Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Texas Veterans Commission'

Page 24 of 58
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 7th, 2025 at 03:30 pm

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm a 30-person, disabled Marine veteran, and I work for Gilded Extracts, a fully licensed Texas-based
  • And make no mistake about it, SB3 will destroy a critical lifeline for Texas veterans.
  • Show the Texas veterans and our families.
  • Here in the state of Texas. I know y'all worship veterans, but you do absolutely nothing for us.
  • This is a nonpartisan effort pushed by Texas veteran and Congressman Morgan Luttrell.
Bills: HB28, SB3
Summary: The meeting featured significant discussions regarding HB28, where the chair outlined the plans to bring forward a substitute for the bill. The chair emphasized the importance of maintaining order and decorum during the proceedings. Members engaged in deliberations, and a number of public witnesses were invited to testify, thereby enriching the discussion around the bill. This interaction provided valuable insights into public sentiment regarding the issues at hand.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Committee on Education K-16 Apr 3rd, 2025 at 09:00 am

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • rights in Texas.
  • families on our Texas mailing list.
  • and citizens of the state of Texas.
  • Sabrina Gonzalez with the Arc of Texas.
  • For students and parents across Texas, the...
Summary: The meeting focused on significant education reform, particularly the transition of the University of Houston-Victoria into the Texas A&M system. Senator Kohlkorst led the discussions, highlighting the historical context of the partnership and the challenges ahead in transitioning governance, especially regarding accreditation and technical support. Community leaders expressed their support, emphasizing the need for alignment with regional industry needs to enhance educational programs that would ultimately benefit both students and the local economy. Notably, testimony from James Hallmark and Dwayne Crocker highlighted both the potential growth for the region and the collaborative spirit of the involved institutions in implementing this transition.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Administration Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Administration Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • 13" data-time="72"> With stakeholders and steak eaters alike to ensure we honor this great steak of Texas
  • The nation's leading beef producer, Texas is the number one
  • The Texas Strip steak urges the Texas Department of Agriculture to promote it as a key component of Texas's
  • also emphasizes the importance of supporting local producers and preserving the unique flavors of Texas
  • It invites everyone to celebrate our delicious Texas Strip steak and to continue building a vibrant food
Bills: SCR4, SCR18, SCR31, SCR43, SCR46
Summary: The Senate Committee on Administration convened to discuss SCR46, a resolution aimed at renaming the 'New York Strip Steak' to 'Texas Strip Steak' in tribute to Texas's significant agricultural heritage. Senator Sparks presented the resolution, emphasizing Texas's position as the number one beef cattle producer in the United States. The discussion highlighted the importance of the beef industry in Texas, with an emphasis on the economic contributions and cultural significance of ranchers and farmers in shaping local cuisine. The meeting also allowed for public testimony, which indicated strong community interest in the matter.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Mar 6th, 2025 at 08:03 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • in Texas.
  • I was born and raised in Austin, Texas.
  • Texas public schools need your help.
  • Members of the Texas Legislative Committee.
  • I chaired the Texas Commission on Special Education Funding.
Bills: HB2
Summary: The Public Education Committee meeting primarily focused on discussions related to House Bill 2, which addresses public education funding and the need for increased Texas teacher salaries. Testimonies were provided by various educators and stakeholders expressing concerns about the existing funding levels, particularly highlighting the inadequacy of the proposed $220 per student increase, which many believe falls short of what is necessary to meet inflation and the growing costs of education. During the testimony, members emphasized the need for a substantial increase to at least $1,300 per student, citing a critical shortage of certified teachers and the impact this has on student learning outcomes. Witness statements indicated that without a significant funding overhaul, students and teachers would continue to suffer from underfunded programs and resources.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • As I indicated, I'm James Hallmark with the Texas A&M University System.
  • It represents a strategic investment in the educational and economic future of Texas.
  • As Texas focuses on building our water.
  • I'd also say that anyone who knows Texas A&M knows that 12 is a magic number.
  • That's all the bill does, a simple fix to align Texas law.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Education convened to discuss several important bills, prominently featuring Senate Bill 2361, which proposes the transition of the University of Houston-Victoria into the Texas A&M University System. Testimonies from community leaders such as Mayor Dwayne Crocker highlighted the significant positive implications this shift could have for local education and economic development. The consensus was that the integration would not only elevate educational opportunities but also enhance the region's workforce alignment with industry needs, particularly in fields like engineering and agriculture. Additionally, SB 530 was introduced, focusing on removing restrictions on which accrediting bodies universities can engage for accreditation, a move that aims to modernize Texas educational regulations to align with recent federal changes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Urban Development, as well as the Texas Board of Nursing and others.
  • Well, we live in Texas; we've got quite a lot of freedom down here.
  • I'm sure there is, but I'm focused on Texas.
  • to ensure that they actually sell fruits and vegetables across Texas?
  • When we look at Texas specifically, it's important to note that 20.3% of children...
Summary: During this meeting of the committee, key discussions were held regarding various bills, particularly those concerning contract requirements related to the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). Multiple bills, such as HB4129, HB4130, and HB4131, were unanimously reported favorably without any debate, showcasing a clear consensus among members about their importance in regulating contracts with single-source continuum contractors. Notable attention was also directed towards HB3750, which pertains to reimbursement for legal expenses incurred by DFPS employees, demonstrating acknowledgment of the need to protect staff operating in complex legal environments. Public testimony was welcomed, allowing voices from the community to add value to the legislative dialogue. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue examining the implications of these bills as they move forward in the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Feb 4th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • as well as the state of Texas.
  • within the state of Texas.
  • It's also home to Texas A&M University-McAllen Higher Education Center and South Texas College.
  • is best Texas.
  • As we know, West Texas is Best Texas.
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

