Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'rural housing'
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TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session May 29th, 2025 at 02:05 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- House Concurrent Resolution 168 instructs the enrolling clerk of the house.
- I am pleased to bring House Bill 2 back before the House.
- The House concurs in Senate amendments to House Bill 3133.
- It's House Bill 5696.
- The House concurs in Senate amendments to House Bill 5696.
Bills:
HB5560, HB2, HB24, HB3233, HB1397, HB2067, HB3133, HB5696, HB5680, HB2885, HB3966, HB3556, HB3595, HB144, HB26, HB2038, HB521, HB4, HB1178, HB42, HB1211, HB783, HB3963, HB2240, HB1690, HB1234, HB3372, HB27, HB4211, HB2243, HB2853, HB4638, HJR7, HB100, HB126, HB3783, HB5138, HB2512, HB5616, HB4751, SB17, SB1637, SB1833, SB2155, SB21, SB2778, SB260, SB8, SB12, SB37, SB379, SB441, SB1566, SB2878, HB4112, HB3866, HB4749, HB2844, HB150
Keywords:
groundwater, civil penalties, water conservation, drought contingency, environmental protection, public education, teacher compensation, certification, funding, school finance, educator rights, education funding, charter schools, staff compensation, state aid, retention allotment, zoning, public notice, local government, residential development
Summary:
The committee meeting included discussions on various bills, notably focusing on school safety funding, social media regulations related to drug selling, and an amendment concerning the Texas Pharmaceutical Initiative. SB260 was a key topic, proposing substantial increases to school safety allotments, which was adopted with overwhelming support. Similarly, the discussion around SB2155 addressed significant changes in the handling of veterinary medical examinations and stirred interest from various stakeholders. Members expressed concern about the impact of drug sales on social media, with a strong emphasis on protecting youth from illicit substances, which led to the adoption of legislative measures to enhance penalties for related offenses. The atmosphere was both tense and collaborative as representatives pushed for necessary changes in legislation.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- At the same time, the Senate passed House Bill 3.
Because we passed House Bill 30 last session, and what
- House Bill 30 did was was, instead of using the old rollback
- I think we've already given the counties enough support for rural sheriff and ambulance services.
You address the issue of housing inmates according
Keywords:
gender designation, civil penalties, private civil rights, multiple-occupancy spaces, Texas Women's Privacy Act, property tax, homestead exemptions, Senate Bill 9, legislation, tax relief, committee discussions
Summary:
During this committee meeting, significant attention was directed towards property tax relief and reform, notably through discussions led by Senator Bettencourt regarding the upcoming options for homestead exemptions that would be voted on in November. The committee also reviewed a series of bills, including Senate Bill 9, which was presented as a committee substitute. There was a strong emphasis on how the legislation aims to streamline tax guidelines for local government expenditures while balancing taxpayer relief against budgetary constraints. The meeting was characterized by a collaborative atmosphere where committee members shared insights and feedback on the various bills under consideration.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- In 2023, we supported House Bill 8, which incentivizes community
- This feedback loop is especially critical for rural and under-resourced institutions, which often lack
- It also supports rural communities by aligning local talent with the jobs that exist in their regions
- into the committee substitute for Senate Bill 1786, the House
- ... stipend if you are working in a rural county.
Keywords:
pediatrics, medical education, subsidiary, preceptorship, medical training, student programs, mental health, loan repayment, education funding, mental health professionals, healthcare access, Texas Success Initiative, exemption, public officers, employees, higher education, Capitol view, Austin, urban planning, construction
Summary:
During the meeting, the committee engaged in extensive discussions surrounding several key pieces of legislation, including SB1961, which focuses on improving the data reporting on post-secondary outcomes for graduates. The bill was supported by various stakeholders, including workforce development representatives from Samsung, highlighting the importance of aligning educational outcomes with job market needs. Multiple testimonies were provided that underscored the need for robust data to aid both students and institutions in making informed decisions regarding career paths and education. Additionally, the committee addressed SB1325, which was subject to amendments and subsequently passed, with motivations surrounding the effective distribution of respiratory distress medication in schools.
