Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'constitutional authority'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance May 23rd, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • Constitution in doing so.
  • There's a lot of talk about Article One, Section 10 of the Constitution and what that means.
  • to the extent authorized by Section 10, Article One,

  • Constitution. So we start with that so everything...
  • I'm talking to the House author, and I'd like to talk to each one of y'all.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee featured extensive discussions surrounding several important bills, notably House Bills 500, 4486, and 3010. Chair Huffman presented HB500, a supplemental budget addressing vital state services, in which $2.5 billion was allocated for water infrastructure projects. The committee approved the bill unanimously, showcasing bipartisan support for its critical provisions including enhancements to Texas's cybersecurity and disaster response capabilities. Discussions also revolved around HB4486, which was substituted and subsequently reported back to the full Senate, indicating ongoing legislative refinement and collaboration among members. Additionally, HB3010, aimed at facilitating disaster recovery for rural infrastructure, was brought forward by Senator Nichols, emphasizing the state's commitment to assisting communities impacted by natural calamities.
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:
  • The river authority failed them. And in a larger sense, they’re...
  • Author, is there any objection? Chair, there's none. Amendment by Howard.
  • and co-authors for House Bill 2 who signed on to HB2 before.
  • The amendment is acceptable to the authors.
  • ...sponsors for SB5, all joint authors and co-authors for
Bills: HB1, HB2, HB3, HB5, HB20, HB22
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on the discussion and passage of several key bills, including SB5, which pertains to supplemental appropriations for disaster relief. This bill was passed unanimously, highlighting the committee's commitment to addressing disaster preparedness. HB20, aimed at reducing fraudulent charitable solicitations during disasters, also saw significant debate, with positive sentiments expressed by its sponsor, Mr. Darby. Additionally, HB22, which expands the authority of the comptroller to fund emergency communication systems, was passed with overwhelming support, indicating a consensus on improving emergency response capabilities within the state. The session concluded with discussions about future legislative measures aimed at strengthening infrastructure against disasters.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Jun 1st, 2025 at 01:06 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • This resolution authorizes technical corrections to SB2268.
  • It upends statutory authority we have with open beaches.
  • How hard I know myself and the chairman, the author.
  • Only the Texas Board of Nursing has the authority to do that.
  • They have no authority to do any of these things.
Bills: HCR158, HCR159, HCR160, HCR161, HCR162, HCR163, HCR164, HR174, HR427, HR790, HR810, HR857, HR866, HR882, HR883, HR962, HR966, HR1001, HR1045, HR1085, HR1097, HR1127, HR1138, HR1141, HR1150, HR1152, HR1292, HR1296, HR1304, HR1305, HR1306, HR1308, HR1309, HR1310, HR1311, HR1312, HR1313, HR1315, HR1317, HR1318, HR1320, HR1321, HR1322, HR1323, HR1324, HR1325, HR1327, HR1328, HR1329, HR1330, HR1331, HR1332, HR1333, HR1334, HR1335, HR1338, HR1340, HR1341, HR1342, HR1343, HR1344, HR1345, HR1346, HR1347, HR1348, HR1349, HR1352, HR1353, HR1354, HR1355, HR1358, HR1359, HR1360, HR1361, HR1362, HR1363, HR1364, HR1365, HR1366, HR1368, HR1369, HR1370, HR1380, HR1383, HR1384, HR1385, HR1386, HR1387, HR1388, HR1389, HR1390, HR1392, HR1393, HR1396, HR1397, HR1398, HR1399, HR1400, HR1402, HR1403, HR1404, HR1405, HR1406, HR1407, HR1408, HR1409, HR1410, HR1411, HR1412, HR1413, HR1414, HR1415, HR1417, HR1418, HR1419, HR1420, HR1421, HR1422, HR1424, HR1425, HR1426, HR1427, HR1428, HR1429, HR1430, HR1431, HR1432, HR1433, HR1434, HR1435, HR1436, HR1437, HR1438, HR1440, HR1441, HR1442, HR1443, HR1444, HR1445, HR1447, HR1448, HR1449, HR1450, HR1452, HR1453, HR1454, HR1455, HR1456, HR1458, HR1459, HR1460, HR1461, HR1462, HR1463, HR1464, HR1465, HR1466, HR1467, HR1469, HR1470, HR1471, HR1472, HR1473, HR1475, HR1477, HCR132, HCR154, HR17, HR49, HR170, HR275, HR355, HR356, HR364, HR369, HR672, HR690, HR755, HR756, HR759, HR762, HR763, HR781, HR785, HR848, HR1240, HR1265, HR1303, HR1307, HR1314, HR1316, HR1319, HR1326, HR1336, HR1337, HR1350, HR1351, HR1367, HR1371, HR1372, HR1373, HR1374, HR1375, HR1376, HR1377, HR1378, HR1379, HR1382, HR1391, HR1395, HR1451, HR1457, HR1468, HR1474, HR1476, SB1637, SB2878, HB2885, HB2017, HB5246, SB8, SB2308, SB1405, HB119, SB3059, SB15, SB568, SB2900, HB3642, HB3909, SB268, HB493, SB2217, HB2516, SB650, HB2963, SB1610, HB705, SB2972, SB1540, HB40, SB2753, SB1660, SB2024, HB1545, HB46
Summary: The meeting convened to address a variety of bills, with substantial attention devoted to the conference committee reports on multiple pieces of legislation. Notably, the discussion included SB268, where a fix was made to restore language regarding serious bodily injury referrals to law enforcement. Members expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts during the conference committee stages of the bills, with several members highlighting the enhancement of the legislative process through a united front. Additionally, notable discussions surrounded HB5246 and SB2308, which focused on drug trials and the necessity of establishing clear protocols moving forward. The meeting concluded with significant voting outcomes, showcasing the supportive stance of the majority on various measures discussed.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 12th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • liability for decisions made in good faith, with due care, and within the officer's or director's authority
  • They bypass the constitutional requirement that people select judges?
  • My question is, they bypassed the constitutional amendment that the public elect their judges, correct
  • Members, any other questions for the bill author?