Insurance Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We have you registered as John Litzler, Baptist General Convention of Texas, Christian Life Commission
  • Christian Life Commission.
  • across the state of Texas.
  • And we know that in Texas.
  • Protecting Texas Children believes in the inherent dignity and worth of every Texas citizen.
Summary: The committee meeting addressed several key bills, with significant discussions surrounding HB778, which focuses on insurance coverage for individuals undergoing gender transition and those wishing to detransition. During the presentations, the bill's author, Chairman Leach, emphasized the importance of ensuring coverage for potential adverse effects from gender transition procedures. However, concerns were raised by various witnesses regarding the potential implications of limiting coverage for transgender care, leading to heated debates and a range of testimonies from both supporters and opponents of the bill. HB2517 and HB2213 also received attention, with discussions centered on insurance premiums and board eligibility for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, respectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 2nd, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I represent the Texas Coalition for Affordable Insurance Solutions.
  • I represent the Insurance Council of Texas.
  • David Durden, GM, Texas Wind and Storm Insurance Association.
  • coast but also to the citizens of Texas.
  • We show John Schnautz, Insurance Council of Texas, for HB 1576.
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance revolved around discussions primarily focused on the intricacies of multiple proposed bills aimed at reforming insurance regulations, particularly in the context of windstorm insurance. Chairman Hunter introduced HB3689, which seeks to create a more equitable funding system for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association by eliminating costly debt financing options. Multiple testimonies from representatives of the insurance industry highlighted collaboration efforts that have resulted in more affordable coverage options for residents in coastal regions. Key stakeholders, including insurance experts and affected constituents, expressed overwhelming support for the proposed changes, emphasizing the urgent need for reform to combat the rising costs that have burdened homeowners over the years. Additionally, discussions around HB1576 focused on incentivizing homeowners to improve the resilience of their properties against weather-related damage through a proposed grant program administered by the Department of Insurance. This proposal was deemed a significant step toward stabilizing insurance costs and encouraging safer construction practices.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education May 6th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • At the University of North Texas and the University of Texas
  • Make Texas higher education thrive.
  • You know, I had the opportunity, the pleasure, the honor of working at the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission
  • I recently graduated from Texas A&M International University in Laredo, Texas.
  • University of Texas at Dallas student.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on heated discussions surrounding SB37 and HB4848, with numerous testimonies given by concerned citizens, educators, and students. Advocates for SB37 emphasized the need for educational reform, arguing that current higher education standards are overly influenced by political ideologies and do not adequately prepare students for the workforce. Opponents voiced strong concerns about the bill's potential to undermine academic freedom and lead to the removal of essential courses from the curriculum, which would diminish the quality of education in Texas. The meeting highlighted a clear divide on the future of educational policies and governance in universities, reflecting broader social and political tensions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations May 5th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'd like to call up Chairman Brooke Popp of the Texas Commission
  • She has been reappointed by the Governor to serve as Chair of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
  • important work for the Commission and for the state of Texas
  • I'm Chairwoman of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
  • Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.
Summary: The meeting focused on discussions regarding the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's (TCEQ) oversight and regulations concerning Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs). Several members expressed concerns about the rapid growth facilitated by the creation of MUDs, with particular emphasis on the legislative authority over such entities. Senator Birdwell highlighted the importance of legislative control over MUD creation, discussing the second and third-order impacts on local communities and infrastructure. The discussion was characterized by a view that the current approval processes may lack necessary scrutiny, leading to community concerns about environmental impacts and infrastructure strain as new developments arise. Public testimony revealed a sense of urgency among constituents regarding environmental regulations and the role TCEQ plays in managing the challenges of population growth. Members of the committee raised issues around the clarity of TCEQ's powers and responsibilities, advocating for more transparency and proactive community engagement from the agency. As the meeting concluded, the need for improved communication and the importance of ensuring compliance with state law were emphasized, with a promise from TCEQ representatives to address these concerns moving forward.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • From West Texas to East Texas, our communities are in a crisis.
  • Texas town of Post.
  • As a physician, veteran, patient, and father, I urge Texas lawmakers to take a stand and support SB 911
  • , the Heal Texas Act.
  • Texas is just...
Bills: SB2, SJR36, SB2, SB2, SR29, SB2
Summary: The committee meeting centered around the discussion of SB911, the Heal Texans Act, aimed at improving access to healthcare in underserved areas of Texas. Senator Cesar Blanco opened the discussion by highlighting the healthcare crisis affecting millions of Texans, emphasizing the need for immediate reform to allow nurse practitioners (APRNs) to deliver essential services without cumbersome regulations. The senator expressed gratitude towards his colleagues, including Vice Chair Charles Perry, for their joint efforts in advocating for this critical legislation. The need for SB911 was reiterated by several speakers, including healthcare advocates and those impacted by the lack of accessible care, underscoring personal stories that illustrated the dire situation faced by many rural residents who cannot easily reach medical care.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm alert to the model that has now been implemented by Texas and Taiwan.
  • Through the Texas Legislative U.K.