The meeting concluded with the passage of several bills to favorable reports for further consideration in the Senate, reflecting a collaborative effort to enhance educational compliance and workforce development initiatives throughout Texas. Members actively participated in both providing essential context for these bills and facilitating public input, emphasizing the shared commitment to benefiting the state's educational infrastructure and workforce readiness.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources Mar 19th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- That loan was used to build a rural water system.
- I'm here to testify on House Bill 1177.
- House Bill 1177 is pending.
- Correction, House Bill 1532 pending.
- It's Chairman Harris's intent to vote out House Bill 1400 and House Joint Resolution 7 as pending business
Keywords:
coastal protection, environmental management, Gulf Coast, storm risk management, funding, Texas General Land Office, healthcare, insurance reform, patient access, insurance regulation, affordable care, health insurance, consumer rights, coverage transparency, claims process, insurance regulations, aggregate production, environmental impact, financial responsibility, reclamation
Summary:
The recent committee meeting addressed various critical bills, focusing primarily on water management and flood control across Texas. Notable discussions included House Bill 1177, which proposes introducing stricter penalties for floodplain violations, aiming to deliver swift accountability for ongoing offenses. Representative Cunningham highlighted the urgency of this issue, emphasizing that current enforcement mechanisms lead to prolonged legal challenges, which can heighten flood risks for vulnerable communities. This bill sparked numerous inquiries from members, showcasing the committee's commitment to improving flood management legislation.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Higher Education May 6th, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Higher Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- The report further cites rising housing costs and a decline in housing support due to the COVID-19 pandemic
- Housing programs across Texas differ from all other housing
- Texas housing departments provide students with stable housing in the Texas summer heat and the freezing
- So the housing doesn't necessarily...
Student housing, I mean family housing on campus was
Keywords:
living expenses, higher education, student support, homeless students, financial aid, grant program, baccalaureate degrees, higher education, junior colleges, workforce development, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, competency-based education, baccalaureate degree, higher education, cost of attendance, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, dual credit, computer science, higher education, course credit
Summary:
The meeting focused on several significant bills, with notable discussions surrounding SB37, which aims to overhaul the governance and curriculum oversight of higher education in Texas. Representative Shaheen expressed that the bill is intended to ensure that degrees earned in Texas are valuable and properly aligned with workforce demands. Witnesses presented both support and opposition to the bill, presenting various perspectives on its potential impact on academic freedom and educational quality. One associate professor voiced concerns regarding SB37, arguing it could stifle open discussions and critical thinking in classrooms by imposing political oversight on curricula. The discussion highlighted a divide between representatives who support increased legislative oversight and those who fear it will undermine educational integrity.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
The chair lays out House Bill SB 2480.
- The intent was that everybody would pay that fee with regards to House Bill 1998.
- This Senate Bill aims to improve how we respond to mental health and housing issues.
- Representative King, I do a lot of work in my community within the House.
After my release, I faced housing insecurity.
Keywords:
dentistry, botulinum toxin, aesthetic treatments, dental regulation, training, medical staff privileges, hospital administration, healthcare regulation, Texas Health and Safety Code, consistency in privileges, physician health, regulation, surcharges, occupational licensing, national practitioner data bank, healthcare, training, abuse, neglect, penalties
Summary:
The meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding mental health and homelessness, particularly through the lens of SB2487, which aims to provide better mental health services and support systems for individuals in crisis. Testimonies highlighted the shortcomings of current interventions, which often lead to incarceration rather than treatment, and emphasized the need for a centralized hub to assist people experiencing mental health crises. Various stakeholders, including city officials and social service representatives, voiced their support for the bill, citing its potential to improve access to care and reduce the burden on emergency services, such as jails and hospitals. However, concerns were raised regarding the implementation and the potential for coercion in treatment options, suggesting that the bill could undermine established rights to voluntary mental health care.
