Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Small Business Saturday'
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TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Aug 22nd, 2025 at 08:08 am
House Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- and business owners.
- business.
- First, how much is going to individuals, and how much is going to businesses.
- ALICE is our local cashier, our child care provider, our small business owner.
- I don't know how anything you can do to help businesses, individuals, or anything helps.
Keywords:
disaster relief, grant program, loan program, infrastructure, recovery, Texas Division of Emergency Management, building standards, youth camps, floodplains, safety regulations, environmental policies, flood risk, campground, safety regulations, civil penalty, guest safety, county regulation, impervious cover, land use, unincorporated areas
Summary:
The committee meeting addressed multiple bills related to emergency preparedness and flood prevention, with significant discussions on HB48, SB3, and HB75. Representative Darby opened the meeting by advocating for the creation of a nine-member alert notification system to address public saturation with emergency alerts and to streamline the notification process by evaluating the effectiveness and coordination of existing systems. Testimonies from various stakeholders underscored the necessity of reducing alert fatigue among residents while enhancing the state’s overall readiness for impending natural disasters. The meeting featured robust support for HB75, aimed at establishing stricter safety standards for youth camps located in flood-prone areas following recent tragic flooding incidents that highlighted the urgent need for improved safety measures.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Because if I'm just sitting at home, my friends are all busy and I'm not hanging out with them, I'd be
- Small businesses in Texas rely on social media to advertise
This bill suppresses free speech, harms small businesses
- A bit more than 30 years ago, I was a little girl in small-town Texas who discovered...
- While I was busy not graduating, I found myself in a relationship with a young lady.
Keywords:
social media, children, account verification, data privacy, parental control, financial crime, card fraud, motor fuel theft, law enforcement, criminal activity, skimmers, prevention, training, biological sex, government information, definitions, sex-based distinctions, public health, federal directives, state authority
Summary:
During the meeting of the committee on state affairs, multiple bills were discussed, with a significant focus on HB186, which aims to implement age verification for social media usage among minors. Public testimony highlighted concerns regarding potential invasions of privacy, the overreach of governmental authority, and the impact on children's mental health. Advocates for the bill argued that it protects children from harmful online content, while opponents expressed worries about its broader implications on free speech and social connectivity for young people. The meeting attracted a diverse audience, including experts, advocates, and concerned citizens, each contributing passionately to the dialogue surrounding these important legislative issues.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- We have a strong partnership with the Texas Association of Business, as well as the Texas Restaurant
- You do have a small percentage of kids that are probably
- We're funded for 50 per year, so that tells you that it's a very small percentage, thankfully, of the
- We're a very small agency. We've got 41 people.
- Is there any further business for the committee to address? If not, the chair moves to adjourn.
Keywords:
Texas Department of Criminal Justice, rehabilitation programs, budget cuts, recidivism, inmate education, employment training
Summary:
The House Committee on Corrections convened to discuss various operational issues and concerns surrounding the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Notably, Executive Director Brian Collier highlighted ongoing initiatives to enhance inmate rehabilitation services, including job training programs aimed at reducing recidivism rates. While the session was not dedicated to voting on bills, the committee reviewed the budget cuts impacting correctional facilities, which raised questions regarding the potential effects on facility operations and inmate management. Concerns were also aired about maintaining standards for educational programs within the correctional framework.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- It's an important and hard business.
- your business to the ground, you know, that is what we do as ranchers.
- I mean, and I say small, they're 10 to, you know...
- It's a small business, but for this small market, we're one of the larger providers in the market.
- Is there any further business for the committee to address?
Keywords:
emergency communication, infrastructure, first responders, grant program, interoperability, Texas Interoperability Council, local governments, electric utility, distribution poles, inspection, public safety, compliance plan, wildfire mitigation, utilities, electric service, liability, risk management, self-insurance, Texas Division of Emergency Management, political advertising
Summary:
During the committee meeting, significant discussions focused on wildfire prevention and emergency communication. Notably, House Bill 13 was presented as a critical measure aimed at improving interoperability among emergency communication systems to respond effectively to disasters. Witnesses, including representatives from Texas 2036 and local emergency responders, testified in support of the bill, emphasizing the increasing wildfire risks faced due to climate change. They argued that this bill will establish a statewide plan to harmonize communication systems and enhance local governments' capacity to respond to emergencies effectively. The discourse highlighted the historical context of Texas wildfires and the necessity of streamlined communication among first responders during critical incidents.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Aug 22nd, 2025 at 10:08 am
House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- It silences whistleblowers and small departments.
- that are too small to self-police.