  • families, Texas communities, Texas businesses, and the great state of Texas as a whole.
  • We're excited; it's a great opportunity for Texas.
  • With Texas, we'll be in great standing going forward.
Summary: The meeting was convened to announce the formation of the Texas Legislative U.K. Caucus, aimed at strengthening the relationship between Texas and the United Kingdom. Representative Claudia Ordaz and other legislators discussed the historical significance of this relationship and its implications for trade, cultural exchange, and innovation. The formation of this caucus is seen as a vital step towards promoting Texas interests abroad and enhancing bilateral policy discussions on key economic sectors such as energy, technology, and healthcare. Talks included plans for establishing a Texas trade office in the U.K., inspired by successful models with Texas and Taiwan.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm a United States Navy disabled veteran.
  • The Department of Veterans Affairs carries out red flag policies on its veterans as seen in their patient
  • It's 17 veterans a day for the VA. That's minus DOD, but it's 20 veterans a day for overdose.
  • We don't have one in Texas, so we can't really say what it is going to look like in Texas.
  • I'm a Navy veteran.
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 Regular

Nominations Apr 14th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas Transportation Commission, Senator Parker, and Senator
  • Continued service on the Texas Transportation Commission will ensure that we maintain steady.
  • I am honored to be here today as a nominee of the Texas Transportation Commission.
  • as a member of the Texas Transportation Commission.
  • General Boyd is a proud Texan from Cristobal and a Texas Army National Guard veteran with over 30 years
Summary: The Senate Committee on Nominations convened to address various nominee confirmations, highlighting the significance of higher education and environmental management. Discussions centered around the responsibilities of the Brazos River Authority and the need for effective cooperation with the legislature and other state authorities. Several senators raised concerns regarding the agricultural runoff affecting impaired streams leading into the Brazos River. The committee emphasized the importance of stewardship, collaboration, and facilitating a balance between resource utilization and environmental protection.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 29th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm representing Texas Turf, Texans for Toll-Free Highways, True Texas Project, Grassroots America, and
  • It's also a Republican Party of Texas priority bill.
  • households in Texas.
  • , sell, and design new specialty plates in the state of Texas.
  • Bringing home delivery to Texas...
Summary: The committee meeting featured significant discussion around various bills impacting transportation, housing, and public safety. Notably, House Bill 4348 garnered substantial opposition due to concerns that it could hinder local governments' ability to address safety improvements on their streets, potentially impacting affordable housing initiatives. Representatives from community organizations expressed that the bill would punish cities attempting to enhance road safety, while proponents argued it encourages effective use of transportation facilities. House Bill 4402 regarding autonomous vehicle regulation also sparked a heated debate about safety concerns related to driverless trucks operating without human oversight, with passionate testimonies both for and against the bill.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 14th, 2025 at 09:04 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • of Texas, Texas City Management Association, Texas Municipal
  • Human Resources Association, the Texas Municipal League, the Texas Municipal Police Association, Texas
  • taxpayer dollars remain in Texas and are reinvested in Texas.
  • in Texas.
  • , Texas, with locations in the four major regions of the state, including South Texas, Central Texas,
