Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'transparency in voting'
Page 24 of 62
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- In their 40s.
- These guys with all the money, they do not vote for you. They don’t even live in this country.
- In 2019, I reauthorized 312s with the transparency aspect.
- in 2024.
- 2013 and 2022, and in Dallas in 2018 and 2024.
Keywords:
workforce development, economic growth, public testimony, rural small businesses, education, employment opportunities, youth engagement
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on various bills aimed at workforce development and economic growth, particularly in rural areas. Key discussions revolved around Senate Bill 2448, which aims to support rural small businesses and enhance technical assistance in workforce development. Testimonies from several stakeholders underscored the necessity of aligning education with local workforce needs, showcasing the lack of resources in rural regions. The testimony highlighted how the proposed bills could bridge the gap between education and employment opportunities for Texans, especially focusing on youth who are disconnected from education and the workforce.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- In most states...
- And if the people of Texas, by majority vote in two-thirds of both chambers, have explicitly recognized
- And of course, the states in those days also had it in theirs.
- In this type of immunity provided for utilities in this situation, as has happened in other states, is
- It creates some transparency in funding the coasts after losses because the surcharges the bill requires
Bills:
HB106, HB144, HB145, HB252, HB1732, HB2221, HB2467, HB2468, HB2517, HB2518, HB2963, HB3016, HB3689, HB3960, HB4386, HB4490, HB4751, HB5247, HJR175, HB2213
Keywords:
electric utility, distribution poles, inspection, public safety, compliance plan, wildfire mitigation, utilities, electric service, liability, risk management, self-insurance, Texas Division of Emergency Management, employment compensation, state agencies, salary payments, general appropriations, government efficiency, massage therapy, regulation, licensing
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Business and Commerce convened to discuss a wide range of bills, including key pieces of legislation such as HB1922 and HB145, which address utilities' wildfire mitigation efforts. There was a notable emphasis on the importance of strengthening Texas' approach to dealing with electric utility liabilities and improving operational strategies in the event of wildfires. Public testimony was heard, with various stakeholders advocating for and expressing concerns about elements of the proposed regulations, highlighting the nuanced positions citizens and organizations hold regarding energy management and environmental safety. Additionally, several bills were reported favorably to the full Senate, indicating a smooth legislative progress during the meeting.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 26th, 2025 at 10:08 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- This has been a big problem in the state, and thank you to all of you who have voted on.
- If you're in favor of the amendment, vote no on the motion to table.
- If you're in favor of the amendment, vote no on the motion to table.
- Did you vote to impeach Attorney General Ken Paxton in 2023?
- Please join me in voting no to keep them there. Thank you.
Keywords:
election law, attorney general, prosecution, criminal offenses, law enforcement, jurisdiction, voter fraud, local prosecuting attorney, election laws, attorney general, criminal prosecution, constitutional amendment, voter rights, election law, attorney general, prosecution, constitutional amendment, criminal offenses, real property theft, real property fraud
Summary:
In this meeting, significant discussions revolved around several key bills, including SB3, SB11, SB14, SB16, and HB8. SB3, concerning outdoor warning sirens, was emphasized for improving flood safety with community input and grants. SB11 proposed defenses for victims of human trafficking, affirmatively recognizing their coerced actions. Meanwhile, SB14 incentivized water conservation efforts by allowing political subdivisions to credit fees to developers for conservation projects. Each of these bills received robust debate and support from members. HB8, proposed by Buckley, aimed at reforming public school assessments, ultimately emphasizing accountability and transparency in educational measures, generating considerable discussion around reducing testing pressures on students and improving educational outcomes.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- For markets to operate rationally, I agree with you that there needs to be transparency in the market
- : transparency in the interconnection process, predictable continuity of service during energy emergencies
- The bill creates standards that ensure transparency and credibility in the load forecast process.
- As transparent, objective standards are put in place, utilities can better vet the loads and determine
- We need transparency and a little more skin in the game for the large loads because, ultimately, we don't
Keywords:
electric power, interconnection, utilities, ERCOT, large load customers, water supply, sewer service, demand management, Senate Bill 6, energy infrastructure, load management, interconnection, reliability, data centers, electric cooperatives, cost allocation
Summary:
The meeting focused primarily on Senate Bill 6, which aims to address the needs for increased reliability and transparency in Texas's energy infrastructure. There were multiple testimonies from stakeholders representing various sectors, including data centers and electric cooperatives, discussing their support and concerns regarding the bill's impact on interconnection and load management. Key issues raised included improving load forecasts, the adequacy of existing methodologies for cost allocation, and ensuring the reliability of the grid amidst the growing demand from large energy consumers like data centers. The discussion emphasized the need for a balance between fostering economic growth and maintaining grid reliability, amidst concerns about potential uncertainty for businesses due to some provisions in the bill. The committee concluded the meeting while keeping the bill pending for future deliberation.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- These guys with all the money, they do not vote for you. They don't even live in this country.
