Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Texas Comptroller'

Page 25 of 57
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the deputy director of Texas.
  • I'm a correctional officer with TDCJ and a private prison here in Texas.
  • My other question is, we have 101 prisons in the state of Texas, is that correct?
  • The Texas Civil Rights Project shows you are against the bill. Is that correct?
  • Two weeks prior to Grayson's death, there was another young man from Giddings, Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several significant bills addressing public safety and reform within the correctional system. Notably, HB2103 was discussed, which aims to provide mental health leave for correctional officers, amid growing concerns about their wellbeing due to the psychological stress associated with their duties. Support was voiced by various stakeholders, highlighting the need for better support systems for officers facing trauma related to their jobs. This bill was aimed at recognizing the critical role that mental health plays in maintaining a safe working environment for those in the corrections field. In another part of the meeting, HB2017 sparked heated debates, as it sought to instate stricter penalties for intoxication manslaughter committed by undocumented individuals. The discussion brought forth views on fairness and the implications of distinguishing sentences based on immigration status. Several witnesses offered testimony, both for and against the bill, leading to a contentious atmosphere that reflected the broader societal debates about immigration and public safety. Overall, the meeting highlighted the challenges of reforming laws while considering the variables of mental health and immigration status in the context of public safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Mar 18th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Any Texas resident who wishes to make public comment on

  • I've been coming to the legislature for 40 years to testify for the rights of DeafBlind citizens of Texas
  • Here in Texas, at the age of three, they started to try to instruct me in English.
  • At that time, they sent me to the Texas School for the Deaf, which uses sign language for communication
  • for the Deaf in Big Springs, Texas, and there I met several other students.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on HB64, a significant bill aimed at supporting the DeafBlind community in Texas. Representative Gonzalez presented the bill, highlighting its importance for approximately 2,700 Texans who are deaf and blind. Co-navigators are critical for these individuals to navigate daily life, attending medical appointments and grocery shopping. Gonzalez emphasized that the bill has previously passed through the committee and the House but faced challenges in the Senate. The intent is to ensure its passage this time, as it aligns with the governor's committee on people with disabilities' priorities. The discussion included testimony from several witnesses advocating for the bill, underscoring its impact on the community.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Texas Department of Transportation shows that over 25% of all alcohol-related crashes in Texas are
  • At this time, the chair calls up Alan Place from the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association, and
  • Well, the issue with that is the way the law works in Texas.
  • up to be productive citizens for our great state of Texas
  • At this time, the Chair calls up Allen Place from the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association.
Summary: The recent meeting of the committee primarily focused on two bills, HB1482 and HB2341, aimed at addressing public safety and rehabilitation in the context of repeat offenders, particularly in relation to intoxicated driving offenses. The discussions highlighted personal testimonies from victims' families and experts advocating for stricter accountability measures against repeat offenders. Representative Leo Wilson emphasized the necessity of such laws to prevent future tragedies stemming from intoxicated driving, citing heart-wrenching cases that have affected the community. The committee also heard contrasting views regarding the effectiveness of increased incarceration versus rehabilitation efforts for offenders, with calls for a balanced approach to ensure public safety without neglecting rehabilitation needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 5th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Texas Department of Wildlife Service listed numerous animal species in Texas as endangered, while
  • overlooking the robust protection of wild animals in Texas.
  • Simply put, we fight for a Texas run by Texans, for all Texans.
  • The Texas Department of Wildlife Services listed numerous animal species in Texas as endangered while
  • and in Central Texas.
Bills: SB766, SB290, SB494, SB1145
Summary: The meeting focused on significant issues surrounding oil field theft in Texas, specifically through the discussions on Senate Bills 494 and 766. Key testifiers included law enforcement representatives who outlined the challenges they face in combatting organized oil theft. Notably, Sheriff Stan Parker shared that his county reports upwards of 1,500 barrels of oil stolen monthly, highlighting the complexity of jurisdictional coordination and the demand for increased resources to tackle these crimes effectively. The committee recognized the need for improved communication and collaborative efforts between law enforcement and the oil industry.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This sounds like a good bill for Texas and Texas wineries.
  • If we can support Texas local agriculture and promote Texans drinking Texas wine, we can keep more Texas
  • dollars in Texas.
