Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'legislative amendment'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs May 5th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Would that be the Jesus amendment? Would that be okay? I'm serious. I'm not joking.
  • Would you be okay with legislation, if this legislation were amended or changed, that said you can't
  • Last legislative session, this body passed Senate Bill 12, which attempted to ban.
  • The First Amendment is clear: the government cannot.
  • Simply, in this particular piece of legislation, it's four words. It's a word...
Bills: SB34, SB75, SB330, SB1535, SB18
Summary: The committee meeting was focused on several critical pieces of legislation, particularly SB34 aimed at enhancing wildfire response capabilities for volunteer fire departments throughout Texas. This bill introduces a statewide database for firefighting equipment and raises the grant cap for rural volunteer fire departments. Various witnesses, including experts and stakeholders, testified in support of the bill by emphasizing the increasing wildfire threats experienced in recent years. The committee spent considerable time addressing the amendments and concerns surrounding ongoing wildfire risks, ensuring that necessary resources are allocated to combat this urgency effectively. Discussion also revolved around SB75, a bill that seeks to codify security measures for the Texas electric grid in response to potential electromagnetic pulse threats and other vulnerabilities, with multiple testimonies highlighting the considerable risks posed to public safety and infrastructure if inaction persists. In addition to other bills discussed, there were notable debates around SB18 which aims to restrict public funding for libraries hosting certain performances. Critics expressed concerns over the potential limitations on community literacy programs, drawing attention to the overwhelming need for inclusive educational resources to combat literacy issues in Texas. The rigorous dialogue reflected the committee's commitment to not only legislative processes but also the significant impact these decisions hold for the broader Texas community. Overall, the meeting was well-attended, indicating active participation from both members and the public.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If the state of Texas, have you seen the legislation? Yes, we have.
  • Chairman, for your support of this legislation.
  • I would also be interested in seeing what the amendment...
  • Amend this bill, reject it.
  • High school students do have First Amendment rights.
Summary: The meeting saw significant discussions centered around several Senate bills, notably SB2487, SB1698, and SB2101. Senator Parker introduced and advocated for SB2487, which aims to enhance crisis service models for mental health interventions, receiving feedback from various stakeholders during formal testimony. The committee adopted the substitute version of this bill, which emphasizes local governance, expands service options, and tightens clinical timelines, responding to concerns from communities about service accessibility. Furthermore, the bill successfully passed from the committee with unanimous support, moving forward to the full Senate for consideration. In addition to SB2487, the committee reviewed SB1698, focusing on regulatory changes surrounding e-cigarette products. The committee recognized the importance of aligning state law with federal guidelines while ensuring strong consumer protections. Public testimonies included insights from enforcement officials and industry participants, highlighting the newly proposed measures aimed at preventing youth access to e-cigarettes. Lastly, SB2101, which addresses the regulation of sexually explicit materials in public libraries to ensure safe environments for minors, generated mix responses, with testimonies reflecting concerns over censorship and parental rights. The meeting concluded with the passage of SB2819 as well, which addresses political activities of county election administrators.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Mar 24th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I want to thank Representative Zwiener for bringing this piece of legislation.
  • It amends Article 8.
  • It's got hundreds and hundreds of amendments on it already.
  • But if you amend the Constitution like this, what does that threshold go up to?
  • I think they put that on every bill that is a constitutional amendment.
Summary: The meeting of the Ways and Means Committee was marked by significant deliberation on several bills aimed at improving tax policies and supporting community welfare. A noteworthy discussion surrounded HB1256, which proposes tax exemptions for rainwater harvesting systems, reflecting the pressing issue of water conservation amid drought conditions affecting Texas. Representative Zwiener emphasized the necessity of incentivizing families to conserve water, championing the bill as a common-sense solution. The committee also considered HB1632, which aims to make pet food tax-exempt, further engaging legislators in a light-hearted yet crucial dialogue about affordability for pet owners amidst rising living costs. Following these discussions, a series of resolutions and bills were reported favorably out of the committee, including HJR138, which seeks to prohibit a carbon tax in Texas as a precautionary measure against potential economic repercussions. The meeting concluded with clear communication regarding upcoming votes and recommendations for moving these bills forward to the full house. The atmosphere fostered a collaborative spirit as committee members shared their insights on pressing issues, highlighting their commitment to supporting Texas families and communities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We actually think amending the adverse action notice is preemptive.
  • in the non-legislative council.
  • I really thank Representative Hernandez for bringing this important legislation forward.
  • The chair moves that HB1266 without amendment be reported favorably to the full House.
