Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Texas Sunset Advisory Commission'

Page 25 of 58
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That would save Texas families...
  • from the Texas Workforce Commission and the Governor's Office
  • Thank you all for coming here, as well as a resource witness for the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC)
  • I'm here on behalf of the Texas Medical Association and the Texas Pediatric Society.
  • It's outside Texas, yes.
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 Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Mar 20th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • A faculty senate is not the Texas Senate.
  • And yet, we've got the Texas vaccine...
  • This is a faculty council, the senate is advisory only.
  • I am also a member of the Texas State Employees Union and interim president of the Texas Transgender
  • Senator Campbell attended medical school at Texas Tech, and Senator Bettencourt went to Texas A&M.
Summary: The meeting convened with significant discussions centered around higher education legislation in Texas, particularly focusing on research security and curriculum governance. Senator Brian Hughes introduced SB1273, which aims to establish a Higher Education Research Security Council to bolster security practices against potential espionage while promoting collaboration among Texas Tier 1 research institutions. Witness testimony included insights from Dr. Kevin Gamache of Texas A&M University, who underscored the importance of safeguarding academic resources to maintain Texas’s leadership in research. The committee unanimously adopted a substitute for the bill which elevated its scope to include private institutions as well, reflecting a broader approach to research security.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part I) Feb 11th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the Texas Land Commissioner.
  • The Texas General Land Office is the tip of the spear for the biggest battles in Texas, protecting oil
  • I'm Tony Dale, the Executive Secretary of the Texas Veterans Land Board.
  • We've got people moving to West Texas.
  • That goes to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission

Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting centered around significant budget recommendations for the General Land Office (GLO) and the Gulf Coast Protection District (GCPD). The GLO presented a request for $2.7 billion in funding for the 26-27 biennium, highlighting a 57% reduction from the previous biennium. Critical discussions included necessary funding for the Alamo preservation, with a request for $150 million to address inflation-induced cost increases in renovation measures. The GLO emphasized the importance of these funds to protect the Alamo as a cultural landmark and to manage unexpected surprises in construction, such as the need for a new roof and structural reinforcements. Several members expressed their support for this initiative, citing the importance of preserving Texas history. Further discussions addressed the funding for the GCPD and other critical projects aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and ensuring environmental protection. The proposals included funds for coastal erosion response efforts and cybersecurity enhancements. A notable consensus emerged around the need for efficient use of taxpayer funds for ongoing environmental initiatives and disaster recovery efforts. With significant public interest and testimony on these issues, overall, the meeting captured a comprehensive perspective on the state’s budgetary priorities, emphasizing a collaborative effort among legislators to protect both cultural and environmental resources.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections May 5th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The judges that serve on the Judicial Advisory Council could not be...
  • I have the letter in front of me from the Judicial Advisory Council.
  • The Judicial Advisory Council is statutorily required...
  • So how does someone get on the Judicial Advisory Council?
  • The Judicial Advisory Council members are appointed by the Chief Justice of the Texas Supreme Court or
Bills: SB663, SB958
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.
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
  • advisory board.
  • 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

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • from the Texas Workforce Commission and the Governor's Office
  • Thank you all for coming all the way here, as well as a resource witness from the Texas Workforce Commission
  • You are testifying on behalf of the Texas Medical Association and the Texas...
  • I'm here on behalf of the Texas Medical Association and the Texas Pediatric Society.
  • It's outside Texas, yes.
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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on County & Regional Government Apr 28th, 2025 at 11:04 am

House S/C on County & Regional Government

Transcript Highlights:
  • Under current law, the Texas Commission on Jail Standards