- These are cases of small infractions.
- So in the case of small departments or perhaps a sheriff in a jail, if it's a very small agency, appropriate
- Is there any further business for...
Bills:
SB15
Keywords:
law enforcement, department file, employee records, misconduct, confidentiality, Texas occupations code, SB15, law enforcement, transparency, public accountability, misconduct, Uvalde shooting, confidentiality
Summary:
The committee meeting centered around the discussion of SB15, which aims to standardize record-keeping protocols for law enforcement agencies across the state. It received a mixed reception from committee members and witnesses, with significant concern raised regarding its potential to obscure misconduct and limit public transparency. Public testimony included strong dissent from individuals and organizations advocating for greater accountability in policing, who argued that the bill could enable law enforcement agencies to suppress critical information under the guise of confidentiality. Significant dialogue pertained to the implications of the bill in light of recent events that highlighted the need for transparency in police conduct, particularly in controversial cases such as the Uvalde school shooting. Ultimately, the bill was passed out of committee with minimal opposition.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Public Education Aug 21st, 2025 at 10:08 am
House Public Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- I'm assuming it's a fairly small number based on the expense.
- Small things, but I think it's important.
- So, some of those small changes.
- I know you have a busy day, and I really appreciate it.
- It's the chair's intention to take up pending business.
Bills:
HB8
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on HB8, which proposes significant changes to the assessment and accountability system in Texas education. Key discussions involved the transition from the previous STAR testing framework to a new instructionally supportive assessment program that aims to provide timely feedback to enhance instructional strategies. Proponents of the bill argue that it encourages a growth-oriented approach, while opponents express concerns about the potential increase in high-stakes testing and the makeup of the advisory committee, which has limited educator and parental representation. Numerous witnesses spoke, highlighting both support and apprehension regarding the bill's implications for students, educators, and accountability standards.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources May 21st, 2025 at 09:05 am
House Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- We're going to move on to pending business and quickly vote a couple of bills out.
- The Chair lays out his pending business, Senate Bill 1243.
The Chair lays out his pending business: Senate Bill
The Chair lays out his pending business: Senate Bill
- ...and reservoirs or building a small holding area for the
Keywords:
Natural Resources, SB1965, SB2885, SB2440, SB1855, SB2568, SB3058, SB612, groundwater, water regulation, infrastructure development
Summary:
The meeting of the Committee on Natural Resources was convened to review several bills concerning water regulation and development. Chairman Harris facilitated discussions on SB1965, SB2885, SB2440, SB1855, SB2568, SB3058, and SB612. Notable was the acknowledgment of rising concerns over groundwater availability and the regulatory framework surrounding it. The members emphasized the essential nature of the decisions being made, particularly in light of recent developments in water conservation and infrastructure. The bill SB1855 emerged as a focal point, addressing ambiguities in prior legislation about groundwater certification, which has caused confusion among local officials and developers alike. Testimonies were provided by representatives from various counties, emphasizing the necessity for clear guidelines and standards to protect water resources and support sustainable development.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Now, those are wines that are made often in very, very small quantities.
- We'll bring those back up after we vote on pending business, so...
- It is happening across Texas in both public institutions and private businesses.
- I hold degrees in design and international fashion business.
- When I go to the restroom, I go in, I take care of business, and leave.
Keywords:
biological sex, gender identity, public facilities, civil penalties, local government, alcohol sales, racing events, mixed beverage permit, temporary sale, Texas legislation, healthcare provider, retaliation, civil remedy, whistleblower protection, equal protection, impeachment, public officers, disqualification, procedural reform, removal from office
Summary:
The committee meeting featured significant discussions regarding various bills, particularly focusing on Senate Bill 240, which aims to address safety and privacy concerns for women and children in public restrooms. Numerous testimonies were heard both in support of and against the bill, highlighting the emotional and polarized nature of the discussions. Proponents argued for its necessity in safeguarding women's rights, while opponents raised concerns about the potential harms and discrimination it may perpetuate against transgender individuals. The atmosphere was tense but respectful, evidence of the deeply personal stakes involved in such legislation.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband May 2nd, 2025 at 08:05 am
House S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband
Transcript Highlights:
- a busy time in the legislature.
- > flexibility to use state funds to deploy LEO-like technology to these hard-to-reach homes and businesses
- There could be a small change in wording somewhere, but the intent of the bill is the same as it was
- It allowed cable companies to use all the right-of-way for all their business, but they pay a fee only
- They pay for use of the right-of-way but only on one small service.
