Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Texas Free Enterprise'

Page 25 of 58
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 7th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • HB28 would do damage to that notion that Texas is a free and independent place by sending Texas back
  • , Texas, Denton, Texas, Killeen, Texas, Lockhart, Texas, Bastrop, Texas, and Elgin, Texas.
  • Paul Chabot; you're here on behalf of the Coalition for a Drug-Free Texas.
  • Yes, I serve as President of the Coalition for a Drug-Free Texas.
  • violated the rights of free Texas citizens because that was illegal.
Bills: HB28, SB3
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding HB28, which aims to regulate the hemp market in Texas following the 2018 Farm Bill. The committee heard testimonies from stakeholders including industry advocates and law enforcement representatives. Notably, there were opposing views on the efficacy and safety of the proposed regulations, particularly concerning the potential impact on children and the risks associated with unregulated THC products. Many witnesses emphasized the need for a balanced approach to ensure consumer safety while allowing responsible adult access to THC products.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education Mar 27th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education

Transcript Highlights:
  • The data is clear: 90% of Texas high school students graduate, and 62% of Texas jobs require some sort
  • At Texas 2036, we call this dual readiness.
  • Our analysis found that 44% of Texas school systems, mostly in rural Texas, offer little or no AP or
  • Education Agency, and the Texas Workforce Commission.
  • HB117 presents an opportunity to strengthen Texas...
Bills: HB117, HB2196, HB2689, HCR64
Summary: The committee meeting focused on the discussion of several educational bills, notably HB2196, which aims to create a comprehensive framework for virtual and hybrid learning in Texas public schools. Chairman Bell and other committee members emphasized the significance of this bill, stating that it aligns with bipartisan recommendations for enhancing access to education. Testimonies from educators and parents were heard, echoing admiration for the potential of virtual learning to provide flexibility to students, especially those with specific educational needs. There were also concerns voiced regarding provisions within the bill that could affect traditional educational frameworks, sparking vigorous discussions among committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • An operator that receives a standard permit through the Texas
  • The Texas Real Estate and Probate Institute brought this bill to me after it was approved.
  • Unfortunately, they use the term "real property," and under Texas law, real property includes water and
  • The LBJ Hospital is the busiest level three trauma center in Texas.
  • Simply put, we all support the growth of Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the committee convened to discuss multiple bills including SCR48, SB2351, SB2550, SB2203, SB410, and SB2082. Notably, Senator Miles presented SB2082, which aims to prevent concrete crushing facilities from operating near hospitals, following community outcry over health concerns linked to air pollution. The committee heard public testimony from various stakeholders, highlighting the community's significant opposition to such facilities in close proximity to critical healthcare services. Senator Alvarado's SB2351, addressing concrete plant regulations, was supported with favorable votes but faced concerns over the environmental implications of expansion requests. The meeting concluded with a recommendation for several bills to move forward to the full Senate for consideration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Those locations are Sunray, Texas; Gonzales, Texas; and Brownwood, Texas.
  • It was a subdivision of the state of Texas formed by the Texas legislature.
  • Texas ports. $53.46 is returned to Texas for every dollar
  • invested in Texas ports.
  • Texas City, I could list them all off, there's no reason. Texas City is privately owned.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several bills aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of Texas transportation and port authorities. Key discussions included the implications of SB2080, which seeks to streamline operations for navigation districts by raising procurement authority, exempting security discussions from recording requirements, and aligning Texas ports with national standards to foster economic growth. Senator Alvarado advocated fervently for the bill, emphasizing its positive impact on competitiveness with ports in states like Virginia and New Jersey. Public testimony reflected mixed responses, with strong support from industry representatives but opposition from some municipal authorities concerned about the potential overreach of port authorities into local development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Mar 24th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Cruz Catholic Church in Buda, Texas.
  • Ruben Cort, welcome to the Texas Senate.
  • Members, the Texas Telephone Association that are seated in the gallery are celebrating Texas Rural Broadband
  • Texas Telephone Association members, thank you so much and welcome.
  • You can't do the plans that you want because it used to be a Texas highway.
Summary: The committee meeting featured significant discussions surrounding several Senate Bills, primarily focusing on SSB840, which was passed after debates regarding the housing market and regulatory impacts. Senator Hughes led the conversation, emphasizing the need for increased supply of housing units and argued against governmental restrictions on development. The debate highlighted varying perspectives among members, showing both support and opposition to the bill, which ultimately led to its passage. Additionally, there were discussions around bills addressing health care, public safety, and energy efficiency, reflecting the diverse legislative priorities the committee is currently addressing.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 20th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In Texas, you are free to vote as you see fit.
  • voting in Texas elections.
  • We thank Senator Hughes for introducing this legislation to ensure that Texas elections are free from
  • The Libertarian Texas platform affirms that elections should be free.
  • Does it increase personal liberty, free enterprise, personal responsibility, or property rights?
Summary: The meeting focused on significant discussions regarding several bills, particularly SB396 and SB827. Public testimonies were heard against SB396, expressing concerns over government overreach regarding voter registrations. Various witnesses highlighted potential disenfranchisement of eligible voters and the inefficiencies of the proposed residency confirmations. SB827 was another bill of interest, with discussions centered around the methods of election monitoring and concerns regarding the accuracy and cost-effectiveness of hand-counted audits.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Aug 18th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • all first responders in the Texas Military Department.
  • And that's what we're trying to prevent here in Texas.
  • They're free to adopt their own policies, but when...
  • Hell, I sued the state of Texas and couldn't...
  • Again, lobbyists in Texas are already regulated, monitored, and held accountable by the Texas Ethics
Summary: The committee meeting focused on flood response and preparedness legislation in the wake of recent natural disasters. Key discussions revolved around Senate Bills 2, 3, and 5, which are aimed at improving disaster management and enhancing public safety through the installation of outdoor warning sirens in flood-prone areas. Senator Bettencourt and Senator Huffman led significant discourse on these bills, emphasizing the urgent need for robust funding and systems to protect communities. The meeting was marked by unanimous support for the bills, showcasing a collective commitment to implementing effective disaster response strategies.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development Mar 24th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • My name is Mary York, and I'm with the Texas Workforce.
  • that Texas has built over decades of investment.
  • That's the way it's been in Texas since the 1950s.
  • It includes the Texas Restaurant Association, Texas 2036, Early Matters Texas, as well as the Texas Association
  • Texas Workforce Commission, you already have the Texas Work
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Economic Development Committee featured substantial discussions around several key bills aimed at advancing various sectors in Texas. Notably, Senate Bill 529 was supported by multiple stakeholders, including the Mayor of Midland, emphasizing its importance in allowing the city to access sales tax incentives that could bolster economic growth. The committee unanimously recommended several bills for certification, indicating a strong consensus among members on the proposed legislation's benefits. The focus on job creation and supporting local economies was prevalent throughout the meeting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Juvenile Justice Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Juvenile Justice

