovernmental Affairs Committee featured significant discussions surrounding three key bills: HB158, HB1630, and HB3509. Representative Raymond presented HB158, a proposal to reutilize surplus government properties for veteran and low-income family housing, emphasizing the need for permanent housing solutions in Texas. The discussion also touched on the fiscal implications of the bill and potential housing resources. In another session, HB1630 was put forward to make social workers eligible for the Homes for Texas Heroes Home Loan Program, addressing the ongoing housing affordability crisis faced by many Americans, particularly younger generations. This bill garnered bipartisan support, showcasing the committee's collective awareness of the housing challenges impacting essential workers in the community. Lastly, Representative Enchia introduced HB3509, focused on Tourism Public Improvement Districts (TPIDs), which help collect revenue through hotel self-assessments to promote local tourism. This bill aims to enhance competitiveness for conventions in Texas and made clarifications for ease of creating and managing these districts. The committee received various public testimonies expressing support and concerns about the proposed bills. The meeting highlighted the committee's dedication to addressing housing and economic development challenges within Texas, closing with an invitation for further committee discussions and public input.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means May 5th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Citizens' groups, universities, and policy analysts who wish to study property tax systems on a statewide
  • Members, HB 5217 represents prudent fiscal policy and a commitment to fairness.
  • data-time="5130"> Here on behalf of the Texas Public Policy
  • I represent the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • You're testifying on behalf of the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
Summary: The meeting covered several key legislative proposals aimed at enhancing property tax relief and supporting community development initiatives. House Bill 2032, which addresses tax exemptions for disabled veterans, was discussed; the bill proposes a proportional property tax deduction based on disability ratings, helping veterans secure housing stability amidst rising property costs. House Bill 4270 was also introduced to revitalize declining neighborhoods by offering property tax exemptions for young families moving into these areas—an initiative prompted by demographic shifts in urban areas such as El Paso. The discussions emphasized the critical need for fostering sustainable communities and supporting vulnerable populations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • My name is Molly Boyles, and I'm the Director of Public Policy at the Texas Council on Family Violence
  • The Department of Veterans Affairs carries out red flag policies on its veterans as seen in their patient
  • They used this to combat these policies.
  • Also, I am subject to those policies set by the VA.
  • Children deserve to live free from violence, and we should pursue policies that protect the safety and
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding several proposed bills, including Senate Bill 990, which aims to expand the death penalty criteria. This bill faced substantial opposition from various stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty. They expressed concerns about the effectiveness and fiscal implications of the death penalty, urging the committee to consider alternative methods for ensuring public safety. Testimony highlighted research disputing the efficacy of the death penalty as a deterrent and called for a nuanced approach to justice, particularly concerning crimes against children. In addition to SB990, the committee reviewed SB1362 and SB1379, both related to increasing penalties for financial crimes in response to fraud surges exacerbated by the pandemic. Witnesses, including law enforcement representatives and banking officials, provided testimonies supporting these bills as proactive measures against rising financial fraud cases. The meeting concluded with motions on these bills pending further consideration, reflecting the committee's ongoing commitment to addressing these critical issues while debating the broader implications of each legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part III) Aug 22nd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • In every session, I come to this floor and I tell you about these policies from CRT,
  • I think that's how you get good policy.
  • In the formation of policy in this chamber, I look over
  • It has everything to do with good policy, because this historic...
  • This map is about policy, it's about continuing good policy
Bills: SB2, SB5, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB4
Summary: In the recent committee meeting, the primary focus was on HB4, the congressional redistricting bill. Intense debates ensued regarding the implications of this proposed map on minority voting representation. Senator Zaffirini and other members expressed strong opposition, citing that the redistricting efforts were not only untimely but also undermined the gains made by minority communities in past elections. Significant testimony was provided from the public, showing overwhelming disapproval of the proposed changes, with 98% of the testimonies against the bill. Members highlighted the historical context of disenfranchisement and warned that this redistricting would further dilute the voices of crucial voting blocs in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 12th, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • 361" data-time="2160"> Here as Chancellor, he has worked to prioritize student success, reshaping policies
  • "529" data-time="3168">HB 1521 by Gerdes relates to the implementation of diversity and inclusion policy
  • by Goodwin relates to the expression of breast milk in public buildings and providing for student policies
  • HB 1573 by Jones relates to the school district policy