- That's Bell Falls in Milam County. In our county alone, we have 21,000 acres in Bell County.
- In 2019, I reauthorized 312s with the transparency aspects in them.
- in ERCOT.
- We're scheduled to be in Houston in 2026 and in Dallas in 2029.
Keywords:
hotel occupancy tax, municipal revenue, tax code, local government funding, Texas legislation, hotel occupancy tax, county taxation, economic development, hotel industry, Texas legislation, hotel occupancy tax, local government, counties, taxation, tourism, workforce development, youth programs, employment, education, technical training
Summary:
The meeting included rigorous discussions on several bills related to energy policy and local government incentives. Notably, SB1754 was a central focus, where many members voiced concerns about its implications for renewable energy projects, suggesting it might hinder the growth of solar and wind energy in Texas. Testimonies from stakeholders, including local residents and industry experts, illuminated the tension between economic incentives for renewable energy and community concerns over land rights and environmental impact. Additionally, the introduction of Senate Bill 1534 concerning workforce development in nuclear and radiological safety drew attention as Texas grapples with a skilled labor shortage in these critical sectors.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- completely naked in groups.
- In the six months I was in vocational training, no dangerous contraband was found.
- in during a search scene.
- Therapists were coming in and out—I had 10 therapists while in that facility.
- But in the last several years, we have seen a rise in assaults happening.
Keywords:
mental health, women's health, county jail, depression screening, criminal justice, inmate release, identification certificate, Texas Department of Corrections, personal identification, driver's license, state law, reentry services, nondisclosure, criminal history, criminal defendants, community supervision, misdemeanors, felonies, criminal justice, rehabilitation
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several legislative bills, primarily related to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) and corrections. Notable discussions included the adoption of committee substitutes for bills such as HB1515, which proposes the TDCJ Sunset Bill, and HB2854, which discusses necessary hospital visits for inmates. The meeting featured extensive participation from members and witnesses, who provided testimonies in support of or opposition to the various bills. The atmosphere remained collaborative, with members showing mutual respect during discussions.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Public Education Aug 21st, 2025 at 10:08 am
House Public Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- in the bill.
- We turned in the same written testimony in the Senate hearing.
- This cap remains in place.
- performance in our students.
- the K-12 system to ensure readiness in post-secondary education and in the workforce.
Bills:
HB8
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on HB8, which proposes significant changes to the assessment and accountability system in Texas education. Key discussions involved the transition from the previous STAR testing framework to a new instructionally supportive assessment program that aims to provide timely feedback to enhance instructional strategies. Proponents of the bill argue that it encourages a growth-oriented approach, while opponents express concerns about the potential increase in high-stakes testing and the makeup of the advisory committee, which has limited educator and parental representation. Numerous witnesses spoke, highlighting both support and apprehension regarding the bill's implications for students, educators, and accountability standards.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- We have a sixth member here, not voting, with Senator Hinojosa.
- One, when the substitute invites us in... the substitute, Mr.
- Now, any no votes?
- I'd like to be shown voting in favor of Senate Bill 1106.
- I'm a wide receiver in high school and college, though.
Keywords:
Senate Committee, Local Government, Senate Bills, financial compliance, property tax refund, legislation, recommendation
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Local Government focused on the examination and recommendation of various bills, most notably Senate Bills 15, 65, 241, 304, 402, and 850. Senator Bettencourt, the committee chair, guided discussions through a series of motions for the recommendation of these bills, with many passing without objection. Key topics included financial compliance for local governments in relation to state-funded loans and the implementation of uniform timelines for property tax refunds. Senators Middleton and Nicholls each made contributions regarding changes to various bills, illustrating collaborative efforts to refine the legislative proposals.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 21st, 2025 at 10:08 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
I urge you to vote with me in supporting this amendment
- I am proud to join you all in voting for it today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
- If you're in favor of the amendment, vote nay. If you oppose the amendment, vote aye.
