Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'state policy'

Page 25 of 60
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Aug 22nd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • To equal justice, all our laws are to apply equally to everyone in the United States.
  • Why are you carrying this bill as a state?
  • I suspect if you looked at any redistricting matter at state, House, State Board of Education, anything
  • And then east of I-35 is only about 8.5 or 9% of the state population, and the rest...
  • House of Representatives from the state of Texas.
Bills: SB2, SB5, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB4
Summary: The meeting was centered around the discussions of several legislative bills, focusing on significant amendments proposed for House Bill 4, which pertains to the election of members of the United States House of Representatives from Texas. Senator Zaffirini presented an amendment to create a bipartisan Texas Redistricting Commission to address concerns over gerrymandering and to improve the fairness of the redistricting process. The amendment sparked a lively debate among the senators, highlighting different perspectives on the implications of such a commission. Some members voiced their support while others raised concerns regarding the potential need for constitutional amendments to adopt such changes. The discussions also included testimony from Senator Gutierrez, who addressed the importance of transparency and public trust in the redistricting process, emphasizing that voters should have confidence in the electoral maps drawn by the state officials.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session Aug 28th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Bills: SB2, SB5, SB10, HB17, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4
Summary: The meeting predominantly focused on the discussion of several bills, including SB3, SB16, and a number of House Bills such as HB16, HB23, HB25, HB26, and HB192. Members engaged in lively debates concerning the implications of these bills, with notable discussions centered around community impacts and administrative implications. The committee heard testimony from various stakeholders, reflecting a distribution of opinions on the bills being considered. The atmosphere was one of collaboration as members worked through differing perspectives on the proposed legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part I) Aug 18th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • certain, Father God, in their memory that horrible things like this don't happen again in this wonderful state
Summary: The meeting began with an invocation led by Senator Dan Parker, who prayed for guidance in legislative decisions and comfort for families affected by recent tragedies in Central Texas. Following the invocation, the Secretary called the roll, establishing the presence of numerous members. The session focused on legislative initiatives addressing pressing community issues, with members expressing their thoughts on various bills. Notably, discussions included concerns surrounding public safety and community support initiatives aimed to alleviate hardships faced by the constituents.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Feb 4th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
Summary: The meeting focused on several resolutions, notably including House resolutions which recognized the academic achievements of the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and its merging with the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio. Senator Menendez and others praised the benefits of the merger, highlighting its potential for advancing research and education in Texas. Furthermore, various senators acknowledged the presence of community leaders and representatives, emphasizing the importance of local contributions to state development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education May 6th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Currently, these old books are considered state property and don't fall into...
  • This will not be a detriment to our communities, our workforce, and our state.
  • If you'll state your name, who you represent, and what you're here for.
  • We already have a massive teacher shortage in this state.
  • We love this state.
Summary: The meeting focused on several significant bills, with notable discussions surrounding SB37, which aims to overhaul the governance and curriculum oversight of higher education in Texas. Representative Shaheen expressed that the bill is intended to ensure that degrees earned in Texas are valuable and properly aligned with workforce demands. Witnesses presented both support and opposition to the bill, presenting various perspectives on its potential impact on academic freedom and educational quality. One associate professor voiced concerns regarding SB37, arguing it could stifle open discussions and critical thinking in classrooms by imposing political oversight on curricula. The discussion highlighted a divide between representatives who support increased legislative oversight and those who fear it will undermine educational integrity.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 25th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Prior to working in state policy, I was a victim advocate, and I coordinated a sexual assault response
  • and the United States.
  • That is not our policy.
  • of Texas to take that policy position.
  • Often, the states don't require...
Summary: The committee meeting included significant discussions surrounding several bills, notably HB220, HB3336, and HB4904. HB220, which addresses access to emergency contraception for survivors of sexual assault, sparked intense debate among committee members and witnesses. Various stakeholders testified for and against the bill, emphasizing the importance of immediate access to such services while also raising ethical concerns regarding contraception. Public testimony was robust, showcasing strong opinions on both sides of the legislation, with many advocating for the rights and protections of survivors.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health May 12th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • in the state of Texas.
  • It doesn't allow NATOs to work outside of the state to work within the state in its current form.
  • , the accredited NATO that's in the state of Texas.
  • In the state of Texas, and that's Science Care. Accredited in the state, correct?
  • I think it varies from state to state of where it goes before
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Public Health was centered around discussions on several significant bills, including HB4175 and SB2721. HB4175 seeks to expand mental health leave policies to cover a wider range of qualified employees, including peace officers and parole officers. The motion for HB4175 was approved with a roll call vote showing a majority in favor. Conversely, SB2721 sparked extensive dialogue concerning the regulation of anatomical donations. Testimonies revealed public concerns over unclaimed bodies and the necessity for informed consent in body donation practices. The bill underwent substantial scrutiny, highlighting the balance between supporting medical education and protecting family rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Feb 27th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Governor George Bush signed that bill when he was governor of the state of Texas.