The committee also addressed SB437, which pertains to modernizing training for substance use disorder providers in Texas, and SB660, regarding safety measures for emergency rooms. The overall tone of the meeting reflected a commitment to reforming how the state handles mental health crises and the intersection of homelessness, with a clear push for systems that prioritize compassionate care rather than punitive measures.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs Feb 24th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- We do have a couple of houses.
- The intent of House Bill 32...
- Senate unanimously and by the House 136 to 8.
What I like about House Bill 3232...
- Senate Committee on Water and Agriculture and Rural...
Keywords:
Senate Committee, Water and Agriculture, SB384, Operation Game Thief, poaching, legislative measures, public support, funding
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Water and Agriculture and Rural Affairs convened under the leadership of Chairman Kelly Hancock, who opened the meeting with a prayer in remembrance of Chairman Perry, who was absent due to a personal loss. The session focused on the discussions surrounding SB384, which aims to support the longstanding initiative known as Operation Game Thief. Senator Flores presented the bill, emphasizing its essential role in the fight against poaching through public support. The operation has a successful track record of convictions but is currently dependent on donations and merchandise sales for funding. The committee aimed to vote on multiple bills during this session, contingent on achieving a quorum. Notably, discussions also revolved around fiscal notes on two bills that were set aside for later consideration, indicating the committee's intention to carefully manage their legislative decisions. The meeting showcased a productive atmosphere, with committee members actively engaged in the review and potential advancement of key legislative measures.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services (Part I) Mar 26th, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- to define rural hospitals for the purposes of this bill.
- Things get hung up in the House sometimes.
- I am housed within HHSC, but I do...
- You know, and again, House Bill 658 was repealed.
- Johnson, when we had House Bill 658, where at least five...
Bills:
SB397, SB481, SB596, SB760, SB855, SB1195, SB1196, SB1233, SB1257, SB1318, SB1368, SB1388, SB1398, SB1524, SB1558, SB1589, SB1677, SB1792, SB2034
Keywords:
data privacy, consumer rights, technology, business regulation, cybersecurity, emergency preparedness, nursing facilities, assisted living, resident safety, power outage, voting by mail, assisted living, nursing facilities, legal guardian, electoral process, foster care, medical consent, out-of-network, healthcare access, Medicaid
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services convened to discuss various pieces of legislation, addressing critical issues affecting healthcare and social services in Texas. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 481, which mandates backup power provisions for nursing homes and assisted living facilities to ensure the safety of vulnerable residents during outages, and Senate Bill 596, aimed at improving reporting requirements related to child welfare, enhancing the oversight of removals and placements. The committee also reviewed several other bills aimed at supporting healthcare access and enhancing protections for children under various circumstances.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Senate Select Committee on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding Aug 8th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- This bill was passed unanimously by the Senate last session but died in the House on the calendar.
- Many rural river systems in Flash Flood Alley are home to youth camps, campsites, RV parks, and other
- If I'm a commercial enterprise and I've taken people under my tutelage to actually house them within
- To your point, Senator Perry, FEMA does not do long-term permanent housing.
- I want to make sure that if I'm a camp that houses adults sometimes, that it’s clear.
Keywords:
disaster response, Senate Bill 1, Senate Bill 2, flood management, water conservation, public safety, training and education, emergency management
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several critical bills related to disaster response and water conservation. Senate Bill 1, the Natural Disaster Omnibus Bill, was extensively discussed, with testimonies reflecting on recent flooding incidents in Texas. Senator Perry emphasized the need for policy solutions to prevent future tragedies following historic flooding that resulted in significant loss of life. The committee adopted the committee substitutes for both SB1 and SB13 without objection, highlighting the broad support for these initiatives aimed at water conservation and improved emergency response protocols. Additionally, members expressed the importance of training and educating officials involved in disaster management to ensure they are equipped to handle emergencies effectively.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Agriculture & Livestock Jul 21st, 2025 at 01:07 pm
House Agriculture & Livestock Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Please also ensure that, pursuant to House rules, you remain visible and audible for the duration of
- Because a house divided will not succeed.
- The economic ripple effect could reach every rural community in Texas.