  • I move that HB3320 be amended. Second.
Summary: The meeting of the committee included discussions concerning various bills primarily related to insurance policies, their regulations, and procedures. Notably, HB3812 was introduced to further streamline the prior authorization process in healthcare, enhancing the ease for practitioners to receive approvals for common procedures. The committee also deliberated over HB2213, which focused on the restructuring of the board of directors for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, and there was broad consensus to move it forward. Several other bills, such as HB2518, addressing installment premium payment plans for windstorm insurance, were also discussed and moved to be reported favorably without amendments.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Apr 8th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • no amendments.
  • Therefore, you've got to have a constitutional amendment.
  • Without amendment, this bill rewards a single non-Texan company.
  • Regarding this legislation, seeing none, thank you TABC for being here.
  • I'll use the First Amendment to the United States Constitution.
Summary: The meeting was marked by thorough discussions regarding several pivotal bills aimed at addressing safety and regulatory reforms within various sectors. Notably, House Bill 3352 was a focal point, where industry representatives highlighted the urgent need for enhanced driver safety training in work zones due to a rise in fatalities. Supporters argued that including work zone safety in driver education programs could significantly improve awareness and reduce accidents. Additionally, House Bill 2186 drew scrutiny from small business owners who expressed concerns about the regulatory burden it would impose on electricians and the potential impact on employment within the industry. Despite the commitment to improve safety, stakeholders warned of unintended consequences that could affect operational viability for non-signatory firms.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 4th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • A freshman legislator, Representative Villalobos assumed

  • Also here today are the justices of the peace and constables' legislative teams.
  • a legislator to enact laws providing for a court to grant accommodations for a punishment for certain
  • HB 62 by Schofield, proposing a constitutional amendment
  • HB 64 by Harris, proposing a constitutional amendment to
Summary: The committee meeting predominantly focused on a multitude of bills concerning various legislative amendments. Key discussions included the pros and cons of constitutional amendments, such as one by Schofield proposing year-round daylight savings time, and issues around taxation reforms highlighted by various members. The committee engaged in vibrant discussions, inviting public testimonies from both supporters and opponents of several bills, emphasizing the importance of community input in legislative processes. Notably, there were extensive debates on HB720, which pertains to the Ketamine Treatment Grant Program for veterans and first responders, underscoring the significance of mental health legislation. Members expressed their concerns about implementing the program effectively while ensuring adequate funding and oversight.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 14th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In accordance with our city's legislative program, I'm here.
  • Any legislation that specifically proposes to amend Section 26.04C or 26.041C of the tax code.
  • Are we ultimately undermining the legislation?
  • This legislation...
  • The legislature should not legislate building codes.
Summary: The committee convened to discuss several significant pieces of legislation, primarily focusing on energy policies and public safety regulations. Notable discussions included Representative McLaughlin's HB4341, which mandates energy response maps for critical infrastructure, and received unanimous support for its favorable report. Meanwhile, HB3356 faced substantial opposition due to concerns over its potential to increase consumer costs and the undue penalties it imposes on existing generators. The discussions also touched on Representative Kitzman's HB3120 aimed at improving oversight and regulations for facilities housing unaccompanied minors, reflecting the committee's commitment to child welfare and safety in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice Mar 4th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • As we always say, sometimes we can make legislation a little bit better.
  • That is one of our most sacred duties as legislators: to protect children.
  • As you read some of the legislation, it will be helpful to us if we are missing some.
  • This is the fourth legislative session that this bill has been filed.
  • I'm here to raise some concerns with SB 412 and exclusively that piece of legislation.
Bills: SB20, SB1621, SB412, SB441, SB442
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice focused on legislative measures aimed at enhancing the protection of minors against the evolving threats posed by artificial intelligence and technology in the realm of child exploitation. Multiple bills, including SB20 and SB1621, were introduced to address child sexual abuse material (CSAM), particularly concerning AI-generated content and deep fakes. During the session, committee members highlighted the importance of these initiatives, emphasizing that the current legal framework must adapt to the rapidly changing technological landscape. The discussions emphasized the commitment of the committee members to protect children and the integrity of these legislative efforts. Public testimony brought forth a sense of urgency from both law enforcement and advocacy groups highlighting widespread concerns about the misuse of technology to exploit children.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Mar 31st, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Unfortunately, I have to oppose the legislation today.
  • We do ask you, as the committee, to oppose this legislation.
  • Recent state legislation that would implement online...
