Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Texas legislation'
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TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Feb 19th, 2025 at 10:02 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Cody Johnson a big Texas welcome!
- I'm honored to help recognize Texas Building Owners and Managers Association Advocacy Day at the Texas
- Members, I'd just like to recognize the Texas Retailers Association that is here for Texas Retail Day
- The Northeast Texas Alliance is helping make Northeast Texas an even stronger and more vibrant place
- students at the Texas Dental Association on their legislative
Keywords:
community recognition, healthcare, Audubon Texas, public service, resolution adoption, Delta Xi Chapter, Texas FFA Day
Summary:
The meeting featured a range of resolutions being discussed, with many representatives emphasizing the importance of various community celebrations across the state. Notable mentions included HR288 recognizing Medical City Dallas Hospital for its contributions to healthcare, and HR273 honoring Delta Xi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority at the University of Texas for its historic significance and community work. The discussion emphasized praise for local organizations contributing to healthcare, education, and cultural heritage.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Feb 11th, 2025 at 02:02 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
Honor the Texas flag.
- It is my honor to recognize Annette Adiobo as our Miss Texas 2024.
- With 11 campuses strategically located across Texas, TSTC is committed.
- Members, I'd like to welcome the Bastrop County residents to the Texas House.
- If you'll stand up, I want to welcome you to your Texas House.
Keywords:
Texas Legislature, resolutions, community recognition, Miss Texas, local achievements, Bastrop County Day, Tarrant County Day
Summary:
The meeting commenced with a series of resolutions presented by various members, including HR214 honoring Bastrop County on February 11, 2025, and HR206 congratulating Annette Adiobo on her selection as Miss Texas 2024. The members engaged in highlighting local entities and achievements during these resolutions, fostering a sense of community and pride. Additionally, individuals from Tarrant County were acknowledged, and resolutions were adopted without objection.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- annual Orange and Maroon Legislative Day at the Texas Capitol
- , wife of a Texas Ex, and mother and mother-in-law of Texas Exes, I'm delighted the Texas Senate has
- I am very proud to welcome Texas A&M University and the University of Texas to the Texas Senate.
- Legislative...
- state pride that makes Texas, Texas.
Keywords:
teacher compensation, education funding, public school educators, teacher retention, teacher designation, lottery, gambling, internet gaming, mobile application, criminal offenses, teacher compensation, education funding, public school educators, teacher retention, teacher designation, aquifer, water management, Edwards Aquifer, sustainability, regulatory framework
Summary:
The meeting of the Texas Senate primarily celebrated 'Orange and Maroon Day,' an event recognizing the contributions of the University of Texas and Texas A&M to higher education in Texas. Chair Senator Creighton presented Senate Resolution 152, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between these institutions and their impacts on education. Members showed strong camaraderie, sharing personal anecdotes and support for each other's alma maters, allowing for spirited exchanges between Aggies and Longhorns alike. Special guests from both universities were acknowledged, fostering an atmosphere of unity in promoting educational excellence.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
Legislation relating to a groundwater study of East Texas
- aquifers by the Texas Department of Agriculture and the Texas Water Development Board prior to the issuance
- But Texas is huge.
- This legislation and other legislation that we have before us in this special session.
- That courage has inspired this legislation.
Keywords:
school assessment, public education, accountability, transparency, education standards, abortion, civil liability, abortion-inducing drugs, qui tam actions, Texas Citizens Participation Act, Religious Freedom Restoration Act, healthcare regulations, judicial branch, court security, juvenile boards, mental health services, election challenges, judicial procedures, court security, mental health services
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
Transcript Highlights:
- two priority in our legislative priorities.
- Laura Presley, representing True Texas Elections.
- Laura Presley, you are here representing True Texas Elections, and you are here to testify for the legislation
- across the vast state of Texas.
- Laura Presley, representing True Texas Elections, and you are now neutral on the legislation?
Keywords:
voter ID, citizenship proof, provisional ballot, election security, Texas, voting rights, deep fakes, misleading videos, election integrity, criminal offense, digital misinformation, deep fakes, misleading videos, election integrity, criminal offense, digital misinformation, Texas, misleading videos, deep fake, election integrity
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
Public Education Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Public Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- move forward with some legislation designed to trim...
- I believe we're talking about that and some other legislation.
- Commission on Texas Job Satisfaction and Retention.
- In the last three years, Texas AFT has surveyed Texas teachers
- House and members of the Texas Senate, so we...