- ...28% of the rural working lands in Texas.
- This revenue helps sustain rural Texas.
Keywords:
New World Screwworm, pest control, livestock, agriculture, Texas Animal Health Commission, sterile fly production, economic impact, public awareness, emergency response
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on the urgent issue of the New World Screwworm and its implications for Texas agriculture. Members heard urgent testimonies emphasizing the need for funding and resources to combat the potential spread of this pest, which poses severe threats to livestock and wildlife. Many representatives voiced concerns about the inadequacy of current sterile fly production capacities and the potential economic impact on the state's ranchers and farmers, with estimates suggesting losses could reach billions. Discussions also included coordination efforts among state and federal agencies to prevent the introduction and spread of the pest, with a notable emphasis on the importance of public awareness and rapid response strategies.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Public Education Mar 4th, 2025 at 02:30 pm
House Public Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
House Bill 2.
- I know we've heard some concerns from the rural districts.
- House Bill 19 or House Bill 3 in 2019, when they passed the
- I'm testifying in support of House Bill 2. Thank you.
- So I want to thank you for House Bill 2.
Bills:
HB2
Keywords:
public education, teacher compensation, certification, funding, school finance, educator rights, education funding, charter schools, staff compensation, state aid, retention allotment, House Bill 2, special education funding, Texas, funding gaps, education, stakeholder testimony, tiered funding system
Summary:
The meeting focused on House Bill 2, which aims to reform funding for special education in Texas. Various stakeholders, including educators and administrators, testified on the importance of the bill, highlighting current funding gaps and the need for increased resources to adequately support students with disabilities. Testimony revealed that many school districts are experiencing a significant funding shortfall, forcing them to seek additional local funding sources to cover the costs of necessary services. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for a new tiered funding system, which was met with cautious support due to the ambiguities surrounding its implementation.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Congressional Redistricting, Select Aug 1st, 2025 at 10:08 am
Transcript Highlights:
- How many that are on the House?
- It's broken the House; the House can't function and the Senate is broken because of the filibuster.
- I ain't never been in your house, but I'm gonna tell you how I want your house to look.
- House.
- House of Representatives.
Keywords:
redistricting, HB4, congressional maps, public testimony, demographics, transparency, representation
Summary:
The meeting focused heavily on congressional redistricting, centering around the discussion of HB4, a bill that aims to revise the congressional map based on population shifts and other demographic factors. Notable was Vice Chair Rosenthal's critique of the process and the lack of transparency regarding the bill's plans which he characterized as a 'rigged matter'. Multiple public hearings were conducted prior to this meeting, allowing citizens to register opinions about the congressional lines, and numerous testimonies were presented both for and against the proposed changes in the districts. The testimony revealed significant concern over how the redistricting could impact various communities and representations moving forward.
Discussions included the implications of changing demographics, and members addressed how the modifications aimed to promote fair representation while considering historical voting patterns. As the committee adjourned, there were hints of continued deliberation on the matter with members expressing intention to finalize the bill in a subsequent session. The meeting demonstrated the committee's commitment to addressing public sentiment and legislative responsibility regarding district boundaries.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Chair, for allowing me to lay out House Bill 2070.
- I'm here in strong support of House Bill 3595.
- We urge you to support House Bill 3595.
- We have plans in place and House Bill 3595.
- House Bill 4116 is a much-needed step forward.
Bills:
HB741, HB1199, HB2070, HB2402, HB2542, HB2665, HB2789, HB3096, HB3396, HB3595, HB3747, HB4116, HB4127
Keywords:
child welfare, relative caregiver, monetary assistance, Department of Family and Protective Services, child custody, family law, emergency power, nursing facilities, assisted living, generator requirements, health and safety, emergency generators, nursing facilities, assisted living, power outage, health and safety, emergency generator, nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, power source
Summary:
The committee meeting encompassed a comprehensive discussion regarding various legislative matters, including the critical examination of HB741, HB341, HB582, and HB471. Representative Gervin Hawkins presented HB741, aimed at enhancing financial support for relative caregivers, ensuring an alignment in assistance with licensed foster parents to foster kinship placements. This initiative was met with supportive testimonies from several stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of keeping children connected with their families for stability. Furthermore, representatives voiced differing views on the proposed regulations in HB341 and HB582, leading to a vibrant debate where several public members provided insight into practical implications and potential consequences of the bills.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Higher Education Apr 1st, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Higher Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- House Bill 173 is critical in closing those gaps.