Transcript Highlights:
  • This bill addresses concerns with the Texas Alcohol Awareness Program.
  • Currently, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation oversees the approval and regulation of the
  • Shame on Texas for doing this.
  • Currently, Texas spends around $300,000 per year to incarcerate a single youth.
  • Members, this bill doesn't free anyone.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on discussions surrounding juvenile justice reform. Chairman Cook opened the session by introducing various bills, including HB1966, which aims to improve conditions for youth in detention facilities by ensuring access to restrooms and sanitation. The bill was met with strong support as members shared their views on the importance of treating youth with dignity and respect within the justice system. Witness testimonies highlighted the dire situations some minors face in current facilities, drawing attention to the need for immediate legislative action. Other bills discussed included HB3442, aimed at updating the Texas Alcohol Awareness Program for minors, among others.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Take UTEMCO, which manages endowments for the University of Texas and Texas A&M.
  • in Texas, stay in Texas, and scale in Texas.
  • Texas is only 10%...
  • To the citizens of Texas.
  • Texas. Texas. OK. A prohibition of the...
Summary: During this meeting, the committee engaged in detailed discussions surrounding various legislative proposals, notably focusing on HB2054 and HB4601. HB2054 was discussed in the context of addressing financial support for victims' families during declared emergencies, removing existing procedural barriers. Representative Manuel presented HB4601, which aims to assist Texas veterans in purchasing affordable housing by creating a down payment assistance program financed through a dedicated tax fund. This program is essential to simplify homeownership for veterans facing financial challenges in the current housing market.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government May 19th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas has more of these facilities.
  • and the landowner at the University of Texas at Austin.
  • Under your chairs, you're free to move about the Capitol.
  • Members, across Texas, homeowners keep chickens on their property, and many more Texas families would
  • I'm the Lennar division president for Texas. We built over 20,000 homes in Texas in 2024.
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