  • Committee of the Texas Commission on Jail Standards.
  • Brandon Wood, Executive Director, Texas Commission on Jail.
  • This means that the Texas Commission on Jail Standards...
  • Director, Texas Commission on Jail Standards, testifying neutral on the bill. Is that correct?
Summary: The meeting focused on significant legislative proposals primarily centered around public health and criminal justice reforms. Notably, discussions centered on HB3841 and HB5108, which aim to enhance transparency and accountability in death investigations within county jails. Representatives shared compelling testimonies involving the necessity for improved oversight following recent incidents of in-custody deaths, highlighting the emotional impact on affected families. Witnesses from advocacy groups passionately urged the committee to approve the bills to foster trust in the system and uphold public safety standards. Additionally, various members addressed HB5611, which would empower emergency services districts to provide preventative healthcare services, contributing to the prevention of unnecessary 911 calls.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Coast Guard in the state of Texas and commissioned by the governor.
  • And as Representative Lozano said, we do get our commission from the Governor of Texas.
  • You're registered as Wesley Shackelford here on behalf of the Texas Indigent Defense Commission on the
  • I'm the Deputy Director of the Texas Indigent Defense Commission. I'm here as a resource witness.
  • claim in Texas.
Summary: In the recent meeting, the Judiciary and Cellular Disturbance Committee convened to discuss several critical issues, highlighted by the testimony surrounding HB1761. The committee chair emphasized the importance of the bill, gathering a panel consisting of key witnesses who offered various perspectives. Notably, Kathy Ward from the State Commission on Judicial Conduct voiced concerns regarding potential pitfalls of imposing sanctions on false complaints, advocating for a more inclusive process that considers mental health perspectives. Jacob Putnam, a District Attorney, echoed the sentiments, highlighting the bill's implications for public service recruitment and the necessity for competitive pay in public positions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • They parked down near where the Texas State Fair is held. The Texas State Fair is...
  • I'm a pediatrician in Houston, and I'm representing the Texas Medical Association, Texas Pediatric Society
  • Constitution and the Texas Constitution...
  • and not violated by the Texas Ethics Commission, there is
  • Lottery Commission to TDLR.
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened for a detailed examination of SB1065. The session was marked by comprehensive discussions surrounding the potential implications of this legislation. Members engaged in dialogue regarding the bill's objectives, with presentations from the bill's author and various stakeholders, highlighting differing perspectives on its necessity and impact. Public input was also sought, allowing for a range of opinions to be expressed, which enriched the deliberative process. Notably, Senator Haldeman emphasized the importance of the bill for improving community resources and addressing urgent needs in public services.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 24th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Texas Water Fund is significant.
  • Having access to this Texas Water Fund funding is also very important.
  • I show y'all registered as Jeremy Major on behalf of Texas 2036.
  • The Texas 2036 projects that the state will need to invest at least $154 billion.
  • The Texas Water Fund Advisory Council Committee will give the legislature
Bills: SB7
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on Senate Bill 7, which aims to enhance Texas's water infrastructure amid growing population and environmental challenges. Various stakeholders, including representatives from engineering firms, environmental organizations, and water associations, testified in support of the bill, emphasizing its potential to address pressing water supply issues and improve infrastructure reliability. Key topics of discussion included water reuse, flood infrastructure funding, and the need for legislative oversight to ensure effective management of financial resources. The testimony underscored the importance of adapting to aging water systems while promoting innovative solutions for sustainability.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • To ensure strong legislative oversight, Senate Bill 7 creates the Water Advisory Fund and the Texas Water
  • Fund Advisory Committee.
  • Stepney, Chairwoman for the Texas Water Development Board.
  • For the record, my name is Jeremy Mazur with Texas 2036.
  • Texas is susceptible to scarcity in water, and that's not going to change.
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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance May 21st, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • a'r Cynulliad Texas.
  • I think Texas needs to lead.
  • It's a new and growing industry in Texas.
  • However, I think our Texas oysters are prettier.
  • Tax or the Texas Insurance Premium Tax.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several house bills, notably those concerning environmental conservation, tax incentives for local businesses, and public safety. Key discussions revolved around HB3486, which introduces a sales and use tax incentive for restaurants purchasing Texas farm-raised oysters. Testimonies highlighted the importance of supporting local oyster farming to mitigate the decline of natural oyster reefs, and several witnesses praised the initiative for its potential environmental benefits. HB2688 also received attention, where representatives emphasized its role in enhancing public safety through improved support for police officers, echoing the community's need for stable recruitment and retention strategies in law enforcement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 12th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • law to give Texas dealers additional tools.
  • Except for Hawaii and Texas, they already apply this, so there's got to be some reason.
  • For the people of Texas.
  • I'm here on behalf of the Texas Auto Dealer Association.
  • Senate Bill 2246 is recommended by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.
Summary: The meeting of the committee addressed several key bills focused on transportation and vehicle regulations. Notably, SB1353 introduced by Representative Gaines aims to create a regulatory framework for towing vessel pilots in the port of Brownsville, alongside testimonies highlighting support from local authorities. Additionally, SB1902 proposed by Senator Nichols seeks to amend the previous legislation affecting license plate transfers, addressing concerns over dealer inventory storage issues. The discussion around SB249 centered on alleviating the financial strain on families of fallen peace officers regarding highway dedications, shifting the burden to TxDOT for funding and maintaining signs. Despite the positive atmosphere, some bills, such as SB1029, faced opposition due to potential customer trust issues related to advertising vehicles not currently in dealers' possession.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Mar 18th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm with the Texas School Nurses Organization.
  • They're called the Texas TEKS.
  • The Texas TEKS address many of the same topics, but they do it in a Texas-centric way.
  • I'm the director of public policy for the Baptist General Convention of Texas Christian Life Commission
  • , often referred to as Texas Baptist.
Summary: The Senate Education Committee convened to discuss multiple bills, primarily focusing on SB1619 and SB6019. Senator Dean Zaffirini presented SB1619, and the discussion revolved around modernizing the state's approach to epinephrine delivery devices. The highlighted importance of addressing anaphylaxis treatments in schools, particularly focusing on ensuring that both current and future delivery methods are adequately represented in the legislation was prominent. Participation from public testimony was also anticipated, allowing for community engagement.
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
Transcript Highlights:
  • For the record, Thomas Gleason, Chairman of the Public Utility Commission of Texas.
  • So, what is actually before the commission right now and what we...
  • Growth in Texas is not new. We are blessed.
  • Texas is open for business.
  • , we need Texas to be at the forefront of cutting-edge technologies.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Business Commerce Committee addressed multiple bills, notably focusing on SB842, SB372, and SB262. Chairman Schwartner facilitated discussions around the Texas Energy Fund, with updates provided by PUC Chairman Thomas Gleeson. Gleeson outlined the current status of the energy applications, highlighting that out of 72 applications, 17 had progressed. The committee also raised concerns regarding the need for additional transmission capacity, particularly in the Permian Basin, and discussed the implications of transitioning from 345 kV to 765 kV lines. Overall, the session was marked by a sense of urgency to finalize decisions by the approaching deadlines set for May 1st.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Veteran Affairs Apr 1st, 2025

