Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'transparency in governance'

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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:
  • I'm testifying in support of House Bill 68. In addition to being a government consultant...
  • I think in the design of it, a lot of it came from councils of government, in other words, projects that
  • in millions of dollars in property damage.
  • Can you expand a little bit in terms of the transparency score piece across the top?
  • Transparent, and I think what the government programs will
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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce Apr 15th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We got into this back in the 90s, and I don't think Texas government had any business in the middle of
  • , not all of the governing documents, but certain governing documents that, for transparency purposes
  • All of these governing actions are required to be recorded in the county's public records.
  • , because I think we're all in favor of transparency.
  • Members, in 2023, the federal government directed the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management.
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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Delivery of Government Efficiency Mar 5th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Accountability in Texas government.
  • I think it really starts at a fundamental level in terms of data governance.
  • the best interest of the state to allow those government customers to come in.
  • It was his effort to bring in some outside set of eyes to really dig in and figure out if we can do government
  • These FTE positions in a lot of levels of government, I feel like this happens.
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Delivery of Government Efficiency marked the beginning of a new era focused on holding government agencies accountable and eliminating inefficiencies. Chairman Capriglione emphasized the committee's role in modernizing state government, implementing rigorous oversight, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used effectively. The committee plans to address waste, mismanagement, and corruption, aiming for an ambitious agenda over the next 22 months. Discussions included the establishment of public hearings to foster transparency and the development of legislative proposals to drive reform. Several state agencies provided insights into their operations, with a particular focus on how they can better serve the public through increased efficiency and enhanced cybersecurity measures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 25th, 2025 at 12:08 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • For it is in giving that we receive, in pardoning that we are forgiven, and in dying to ourselves that
  • related to proceedings in the judicial branch of state government
  • The government owes a duty to investigate and be transparent with the public whom they are entrusted
  • have in us.
  • Procedure in Section 511.021 of the Government Code, and
Bills: HB17, HB16, SB10, HB27, HB23, SB15, SB18
Summary: The meeting focused on multiple important pieces of legislation, with key attention on HB16, an omnibus courts bill aiming to improve judicial processes, and SB18, which seeks to ease permit requirements for dam maintenance related to erosion and flood control. Chairman Leach and Senator Zaffirini provided significant insights during their bill presentations, stressing the importance of efficiency in governmental operations. The committee engaged in lively debates about the implications of these bills, particularly regarding budgetary concerns for local governments and the potential effects on public safety funding. Testimonies from stakeholders further highlighted the necessity for legislative clarity and improved infrastructure support for state safety measures. The final votes showed strong support for the proposed bills, indicating a proactive approach towards legislative efficiency.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Today we have in the gallery.
  • In the meantime, his son will be younger in order to be able to deal with what he knows.
  • Greg Bonnen in the House, and our colleague Charles Swartney in the Senate.
  • The hearing is now in order.
  • House Bill 195 provides more transparency in taxation. I like to call it 'taxparency.'
Bills: HJR4, HJR6, HB195, HB13, HB143, HB135
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on H.J.R. 4, a proposed constitutional amendment that aims to prohibit taxes on securities transactions and occupation taxes on securities market operators. Representative Meyer introduced the resolution, explaining its intention to prevent the state legislature from imposing such taxes indefinitely. The proposal received unanimous support from the Ways and Means Committee but faced scrutiny from other members concerned about its implications for equity and taxation in Texas. Key discussions highlighted the potential long-term consequences of locking in tax breaks for wealthier entities, particularly amid rising living costs for ordinary Texans.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs May 9th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We support this bill because it increases transparency.
  • In short, we like the idea of transparency and making things simpler for all customers.
  • I'm here to testify in support of SB1036.
  • Unfortunately, we are seeing in solar what we have long witnessed in roofing: high-pressure sales tactics
  • In 2003, we allowed this process to move forward.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several Senate Concurrent Resolutions and Senate Bills. Notably, SCR8 was introduced to express Texas' strong opposition to the creation of a central bank digital currency, raising concerns about cybersecurity and privacy implications. There was no public testimony for or against, but committee members engaged in dialogue on its potential impact. Another highlight was SCR5, which proposed naming a gymnasium at the Texas School for the Deaf after Robert Rivas, recognizing his significant contributions. This sentiment garnered unanimous support from committee members, highlighting the importance of honoring legacies within the state educational system. In addition, various bills concerning utilities were discussed, particularly SB1566, which clarifies utility connection requirements, and SB1036, aiming to regulate the solar panel sales industry to protect consumers. The discussions reflected a commitment to enhance transparency in utility rate changes and impose stricter regulations on the solar market to prevent consumer fraud. Overall, the meeting showcased a collaborative approach to addressing pressing legislative matters, with an emphasis on consumer protection and legacy recognition.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce (Part II) Mar 27th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I got my Master's in Government.