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Jul 21st, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • , and Central Texas.
  • The only difference is that it doesn't include SBOE, the Texas House, or Texas Senate.
  • House, and the Texas Senate.
  • or Texas Senate.
  • , or East Texas, or wherever.
Summary: The meeting centered around the discussion of congressional redistricting, where the committee established the procedures to ensure a fair and transparent process. Led by Senator King, the session focused on adopting a resolution that authorized a special committee dedicated to congressional redistricting and allowed for regional hearings to gather public input via videoconferencing. Concerns were raised about ensuring adequate notice for public participation, especially from marginalized communities potentially affected by proposed changes. Disagreements emerged regarding the timeline for regional hearings and how to address the implications of the redistricting process on minority districts. Overall, participants acknowledged the complex nature of redistricting and the importance of engaging constituents in the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Jul 21st, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • , Central Texas, and North Texas.
  • The only difference is that it doesn't include SBOE, Texas House, or Texas Senate.
  • House, and the Texas Senate.
  • So we focus on South Texas or East Texas or wherever.
  • , meaning that a lot of people in urban Texas and rural Texas don't have access.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on the congressional redistricting resolution prompted by the governor's request due to constitutional concerns flagged by the U.S. Department of Justice. Members discussed the procedural steps necessary to establish a special committee on congressional redistricting, emphasizing the need for transparency and public participation. Concerns were raised about the limited number of planned regional hearings and the implications for community input. A strong commitment to include public testimony through both in-person and virtual means was stated, ensuring that Texans can engage with the process regardless of their geographical location. Discussions included the necessity of adopting prior successful procedures similar to those in past sessions, with an acknowledgment of the unique challenges posed by current legal requirements. Members expressed varying viewpoints on balancing the need for thorough public participation while addressing logistical challenges inherent in the redistricting process. Overall, the meeting demonstrated a collaborative atmosphere aimed at crafting a fair and lawful redistricting plan while acknowledging the diverse opinions of constituents throughout Texas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I, Greg Abbott, Governor of the State of Texas, thank