  • She remarked, "It's always interesting when I read the legislative history and see legislators saying
  • It is based on the Florida legislation.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on State Affairs featured intense discussions centered around the regulation of tobacco and e-cigarette products, with a particular focus on protecting minors from harmful marketing practices. Senators presented various bills addressing the marketing of these products, which included SB1313, SB1314, and SB1316. Senator Cook laid out SB1313, aimed at prohibiting deceptive marketing techniques that entice minors, alongside testimony from concerned parents advocating for stronger regulations against smoke shops near schools. The committee also examined the App Store Accountability Act, led by Senator Paxson, which aims to ensure age verification for app downloads and hold app stores accountable for protecting minors online. Public testimony played a crucial role in the discussion, with parents and experts weighing in on the necessity of stringent regulations to safeguard youth from exploitation by marketers of addictive products.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We're in legislative session; is there a need to continue...
  • It requires a whole-of-society approach, one that fully leverages state legislative...
  • The chair moves that House Bill 1777, without amendments, be reported.
  • amendments to be printed.
  • Can you help me see how this legislation would protect against that?
Summary: The committee meeting convened to discuss various issues pertinent to recent legislative proposals. Notably, several bills were reviewed and debated, with members expressing differing opinions on their implications and potential impact on the community. Discussions ranged from public safety measures to resource allocation, reflecting the committee's broad mandate and the importance of legislative oversight. Engaging testimonies from citizens and stakeholders underscored the significance of the proposed legislation, bringing personal perspectives and expert opinions into the dialogue.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Why is this even a legislative priority in a state where we...
  • You're a big supporter of our border security legislation.
  • TAC does still do some of our legislative digesting, which is a service.
  • You know, we've worked on the legislative program.
  • the overwhelming volume of legislation, we see that legislation
Summary: The meeting revolved around significant legislative discussions primarily focused on SB8 and SB18. Notably, the committee addressed public testimonies on SB18, which targeted drag performances and LGBTQIA individuals. Testimonies highlighted the potential discriminatory implications of the bill, raising concerns that it undermines constitutional freedoms. Various members of the public expressed both support and opposition, fostering a heated debate about its impact on community rights and protections.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So, upon receipt of an expansion amendment.
  • Would that be something that could be an amendment to this bill?
  • Our own Texas Legislative Library can give you a whole schloss.
  • Instead, this legislation would do the opposite.
  • We urge you to oppose this legislation. Thank you.
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

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Apr 16th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm happy to consider a floor amendment.
  • Renteria, if we amended...
  • Starlab Space in Webster is fully in favor of this important legislation.
  • So yeah, I think it's a great piece of legislation. Thank you.
  • I mean, we could amend that to work if that's better.
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered on several bills related to liability, fraud, and public safety. Representative Slauson's HB1088 concerning healthcare liability claims related to gender modifications was revisited, with discussions highlighting the implications of amendments and a contentious vote that resulted in a 7-4 decision to report it to the full House. Notably, HB4101, led by Vice Chair Hayes, introduced a committee substitute that raised the limited liability from $50,000 to $250,000 for funeral service providers in cases of mental anguish, which passed after brief deliberations. Additionally, the committee discussed HB4281 targeting fraudulent crowdfunding campaigns, aiming to provide victims legal recourse, which sparked an emotional response due to real-life implications presented by witnesses.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The committee substitute, just to make sure, is a legislative
  • The committee substitute is a legislative council draft

  • There's probably very similar legislation throughout the
  • The very views the First Amendment and the state of Texas espouse to protect.
  • It's a credible overreach of state power and specifically violates the Fourth Amendment.
Summary: During the committee meeting, key issues surrounding higher education legislation were discussed, focusing on several significant bills. Notably, discussions revolved around SB2233, which mandates public institutions in Texas to prohibit non-immigrant visa holders from supporting terrorist activities. This bill raised concerns regarding free speech and potential overreach in monitoring students and faculty, with various testimonies highlighting its implications for academic freedom. The bill faced opposition from various civil rights organizations and law students who emphasized that such measures could create a chilling effect on political expression and disproportionately affect marginalized communities. In contrast, SB735 on Holocaust education received strong support, aiming to improve educational resources and awareness amid rising anti-Semitism, with calls for comprehensive training for educators. Other bills discussed included SB2683, which restricts institutional benefits from foreign entities considered to pose a national security risk, further emphasizing the tension between security concerns and academic freedom.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 22nd, 2025 at 11:04 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The substitute amends Section 11059E of the Education Code.
  • chair recognizes Representative Bryant to explain the amendment.
  • The amendment of this statute by the legislation for the
  • That's the purpose of the amendment.