  • We're just putting in the same section of code that other local governments like...
  • And there is a complete lack of transparency. Risk pools are not in the insurance code currently.
  • oil and gas in section 253 of the Local Government Code.
  • I believe in property rights, limited government, and an all-of-the-above energy strategy.
Summary: The meeting included discussions primarily focused on energy and insurance-related legislation. Senator Schwartner led the committee in reviewing multiple bills, with a notable emphasis on SB819, which faced opposition from various stakeholders, including energy providers and advocacy groups. Testimonies highlighted concerns about regulatory burdens potentially stifling renewable energy projects, which are crucial to Texas's energy needs. Furthermore, the committee examined SB458, aimed at improving the appraisal process for insurance claims, which garnered support from industry representatives for promoting fairness and transparency.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations May 19th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • they're working in.
  • to see how backward they were about the transparency of the fees that the licensees in their state charged
  • it in Texas.
  • a Bachelor of Arts in Government, she earned her Juris Doctorate from South Texas College of Law.
  • We invest in roads, we invest in water, we invest in telecommunications; we also have to be willing to
Summary: The committee meeting, focused primarily on the ongoing regulatory reforms following the recent weather-related crises, commenced with the introduction of Thomas Gleason as the new Chairman of the Public Utility Commission of Texas. The Chairman emphasized the need for resilience and proactive measures to improve infrastructure and communications among utility companies, especially in light of recent disasters that impacted service delivery. High-level discussions revolved around HB1500, which mandates stronger oversight and accountability mechanisms for ERCOT, pushing the commission to enhance its monitoring capacity. Several topics of concern, including vegetation management and cost distribution among consumers, were highlighted as priorities moving forward.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In fact...
  • He was discharged, and in less than three weeks, he ended up in jail.
  • , lean in.
  • in urgent care.
  • transparency in healthcare, similar to the shared goals of this committee.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services primarily focused on several pieces of legislation aimed at improving mental health care in Texas, especially for vulnerable populations. Notable discussions were held around SB719, which seeks to conduct a comprehensive assessment of inpatient psychiatric bed capacity in Texas, addressing the significant shortages faced by facilities. There was widespread support from committee members and public testimonies praising the need for improved mental health resources and proactive measures to enhance service delivery. Witnesses highlighted the critical situation surrounding mental health admissions, emphasizing the human impact of ongoing bed shortages and the tragic consequences for patients awaiting treatment.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Mar 10th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Bill 195 provides more transparency in taxation

  • Website called Property Tax Transparency in Texas.
  • somehow segment that in the...
  • It's not fair if the government is coming in and using someone's land, and then that causes an increase
  • Morgan has more employees in Texas now than they do in New York, and Dallas is very much
Summary: The meeting of the committee on ways and means centered on several significant bills aimed at addressing property tax issues, particularly regarding agricultural and border security infrastructure. A committee substitute for HB247 was discussed, emphasizing a voluntary approach with private landowners in light of enhanced border security measures, which reassured many stakeholders previously hesitant about such initiatives. Notably, the bill provides tax exemptions for landowners who allow construction of border security infrastructure, effectively alleviating concerns about increased property values leading to higher taxes. Committee members expressed support for transparency and fairness in how these laws impact stakeholders, especially those along the Texas-Mexico border.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce May 15th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We talk about better solutions in government regulation that is a cooperative agreement.
  • And if the federal government comes in and says I cannot do that, yes...
  • Do you think the U.S. government is going to come in and say I can't do this?
  • So in concept, this is a good concept, as long as we have self-governance.
  • It creates some transparency in funding the coasts after losses because the surcharges the bill requires
Summary: The Senate Committee on Business and Commerce convened to discuss a wide range of bills, including key pieces of legislation such as HB1922 and HB145, which address utilities' wildfire mitigation efforts. There was a notable emphasis on the importance of strengthening Texas' approach to dealing with electric utility liabilities and improving operational strategies in the event of wildfires. Public testimony was heard, with various stakeholders advocating for and expressing concerns about elements of the proposed regulations, highlighting the nuanced positions citizens and organizations hold regarding energy management and environmental safety. Additionally, several bills were reported favorably to the full Senate, indicating a smooth legislative progress during the meeting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce Mar 25th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • to ensure transparency and reasonableness in these charges.
  • the governing documentation would govern the consequences of such invalidity.
  • I've worked with many people who are in the pipeline or in the process of becoming certified surveyors-in-training
  • Rate proceedings that began before this date will continue to be governed by the existing laws in effect
  • In Texas, utilities can only...