  • Members, any questions for the bill author?

    Okay.

Summary: Another key topic was HB581, addressing the misuse of AI in creating damaging content. The chair emphasized the urgency of the issue affecting children and expressed a commitment to finding solutions. Bills like HB644 also drew attention, as they modified liabilities for businesses regarding the carrying of concealed firearms on their premises. The meeting was characterized by a diverse range of opinions, with several members expressing support for the bills and others raising concerns about potential impacts on governance and public safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations Feb 18th, 2025 at 08:02 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The hospitals with contracted beds through the mental health authorities do have GR funding.
  • Most of them are run through our local mental health authorities.
  • We are looking at a pilot with the local mental health authorities to see how we...
  • Some do open up beyond a local mental health authority.
  • , the local IDD authority, and the facility of folks just for state hospital.
Summary: The meeting involved a series of discussions around various legislative matters, focusing primarily on proposed bills and amendments. Members of the committee voiced their opinions on the implications of each bill, and several public witnesses offered testimony supporting and opposing different initiatives. Notable conversations revolved around fiscal responsibilities and the impact of these legislations on local communities. Overall, the dialogue was constructive, highlighting the differing perspectives among committee members and witnesses.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • They have the authority of a district judge.
  • We're given specific rulemaking authority in specific areas.
  • I think I'm going to ask the author. I think that's a wise choice.
  • The bill is in constitutional peril.
  • I voted for constitutional carry. I got help.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several key legislative bills relating to election integrity and voter registration. Notable discussions were held around HB817, HB1478, and HB1661, which addressed issues such as the termination of majority votes, compliance with voter registration laws, and penalties related to election supplies. Throughout the meeting, various representatives vocalized their opinions, alongside public testimonies that provided diverse perspectives on the bills being considered. The chair led the proceedings efficiently, allowing for a balance of viewpoints while ensuring that legislative business was conducted promptly. Overall, the atmosphere was characterized by active engagement from members of the committee, with many bills being reported favorably to the full House for consideration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Agriculture & Livestock Mar 4th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House Agriculture & Livestock Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Health Commission has legislative authority to regulate the prevention, control, and eradication
  • The authorized personnel staff manages the...