Keywords:
broadband, internet access, digital equity, tax reduction, government funding, broadband, rural counties, fiber-optic, internet access, state funding, infrastructure, digital divide, economic development, fiber-optic cable, excavation, utilities, civil penalties, municipal regulations, infrastructure, video services
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on two primary bills: HB2838 and SB924. House Bill 2838 aimed to modernize broadband speed standards in line with FCC definitions, aiming to enhance access and reduce tax burdens on Internet services. Chairman Ashby explained the bill's intent to clarify requirements for the Broadband Development Office and included provisions for tax relief to support broadband expansion. Public testimonies presented both neutral and supportive views, emphasizing the importance of aligning state regulations with federal standards, especially for underserved areas. Senators questioned the bill's implications for service equity and federal funding eligibility.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Public Education Feb 25th, 2025 at 10:00 am
House Public Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Again, I think also just a small.
- small and mid-sized schools.
- Hinojosa's point, is still a very small percentage of our...
- Charter schools currently are not part of that small school.
- We don't want to put ourselves out of business.
Keywords:
public education, funding, teacher retention, deficit budgets, legislative changes, Texas Education Agency, educational landscape, workforce development
Summary:
The House Committee on Public Education convened a comprehensive meeting focused on critical issues impacting education in Texas. Chairman Buckley emphasized the committee's commitment to providing the largest public education investment in the state’s history while addressing pressing concerns such as funding disparities, teacher retention, and legislative changes impacting the educational landscape. Notably, Commissioner Mike Morath presented an extensive report detailing the current state of public education, highlighting a pressing need for adequate funding aligned with student needs and the challenges posed by deficit budgets in various school districts stemming from overreliance on temporary federal funding sources.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Intergovernmental Affairs Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Hey, we're a small taxing jurisdiction.
- business.
- I have my own business, and I'm able to help people start their own businesses.
- I have two small children. I am actually not small now. My daughter is 17 and my...
- What's the cost burden on businesses for implementing E-Verify?
Keywords:
housing finance, multifamily residential, low income, tax exemption, audit requirements, affordable housing, local government, development bonds, housing assistance, financial assistance, low income housing, community support, affordability, veterans housing, housing assistance, financial assistance, low income housing, community involvement, air conditioning, tenant support
Summary:
The meeting highlighted significant issues regarding housing funding mechanisms, particularly surrounding the complexities of Housing Finance Corporations (HFCs). Members voiced their concerns about the financial impacts these HFCs have on local government revenues, given that many property tax exemptions are given while maintaining market-rate rents. This discussion was sparked by alarming statistics indicating a rapid increase in tax dollars removed from local jurisdictions due to HFC activities, stressing the need for regulatory reforms to preserve affordable housing without financially jeopardizing municipalities.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
And for our teachers in small and rural districts, we're
- Because in every well-run business enterprise, a well-earned bonus improves morale, improves retention
- I mean, that's the sign of a well-run business.
- But yes, rural school systems and small school systems are adopting this at higher rates.
Rio Bravo is a unique community, a small town with
Bills:
SB26
Keywords:
teacher compensation, education funding, public school educators, teacher retention, teacher designation, Senate Bill 26, teacher compensation, education, salary increase, Texas teachers, teacher retention, educational reform, public testimony
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Education featured an extensive discussion on Senate Bill 26, aimed at reforming teacher compensation in Texas. Notable highlights included testimonies emphasizing the urgent need for meaningful salary increases for teachers across the state. Members discussed the historical nature of the proposed pay raises, which would establish a permanent salary allotment for teachers, allowing for dispatches of nearly $5 billion aimed at boosting educator retention. The importance of addressing teacher safety and equality across various educational roles was also a significant point of focus during this meeting.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Feb 4th, 2025 at 02:02 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- McAllen is also among the top 10 best cities for small business
- Since 1991, the chamber has championed small businesses, offered resources, advocacy, and networking
- businesses, offered resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities to help them thrive.
- ...best cities for small business, and the U.S.
Since 1991, the chamber has championed small business
Keywords:
Texas Energy Day, SCR 11, property taxes, educational reform, legislative inaction, H.R. 127
Summary:
The committee meeting highlighted several key resolutions, including the recognition of various days to celebrate regions and groups within Texas. Notably, H.R. 127 was passed, recognizing February 4th, 2025, as Texas Energy Day, underscoring the significance of the oil and gas industry in Texas' economy. During discussions, Representative Harrison voiced strong opposition to SCR 11, expressing concerns over legislative inaction and advocating for tackling pressing issues like property taxes and educational reform. His remarks underscored frustrations with the current leadership’s handling of significant legislation, suggesting a pattern of strategic inaction to avoid accountability.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management May 1st, 2025 at 10:05 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- data-time="972">Stuart Marks, a city council member for the City of Hunters Creek Village, one of the six small
- It poses a direct threat to small cities like ours and undermines a longstanding principle of local governance
- Small cities like Josephine are still building the foundations to support future populations.