  • The history of African Americans in this state has been, I guess, appalling. I look at my...
  • years, and they have continuously stated they had no power.
  • The Committee on State Affairs will resume its posted meeting in the Senate chamber.
  • So 15 minutes after we're done, State Affairs will be back in session. Thank you, Mr. President.
Summary: The meeting of the committee was led by Chairman Johnson and included several items of discussion, with a notable focus on the confirmations of appointments to various boards, including the Texas Juvenile Justice Board and the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. Senator Parker initiated a discussion regarding the significance of these appointments, emphasizing their potential impact on the respective organizations. Additionally, resolutions were adopted through voice votes, reflecting a collaborative effort among the committee members to push forward various legislative tasks. The meeting was characterized by active participation from both the senators and the public present in the gallery, ensuring diverse opinions were represented.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Environmental Regulation Apr 17th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Environmental Regulation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The highest penalty you can get is a state jail felony if it's 1,000 pounds or more.
  • We'll start with you as the VP for State and Local Government and Community Affairs.
  • HB 5033 doesn't ban the state from creating smarter, locally tailored emissions reduction policies in
  • We show you registered as Greg Cole on behalf of the Texas State Inspection.
  • ...bad policy in our mind.
Summary: The meeting focused on several critical environmental bills primarily related to regulatory processes and emissions management. Key discussions included a thorough examination of HB3997, which aims to streamline LNG terminal permitting processes to boost development efficiency and compliance in Texas. Matt Barr of Chenier Energy emphasized the need for clarity in regulatory timelines to better support export operations and maintain Texas's leading position in LNG exports. Additionally, multiple bills were proposed concerning vehicle emissions testing and transparency requirements in waste management contracts, highlighting the varied approaches lawmakers are taking to environmental regulation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health May 12th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • My name is Noah Torres, and I'm a policy scholar at the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • I'm a prescribing psychologist in the state of Louisiana.
  • states.
  • , just because another state does it, doesn't mean we...
  • This policy works. In states where psychologists can prescribe, suicide...
Summary: The meeting featured vigorous discussions around several significant bills, including SB2024 concerning youth vaping and its potential consequences. Witnesses presented compelling testimonies highlighting the dangers of e-cigarette use among teenagers, emphasizing how marketing tactics cleverly target this demographic. The bill faced no opposition during discussions but was left pending for further review and amendments. Additionally, HB5537 aimed to empower psychologists to prescribe medication, spurred different viewpoints from committee members about mental health measures and prescription regulations. Amidst these discussions, there was a focus on ensuring access to care while maintaining safety and quality standards.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development May 19th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Please state your name, position, and tell us what you are doing.
  • with the state workforce commission needs.
  • We're the state chamber for the state of Texas, and I'm testifying in strong support of HB 5195.
  • We also gathered input from 46 state agencies.
  • One theme emerged loud and clear: that way too many businesses interact with state government.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Economic Development Committee focused on several key bills aimed at enhancing economic development and addressing infrastructure needs in Texas. Notably, House Bill 5195 was discussed to modernize state agency websites, making them accessible and user-friendly for small businesses. Senator Alvarado emphasized the importance of this legislation in providing a better online experience for Texas residents and businesses alike, noting that outdated websites pose significant barriers. The bill received strong support from both committee members and public witnesses, highlighting its potential to spur economic growth. Furthermore, House Bills 2760 and 2765 were also favorably reported, aimed at refining the unemployment benefit appeal process and expanding resources for rural economic development, respectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Finance Aug 15th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 5 is the relief funding for the Hill Country, which funds all the different policy initiatives
  • What this bill does is align state law with current federal law regarding congressional testimony, which
  • It's just something that's been in state law for a long time
Bills: SB2, SB3, SB5, SB9, SB10, SB14, SB16, SB34, SB18
Summary: The committee meeting covered multiple bills, primarily focusing on flood relief initiatives and education reforms. Senator Bettencourt presented SB3, detailing updates to the state's flood warning system. He expressed that the bill's objective is to enhance early warning systems funded through the governor's office. Public testimony was opened but no individuals expressed their opinion, leading to a smooth progression as the bill was reported favorably to the Senate. Additionally, Senator Perry discussed SB14, which aims to provide impact fee credits to cities to encourage innovative water conservation efforts. This bill mirrored previous legislation passed last session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Aug 18th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • So political subdivisions of the state: state agencies, you know, any... creative...
  • So in other words, they do have to adopt a policy to make sure, just as we did here on the State Preservation
  • This only deals with political subdivisions of the state and state agencies.
  • Again, this bill only applies to political subdivisions of the state and state agencies.
  • The policy of this state is not to have appropriated funds
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