Summary: The meeting involved extensive discussions around several house bills, with notable emphasis on HB700, which aims to increase transparency in the merchant cash advance (MCA) sector. Representative McQueen provided a detailed explanation of the issues small business owners face due to aggressive tactics and lack of regulation in this area. The committee also examined HB4609, which focuses on updating the Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) benefits to provide clearer options for cities regarding cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), allowing cities to offer retirement benefits in a more flexible and informed manner. Additionally, the meeting featured a strong public testimony segment, where witnesses voiced their support and concerns, especially regarding the implications of digital currencies framed in HB703.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Aug 22nd, 2025 at 10:08 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Representatives from the Texas Jail Project.
  • Alicia Castillo, representing the Texas Civil Rights Project.
  • of Texas, in rural Texas, is that public corruption, public investigation, public integrity role when
  • They can utilize the Texas.
  • There are very few agencies out here in Texas that are not affected by this issue.
Bills: SB15
Summary: The committee meeting centered around the discussion of SB15, which aims to standardize record-keeping protocols for law enforcement agencies across the state. It received a mixed reception from committee members and witnesses, with significant concern raised regarding its potential to obscure misconduct and limit public transparency. Public testimony included strong dissent from individuals and organizations advocating for greater accountability in policing, who argued that the bill could enable law enforcement agencies to suppress critical information under the guise of confidentiality. Significant dialogue pertained to the implications of the bill in light of recent events that highlighted the need for transparency in police conduct, particularly in controversial cases such as the Uvalde school shooting. Ultimately, the bill was passed out of committee with minimal opposition.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • These reviews occur every five years and rely on data from the Texas Workforce Commission, the institutions
  • 100,000 families on our Texas mailing list.
  • interests of young conservatives in Texas.
  • of the state of Texas.
  • Texas' contribution to the oil and gas industry remains substantial.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Education covered various significant bills focused primarily on improving educational accessibility and accountability in Texas. Notably, Senate Bill 2252, aimed at supporting kindergarten readiness and early literacy, received a commendable endorsement from the committee, showcasing a unifying approach towards enhancing foundational education. Additionally, Senate Bill 1962, concerning public school accountability, stirred proactive discussions about the challenges faced by school systems, further bringing forth various stakeholder insights during public testimony. The atmosphere remained engaged as committee members debated the efficacy and implications of each proposal, reflecting a strong commitment to enhancing educational standards across the state. As the meeting progressed, various senators championed their respective bills, emphasizing the importance of flexibility in standardized college entrance exams as highlighted in Senate Bill 1241. The bill proposes to expand acceptable exams beyond the traditional SAT and ACT, reflecting a modernized approach to student assessments. Senators and representatives from key educational organizations contributed testimony, solidifying support for such measures while advocating for the continuous dialogue on educational reforms. With multiple bills reported favorably to the full Senate, the session exemplified a dedicated effort towards fostering educational advancements in Texas.

Research Filters

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