- That's the area with older, smaller homes on small lots.
- Is there any other business to come before?
Bills:
HB407, HB871, HB882, HB2011, HB3572, HB3578, HB4038, HB4866, HB4897, HB4978, HB5380, HB5555, HB5668, HB5670, HB5674, HB5676, HB5679, HB5688, SB673
Keywords:
solar energy, residential construction, building code, municipal regulations, energy compliance, solar energy, building codes, residential construction, interconnection, municipal regulations, education, funding, teacher support, student resources, school infrastructure, solar energy, residential construction, building code, municipal requirements, environmental sustainability
Summary:
The meeting focused on discussions surrounding Senate Bill 673, which addresses the regulations concerning Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) across Texas. Various testimonies from stakeholders highlighted the bill's implications for local governance, housing affordability, and infrastructure challenges. Supporters argued that SB 673 promotes affordable housing and addresses multi-generational living needs, while opponents raised concerns about the potential strain on local infrastructure and the erosion of municipal zoning authority. Notable opposition came from representatives of smaller municipalities, indicating that while they support the idea of ADUs, they seek more localized control over housing policies to reflect community needs.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session May 20th, 2025 at 10:05 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- ...and committee business.
- businesses.
- To be able to get those small businesses those dollars, and
- Buckley because of important business.
- Lowe because of important business on a motion. Mr. Alcott, is there an objection?
Bills:
SB4, SB23, SB3, SJR2, SJR85, SB34, SB60, SB75, SB706, SB1814, SB1220, SB523, SB565, SB1253, SB840, SB764, SB2383, SB2155, SB1535, SB1405, SB1423, SB1566, SB1804, SB1728, SB1816, SB1952, SB1948, SB2037, SB2068, SB1455, SB213, SB243, SB627, SB646, SB670, SB896, SB917, SB1184, SB971, SB1255, SB1261, SB1283, SB1358, SB991, SB1733, SB21, SB231, SB739, SB1252, SB1371, SB664, SB40, SB9, SJR1, SB687, SB1332, SB458, SB482, SB927, SB984, SB651, SB1620, SB2124, SB2448, SB841, SB843, SB402, SB2662, SB2053, SB2332, SB2112, SB745, SB1247, SB1789, SB27, SB207, SB2938, SB1901, SB1227, SB1248, SB912, SB1321, SB2143, SB2145, SB1497, SB1239, SB2180, SB1388, SB1662, SB1951, SB1537, SB493, SB378, SB1020, SB1018, SB992, SB958, SB920, SB1350, SB1762, SB552, HCR109, SB2185, SB4, SB23, SB3, SJR2, SJR85, SB34, SB60, SB75, SB706, SB1814, SB1220, SB523, SB565, SB1253, SB840, SB764, SB2383, SB2155, SB1535, SB1405, SB1423, SB1566, SB1804, SB1728, SB1816, SB1952, SB1948, SB2037, SB2068, SB1455, SB213, SB243, SB627, SB646, SB670, SB896, SB917, SB1184, SB971, SB1255, SB1261, SB1283, SB1358, SB991, SB1733, SB21, SB231, SB739, SB1252, SB1371, HB2970, HB109, SB2308
Keywords:
property tax, homestead exemption, school funding, state aid, constitutional amendment, homestead exemption, elderly, disabled, ad valorem taxation, school district funding, veterinary, regulation, licensing, complaints, standards, administrative penalties, broadband access, tax reduction, internet service, rural connectivity
Summary:
The committee meeting was marked by dynamic discussions surrounding various legislative bills, notably SB1283 aimed at enhancing security in senior retirement communities following tragic incidents in the past. The bill, presented by Ms. Garcia-Hernandez, outlined essential measures including mandatory background checks for staff and a clear communication policy on criminal activities. The meeting also saw vigorous debates on multiple financial resolutions related to the statewide budget surplus, emphasizing the need for strategic allocation to property tax relief, as voiced by several committee members. Tensions arose as representatives questioned local government spending, reflecting a broader concern over escalating taxes across the state.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Small business owners and workers that sustain our tourism and these industries must be able to live
- businesses, and impede attracting employees on the Texas coast.
- This isn't just a small business issue; it affects the people living and working in our community.