Bills:
HB367, HB497, HB549, HB983, HB1188, HB1290, HB1368, HB2243, HB2310, HB2849, HB3099, HB3546, HB3629, HB3627
Keywords:
education, absences, severe illness, life-threatening, school policy, verification, healthcare, healthcare, insurance, affordability, coverage, patient rights, school health, respiratory distress, airway clearance devices, medication training, public health, special education, intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities
Summary:
The meeting of the House Committee on Public Education involved significant discussions regarding several bills aimed at improving the functioning and quality of public education in Texas. Notably, Representative Tepper presented HB3627, which seeks to empower the State Board of Education to employ its own personnel to fulfill its responsibilities more effectively. Chairman Kinsey also provided testimony highlighting the continued commitment to enhancing educational materials and instructional quality following the successful passage of HB1605 in the previous session. The committee demonstrated active engagement as members reviewed the implications of these bills on teacher workload and administrative burdens associated with current educational regulations, indicating a desire to enhance the work environment for educators.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 20th, 2025 at 10:08 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
I'm talking about the Texas Legislative Black Caucus
- Texas, our own Texas.
- Latino legislative caucus.
- It became legislative.
- I think it's good for Texas.
Bills:
HB4
Keywords:
redistricting, elections, representation, district composition, Texas House, ad valorem tax, elderly, disabled veterans, public testimony, Texas legislature
Summary:
The committee meeting included extensive discussions on various bills, primarily focusing on ad valorem tax regulations and implications for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and disabled. Representative Schofield presented HB4, which revolves around setting limitations on ad valorem taxes for homesteads of disabled, elderly, and their surviving spouses. The bill sparked a thorough debate among committee members, leading to significant public testimony. Additionally, HJR No. 25 proposed by Cook focused on exempting part of the assessed value of property owned by certain disabled veterans from taxation, highlighting a priority for veteran support within the session's agenda. Overall, the meeting was marked by a strong turnout from both committee members and the public, showcasing a high level of engagement on these critical issues.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Finance (Part II) Jan 28th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- , West Texas, and in the Texas panhandle.
- We make repeatedly—the Texas side, the cities on the Texas side, are safe.
- Haley Ewing with the Legislative Budget Board, presenting the summary of recommendations for the Texas
- Haley Ewing with the Legislative Budget Board, presenting the summary of recommendations for the Texas
- Air National Guard, Texas Army National Guard, and Texas State Guard.
Keywords:
Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Juvenile Justice Department, budget recommendations, staffing, facility construction, public safety, juvenile justice
Summary:
The meeting of the committee centered around discussions on the budgets for the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. Significant recommendations included a proposed budget of $3.7 billion for the Department of Public Safety, which reflects a decrease of $199.6 million from the previous cycle. Key topics included customer service enhancements and the increase of staff to improve operations and reduce wait times. Additionally, the Juvenile Justice Department's funding was discussed, including adjustments related to staff salary increases and facility needs.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Press Conference: Lt. Governor Dan PatrickRegarding efforts to reform the bail system in Texas. Joined by Senator Joan Huffman, and victims of violent crime. Feb 12th, 2025
Texas Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
You know, we pass a lot of legislation, a lot of important
- legislation in every session.
And it's time for the Texas House, and now that we've
- We have got to get this done for the people of Texas. We're going to work hard to get it done.
- It's time to allow Texas voters. to decide.
Keywords:
property tax, homestead exemption, school funding, state aid, constitutional amendment, property tax, homestead exemption, school funding, state aid, constitutional amendment, Coastal Bend, Texas Senate, celebration, heritage, community, Chambers County, celebration, recognition, historical significance, Texas history
Summary:
The meeting focused on public safety and criminal justice reforms, particularly addressing bail reform bills spearheaded by Senator Huffman and supported by the Lieutenant Governor. Testimonies from family members of crime victims highlighted the urgent need for reforms to prevent violent offenders from receiving bail, emphasizing personal stories of loss and the failures of the justice system. Participants expressed their commitment to passing the package of bills and mentioned having support from various stakeholders in the community, including public officials and advocates. A sense of urgency was palpable, with assertions that these issues are life and death, impacting countless families across Texas.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Public Education Apr 22nd, 2025 at 11:04 am
House Public Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- In 2024, the governor charged the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board with creating the Health
- Texas has a performance acknowledgment on a student's transcript that indicates the language courses
- This bill creates the Texas State seal of bilingualism and biliteracy.
- Anti-Semitic incidents in Texas have surged 45%.