  • I make 100% Texas wine, and I grow 100% Texas grapes.
  • Texas wine.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused primarily on several key bills, including HB2286, HB1562, and HB1732, which were reported favorably to the full House with the recommendation that they do pass and be printed. Representative Hernandez notably contributed to the discussions on HB1562 and HB1732, both concerning massage therapy regulations. Furthermore, the committee heard discussions on HB491 regarding civil penalties for massage therapy violations and HB11 relating to occupation licensing reciprocity agreements. Most bills passed with unanimous support, indicating a strong consensus among committee members on these legislative issues.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This is a violation of Texas Election Code 1.012 E through H.
  • Texas Election Code 122.001 states that election systems must be accurate.
  • It happened to me in Texas family courts. Speech should not be coerced.
  • I have never in my life felt more at home in Texas than I do now. That is until Texas...
  • Bills like this are a direct attack on my right to feel at home in Texas.
Summary: During this meeting of the Senate Committee on State Affairs, significant discussions revolved around Senate Bill 618, which seeks to establish civil penalties for election officials who fail to adhere to the Texas election laws. Proponents, including Dr. Laura Pesce from True Texas Elections, passionately advocated for the bill, emphasizing the need for accountability and integrity in the electoral process. The committee heard testimonies underscoring the importance of consistent application of election laws and the necessity to deter violations that undermine public trust in the elections. Many witnesses detailed personal experiences with administrative overreach and violations of election law that directly affect voters and candidates alike. In addition to SB 618, the committee also reviewed Senate Bill 1999. This bill was met with considerable opposition, particularly from advocates arguing that it would promote discrimination against transgender students and exacerbate bullying within schools. Testimonies portrayed stark contrasts between supporters who claimed it would uphold religious freedom and critics who argued it would harm vulnerable youth by legitimizing discrimination based on gender identity. Ultimately, the meeting evidenced the varied views on legislative intent and societal implications surrounding these bills.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Mar 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • My name is Kevin Hale, Libertarian Party of Texas. We are.
  • I spend a lot of time in Giddings, Texas, in that district.
  • of Texas.
  • The Libertarian Party of Texas urges the legislature...
  • Texoga, Texas Royalty Council, and Texas Civil.
Summary: The meeting addressed several key pieces of legislation, including SB1626, which proposes to enhance Texans' ability to pursue legal action against social media platforms for censorship. The bill aims to provide statutory damages, making it easier for individuals to protect their free speech rights. Testimonies were heard from various public representatives expressing support for the bill, emphasizing its importance in maintaining free speech in the digital age. Other bills discussed included SB1719 and SB1494, each receiving varying levels of scrutiny and support.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) May 8th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Texas bishops are committed to using all efforts to end the evil.
  • I appreciate so much the Catholic bishops in Texas standing behind.
  • I am here on behalf of the Children's Advocacy Centers of Texas, or CAC Texas, and I'm testifying in
  • Here in Texas, they're going to go to prison for a long time.
  • And I look forward to a Texas where, as they...
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss critical legislation aimed at preventing child sexual abuse, focusing on HB748 and SB835. Both bills received significant support from various witnesses, including representatives from the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, who emphasized the importance of eliminating non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) that allow perpetrators to escape accountability. Witnesses shared impactful personal testimonies, illustrating the harmful effects of NDAs on survivors and stressing the need for a transparent legal environment to protect vulnerable populations. The atmosphere underscored a collective commitment to reform and to stop allowing predators to hide behind confidentiality clauses.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) May 5th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • in Midlothian, Texas.
  • All right, Christy Gessler, Texas Realtors; Jeff Burdette, NFIB; Carl Walker, Texas Taxpayers and Research
  • Association; and John McCord, Texas Retail.
  • I'm here with Texas Realtors. I'm the 2025 chairman of the board.
  • Carl Walker, Texas Taxpayers and Research Association.
Summary: The committee meeting saw the discussion of several significant bills aimed at reducing the tax burden on small businesses and addressing public services in municipalities. Notably, Senate Bill 2907, introduced by Senator West, proposes to exempt perishable inventory and pharmaceutical goods from property taxes. This bill received robust support during public testimony, with various stakeholders emphasizing its potential to lower food prices and improve business conditions. Similarly, Senate Bill 1331 addressed the protective measures for smaller municipalities facing threats from petitions to remove municipal services, aiming to reduce the requisite population threshold for such actions. The lively discussions underscored the committee's commitment to supporting local communities and businesses in a challenging economic climate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The bottom line is, it's Texas chicken.