- The task force was formed to educate residents and business...
- You're going to be a busy guy. Enough of that.
Bills:
HB778, HB1266, HB1576, HB2213, HB2517, HB2518, HB2841, HB3306, HB3320, HB3388, HB3508, HB3520, HB3689
Keywords:
credentialing, healthcare, physician assistants, advanced practice nurses, managed care, hurricane, windstorm, loss mitigation, grants, insurance discounts, property retrofitting, insurance, Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, board composition, coastal counties, property insurance, insurance, taxation, Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, Texas FAIR Plan Association
Summary:
The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance revolved around discussions primarily focused on the intricacies of multiple proposed bills aimed at reforming insurance regulations, particularly in the context of windstorm insurance. Chairman Hunter introduced HB3689, which seeks to create a more equitable funding system for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association by eliminating costly debt financing options. Multiple testimonies from representatives of the insurance industry highlighted collaboration efforts that have resulted in more affordable coverage options for residents in coastal regions. Key stakeholders, including insurance experts and affected constituents, expressed overwhelming support for the proposed changes, emphasizing the urgent need for reform to combat the rising costs that have burdened homeowners over the years. Additionally, discussions around HB1576 focused on incentivizing homeowners to improve the resilience of their properties against weather-related damage through a proposed grant program administered by the Department of Insurance. This proposal was deemed a significant step toward stabilizing insurance costs and encouraging safer construction practices.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Energy Resources Mar 3rd, 2025 at 11:03 am
House Energy Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- We've had small school districts call us and say, you know,...
- ...and had told our contractors that we do business with
- United States, $8.1 billion of which came from Texas businesses.
- You just touched upon some of the economic challenges that a lot of the small producers have.
- Many oil and gas companies now have geothermal business units.
Keywords:
Energy Resources, orphaned wells, produced water, hydrogen production, regulatory policy, environmental concerns, public testimony, Texas energy
Summary:
The House Committee on Energy Resources held its inaugural meeting where members emphasized their commitment to addressing critical issues facing the energy sector in Texas. Chairman Darby initiated discussions focused on legislative priorities, notably the management of inactive and orphaned wells, which have become a significant economic and environmental concern. The committee also discussed the balance between regulatory oversight and industry growth, emphasizing collaborative efforts among members and stakeholders to create effective policy. Testimonies highlighted the importance of tackling concerns related to produced water and ensuring sustainable practices in Texas's vast energy landscape, including innovations in hydrogen production and recycling.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
I'm here on behalf of the Texas Association of Business
- House Bill 6, by Representative Jeff Leach, is a follow-up to the school business bill that the Senate
- The substitute adds language that was in Senate Bill 1871 to the Senate school business bill.
- You'd tell me about your small school district.
- So when that is removed, then all of those districts that are doing something now from a small...
Keywords:
education funding, Texas State Technical College System, constitutional amendment, capital projects, workforce education, mental health, telehealth, public schools, discipline management, behavioral interventions, career readiness, education reform, workforce training, public schools, financial aid, vendor contracts, school district, criminal offense, conflict of interest, educational governance
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Education, K-16, revolved around multiple bills, notably HB1188, HB2856, HB3126, HJR5, and HB6. Key discussions highlighted the importance of early intervention for families with special needs through HB1188, which aims to provide better resources for parents. Public testimony included compelling narratives that underscored the personal impact of such legislation. Additionally, the committee engaged in important dialogue concerning student discipline, specifically focusing on vaping in schools and its consequences under HB6.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Higher Education May 6th, 2025 at 10:05 am
House Higher Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- I'm Colleen Small.
- Small, just to be clear, you're representing yourself?
- It is the opposite of small government.
- By extension, I did not end up applying to Texas law schools due in no small...
- And with that, the chair lays out pending business.
Keywords:
living expenses, higher education, student support, homeless students, financial aid, grant program, baccalaureate degrees, higher education, junior colleges, workforce development, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, competency-based education, baccalaureate degree, higher education, cost of attendance, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, dual credit, computer science, higher education, course credit
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on heated discussions surrounding SB37 and HB4848, with numerous testimonies given by concerned citizens, educators, and students. Advocates for SB37 emphasized the need for educational reform, arguing that current higher education standards are overly influenced by political ideologies and do not adequately prepare students for the workforce. Opponents voiced strong concerns about the bill's potential to undermine academic freedom and lead to the removal of essential courses from the curriculum, which would diminish the quality of education in Texas. The meeting highlighted a clear divide on the future of educational policies and governance in universities, reflecting broader social and political tensions.