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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 15th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We'll open public testimony.
  • I'm truly concerned that we're opening the door here unintentionally, and I'd be open to any discussions
  • You're not invited testimony, so we're about to open public testimony.
  • ...them open to predators.
  • No child under the age of 18 will be allowed to open an account.
Summary: During this meeting, the committee engaged in in-depth discussions on several legislative proposals, focusing primarily on HB201, HB796, and HB2702. A key highlight was the debate on HB2702, where Senator Hinojosa detailed the bill's modifications aimed at supporting VFW posts and their critical services to veterans. The legislation seeks to exempt these posts from certain closure restrictions during emergencies, underlining the necessity of keeping veteran support structures readily available. The committee also heard public testimony, where stakeholders expressed strong support for the bill's potential impact on veteran communities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development May 12th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Chair now opens up public testimony.
  • Texas is about openness.
  • I'm going to open it for public testimony.
  • And we are open for public testimony.
  • Seeing none, we'll open for public testimony. I have Shane Lincus here from SOAH.
Summary: The meeting of the Economic Development Committee featured extensive discussions on several bills focused on streamlining processes, improving technology education, and preserving historical sites. House Bill 1240 was presented to unify the definition of the Texas-Mexico border region, which drew no objections during the public testimony segment. Another significant bill discussed was HB2768, aimed at establishing an IT apprenticeship credential to address workforce shortages in state government, indicating a proactive approach to enhancing the state's technical capabilities. The chair emphasized the importance of these initiatives in bolstering both education and economic capacity within Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Administration May 12th, 2025

Senate Administration Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Seeing none, public testimony is now open.

  • We'll now open for public testimony.
  • Now, we'll open public testimony. Anyone wishing to testify for or against HCR75?
  • We'll open for public testimony. Anyone wishing to testify for or against HCR126?
  • No questions, we're open for public testimony.
Summary: The Senate Committee meeting encompassed a variety of discussions surrounding significant bills, including the passage of resolutions aimed at designating specific honors and months for recognition. SB644, relating to palliative care and hospice, was notably highlighted for its recurrence from the previous legislative session, underscoring ongoing support for healthcare improvements. Multiple resolutions, including those aimed at recognizing American patriotism and the contributions of the Tuskegee Airmen, exhibited a theme of honoring historical and present contributions of various groups within Texas. The committee struck a positive tone with unanimous votes on several bills, indicating broad support among members present. Notably, several bills were recommended to be placed on the local and uncontested calendar for future consideration, reaffirming the committee's commitment to advancing legislation efficiently.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 14th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That will have openings for roads.
  • The school opened in 1852, not 1952, 1852.
  • We'll open public testimony on House Bill 791. Anyone wish to testify for or against?
  • Okay, we'll open it up for public testimony.
  • We're going to open up public testimony on House Bill 3611.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Transportation Committee included crucial discussions surrounding various bills pertaining to transportation and public safety. Notably, House Bill 647 was presented to streamline the process for individuals who have undergone corrective eye surgery, allowing them to update their driver's licenses without needing to visit the Department of Public Safety in person. This bill was celebrated for potentially decreasing traffic at DMV offices and optimizing resources, with members expressing general support and a positive sentiment surrounding its passage. Additionally, public testimony was gathered for House Bill 2003, concerning high-speed rail projects, where witnesses voiced differing opinions, emphasizing the bill's relevance to current transit challenges and community impacts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce Apr 10th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We'll open up public testimony on Senate Bill 2154.
  • Hearing none, we're going to open up public testimony.
  • Hearing none, we're going to open up public testimony.
  • Hearing none, we're going to open up to Senator Corker.
  • Hearing none, we're going to open up public testimony.
Summary: The meeting of the committee commenced with the establishment of a quorum, where members discussed and voted on five significant bills related to energy efficiency, insurance regulation, and public utility governance. Notably, Senate Bill 2717 was presented, incorporating feedback to foster collaboration among various state agencies for improved energy efficiency performance. This was followed by a detailed discussion on Senate Bill 1642, which proposed changes to the Texas Department of Insurance's executive structure to optimize management and consumer focus. Each bill saw active participation from senators who moved to adopt committee substitutes for clarity and responsiveness to stakeholder concerns, indicating a proactive approach to legislative issues.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce Mar 18th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Hearing none, the Chair opens up public testimony.
  • We're going to open up public testimony.
  • The Chair opens up public testimony.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is open.
  • I'm open for any questions you may have. Thank you.
Summary: The committee meeting was marked by a series of discussions regarding several bills aimed at improving local regulations, particularly around food service operations. Members discussed the challenges of regulatory inconsistencies affecting restaurants and the food industry, emphasizing how Senate Bill 1008 could alleviate some financial burdens. Various stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Restaurant Association, testified in support of this bill, highlighting the need for clearer and more predictable regulations. The discussions included provisions that would cap local permit fees, preventing duplicate charges that hinder small businesses' operations. Notably, there was strong bipartisan support demonstrated as numerous bills were reported favorably with unanimous votes.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • We will now open invited testimony.