  • We have the Texas Agriculture Finance Authority...

  • ...constitutional and statutory rights.
  • right to farm and ranch in the Constitution.
Summary: The meeting covered various topics and was characterized by in-depth discussions among the members. There were significant dialogues about the implications of recent legislation and its impact on community services. The chair facilitated input from multiple members, allowing for both support and opposition to be voiced regarding key issues. Additionally, there were several public testimonies that added to the discourse, reflecting diverse perspectives on the matters at hand.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 2nd, 2025 at 11:00 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Cities must have the authority to regulate short-term rentals.
  • Members, are there questions of the bill author? Seeing none, thank you.
  • Any questions for the author? Mr. Gueren.
  • Any other questions for the author?

  • Are they not mentioned or enumerated in the Constitution?
Summary: The meeting of the State Affairs Committee convened to discuss House Bill 1606, focusing on public safety and communication regarding vegetation management near power lines. Representative Metcalf presented the bill, highlighting concerns raised by constituents about overgrown vegetation posing risks such as power outages and fire hazards. The bill aims to mandate electric utilities to provide customers with information on how to request vegetation management, thereby enhancing public awareness and safety without imposing new regulations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Constitution, or both.
  • Constitution.
  • authorization.
  • Stand by the Constitution and do what you were voted into doing. Thank you.
  • Hinojosa to consider a subpoena of the author of the DOJ letter.
Summary: The committee meeting addressed the contentious issue of congressional redistricting, following concerns about the legality and fairness of past maps that allegedly disenfranchised minority voters. The testimony predominantly rejected the notion of conducting mid-decade redistricting, with multiple witnesses arguing against the initiative citing lack of legal justification and the risk of exacerbating racial gerrymandering. Prominent discussions included calls for more transparency in the redistricting process, with several members expressing the need for public engagement through field hearings and meaningful opportunities to review and comment on proposed maps. Senator King and other members led discussions emphasizing the significance of community involvement in shaping equitable congressional districts that reflect Texas' demographics.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 7 also authorizes the Water Development Board

  • The original file had created an authority, if you will

  • There is no eminent domain granting authority in this. No new domain granting authority at all.
  • Any questions for the author?
  • The Texas-sized solution to this funding gap involves the constitutional dedication of state revenues
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 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 18th, 2025 at 12:08 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I, Greg Abbott, Governor of the State of Texas, by the authority
  • vested in me by Article 3, Sections 5, 5a, and 40, and Article 4, Section 8a of the Texas Constitution
  • Legislation that strengthens the Attorney General's authority to investigate and prosecute state election
  • ">Legislation similar to Senate Bill number 1253 from the 89th Legislature regular session that authorizes
  • p>This bill also addresses increasing criminal penalties and authorizing
Summary: The committee meeting addressed a range of legislation aimed at addressing public safety and emergency preparedness, particularly focusing on the aftermath of recent storms in Texas. A noteworthy aspect of the discussions involved several bills related to youth camp safety, disaster preparedness, and the establishment of emergency communication systems. Members actively debated the merits of various proposals, with particular attention on HB80, which addresses abortion-related liabilities, indicating a contentious atmosphere surrounding personal rights and public health issues. Testimonies from public witnesses reinforced the urgency of implementing stronger flood response measures and safeguarding vulnerable populations during emergencies.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Mar 10th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span>