- first time puts into the legislation a particular religion and a particular group.
Bills:
HB178, HB1551, HB1939, HB2040, HB2354, HB2674, HB3029, HB3460, HB3631, HB3662, HB5201, HB5381
Keywords:
education funding, school district, attendance credit, financial incentive, public school finance, juvenile justice, education, instructional time, alternative education, Texas Legislature, waiver, charter schools, admission policies, enrollment, educational standards, employment policies, homeschooling, education policy, regulation, Texas Education Agency
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on multiple bills pertaining to educational reforms and initiatives. Notable discussions included the passage of HB824, which aims to expand civics education in Texas high schools, emphasizing the importance of understanding government functions and participation in democracy. The bill received unanimous support from the committee members, reflecting broad consensus on the need for enhanced civic education. Similarly, HB1581 and HB1579 were discussed, aiming to improve bilingual education and establish a state seal of bilingualism and biliteracy for high school students, respectively, thereby emphasizing the educational framework's inclusivity and quality enhancement.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Culture, Recreation & Tourism Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- This is Texas, my Texas.
- If we're going to be Texas, let's make it Texas. That's right.
- You're from South Texas, I'm from South Texas.
- So, why don't we Texas our Texas and tell some ourselves?
- I've spent over half my life in Texas; I grew up in Texas.
Keywords:
film industry, incentives, grants, Texas, moving image, economic development, production companies, content standards, chronic wasting disease, deer farming, wildlife management, landowner rights, regulatory compliance, American patriotism, national pride, July celebrations, history recognition, ceremonies, salinity, environment
Summary:
The meeting of the House Committee on Culture, Recreation and Tourism centered around the discussion of HB4568, aimed at enhancing the Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program. Key witnesses including film industry representatives, local officials, and the Executive Director of the Texas Film Commission, Adriana Cruz, presented testimony supporting the bill's potential to boost economic growth and job creation in Texas. Notably, celebrity supporters, such as Matthew McConaughey, emphasized the importance of keeping film production within Texas, highlighting the economic benefits it brings to local communities and industries.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
The office is in McAllen, Texas, South Texas.
- We are a historic tribe of Texas.
- During the 83rd legislative session, Texas reorganized its military administrative structure, creating
- the Texas Military Department.
- from both the other electric utilities in Texas outside of ERCOT and the gas utilities in Texas.
Bills:
HB551, HB1281, HB1378, HB1617, HB2868, HB2881, HB3374, HB4439, HB4726, HB4732, HB4878, HB4914, HB4921, HB4958, HB5200, HB5318, HB5402, HB5568, HB5573, HB5623, HJR218, HB5360
Keywords:
political contributions, address privacy, Texas Ethics Commission, election transparency, campaign finance, international organizations, World Health Organization, jurisdiction, state law, enforcement, United Nations, World Economic Forum, attorney general, international organizations, jurisdiction, World Health Organization, United Nations, World Economic Forum, state law, enforcement
Summary:
During this meeting, various important bills were discussed, including HB5573, which aims to provide whistleblower protections for public employees reporting wasteful government spending. Representative Bojani emphasized the need to encourage ethical governance and transparency in government operations. The committee adopted a key amendment to enhance protections against retaliatory actions towards these whistleblowers, highlighting a commitment to fostering accountability within the government. Additionally, HB5623 and HB4921 were moved forward with favorable reports, focusing on energy efficiency projects and the prohibition of state funds benefiting companies that outsource jobs, respectively, reflecting concerns about job retention in Texas.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Other states have passed similar legislation. Thank you.
- We need Texas' help to ensure the survival of Texas' largest
- In order for our Texas shrimp industry to survive, we need this legislation so farm-raised imports do
- This is a Texas problem that harms a Texas industry and should have a Texas solution.
- I worked on that legislation last session.
Bills:
HB2226, HB2269, HB2343, HB2760, HB3621, HB4079, HB4204, HB4518, HB4531, HB4555, HB4850, HB4876, HB4903, HB4996, HB5122
Keywords:
property owners association, landscaping, grass maintenance, sustainability, water conservation, shrimp, restaurants, food service, imported shrimp, domestic shrimp, consumer protection, notice requirements, judicial review, Texas Workforce Commission, unemployment compensation, legal proceedings, labor law, ticket sales, event tickets, transparency
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several significant bills, with notable discussions revolving around HB2343. This bill, presented by Representative Leo Wilson, aims to enhance transparency in the shrimping industry by requiring restaurants to disclose the origin of shrimp served. The bill was met with mixed reactions, especially from the Texas Restaurant Association, which raised concerns regarding the burdensome requirements for menu updates and potential liability issues if inaccuracies were reported. Meanwhile, the committee passed other bills, including HB4204 aimed at protecting older homeowners from unfair contracts, which received support from AARP Texas and sparked discussions about the implications on consumers' rights.