  • which today supports over 1.35 million Texas jobs and handles
  • I show you registered as Kendall Cowell on behalf of the Texas Water Development Board.
  • In the event that a desired future plan is challenged, HB3609 allows the Texas Water Development Board
  • I show you registered as Natalie Ballew on behalf of the Texas Water Development Board.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on the consideration of several water-related bills, including HB1618, HB2970, HB3609, and HB3628. Representative Harris introduced HB1618, which aims to facilitate aquifer storage and recovery projects in Williamson County to support growth and address drought issues. Multiple witnesses testified in favor of the bill, emphasizing the need for effective water management in a rapidly growing area. The discussion highlighted the increasing water demands along the I-35 corridor. Representative Paul advocated for HB2970, which codifies navigation safety measures for the Houston Ship Channel, a vital component for Texas's economy. This bill is linked to a major federal project intended to protect against storm surges while ensuring two-way traffic on the channel.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Just after the Texas Legislature passed debt relief in 2023, Texas approved voter debt increased by another
  • Foundation and Everyone Texas...
  • I asked my representative at the time in Texas and found out about SB7 from 2017 and thought, Texas is
  • I'm Allison Moran from Aledo, Texas.
  • Currently, the Texas Permanent School Fund Corporation and the Texas Education Agency administer the
Summary: The committee meeting addressed critical issues regarding educator misconduct and legislative measures to improve reporting standards. Significant discussions revolved around SB1224, which mandates that superintendents report allegations of sexual or abusive conduct directly to law enforcement rather than relying solely on internal investigations. This bill, presented by Senator Sparks, reflects an ongoing effort to close loopholes in the education system that enable misconduct to persist without proper accountability. Senators emphasized the alarming rise in educator misconduct cases and the need for more stringent reporting practices to protect children in schools.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Obviously, one of them was the Texas Association of Mid-sized Schools, Texas Association of Community
  • Schools, the Texas PTA, and the Coalition for Public Schools.
  • I am representing Texas Homeless Network, and I am opposed to this bill.
  • We're a convention of over 5,000 churches across the state of Texas.
  • Thank you for your time and commitment to the people of Texas.
Summary: The committee meeting covered a range of important issues, particularly focusing on school safety and the impact of certain proposed bills on vulnerable populations. Notably, Senator Creighton presented Senate Bill 2623, which seeks to establish school safety zones by preventing navigation services near schools, aimed at ensuring the safety of children in educational settings. Concerns were raised regarding the potential adverse effects of this bill on homeless navigation centers, with various stakeholders expressing their positions during the public testimony session. The importance of balancing community services with student safety was a recurring theme throughout the discussions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Laura Presley with True Texas Elections.
  • Texas Elections, and you're neutral on the bill?
  • I'm S-R-E-C-S-D-10 in the Texas First Election Group.
  • I am coming from East Texas.
  • East Texas, and then once in Congressional District 32.
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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • What about the piece about the Texas Medical Board investigating?
  • You'll hear more from Jamie later, but Texas is already.
  • I would just remind you that, you know, both the Texas Association of Business and Texas Coalition of
  • We're the largest professional display company in Texas.
  • In Texas, the American Cancer Society projects 14...
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

Human Services Apr 22nd, 2025 at 11:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • However, many states, including Texas, are not consistently
  • not automatically enrolled in Medicaid in Texas.
  • Currently, many Texas newborns are falling through the cracks and not getting timely care.
  • It is to fix an oversight in Texas law.
  • The Texas Rangers called me and were telling me horrific
Summary: The meeting of the committee brought forth significant discussions focused on the legislation surrounding newborn health coverage. Representative Johnson presented HB3940, highlighting the issues with newborns not receiving timely healthcare coverage due to inefficiencies in the enrollment process. The committee engaged in a thorough review, emphasizing the critical impact on health outcomes for infants who were uninsured during vital early checkups. Other members raised questions and concerns, adding to the dialogue on how to improve the automatic enrollment processes currently in place. The intent of the proposed bill is to empower parents with necessary information to prevent the enrollment issues from persisting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 22nd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...care in Texas and private child care in Texas, and it
  • Texas and the Arc of Texas.