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

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • for the state of Texas.
  • We believe there is significant value in having our legal state of incorporation in a state where we're
  • Glenn, Texas is already a pretty friendly business state, right?
  • And that causes me concern about our policy-making body.
  • When you're representing the department, you really are defending the state, its actions, its policies
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

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 12th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • and county sources provided by state law, the comptroller must reduce a state prosecutor's state annual
  • and county sources provided by state law, without foregoing state funding toward the district attorney's
  • state annual salary.
  • Every state has one. Every state has a summary of eviction.
  • Most states require more time.
Summary: The meeting of the Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence Committee included discussions on critical bills impacting public safety and tenant rights. Representative Garcia-Hernandez presented HB923, which aims to add two public members to the Texas Medical Disclosure Panel, thereby enhancing informed consent for medical procedures. This move sought to enhance transparency and public trust, especially since the panel previously lacked any public representation. The committee also received testimonies both for and against the bill, highlighting the importance of public input in health-related decisions. The bill faced opposition mainly due to concerns about balancing medical expertise with public representation. Another significant discussion revolved around HB32, which seeks to streamline the eviction process in Texas. While proponents argue that the bill addresses inefficiencies affecting landlords, opponents, including activists and legal experts, expressed concerns that the bill could exacerbate homelessness and undermine tenant rights. They stressed the need for adequate protections and due process for tenants. As the committee moved through multiple bills, the need for careful consideration of both landlord and tenant rights remained a focal point of debate, indicating the complexities surrounding housing legislation in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on County & Regional Government Mar 24th, 2025 at 10:03 am