  • HB 1655 by Schatzlein relates to a policy prohibiting

Summary: The meeting of the committee addressed a broad range of topics with significant attention paid to HB1554 and HB1569. HB1554, presented by Caprigliano, involved discussions on the authority of political subdivisions to utilize public funds for legal services for unlawfully present individuals, which stirred a debate among committee members regarding state resources and responsibilities. In contrast, HB1569, which concerns prohibitive measures on non-consensual medical procedures for minors with intersex traits, generated compelling testimony from advocacy groups and health professionals, stressing the bill’s implications on patient rights and medical ethics. Overall, the committee dedicated time to hearing from both proponents and opponents of these bills, ensuring a thorough examination of the issues at hand.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) May 5th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • " data-time="1926"> If it's shifting to everybody, and don't get me wrong, I think this is a good policy
  • span> Exempting perishable goods from property taxation is good policy
  • Again, in summary, this is a great policy.
  • My name is Joyce, and I am a Public Finance Fellow at Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy
  • While no single policy can solve every economic challenge families face, Senate Bill 2907 is an important
Summary: The committee meeting saw the discussion of several significant bills aimed at reducing the tax burden on small businesses and addressing public services in municipalities. Notably, Senate Bill 2907, introduced by Senator West, proposes to exempt perishable inventory and pharmaceutical goods from property taxes. This bill received robust support during public testimony, with various stakeholders emphasizing its potential to lower food prices and improve business conditions. Similarly, Senate Bill 1331 addressed the protective measures for smaller municipalities facing threats from petitions to remove municipal services, aiming to reduce the requisite population threshold for such actions. The lively discussions underscored the committee's commitment to supporting local communities and businesses in a challenging economic climate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 24th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Edwards Aquifer Alliance, testifying for the bill, and Larry French on behalf of the Texas Public Policy
  • I'm with the Texas Water Association, which is a statewide water policy association focused on water
  • > For the record, my name is Larry French with the Texas Public Policy
  • I'm the Policy Director at the Greater Edwards Aquifer Alliance, and I'm very happy to be able to support
Bills: SB7
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on Senate Bill 7, which aims to enhance Texas's water infrastructure amid growing population and environmental challenges. Various stakeholders, including representatives from engineering firms, environmental organizations, and water associations, testified in support of the bill, emphasizing its potential to address pressing water supply issues and improve infrastructure reliability. Key topics of discussion included water reuse, flood infrastructure funding, and the need for legislative oversight to ensure effective management of financial resources. The testimony underscored the importance of adapting to aging water systems while promoting innovative solutions for sustainability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education May 13th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Time by using data-driven policy decisions.
  • Under current law, Texas post-secondary institutions are required to provide orientations covering policy
  • orientation on the institution's sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking policy
  • I am a policy and advocacy coordinator for the Women's Health Care Coalition.
Summary: The Committee on Higher Education convened to discuss several significant pieces of legislation aimed at enhancing educational outcomes and access in Texas. A notable discussion was around SB2431, which seeks to improve access to foreign language courses through study abroad programs, as demand for such skills continues to grow in various industries. Additionally, SB2786 was presented, aimed at exempting certain public officers from assessment requirements under the Texas Success Initiative, to better accommodate their professional training and development needs. The meeting showcased a range of witnesses and testimonies in support of these initiatives, reflecting the committee's commitment to addressing educational barriers for students and professionals alike.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 31st, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...on some of your treatment under your policy.
  • That verdict to effectuate the policy changes.
  • But also, I believe in policy.

  • Several incidents with minor bumper damage have led to policy limit...
  • ...These are limited liability policies, very small policies
Summary: The Senate Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss several critical pieces of legislation including SB30 and SB38. Senator Betancourt introduced a committee substitute for SB38 which underwent a smooth adoption process, moving it favorably toward the Senate. The meeting featured a mix of invited testimonies where both proponents and opponents took the floor. One notable highlight included a testimony from Melissa Casey, who criticized the current legal state as prone to fraud and detrimental to both insurers and the public at large, contending that it inflated insurance costs across the board. The discussions delved deeply into the implications of the bills on judicial processes and potential insurance ramifications, with spirited debates surrounding issues of non-economic damages and jury rights. The atmosphere remained engaged as committee members heard varied perspectives on the bills, showcasing a robust democratic process. The meeting underscored the importance of public testimony in shaping legislation, ensuring that multiple voices were considered as the committee pressed on towards making decisions that affect the legal landscape of Texas.

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