- It's put me in a position where I'm going to vote yes on this bill, so thank you for making all those
- King voting aye. Show Mr. Berry voting aye. Have all members voted? Have all members voted?
Keywords:
youth camp, emergency preparedness, safety standards, regulation, civil penalties, emergency communication, public safety, interoperability, Texas Interoperability Council, grant program, emergency communication, broadband, funding, natural disasters, technology, disaster preparedness, emergency plans, Texas youth camps, SB2, HB1
Summary:
The committee meeting conducted a thorough review of multiple bills aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and response in Texas. Key discussions focused on HB1, the Resident Youth Camp Emergency Plans, presented by Mr. Darby, which emphasizes creating emergency plans for youth camps following tragic incidents. The bill received broad support and passed mostly unanimously, highlighting a collective commitment to improving safety for vulnerable populations. Another significant piece of legislation, SB2 by Mr. King, aimed at disaster recovery and preparedness, also saw robust discussions, resulting in a passing vote that underscored the necessity of establishing clear emergency management protocols at local levels.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband Mar 31st, 2025 at 10:03 am
House S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband
Transcript Highlights:
- I would never ask them to lose money in this endeavor. I'm simply asking for some transparency.
- Texas, increased transparency in the marketplace.
- There's a need for transparency and obviously in other places that have considered it, they have veered
- but I think what you've heard in the stakeholder process has made clear that transparency is something
- process in good faith, fully, with transparency, and if we can come up with something that both sides
Keywords:
telecommunications, electric cooperative, rights-of-way, infrastructure, provider access, telecommunications, electric cooperative, right-of-way, pole attachment, regulatory access, broadband, pole attachment, electric cooperatives, legislation, HB3448, telecommunications, rural Texas, infrastructure investment, Chairman Darby
Summary:
The meeting of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Broadband centered around significant issues regarding broadband deployment in rural Texas. Notably, discussion focused on HB3448, which aims to address barriers related to pole attachment rates charged by electric cooperatives, which have historically operated under different regulatory standards compared to other utilities. Chairman Darby emphasized the need for consistency and transparency in pricing to accelerate broadband deployment, especially given the state’s substantial investments in infrastructure. Several stakeholders, including representatives from electric cooperatives and broadband providers, expressed varied opinions on the proposed bill, with some highlighting concerns about the existing disparities in pole attachment costs and others advocating for cooperative protections against undue financial burdens from legislative changes.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Aug 5th, 2025 at 03:08 pm
House Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- In that regard.
- They're in the river. Of course, they're in the floodplain also, but they're in the river.
- the world, in the nation, and in the state.
- And in the transparency realm, I don't believe...
- I will be voting those out; this committee will be voting them out in anticipation of a...
Keywords:
emergency management, communication, interoperability, grant program, local governments, first responders, Texas Interoperability Council, disaster response, emergency management, mass fatality, justices of the peace, training program, volunteer management, criminal history check, emergency communication, funding, comptroller, public safety, infrastructure, flood disaster
Summary:
The meeting focused heavily on disaster preparedness and management strategies in response to recent catastrophic events in Texas, particularly concerning House Bills related to flood response and communication infrastructure. Notably, House Bill 19 was introduced to mandate that campgrounds in flood-prone areas develop actionable flood plans to ensure safety during emergencies. Stakeholders voiced strong support for the bill, emphasizing its importance for child safety in recreational areas. Additionally, House Bill 18 aimed at improving emergency communication systems received considerable attention, as members raised concerns about the need for efficient and interoperable communication during disasters. Similar themes of ensuring preparedness and safeguarding communities were echoed throughout the discussions, with experts and witnesses providing impactful testimony on the challenges confronted during recent flooding incidents in Kerr County.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am
House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- These safeguards ensure transparency, local stakeholder involvement, and accountability in how the districts
- in Texas.
- And we're doing our best in this, in this, in the 89th and beyond, to hold that more accountable.
- Companies like mine that invest in training, in safety, and in ensuring that our students are safe and
- I think I've been in eight states in like seven weeks.