  • As you open up talking about, excuse me, you open up my talk.
  • It reduces the complexity of opening new tasting rooms, and it...
  • Then we will open public testimony.
  • If not, then the chair opens public testimony.
Summary: The meeting conducted by the committee saw extensive discussion surrounding several key bills, including HB4749, SB621, and HB201. Notably, HB3133, which involves legislation regarding explicit deepfake content and social media, was presented and debated vigorously with a committee substitute being proposed to align it with federal standards following the recent federal 'Take It Down' Act. The committee moved to report several bills favorably, including HB1506, emphasizing support for updating laws concerning political contributions and expenditures. Public testimonies were held on various bills, allowing stakeholders to voice their perspectives, particularly on legislation concerning tactical medical professionals and their role during high-risk incidents. The committee concluded the meeting by laying out additional bills for further discussion in subsequent sessions, underscoring a commitment to thorough legislative review.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 7th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If not, we'll open up public testimony on House Bill 2143.
  • If not, we'll open up public testimony on Senate Bill 2799.
  • We'll open up public testimony on Senate Bill 1230.
  • Not hearing any, we'll open up public testimony on Senate.
  • We're now in open public testimony for House Bill.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on reviewing a series of bills with significant implications for local memorials and dedication of roads to honor public servants. Notably, House Bill 1708 was presented by Senator Hinojosa, which aims to designate a section of State Highway 302 as Trooper Kevin Ramirez Vasquez Memorial Highway, in honor of the fallen trooper who lost his life in the line of duty. The bill was supported by different members and received public testimony, highlighting the commitment of law enforcement to honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Additionally, discussions surrounding House Bill 2415 and House Bill 2523 also captured the testimonies of various community members and officials, further emphasizing the community's dedication to memorializing public servants.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 21st, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We'll open up public testimony on House Bill 2427.
  • We'll open up public testimony on House Bill 3966.
  • Okay, we'll open it up for public testimony.

  • We'll open up public testimony on House Bill 3986. Anyone wishing to testify?
  • Hearing none, public testimony is open.

Summary: The committee meeting featured a number of bills focused on local issues, particularly in relation to transportation and public safety. Notably, Senator Alvarado presented HB3966 regarding the relocation of a Greyhound bus terminal to a residential area, which has raised community safety concerns due to increased crime. The bill aims to require commercial bus companies to notify residents before opening new locations, fostering accountability and transparency. The meeting highlighted testimonies from both supporters and opponents regarding the implications of such legislative changes on community dynamics.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Administration (Part I) May 27th, 2025