- House Bill 678 requires institutions of higher education...
- House Bill 184.
- The chair offers a committee substitute to House Bill 184.
- My name is Peggy Amey and I am here regarding House Bill 1211.
Bills:
HB173, HB184, HB484, HB678, HB1211, HB1507, HB1705, HB1868, HB2290, HB2851, HB2856, HB3041, HB3204
Keywords:
foreign donations, higher education, public institutions, national security, funding, higher education, foreign donations, prohibition, national security, Texas law, healthcare, insurance, affordability, access, public health, higher education, foreign donations, national security, foreign influence, education policy
Summary:
The committee meeting largely centered around three significant bills: HB3204, HB173, and HB1507. HB3204 aims to address the workforce skills gap in Texas by modernizing vocational training and establishing what is now referred to as the Polytechnic College. Representative Metcalfe emphasized the need for relevant workforce training programs aligned with today's job market, which led to discussions about the new certificate programs that will be introduced. Additionally, public institutions will benefit from enhanced support for those who may not meet traditional entrance requirements.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the nominations of Katharine MacGregor, of Florida, to be Deputy Secretary of the Interior, and James Danly, of Tennessee, to be Deputy Secretary of Energy. Apr 2nd, 2025 at 09:00 am
Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
This is why so many rural Americans feel like their
- It's not something that we've been able to get through both houses of Congress in the same Congress.
- 21 House Republicans think that it sure as hell has.
In your view, could housing be...
- And it's one of the reasons why in the Houses Act...
Keywords:
nuclear energy, permitting process, energy production, public lands, national parks, uranium imports, legislative bills, infrastructure development
Summary:
The committee meeting was dominated by discussions on a variety of legislative bills including major topics such as nuclear energy advancement, the effects of regulatory hurdles on energy production, and proposals to improve national park staffing and maintenance. Members expressed concerns over the federal government's handling of uranium imports and the necessity for maintaining a robust domestic nuclear supply chain. Efforts to streamline permitting processes to facilitate more efficient energy project development were also a focal point, alongside public testimony from stakeholders in the energy and environmental sectors. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure development to meet rising energy demands while addressing climate change impacts.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources Apr 16th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Business: House Bill 1520.
- This is House Bill 2091.
- The chair lays out his pending business: House Bill 2091.
- The chair moves that House Bill 3663 be reported favorably to the full House with the recommendation
- The chair moves that House Bill 3915 be reported favorably to the full House with the recommendation
Keywords:
water rights, Texas Water Trust, water bank, environmental conservation, water quality, instream flows, aquifer, water injection, Edwards Aquifer, environmental regulation, groundwater, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, water conservation, drought, utility regulation, water use restrictions, Public Utility Commission, groundwater, civil penalties, water conservation
Summary:
The meeting of the committee involved extensive discussions on multiple bills related to water management and resources in Texas, particularly emphasizing the importance of legislative measures to enhance the conservation and management of groundwater resources. Representative Romero laid out HB4530, which aims to expand the Texas Water Trust to include groundwater rights, enabling voluntary dedication for conservation and addressing the regulatory gaps that currently exist. The bill received support as it seeks to clarify the processes for groundwater donations, thus promoting effective water management strategies across the state.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services (Part II) May 21st, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- We have here House Bill 4454.
- The chair lays out House Bill 46.
- This program in the Texas House was modeled to identify rural
- House Bill 2851 requires...
- I'm here for House Bill 3284.