Bills:
HB2963, HB3005, HB3287, HB3288, HB3289, HB3290, HB3344, HB3712, HB3862, HB3874, HB4196, HB4308, HB4901, HB4984
Keywords:
digital equipment, repair rights, manufacturers, maintenance, consumer rights, construction contracts, payment regulations, public works, dispute resolution, audit procedures, construction, trust funds, mechanic's lien, contractor, subcontractor, residential properties, construction contracts, trust funds, disputes, payment obligations
Summary:
The committee meeting covered a wide array of bills focusing primarily on workforce development, manufacturing improvements, and online safety for children. Notably, provisions were discussed under HB4196, aimed at modernizing the manufacturing sector through increased digital integration and automation strategies. Witnesses from various sectors, including manufacturing companies and educational representatives, offered their perspectives on the importance of creating a skilled workforce able to adapt to new technologies. Additional discussion highlighted the pressing need for legislation that protects minors in the digital landscape, with testimonies emphasizing the adverse effects of unfiltered online content on children’s mental health, as encapsulated in HB4901.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 20th, 2025 at 10:08 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- It's a record vote. The clerk will ring the bell. Vote aye if you're in favor.
- Vote aye if you're in favor of extending time, vote no if you're opposed.
- All those in favor vote aye.
- If you're in favor of the amendment, vote no.
- So I would ask respectfully that all of you vote, vote in making sure that we are transparent, that we
Bills:
HB4
Keywords:
redistricting, elections, representation, district composition, Texas House, ad valorem tax, elderly, disabled veterans, public testimony, Texas legislature
Summary:
The committee meeting included extensive discussions on various bills, primarily focusing on ad valorem tax regulations and implications for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and disabled. Representative Schofield presented HB4, which revolves around setting limitations on ad valorem taxes for homesteads of disabled, elderly, and their surviving spouses. The bill sparked a thorough debate among committee members, leading to significant public testimony. Additionally, HJR No. 25 proposed by Cook focused on exempting part of the assessed value of property owned by certain disabled veterans from taxation, highlighting a priority for veteran support within the session's agenda. Overall, the meeting was marked by a strong turnout from both committee members and the public, showcasing a high level of engagement on these critical issues.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am
House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Sports facilities, in the case of our company, are a good case in point.
- I am here in support.
- Companies like mine that invest in training, in safety, and in ensuring that our students are safe and
- I think I've been in eight states in like seven weeks.
- In the last 41 years that I've been in this business, I've been involved in six defaults.
Bills:
HB2963, HB3005, HB3287, HB3288, HB3289, HB3290, HB3344, HB3712, HB3862, HB3874, HB4196, HB4308, HB4901, HB4984
Keywords:
digital equipment, repair rights, manufacturers, maintenance, consumer rights, construction contracts, payment regulations, public works, dispute resolution, audit procedures, construction, trust funds, mechanic's lien, contractor, subcontractor, residential properties, construction contracts, trust funds, disputes, payment obligations
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
Transcript Highlights:
- please get in touch with the committee staff.
- I'm a director of a probation department in Texas. I've been in the business since 1990.
- As a matter of fact, the probation advisory committee took a vote back in January.
- They establish all the standards and all the rules, which are very in-depth for CSCDs in terms of how
- We have an in-depth fiscal process.
Keywords:
community supervision, budget approval, corrections department, strategic plan, judicial oversight, human trafficking, criminal records, sealed offenses, community supervision, legislative testimony, committee proceedings
Summary:
During this committee meeting, significant discussions surrounded various bills including HB1969, SB958, and SB663. Representative Allen moved that HB1969 be reported favorably without amendments, which was adopted amidst a few dissenting votes concerning amendments on fees. The most notable conversation revolved around SB958, where Representative Thompson and other advocates passionately presented the case for trafficking survivors and the need to expand the list of sealable misdemeanors for these individuals. Witness testimonies reflected real-world implications, with survivors sharing their experiences to underscore the urgent need for legislative action.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine big fixes for big tech. Apr 1st, 2025 at 01:30 pm
Senate Competition Policy, Antitrust, and Consumer Rights Subcommittee
Transcript Highlights:
- I think farmers in Florida, farmers in Utah, and farmers in Illinois, if they can figure out how to repair
- In August 2024, a federal judge ruled that, in fact, it is.
- What we didn't realize was that wasn't enough to get the votes in this committee.
- on a 14-7 vote.
- The transparency requirements, especially as they're designed in the America Act and should be designed
Keywords:
antitrust, competition policy, digital advertising, monopoly, America Act, big tech, consumer rights
Summary:
The meeting, titled 'Big Fixes, Big Tech', marked the first hearing of the Senate antitrust competition policy and consumer rights subcommittee in the 119th Congress. Chairman Lee opened the session focusing on the urgent need for effective solutions regarding anti-competitive behavior among major tech firms like Google and Facebook, highlighting several ongoing court cases regarding monopolistic practices in the digital advertising and search markets. Key discussions included the limitations imposed on small businesses and innovation due to the dominance of these tech giants, with many testimonies advocating for stronger legislative measures, including the America Act. The act aims to disrupt the monopolistic capabilities of these firms and restore competitive integrity in the marketplace, which has suffered under their oppressive market control.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- taking in.