  • When did you file this, or when did you share this amendment with us?
Summary: The committee meeting focused on multiple bills pertaining to educational reforms and initiatives. Notable discussions included the passage of HB824, which aims to expand civics education in Texas high schools, emphasizing the importance of understanding government functions and participation in democracy. The bill received unanimous support from the committee members, reflecting broad consensus on the need for enhanced civic education. Similarly, HB1581 and HB1579 were discussed, aiming to improve bilingual education and establish a state seal of bilingualism and biliteracy for high school students, respectively, thereby emphasizing the educational framework's inclusivity and quality enhancement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In support of the legislation, is that all correct?
  • The amendment would remove that.
  • And so removing the amendment is not doing anything.
  • This amendment just doesn't work like it's supposed to.
  • What this bill does is just strike the amendment on.
Summary: In the recent meeting, the Judiciary and Cellular Disturbance Committee convened to discuss several critical issues, highlighted by the testimony surrounding HB1761. The committee chair emphasized the importance of the bill, gathering a panel consisting of key witnesses who offered various perspectives. Notably, Kathy Ward from the State Commission on Judicial Conduct voiced concerns regarding potential pitfalls of imposing sanctions on false complaints, advocating for a more inclusive process that considers mental health perspectives. Jacob Putnam, a District Attorney, echoed the sentiments, highlighting the bill's implications for public service recruitment and the necessity for competitive pay in public positions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs (Part II) Aug 4th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This piece of legislation serves as...
  • when you all added the amendments during the regular session, are in Section F of the bill.
  • That includes legislative investigations.
  • This is the hub for legislative activity.
  • The Texas Civil Rights Project is opposed to the legislation.
Bills: SB7, SB14
Summary: The meeting centered on a heated discussion regarding SB14, which proposed changes to how police misconduct records are managed and accessed. Numerous witnesses, including representatives from civil rights organizations and concerned citizens, expressed strong opposition to the bill, arguing that it would significantly reduce transparency and accountability within law enforcement agencies. Testimonies highlighted historical failures in police accountability and emphasized the importance of public access to misconduct records to restore community trust. The committee received both emotional appeals and expert opinions, painting a vivid picture of the potential negative impacts of the proposed legislation on police-community relations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I hate to say it, but you can't legislate stupid.
  • It's always interesting when I read the legislative history and see legislators saying, "We took this
  • Age purification mandates are a clear cut infringement of the First Amendment.
  • It's all information, and it's all protected by the First Amendment.
  • And then another few points: First Amendment—this bill does not violate the First Amendment.
Summary: The meeting held by the Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development involved a variety of discussions centered around multiple bills aimed at improving workforce development and addressing contemporary challenges in digital spaces, particularly concerning youth and technology. A notable point in the meeting was the presentation of HB 4196, which aims to modernize Texas's manufacturing sector through digital integration and automation, enhancing job creation and addressing barriers to innovation. Committee members engaged in extensive dialogue with witnesses advocating for and against various bills, with many emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with the protection of consumer rights, particularly in the realm of children's safety online. Committee Chairwoman Button guided the discussions and maintained an efficient pace to cover a considerable number of bills. Several bills passed with bipartisan support, showcasing a collective interest in fostering economic growth through strategic legislative measures. Public testimonies were incorporated into the proceedings, with representatives from various sectors, including education and technology, providing their insights, which enriched the discussions and highlighted community concerns.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • 36">Members of the committee, we do have a committee substitute, and all the substitute is, is a Legislative
  • This legislation simply corrects this minor discrepancy

  • So what we'll have to do, if we vote this out, we will be asking you to do an amendment on the floor
  • The committee substitute amends a drafting error in section.
  • It amends and really expands the definition of that.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on legislative discussions surrounding multiple Senate bills, with a significant emphasis on Senate Bill 2080, which aims to modernize outdated regulations affecting navigation districts and port authorities in Texas. Senator Alvarado led the discussion on this bill, highlighting its potential to streamline operations and enhance flexibility in Texas ports, aligning them with national best practices. Several members of the committee expressed support for this legislation, citing its economic implications for Texas, particularly in relation to job creation and infrastructure improvement. However, concerns were raised by representatives from the city of Corpus Christi regarding provisions within the bill that might expand the port's authority, potentially impacting local governance and tax revenue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 May 20th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This amendment is...

  • one as written, without amendments.
  • This legislation builds on the landmark 1994 Texas Supreme Court decision, Lieper v.
  • An amendment, floor amendment to this.
  • Unless there's federal legislation, we're gonna be in trouble.
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.

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