    The chair lays out Senate Bill 447 and recognizes its author

  • Senators, any questions for the author about the committee substitute on Senate Bill 17?
  • Senator Perry sends up the committee substitute, which the author has explained to us the difference
  • Any questions for the author at this point?
  • Any other questions for the author?
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on State Affairs focused on various legislative bills, including SB1346, which seeks to address challenges in the Texas Lottery resulting from fraudulent activities. Senator Hughes, the bill's author, highlighted recent investigations regarding an international syndicate's attempt to purchase nearly all possible winning tickets for a $95 million jackpot, thus undermining public trust in the lottery system. The committee engaged in a deep discussion about the bill's measures to prevent similar future occurrences, suggesting strict penalties for licensed retailers involved in such schemes. The testimony included endorsements from several stakeholders, emphasizing the bill's significance for fair lottery practices in Texas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, any questions for the author?
  • Members, any questions of the author? Hearing none, let's see, we're going to open up...
  • The code suggests that the Department of Insurance does not have the authority to create substantive
  • Does the bill limit the commissioner's authority to

  • The other issue that's going on here is how much authority the administrative state has versus the authority
Summary: The committee meeting included extensive discussions on a variety of bills, predominantly focusing on cleanup legislation aimed at aligning Texas laws with current practices and standards within various professional fields. Notable bills discussed included SB703, which addressed licensing consequences for massage establishments to close loopholes in existing law, and SB764, which related to improving procedures for electrician's licensing appeals. Several members expressed support for these measures, highlighting their importance in maintaining professional integrity and public safety. Public testimonies were received, offering insights and support from professionals in the fields impacted by these legislative changes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Finally, the bill authorizes the Texas Attorney General to take legal action against institutions that
  • The bill does authorize the Attorney General to take legal action.
  • I would wager, I guess, that this bill is being pushed nationwide and that the author isn't truly the
  • real author of this.
  • They're not going to be surveilling the American Constitution Society.
Summary: During the committee meeting, key issues surrounding higher education legislation were discussed, focusing on several significant bills. Notably, discussions revolved around SB2233, which mandates public institutions in Texas to prohibit non-immigrant visa holders from supporting terrorist activities. This bill raised concerns regarding free speech and potential overreach in monitoring students and faculty, with various testimonies highlighting its implications for academic freedom. The bill faced opposition from various civil rights organizations and law students who emphasized that such measures could create a chilling effect on political expression and disproportionately affect marginalized communities. In contrast, SB735 on Holocaust education received strong support, aiming to improve educational resources and awareness amid rising anti-Semitism, with calls for comprehensive training for educators. Other bills discussed included SB2683, which restricts institutional benefits from foreign entities considered to pose a national security risk, further emphasizing the tension between security concerns and academic freedom.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Aug 26th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • > Of Texas Legislature's second call session, whereas the people of Texas, through their state constitution
  • marker="52" data-time="306">Now, therefore, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of the State of Texas, by the authority
  • vested in me, by order—Article 3, Section 40 and Article 4, Section 8a of the Texas Constitution, do
  • same-day voter registration in Texas,

    Legislation authorizing

Bills: SB2, SB3, SB10, SB16, SB5, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, SB19, SB54, HB23, HB17, HB16
Summary: The meeting of the Senate involved significant discussions revolving around various bills, including HB17, HB23, SB19, SB53, SB54, HB16, HB1, HB3, and HB27. Notably, Senator Hughes initiated motions to suspend the rules, allowing the Senate Committee on State Affairs to take up Senate Bill 19, alongside other bills. The atmosphere was collaborative as members worked together to move the legislative process forward, reflecting a commitment to addressing pressing community needs. The invocation led by Senator King highlighted the challenges faced by legislators away from home, emphasizing the importance of peace and focus during their deliberations. The meeting concluded with motions adopted unanimously, showcasing unity among members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Aug 21st, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Legislation to authorize a person to purchase ivermectin at
  • To ask questions of the author.