- And then, in terms of reporting, is there anything in here that would increase transparency or improve
I urge you to vote in favor of Senate Bill 1388.
- in the bill.
- We are back in session, in order.
Keywords:
mental health, psychiatric beds, healthcare access, acute care, registry, prescription drugs, safe disposal, pilot program, healthcare, opioid epidemic, public health, community outreach, pharmacy, mental health leave, law enforcement, trauma support, workplace policy, employee benefits, mental health, public safety
Summary:
The committee meeting included a range of discussions on various bills, notably focusing on mental health and public safety. Senate Bill 528, aiming to improve accountability in mental health treatment for individuals found incompetent to stand trial, received significant support from public testimonies. Witnesses emphasized the need for better coordination and transparency in service provisions, shedding light on the backlog of individuals requiring forensic mental health services in Texas. Additionally, Senate Bill 1388 was discussed as a means to enhance the Thriving Texas Families Program which supports women and families facing unplanned pregnancies, garnering both endorsements and concerns about its implementation.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- We're the world's largest get-out-the-vote organization, reaching hundreds of thousands of Texans in
- TASA also worked to undermine transparency in curriculum decisions, using public funds to promote controversial
- alive in Texas.
- In almost three decades, I've seen changes in public education that are not in line with Texas values
- We must demand greater accountability and transparency in the use of taxpayer dollars.
Keywords:
SB8, SB18, LGBTQIA rights, public testimony, discrimination, constitutional rights, drag performances
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.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Business meeting to consider an original bill entitled, "GENIUS Act of 2025", and S.875, to curtail the political weaponization of Federal banking agencies by eliminating reputational risk as a component of the supervision of depository institutions. Mar 13th, 2025 at 09:00 am
Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- I urge my colleagues to— I should say vote in favor of the amendment, which would vote against it.
- The vote is 13 opposed, 11 in favor. The amendment is not agreed to.
- I urge a yes vote.
- I urge a yes vote.
- Chairman, the vote is 13 opposed and 11 in favor.
Bills:
SB875
Keywords:
banking regulation, federal agencies, reputational risk, financial services, supervision, Genius Act, FIRM Act, stablecoins, bipartisan, financial regulation, national security, consumer protection, innovation
Summary:
This meeting focused on the markup of the Genius Act and the FIRM Act, two significant pieces of legislation addressing stablecoin regulation and the financial industry's regulatory framework. The Chairman noted the importance of providing clarity to the digital asset community and protecting American consumers, while also promoting innovation and competition within the financial sector. Members of both parties expressed varying viewpoints, with some highlighting concerns related to national security and the potential risks associated with stablecoins.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management May 1st, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- In closing, HB 5380 ...
- any democratic process: notice, transparency, and accountability in local government, particularly when
That kind of transparency builds trust in local government
- I wish all the members on this committee would have voted for that bill in the third reading.
- This has been done in Austin, as mentioned, and it's done in Houston in certain areas.
Bills:
HB407, HB871, HB882, HB2011, HB3572, HB3578, HB4038, HB4866, HB4897, HB4978, HB5380, HB5555, HB5668, HB5670, HB5674, HB5676, HB5679, HB5688, SB673
Keywords:
solar energy, residential construction, building code, municipal regulations, energy compliance, solar energy, building codes, residential construction, interconnection, municipal regulations, education, funding, teacher support, student resources, school infrastructure, solar energy, residential construction, building code, municipal requirements, environmental sustainability
Summary:
The meeting of the committee involved in-depth discussions on various bills aimed at addressing community needs and rights pertaining to land use and environmental management. Notably, House Bill 2011 proposed a framework for original property owners to repurchase their land under specific conditions when property taxes are not paid by the acquiring entity. Representative Bell articulated concerns regarding the rights of owners affected by eminent domain, engaging with public testimony on the bill's implications. House Bill 5380, presented by Representative Wally, focused on improving access to parkland and green spaces in unincorporated areas, allowing counties to set criteria for parkland dedication, which sparked debates about urban versus rural development considerations and community planning.