Senate Veteran Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In Texas, we support our veterans, and this makes it official.
  • We urge Texas legislators to champion policies recognizing the contributions of Texas veterans.
  • economic leader, and we ensure that Texas remains strong.
  • Veterans Commission advisory board member for employment and training veteran services, and recently
  • , invest in Texas, and be the next generation of risk takers and job creators for Texas.
Bills: SB390, SB1197, SB1271
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Veteran Affairs addressed several significant bills aimed at supporting veterans and their businesses. Among the bills discussed was SB390, which seeks to expand the definition of historically underutilized businesses to include all veteran-owned businesses, regardless of disability status. This change aims to create a more equitable economic landscape for veterans and to foster their participation in state procurement opportunities. The committee heard strong testimony supporting this initiative, emphasizing the importance of providing veterans with fair chances in business development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs (Part I) Aug 4th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Central Texas.
  • to the SDC in Texas.
  • Texas.
  • We do have a resource witness from the Texas Commission

  • For the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, and I certainly
Bills: SB7, SB14
Summary: The meeting focused on two primary bills, SB7 and SB14, which elicited passionate testimony from various stakeholders. Many speakers opposed SB7, arguing it disproportionally impacts transgender individuals under the guise of protecting women's spaces. Testimonies highlighted concerns about safety, privacy, and the potential for increased harassment against vulnerable populations, such as transgender youth. Supporters of the bill asserted it was a necessary measure for women's safety, yet critics emphasized that it would create further harm rather than protection. SB14 also saw substantial discussion regarding its implications for law enforcement record transparency, with some stakeholders supporting the need for confidentiality while others warned of accountability risks.
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?
  • It's when you're in the commission of...
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

Transportation May 14th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas has an appeals process for persons subject to these disqualifications.
  • I am the President of Texas Rail Advocates in Dallas.
  • Nobody's going to tear down the berm, and nobody in Texas at this point.
  • Rebecca Montgomery, North Texas Commission.

  • I think the state of Texas will, without any doubt in my mind.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Transportation Committee included crucial discussions surrounding various bills pertaining to transportation and public safety. Notably, House Bill 647 was presented to streamline the process for individuals who have undergone corrective eye surgery, allowing them to update their driver's licenses without needing to visit the Department of Public Safety in person. This bill was celebrated for potentially decreasing traffic at DMV offices and optimizing resources, with members expressing general support and a positive sentiment surrounding its passage. Additionally, public testimony was gathered for House Bill 2003, concerning high-speed rail projects, where witnesses voiced differing opinions, emphasizing the bill's relevance to current transit challenges and community impacts.

Research Filters

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