  • I rise to ask the author—thank you for your kind words there—I rise to ask the author some questions.
  • A question to the author. Do you yield? I yield.
  • President and members, I rise in support of Senate Bill 1, which I believe all of us co-authored.
Bills: SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, SB1, HB4
Summary: The meeting focused on the discussion and passage of SB1, known as the Heaven's 27 Camp Safety Act, which aims to implement critical safety measures for youth camps following a tragic flood incident that resulted in numerous fatalities. Senator Perry led a profound dialogue stressing the importance of ensuring that all campers and camping facilities are adequately prepared for emergencies, emphasizing the need for comprehensive evacuation plans and safety standards. Members expressed heartfelt sentiments toward the families affected by the tragedy, and many voiced their commitment to preventing such an event from occurring again in the future. The overall tone was somber yet dedicated, with a strong emphasis on moving forward in honor of those lost.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Mar 12th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • You're still entitled to all those things that are listed in the Texas Constitution, the US Constitution
  • We are against HB 214, but we want to thank the author for working with us.
  • My question is, have you spoken with the author about your concerns?
  • I encourage you to continue working with the author.
  • And I want to, again, thank the author for listening and for hearing us.
Summary: The committee convened to discuss several major legislative bills, focusing particularly on enhancing law enforcement's ability to respond to missing children and addressing increasing border security concerns. One significant bill discussed was HB908, which mandates that law enforcement agencies report missing children to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children within a strict time frame. Testimonies primarily supported the urgency and need for swift action regarding missing children, with members underscoring the imperative to streamline procedures to ensure every case is handled urgently. Additionally, discussions on HB674 centered around adjusting the penalty structure for criminal trespass incidents related to avoiding law enforcement checkpoints, seen as a crucial measure to deter illegal crossings and enhance border security.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance May 21st, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Under current law, a constitutional county judge is entitled to an annual salary supplement from the
  • House Bill 2529 increases the county supplement paid to certain constitutional county judges to allow
  • a constitutional county judge entitled to an annual salary supplement from the state to receive...
  • Thus, it would allow the state supplement increase after four to eight years of service as a constitutional
  • Constitutional county judges serve a great purpose

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

Elections Mar 27th, 2025 at 10:03 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If you break the rules, your appointment may be terminated by the appointing authority.
  • We would read those constitutional amendments to senior citizens in the nursing home and we would get
  • As mentioned before, I know that HB1783 is about city propositions and not about state constitutional
  • As mentioned before, I know that HB1783 is about city propositions and not about state constitutional
  • Also, the authority responsible for procuring election supplies commits an offense if the authority intentionally
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused primarily on various election-related bills, with significant discussions revolving around HB1783, HB1090, and HB1478. Notably, HB1783 faced opposition from representatives of the Texas Civil Rights Project, who argued that the bill would impose undue restrictions on local governments regarding ballot proposition language, potentially hindering timely responses in elections. Another contentious bill, HB1090, proposed prohibitions on certain individuals serving as volunteer deputy registrars, which drew criticism for its implications on accessibility and fairness in the electoral process. Public testimony included voices both in favor and against these bills, highlighting the ongoing debates over election integrity and administrative efficiency.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Apr 7th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • Constitution. Axel V. Granville, U.S. Supreme Court, N. Ray C. J.
  • The Supreme Court says those rights are constitutional and
  • D.F.P.S. investigations and removal, as we all know, fundamentally impact the constitutional rights of
  • This bill also has a Senate Bill Companion, Senate Bill 629, that's authored by Senator Zaffirini.
  • In 2023, Senate Bill 870 was passed, giving the Attorney General's office the authority to...
Summary: The committee meeting centered around discussions on HB3284, which focuses on promoting family stability and the commissioning of a task force to evaluate existing regulations affecting marriage and family formation. Chairman Dutton initiated the conversation by emphasizing the need for governmental support in fostering a robust societal framework based on stable family units. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted the declining marriage rates in Texas, prompting discussions on effective strategies to reverse this trend. Public testimony was heard from representatives of Texas Values Action and the Texas Family Law Foundation, both advocating for stronger legislative measures to foster lifelong marriages and family stability.

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