Senate Administration Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We'll open up for public testimony.
  • Seeing no questions, we'll open public testimony.
  • Seeing none, we'll open for public testimony.
  • Seeing and hearing none, we'll open for public testimony.
  • Seeing and hearing none, we'll open public testimony.
Summary: The meeting held by the committee involved discussions on multiple house and concurrent resolutions including HCR83, HB5689, and HB5655. Senator Hinojosa presented HCR83, which recognizes Rusk County as the Syrup Capital of Texas, emphasizing the cultural significance of ribbon cane syrup production in the area. The resolution passed favorably with no public testimony against it, showcasing community support. Additionally, HB5689, which amends laws regarding the Coal Ranch Improvement District No. 1, was reported favorably to the full Senate alongside HB5655, aimed at improving drainage systems in Fort Bend County. Both bills progressed without opposition, suggesting a consensus among committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 7th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We'll open testimony, and the chair calls Maria Benavides.
  • Just to be clear, we're opening public testimony on Senate Bill 801.
  • We will open up public testimony on all three of those measures.
  • We'll open testimony and...
  • You're just essentially opening the...
Summary: The meeting involved several key discussions surrounding new legislation, notably SB801, which addresses barriers faced by unhoused young adults in obtaining necessary documentation like birth certificates. Witnesses, including Maria Benavides from SA Youth, testified on how these hurdles impact access to jobs and housing, emphasizing the importance of removing financial barriers to obtaining identification. Additionally, the committee examined SB1200, aimed at increasing transparency in lawsuits against defense contractors connected to foreign adversaries, highlighting national security concerns. Senator Cole Corse articulated the bill's aim to disclose relationships between plaintiffs and adversarial nations, promoting accountability in litigation funding.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Seeing none, we'll open up public testimony on Senate Bill 2675.
  • We'll open up public testimony.
  • We'll call you up, sir, and I'm going to open up public testimony on.
  • Let's open up public testimony on Senate Bill 2081.
  • We'll open up public testimony on Senate Bill 1957.
Summary: The committee meeting predominantly focused on various pieces of legislation, notably Senate Bill 2299, which aims to redefine municipal immunity. Deep concerns were raised during discussions, particularly by public witnesses who underscored the bill's potential to undermine citizen accountability and local governance. Representative Monty Bennett argued passionately against the bill, citing its conflict with recent local charter amendments passed by Dallas voters, reflecting a significant public sentiment for local governance autonomy. Multiple attendees voiced strong opposition due to fears of increased litigation against municipalities, which could strain local resources and hinder governance effectiveness. In contrast, proponents of the bill, including city representatives, argued that it is essential for preventing frivolous lawsuits and maintaining fiscal responsibility for city budgets.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government May 19th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Seeing none, we'll open up public testimony on...
  • Hearing none, we'll open up public testimony on House Bill 4809.
  • Hearing none, we'll open up public testimony on H.J.R. 34.
  • Hearing none, we'll open up public testimony on House Bill 2013.
  • Seeing none, we will now open it up to public testimony.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on a range of bills covering various legislative matters. Notably, bills concerning property rights, environmental sustainability, and public safety were debated prominently. HB2011 was presented and discussed in detail, with supporters highlighting its importance for ensuring property owners can repurchase their land if it has been acquired through eminent domain without due payments of property taxes. Furthermore, Senator Cook emphasized the need for accountability in the process while several senators expressed concerns regarding potential unintended consequences of new laws affecting local jurisdictions and public safety standards. Public testimony was also received from stakeholders both in support and against various bills, reflecting a diverse range of views on the proposed legislation. In addition to HB2011, several other bills, including HB4809 and HB2421, moved forward with recommendations for passage and were set for future calendars.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I do have open public testimony. It's actually a resource witness.
  • HSB 569, I'll open public testimony.
  • Chair opens up public testimony on House Bill 1690.
  • At this time, we will open up public testimony on House Bill 654.
  • At this time, we'll open up public testimony on House Bill 2078.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on a variety of bills primarily concerning water management and rights. Significant discussions included House Bill 3333, which addressed the management of groundwater and was moved favorably with a recommendation for local and contested calendars. Additionally, House Bill 4158 was passed unanimously, relating to the oversight of ecological water rights dedicated to the Texas Water Trust. Members of the committee emphasized the importance of these bills for sustainable water management practices in the state, reflecting a shift towards more responsible governance in resource use.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 5th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Would it open up?
  • So, if there are no other questions, we will open testimony on Senate Bill 82.
  • Open public testimony on Senate Bill 82, the chair calls Gary Zimmerman. Mr.
  • We will close invited testimony and open public testimony.
  • The floor is now open for public testimony for House Bill 119.
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs held a comprehensive meeting focused on several noteworthy bills, particularly those related to the Texas Lottery Commission and foreign adversaries. Discussions were led by various members, including Senator Hall, who expressed serious concerns regarding the legality and integrity of practices within the Lottery Commission, alleging that it has enabled a series of fraudulent activities. Testimonies were heard from stakeholders advocating for House Bill 130, aimed at protecting Texans' genetic information from foreign access. The committee also reviewed House Bills 119 and 581, which tackle transparency in dealings with lobbyists connected to foreign adversaries and address child safety against evolving technological threats, including deepfake technology, respectively. The atmosphere was engaging, with active participation from both committee members and witnesses from various organizations arguing for or against the proposed legislation. The meeting concluded with gratitude expressed towards the committee staff for their efforts in facilitating a productive session, acknowledging both the importance of the issues at hand and the various testimonies provided. The members agreed on the significance of regulating the Lottery Commission more effectively and ensuring the protection of Texans from potentially harmful external influences. All bills were left pending for further discussion and refinement in future meetings.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 23rd, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • We will open up public testimony on House Bill 2012. Are there any witnesses?
  • We're going to open up public testimony on House Bill 3642.
  • Chairman Nichols, if not, we'll open public testimony. We have... excuse me, Mike.
  • If not, we'll open public testimony.
  • One is, you can open it, like, right here.
Summary: The meeting conducted by the Senate Transportation Committee focused on the evaluation and passage of various bills, including House Bills 1960, 2012, 2686, 3642, 3815, 3928, and 4520. Notably, HB1960 honors the late Lieutenant Milton Gabriel Veracendez for his service, and saw minimal public testimony, indicating broad support. Additionally, HB3815 proposed the creation of specialty license plates for U.S. Army Rangers, eliciting emotional and supportive responses from representatives and witnesses alike. All bills discussed were passed with unanimous votes without opposition, reflecting a cooperative effort among committee members to advance significant legislative initiatives. During the meeting, the atmosphere was congenial, with committee members commending each other for their collaborative spirit and contributions to public service. The committee declared its intention to adjourn after resolving the current bills, indicating a successful conclusion to the meeting. Public participation was limited, suggesting that stakeholders in the community largely supported the bills.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine reforming SBIR-STTR for the 21st century. Mar 5th, 2025 at 01:30 pm

Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I now recognize Ranking Member Markey for his opening statement.
  • So how can we ensure real and open competition in the SBIR program?
  • I'm open to whomever can answer that question.
  • They have the flexibility to decide on how many open topics.
  • Instead, we need to open it up to open topics.
Summary: The meeting focused on the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer Programs (SBIR-STTR), emphasizing the critical reforms necessary to enhance their effectiveness. Chair Ernst introduced the Innovate Act to streamline processes, ensuring funding is awarded based on merit and addressing existing abuses within the system. The discussion was robust, with numerous members expressing concerns about phase transitions and the need for targeted funding to support impactful technological innovations. The conversation also highlighted the program's importance in fostering economic growth, particularly for small businesses in rural areas, and the urgency for legislative changes as the program's authorization approaches expiration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 1st, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We'll open public testimony on House Bill 1393.
  • We'll open public testimony on Senate Bill 2417.
  • Covey testifies, we'll open public testimony.
  • Very good, we'll open up testimony on Senate Bill 1888.
  • We'll open public testimony, and the chair calls Judge Shepard.
Summary: The committee meeting featured extensive discussions focused on time legislation, including HB1393 and SB692. The primary subject was the proposal to adopt permanent daylight saving time, which sparked diverse opinions from committee members and witnesses. Supporters like Erica Boyd, President and CEO of the Texas Travel Alliance, advocated for the benefits of extended daylight for outdoor activities and tourism, while others expressed health concerns and the disruption that early darkness in winter months could cause to families. Testimony revealed a split in public sentiment, further complicating the legislative decision-making process. Additional bills, such as SB2943 regarding religious freedom protections for occupational licenses, also received attention, showcasing the breadth of topics covered in this meeting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Testimony for the committee substitute Senate Bill 1610 is now open.
  • The floor is open for invited testimony.
  • If someone makes an open records request or something to the...
  • Testimony on Committee Substitute Senate Bill 781 is now open.
  • The chair now opens public testimony.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to deliberate several bills aimed at enhancing the protection of victims in cases of sexual assault and human trafficking. The meeting featured discussions on Senate Bills SB781, SB836, and SB1610, which introduced measures to improve the criminal justice processes related to these serious offenses. Senator King and other members emphasized the necessity of providing law enforcement with the tools needed to combat these crimes while simultaneously safeguarding victims' rights and privacy during trials. Notably, SB836 proposed significant changes that would prevent live streaming of sexual assault trials without consent to protect the dignity of victims, while SB781 sought to standardize the confidentiality of peace officers' personal information to enhance their safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We'll open public testimony.
  • We'll open public testimony.
  • We'll open the testimony on Senate Bill 2881.
  • We'll open testimony on Senate Bill 2363.
  • We'll open public testimony on Senate Bill 3014.
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened for a detailed examination of SB1065. The session was marked by comprehensive discussions surrounding the potential implications of this legislation. Members engaged in dialogue regarding the bill's objectives, with presentations from the bill's author and various stakeholders, highlighting differing perspectives on its necessity and impact. Public input was also sought, allowing for a range of opinions to be expressed, which enriched the deliberative process. Notably, Senator Haldeman emphasized the importance of the bill for improving community resources and addressing urgent needs in public services.

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