Bills:
HB1106, HB3284, HB541, HB713, HB1403, HB1586, HB1942, HB2070, HB2844, HB2851, HB3151, HB3749, HB3940, HB3963, HB4454, HB4466, HB4795, HB5154, HB5394, SB1357, HB1052, HB4099, HB4638, HB5147
Keywords:
child abuse, neglect, gender identity, sexual orientation, child welfare, marriage, family, Texas Commission, family welfare, marriage support, stability, premarital education, child development, strong families, direct patient care, healthcare, physicians, medical services, insurance regulation, healthcare
Summary:
The committee meeting featured extensive discussions surrounding various bills, notably focusing on HB3284, which aims to establish a commission to promote marriage and family stability while addressing the needs of vulnerable children in the Texas foster care system. Witnesses provided diverse perspectives, with some expressing support for the bill's goal of strengthening family units, while others raised concerns about the potential discrimination against single-parent households and LGBTQ+ families. Additional highlights included debates on HB1106 regarding the treatment of transgender youth and HB4638, which sought to streamline the state's engagement with developers and capacity builders, addressing concerns over administrative efficiencies and child welfare.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Education K-16 Mar 4th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
We have a great partner in the House, Keith Bell.
- I'm also hopeful that it'll have a better chance through the House this time.
- That's above our Senate dais and above our House dais.
- to SB 11, which is House Bill 1425.
- I hope that more House members will co-author House Bill 1425 soon.
Keywords:
virtual education, Senate Bill 569, public testimony, educational accessibility, student needs, flexible learning
Summary:
The Senate Education Committee meeting addressed several bills aimed at enhancing educational opportunities in Texas, notably focusing on virtual education and its implications. Senate Bill 569, introduced by Senator Betancourt, garnered considerable support, emphasizing the need for accessible high-quality virtual education. The committee heard public testimony from various stakeholders, including educators and students, who highlighted the significance of flexible learning environments in meeting diverse student needs. Key testimonies underscored that virtual education is not just beneficial for struggling learners but also advantageous for high-achieving students seeking more flexibility in their academic pursuits.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs Mar 24th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs come to
- data-time="108">I thank you for everything that you've contributed to get us here today, as well as the House
From the Rural Water Association, it was reported that
- ...that was going to be, or actually an in-house water authority
- They now have in their house and available on their website draft regional water plans that will form
Keywords:
Senate Bill 7, water supply, infrastructure, Texas, public testimony, accountability, stakeholders, legislation
Summary:
This meeting of the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs focused on substantial discussions regarding Senate Bill 7, which is a key legislative initiative addressing Texas' long-term water supply crisis. Chairman Perry emphasized the collaborative efforts over the past years to engage various stakeholders in crafting the bill, promoting transparency and accountability in the management of water resources. The bill aims to enhance Texas' water infrastructure and secure funding through dedicated revenue streams for water supply projects, as the state faces challenges associated with dwindling water availability. Several public testimonies were heard, reflecting both support and concerns from various sectors affected by water policies in the state. The committee aimed to ensure that the legislation not only addresses immediate needs but also creates a sustainable framework for future generations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
Our areas, my house. Is that rural?
- Maybe bracket the bill so we don't burn my house down to fix your house, because it's working in our
- Chairman and members, thank you for the opportunity to lay out House Bill 2785.
- House Bill 569 also eradicates the dual process.
- I'm here to testify in support of House Bill 2773.
Keywords:
early voting, ballot correction, voting rights, election integrity, mail-in voting, voter notification, election reporting, candidate percentages, voting results, transparency, electoral reform, election procedures, civil penalty, public officials, election standards, Texas Election Code, voter registration, online application, acknowledgment, elections
Summary:
The House Committee on Elections convened to discuss HB3709, a bill focused on reforming the post-election audit process. Representative Dialo presented the bill, emphasizing its bipartisan support and the critical need for modernization to enhance the integrity and transparency of the voting process. The existing auditing method, which relied on random precinct selection, was criticized for being outdated and inefficient. The proposed changes aim to standardize audits across various voting methods, allowing election officials to evaluate results by voting locations instead of individual precincts, and thus improving accuracy and efficiency.