In addition to presentation and testimony on bills, the committee also examined HCR76, which urges the federal government to regulate imports of foreign shrimp, reflecting a proactive stance on protecting local industries from unregulated competition. Overall, the meeting demonstrated a commitment to addressing economic concerns, consumer protection, and the sustainability of local businesses. The chamber was well attended, and many stakeholders provided public testimony for and against the various proposals.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Delivery of Government Efficiency Apr 16th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Okay, and there was an article in the Texas Tribune about the ALJ who was overseeing the Texas Medical
- Space Commission, the Texas Space Agency, and the Texas Space Administration.
- Firefly Aerospace is a Texas-born, Texas-based company that was established in 2017 in North Austin.
- This bill directs the Texas A&M Transportation Institute, in consultation with the Texas Department of
- , Texas.
Bills:
HB3146, HB3719, HB3895, HB3923, HB4748, HB4751, HB4936, HB4952, HB4990, HB4991, HB5061, HB5196, HB5238, HB5246, HB5487
Keywords:
public information, birthdates, government transparency, privacy laws, data access, wireless energy transmission, electric vehicles, Texas A&M Transportation Institute, transportation study, toll roads, state employment, bachelor's degree, career advancement, job qualifications, workforce development, state purchasing, multiple award contracts, procurement procedures, gov efficiency, government contracts
Summary:
The meeting of the committee addressed several bills focusing on transparency and innovation in Texas governance. A significant portion of the discussions revolved around House Bill 4990, which seeks to establish an open records hotline to better facilitate public access to government information. Witnesses, including local journalists, strongly supported the bill, citing its importance for accountability in government operations. Other bills, such as HB 4751, focusing on technological advancements, were also highlighted as critical to maintaining Texas's competitive edge in the quantum technology industry. Each bill was left pending for further consideration, indicating ongoing negotiations and a collaborative effort among committee members to refine the proposed legislation.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- " data-time="18">Lord, we come before you today grateful for the blessing of serving the people of Texas
- ="54">Bless this chamber and the nation, the men and women who serve in it, and the great state of Texas
Keywords:
real property theft, real property fraud, criminal offenses, restitution, elderly protection, disabled individuals, property tax exemption, title fraud, recording requirements, real property theft, real property fraud, criminal offenses, elderly protection, disability rights, recording requirements, restitution, disaster relief, emergency preparedness, flood management, local government grants
Summary:
The committee meeting featured discussions on several important resolutions, particularly HCR2 through HCR5. Notably, HCR2 commemorates the victims of the Hill Country Floods, while HCR3 recognizes the contributions of Children's Emergency Relief International. HCR4 celebrates the anniversary of a local couple, and HCR5 honors a recipient of the Chief Roughneck Award from the Independent Petroleum Association of America. These resolutions highlight community solidarity and recognition of service within Texas. During the session, members expressed their sentiments on these resolutions, contributing to a respectful and reflective atmosphere.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- This legislation brings clarity to an emerging technology.
- located in Austin, Texas.
- This would be impacted by such legislation.
- I'm here on behalf of the Texas Legislative Action.
- Senate Bill 383 is a critical measure to protect Texas.
Keywords:
real property, Texas State Library, leases, capital improvements, public accessibility, combative sports, licensing, regulation, criminal offense, event approval, advisory boards, Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, public members, occupational regulations, professional standards, fraudulent financing, secured transactions, business regulation, lending institutions, affidavit process
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee featured extensive discussions centered around numerous bills, with a particular focus on Senate Bill 1705 concerning virtual currency kiosks. During this discussion, members expressed concerns regarding the potential for fraud and the need for regulation surrounding cryptocurrency exchanges. Testimonies from law enforcement emphasized the increase in fraud cases associated with these kiosks, leading to a consensus on the need for consumer protection measures. The committee favorably reported several other bills with unanimous votes, showcasing a collaborative effort amongst senators to address various legislative concerns effectively.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- In Texas, it is an issue that we've grappled with here in this legislative body, correct?
- Are you familiar with the Texas Legislative Council's guidance?