  • Of Texas by authority vested in me by Article 3, Section

  • 5(a) and Article 4 Section 8A of the Texas Constitution, do
  • 49" data-time="288"> Systems and other preparedness infrastructure in flood-prone areas throughout Texas
  • to be affixed at my office in the city of Austin, Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the 89th Legislature featured discussions primarily centered around several key bills, including SB648 concerning protections against title theft and deed fraud, SB1253 which addresses impact fees for builders incorporating water conservation measures, and SB2878 related to the administration of the judicial department. The session began with a prayer acknowledging the devastating floods that affected Central Texas, followed by a message from Governor Greg Abbott calling for the special session. Members engaged in robust debates on the importance of the proposed legislations, particularly focusing on community recovery efforts following recent natural disasters. Public testimonies were elicited, highlighting the varied perspectives on the bills under discussion and underscoring the significance of legislative action in response to constituents' needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services May 20th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas Medical Association and the Texas Pediatric Society
  • Texas should lead them.
  • I live in Abilene, Texas.
  • House Bill 3595 is smart policy; it supports preparedness, respects private enterprise, and helps Texas
  • This was in Texas? Yes. Yes. Yes, ma'am. This was in Texas, and they left.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services discussed multiple bills focused on diverse health issues including maternal care, organ transplant eligibility, and child welfare regulations. Notably, HB215, presented by Senator Perry, received attention for its provisions on requiring itemized bills from healthcare providers to enhance transparency. The bill garnered support from various witnesses who emphasized the importance of clearer billing processes for patients. Another significant discussion point was HB4076, which aimed to prevent discrimination against individuals seeking organ transplants based on vaccination status. This bill sparked public testimony highlighting the ethical implications of such mandates on vulnerable patients, especially children. Overall, the committee's deliberations emphasized a commitment to improving health care transparency and patient rights in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas Cemetery.
  • This bill would ensure that historic Texas cemeteries remain open to visitors daily.
  • You know, I know of a lot of places in Texas that have like petroglyphs.
  • I'm from rural Texas, and we have a lot of folks, a lot of counties that have 50,000 or less.
  • I'm also a trainer for the Texas.
Summary: The committee meeting featured extensive deliberations on several bills, most notably House Bill 1110, concerning civil suits against individuals reporting suspicious activity in good faith, proposed by Chairman Shaheen. The committee expressed unanimous support for the bill, and it was reported to the full House without amendments. Additionally, House Bill 865, introduced by Speaker Moody, addressing civil liability related to firearm hold agreements, also garnered unanimous approval, underscoring a collaborative effort among committee members. Public testimony highlighted concerns regarding proposed bills, specifically criticisms of House Bill 1748, aimed at exempting municipal courts from language certification requirements, which raised significant opposition related to equitable access to justice for non-English speakers.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I mean, the Texas Attorney General has cases against...
  • This is the biggest center here in Texas, here in Austin, Texas, actually.
  • it comes to protecting Texas children.
  • will be decided in Texas under Texas law.
  • disputes on Texas projects with Texas parties in Texas.
Summary: During the meeting, the committee engaged in substantial discussions surrounding several key pieces of legislation, particularly focusing on HB3004 which aims to enhance safety standards around high voltage power lines. Testimonies revealed concerns about the historical inadequacies of existing safety protocols, with multiple stakeholders advocating for strengthening provisions to avoid incidents of electrocution. Additionally, HB1088 was addressed, with debates regarding its potential implications on healthcare access, especially concerning transgender youth. There were conflicting opinions expressed regarding the necessity and impact of these legislative changes, highlighting the broader societal debates occurring around health and safety regulations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Charlie, we show you as Charlie Maloof, Texas Cure.
  • I'm representing myself and I'm the vice president of Texas Cure.
  • ...created a similar program for Texas game wardens.
  • I've spoken at universities, including Texas A&M and UT Austin School of Nursing.
  • I'm the Texas State Director for Alliance for Safety and Justice, and I am testifying on the bill.
Summary: The Committee on Corrections convened to discuss various proposed bills aimed at enhancing the criminal justice system in Texas. Noteworthy among them was HB1760, presented by Chairman Leach, which seeks to increase the minimum imprisonment term for individuals convicted of intoxicated manslaughter. The committee voted favorably on several bills, including HB1772, which addresses the eligibility for community supervision. Public testimony highlighted community concerns around parole decisions, especially regarding violent offenders, which added emotional weight to discussions on HB2306 concerning children’s parole eligibility. Several members expressed strong sentiments advocating for stricter regulations for repeat offenders, underlining the impact of violent crime on victims' families. The meeting wrapped up with additional bills pending further discussions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas is maxed, Texas A&M is maxed, Texas Tech.
  • people to come to Texas.
  • These students, our students, have gone to Texas schools, played Texas sports, participated in Texas
  • In 2001, Texas...
  • They have more than earned their spots in Texas colleges and to make Texas...
Summary: The meeting revolved around discussions on House Bill 232, which seeks to amend the Texas Dream Act regarding in-state tuition for undocumented students. Key testimonies were presented, with numerous advocates opposing the bill, arguing it would harm talented Texas youths by denying them affordable education opportunities. Speakers included community leaders and affected students who shared personal stories illustrating the bill's potential drawbacks, emphasizing the negative economic impact that could result from limiting access to education for Dreamers and the associated societal benefits. The committee also explored House Bill 5154, which updates the Joint Admission Medical Program to improve access for economically disadvantaged students, receiving positive feedback and support from committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Delivery of Government Efficiency Mar 12th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The state of Texas has a...
  • It is completely free.
  • of School Boards, Texas Association of Counties, and Texas Municipal League.
  • properties across Texas.
  • I'm representing myself and the Texas Association of Builders. I am from Katy, Texas.
Bills: HB10, HB12, HB675
Summary: The meeting featured extensive discussions surrounding the Local Government Purchasing Cooperative, emphasizing approaches to enhance procurement processes for efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Representatives from Pearland City Council provided firsthand insights regarding their experiences with cooperative purchasing. Key topics included the complexities of contracts, the challenge of aligning with state procurement laws, and the importance of supporting local vendors through cooperative initiatives. The session also included invited testimony, exploring how the cooperative model influences municipal and educational budgets across Texas.

Research Filters

States
Terms / Sessions
Date Range
Chamber Records
Meetings / Events / Calendars