  • According to the Texas Department of Health Services, the average age of mothers giving birth in Texas
  • I have you with the Texas Society of Orthotics.
  • It is a protective measure for Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several key bills related to health care and adoption services, with a significant emphasis on fostering care systems. Vice Chair Emanuel presented bills that aimed to streamline reporting requirements for the HHSC, while Representative Slauson's bill on voluntary adoption registries prompted a discussion on improving access and procedures within the child welfare system. Each bill was generally met with favorable votes, indicating strong bipartisan support for these initiatives. The committee heard testimonies from various stakeholders who voiced the importance of these legislative efforts in enhancing the quality of life for children and families involved in the welfare system. Notably, the committee also tackled the issue of Medicaid services and accessibility for children needing medical equipment like baby helmets, which have been a burden for many low-income families.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) Apr 24th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Local Government was marked by discussions focusing primarily on addressing the housing crisis in Texas. Key bills, including SB208 and SB2778, were thoroughly examined. SB208 aims to create the Workforce Housing Capital Investment Fund to provide non-profit builders with zero-interest loans, facilitating the construction of affordable homes for low to moderate-income families. Meanwhile, SB2778 seeks to raise the board approval threshold for emergency service districts from $2,000 to $50,000 to enhance operational efficiency and expedite procurement processes for necessary resources. Various testimonies were heard from stakeholders, including housing authorities and fire chiefs, emphasizing the importance of these bills in improving housing availability and emergency response capabilities in Texas. The meeting concluded with several bills left pending for further review and discussion.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 14th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Two, it seeks to harden the Texas state government.
  • repression as a threat to Texas and Texans.
  • Texas is more acutely aware of foreign threats.
  • It would certainly be a tribute to the state of Texas and to the country more broadly if Texas has already
  • Texas has the resources, Texas has the will, and Texas has the leadership to take on this issue—the full
Summary: The Senate Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss three critical bills, primarily centered around national security concerns and their implications on civil liberties. Notably, Senate Bill 2514 drew significant scrutiny and opposition from various witnesses who raised alarms about how the bill could infringe upon free speech rights and privacy. The bill aims to establish a framework for identifying and monitoring foreign influence operations against Texas, specifically targeting adversaries like China and Russia. Proponents argued that such measures are necessary to protect the integrity of state governance and prevent malign foreign influence, while opponents warned that it may lead to excessive governmental oversight and potential abuse of power.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections May 15th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Laura Presley with True Texas Elections. Thank you.
  • But registering to vote in Texas...
  • In fact, it has already processed over 6 million registrations in Texas—online registrations in Texas
  • This bill is a Texas solution to a Texas problem.
  • This would be a great move for Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Elections covered several significant bills, particularly focusing on election integrity and voter registration processes. Notable discussions included the challenges posed by election irregularities and the introduction of electronic voter registration aimed at enhancing efficiency and security. Representative Swanson presented SB 505, which would strengthen oversight in election irregularities, while HB 311, discussed in detail, proposed an electronic voter registration system modeled after successful implementations in other states. Both bills sparked robust discussions among committee members and witnesses, highlighting various perspectives on improving electoral processes. The members indicated a shared goal of maintaining transparency and accountability in Texas elections, though differing opinions on specific measures were apparent throughout the meeting. The meeting adjourned with many bills left pending, awaiting further consideration as the committee seeks a consensus.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Feb 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This included Lotto Texas, Cash 5, and other Texas draw games during the summer.
  • in Houston, Texas.
  • This included Lotto Texas, Cash 5, and other Texas draw games during the summer.
  • Comptroller, and multiple Texas officials concerning this matter.
  • and the Texas lottery.
Summary: The meeting was a crucial session for discussing several important bills including SB992, which aims to establish a clear time frame for the Attorney General's approval on outside legal counsel for state agencies. Senator Nichols presented the bill, emphasizing its necessity for timely responses to ensure efficient legal processing. Another notable discussion centered around SB523, which seeks to allow parole and probation officers to use a business address on their driver's licenses for safety and security purposes. This bill passed favorably out of the committee, with public testimony supporting the need for such provisions due to the risks these officers face.

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