House S/C on County & Regional Government

Transcript Highlights:
  • Your bill states that the County Commissioners Court has the authority to do that.
  • The state to do so.
  • This bill does not create any financial obligation for the state or affect the state budget.
  • of Texas has more than 300 ESDs across the state.
  • I don't want to belabor the points; most of our points have already been stated.
Summary: During this meeting, significant discussions revolved around essential bills, including HB1646, HB605, HB2379, and HB2115. HB1646, aimed at amending the Health and Safety Code, was presented as a means to enhance the operational efficiency of emergency service districts by raising the expenditure threshold for board approval from $2,000 to $50,000. Testimonies from emergency service officials were notably in favor of the bill, highlighting the improved response times and operational flexibility it would provide. On the other hand, HB605 sought to grant the Harris County Hospital District the authority to employ and commission its peace officers, tackling the increasing concerns of workplace violence in healthcare settings, which was addressed with urgency as it aimed at improving safety for both staff and patients. The bill was left pending to allow further considerations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Apr 7th, 2025 at 10:00 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • There's billions in value to the state of Texas.
  • Are there other states that do this right now?
  • These revenues or rebates include the state sales tax, state hotel occupancy tax, and the state mixed
  • sales taxes, state hotel occupancy taxes, and state mixed beverage taxes for 30 years.
  • So our state property tax...
Summary: The Committee on Ways and Means convened to discuss several proposed bills, including HB4044, HB103, and HB3045, focusing on tax reform and support for local development initiatives. Representative Troxler introduced a committee substitute for HB103, which was subsequently adopted without objection, demonstrating consensus on its merits. HB3045 sought to incentivize spaceport operations with franchise tax breaks for contracts related to the Department of Defense, emphasizing Texas's commitment to lead in the aerospace industry. The meeting concluded with discussions around the importance of the Property Value Study (PBS) and its impact on equitable taxation, with members addressing concerns about the effective administration of property appraisals and future legislative actions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism May 1st, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am Brett Durvis, the Administrative Director with the Texas State Historical Association.
  • span marker="7" data-time="60"> With the support for getting the Texas Almond Act designated as the state
  • In the state, we run three programs that have been going since
  • These are scalable programs too, so we can get them across the entire state.
  • The state of Texas already has wildlife crossings protecting wildlife.
Summary: The meeting of the Culture, Recreation, and Tourism Committee centered on several important bills primarily aimed at enhancing Texas's wildlife management and cultural initiatives. One of the standout discussions was around HB5259, which advocates for the development of a wildlife corridor action plan by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The bill aims to address the high number of animal-vehicle collisions in Texas, proposing to set up designated areas to connect wildlife populations and habitats. Witnesses, including wildlife conservationists, testified in support of this bill, stressing its potential to significantly reduce accidents and protect endangered species like ocelots. The committee also deliberated on multiple Senate Bills aimed at streamlining hunting licenses and supporting state historical initiatives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism May 1st, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If the state took it over, it now has...
  • It could be enhanced if the state took it over.
  • It's called Sheldon State Park.
  • with this state.
  • But despite these bans, it's actually states with trans-inclusive athletic policies that have higher
Summary: The committee meeting extensively discussed SB1350, which aims to establish a commission for the Bicentennial Anniversary of Texas Independence in 2036. Several witnesses, including Lacey Finley and Russell Molina, testified in support of the bill, emphasizing the importance of extensive planning and community engagement for this significant celebration. They argued that the bicentennial should encompass the diverse history and culture of Texas and encouraged the committee to include a non-profit structure to facilitate fund-raising and coordination efforts. Furthermore, HB738 was debated, focusing on the preservation of Rosenwald schools and their potential use as community learning centers, with members advocating for support to maintain this integral part of Texas's educational heritage.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session Aug 19th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • We're not just voting on a policy.
  • It's sloppy policy, and it's dangerous.
  • And so for all the daughters of our great state, I move final passage.
  • It states that the Attorney General may prosecute.
  • You know, with everything going on in this state, you know.
Bills: SB10, SB8, SB15, SB12, SB6, SB13, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4
Summary: During this meeting of the committee, significant attention was directed towards several bills, particularly surrounding property tax legislation and its implications for local governments. Senator Bettencourt highlighted the reduction of the voter approval tax rate from 3.5% to 2.5%, emphasizing its potential impact on local budgeting and the necessity for local elections to generate funding for essential services. The committee engaged in a heated debate regarding SB8, which concerns the designation of public facilities based on biological sex. Several members expressed concerns about the bill's implications on civil rights and potential conflicts with federal discrimination laws, leading to a division of opinions among committee members. Ultimately, multiple bills were moved to the floor for final passage, reflecting the urgency to address pressing matters swiftly.

Research Filters

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