- You consider the Texas Legislative Council to be an authority on redistricting?
You know about the Texas Legislative Council.
- This is what triggered the Texas legislature and the governor to call a legislative special session to
Keywords:
disaster relief, emergency preparedness, flood management, local government grants, meteorological forecasting, state appropriations, school assessment, public education, accountability, transparency, education standards, abortion, civil liability, abortion-inducing drugs, qui tam actions, Texas Citizens Participation Act, Religious Freedom Restoration Act, healthcare regulations, judicial branch, court security
Summary:
The committee meeting primarily focused on the discussion of HB4, which pertains to redistricting. Chairman King emphasized the legal compliance of the proposed map and elaborated on its political advantages, stating that the map improves compactness while benefiting Republican candidates. The meeting saw extensive public testimony, with numerous participants voicing concerns about the map's legality and its implications on minority representation. Representative Smith highlighted that the overwhelming majority of public submissions expressed opposition to the redistricting bill, arguing that it disregards the constituents' voices. Debate ensued regarding the necessity and legality of the changes made, particularly concerning minority districts.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- It's unprecedented to use the filibuster in the The Texas Senate
- It violates longstanding traditions, ethics, and decorum of the Texas Senate.
Keywords:
disaster relief, emergency preparedness, flood management, local government grants, meteorological forecasting, state appropriations, school assessment, public education, accountability, transparency, education standards, abortion, civil liability, abortion-inducing drugs, qui tam actions, Texas Citizens Participation Act, Religious Freedom Restoration Act, healthcare regulations, judicial branch, court security
Summary:
The Senate meeting convened with notable tension surrounding HB4, which was ultimately passed after a contentious discussion. Senator Charles Perry raised concerns about Senator Carol Alvarado's fundraising filibuster, claiming it violated Senate ethics and decorum by using state resources for campaign purposes. This prompted a heated debate among members, reflecting deep divisions regarding the use of legislative sessions for political gain. Ultimately, the roll call revealed 18 ayes and 11 nays as HB4 passed, leading to discussions about future sessions and pending bills.
The atmosphere in the Senate was marked by strong emotions, especially surrounding the issue of ethical conduct in legislative practices. Several members expressed their displeasure about the potential implications for state resources utilized during such political maneuvers. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, reflecting the urgency felt by members to address these issues adequately in future gatherings. Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing struggles and the dynamics at play within the Senate regarding governance and ethics in political conduct.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V Feb 26th, 2025 at 09:30 am
House Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V
Transcript Highlights:
- On the Texas Tech side, they were planning to...
- It was a unit north of Dallas, one in Diboll, Texas, and one in Cleveland, Texas.
- East Texas Regional Armory is a new concept that would move the Texas Military Department towards larger
- We're very thankful for the legislation.
- The Texas Center for Justice and Equity has been closely monitoring the juvenile justice system in Texas
Keywords:
budget recommendations, law enforcement, correctional agencies, staff shortages, Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, jail standards, public safety
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on comprehensive budget recommendations across various law enforcement and correctional agencies. Notable discussions included funding for the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and the Legislative Budget Board's educational and support initiatives for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Specific emphasis was placed on addressing staffing shortages and retention of personnel, particularly in parole and correctional officer positions, amid rising concerns regarding jail standards and operational efficiency. The meeting also saw testimonies from agency heads who outlined their needs and challenges, underscoring the importance of legislative support for public safety and corrections reform.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- From West Texas to East Texas, our communities are in a crisis.
- Texas town of Post.
- They're still over in East Texas. I wholeheartedly support this legislation.
- , the Heal Texas Act.
- Texas is just...
Keywords:
Maverick County, recognition, economic development, Texas Senate, community celebration, SB911, Heal Texans Act, healthcare access, nurse practitioners, health crisis, rural healthcare, Texas legislature
Summary:
The committee meeting centered around the discussion of SB911, the Heal Texans Act, aimed at improving access to healthcare in underserved areas of Texas. Senator Cesar Blanco opened the discussion by highlighting the healthcare crisis affecting millions of Texans, emphasizing the need for immediate reform to allow nurse practitioners (APRNs) to deliver essential services without cumbersome regulations. The senator expressed gratitude towards his colleagues, including Vice Chair Charles Perry, for their joint efforts in advocating for this critical legislation. The need for SB911 was reiterated by several speakers, including healthcare advocates and those impacted by the lack of accessible care, underscoring personal stories that illustrated the dire situation faced by many rural residents who cannot easily reach medical care.