Summary: The committee meeting was marked by extensive discussions surrounding various bills aimed at strengthening Texas's role in financial and regulatory frameworks. Significant emphasis was placed on Senate Bill 1239, presented by Senator Milton, which seeks to bolster Texas's position in global financial markets by amending existing laws related to sovereign debt. This bill aims to position Texas as a reliable jurisdiction for handling sovereign debt issues. Public testimony was heard, with several industry experts expressing support for the bill, highlighting the need for Texas to compete effectively with established financial jurisdictions like New York. The committee voted favorably on multiple bills, indicating a proactive approach to addressing legislative needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • These safeguards ensure transparency, local stakeholder involvement, and accountability in how the districts
  • The three largest employers in the county are governments, two school districts, and the county itself
  • in Texas.
  • And we're doing our best in this, in this, in the 89th and beyond, to hold that more accountable.
  • A contractor's reputation, not a government-issued number, is what earns trust and drives success in
Summary: The committee meeting covered a wide array of bills focusing primarily on workforce development, manufacturing improvements, and online safety for children. Notably, provisions were discussed under HB4196, aimed at modernizing the manufacturing sector through increased digital integration and automation strategies. Witnesses from various sectors, including manufacturing companies and educational representatives, offered their perspectives on the importance of creating a skilled workforce able to adapt to new technologies. Additional discussion highlighted the pressing need for legislation that protects minors in the digital landscape, with testimonies emphasizing the adverse effects of unfiltered online content on children’s mental health, as encapsulated in HB4901.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part II) May 7th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • a cornerstone of community-based care included in SB11 and in the contracts in stage three of the rollout
  • As advocates for informed consent and full transparency in the evaluation of vaccine safety and efficacy
  • I support full transparency in safety and efficacy.
  • One of them is uracil in animals, in plants.
  • I've heard a lot of discussion in this committee and in others about the loss of trust in science, institutions
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on various significant bills impacting health, family welfare, and vaccinations. Discussion around SB1887 generated notable interest, as it proposed a ten-year prohibition on administering mRNA vaccines, allowing exceptions for cancer treatment and genetic disorders. Senator Sparks, the bill's author, highlighted safety concerns regarding the mRNA technology, stating that further evaluations were necessary. Public testimonies included both support and opposition, with advocates arguing for informed consent and safety, while others expressed concern about restricting scientific advancements in healthcare. Additionally, the conversation addressed HB2216, which aimed at reforming parental rights in child welfare cases, ensuring that parental drug use alone would not warrant automatic termination of rights unless there was a direct, substantial risk to the child. Public testimony for this bill emphasized the need for additional resources to effectively implement its provisions. The committee also discussed HB2809 regarding tracking suicide attempts by children and SB1590 which proposed adopting an electronic process for paternity verification in adoption cases. Overall, the meeting was marked by lively discussions and significant public involvement, indicating the community's vested interest in the legislative outcomes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Apr 2nd, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We are here in whole support of this bill. This is good government.
  • But in this case, private prisons, I think, are better served by the state government rather than private
  • We believe this bill would lead to a substantial increase in state expenses and expand government growth
  • Beyond the 10% cost savings requirement set forth in the Texas Government Code, MTC has saved taxpayers
  • Over the years, I think we've been very successful and transparent in that, as well as
Summary: The committee meeting centered around numerous bills related to criminal justice reform. Notably, discussions included House Bill 2341 focusing on awarding diligent participation credits to defendants in state jail facilities, which was favorably reported with minimal opposition. Additionally, House Bill 2756, referred to as the Jovian-Motley Act, aimed at improving training for correctional officers and staff, reflecting broader concerns about public safety and officer preparedness. The meeting featured testimony from various stakeholders, including law enforcement representatives, emphasizing the need for effective measures in managing inmate populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V Feb 24th, 2025 at 10:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V

Transcript Highlights:
  • room in E2.028.
  • In 2007, we were at $51 million, and in 2024, we...
  • Investing in the arts is a proven economic driver in Texas.
  • I came here and worked in state government for so long. It's incredibly difficult to be a...
  • I came here and worked in state government for so long. It's incredibly difficult to be a...
Summary: The meeting of the committee was primarily focused on reviewing various bills, with robust conversations surrounding fiscal allocations for upcoming bienniums. Notably, discussions centered around SB22, which relates to salary assistance grants for law enforcement agencies, indicated strong support, with members expressing a consensus on the importance of enhancing financial resources for police departments across Texas. Additionally, the committee examined HB1, which proposed increases to funding to improve tax collection efficiencies and recruitment of professionals in critical roles. The meeting witnessed input from various stakeholders and representatives emphasizing the significance of these initiatives for state operations and public safety.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • that they cannot vote in.
  • I included in the last...
  • I was a voter in that election in Florence.
  • I live in Florence, Senator Schwartz; I'm in your district and...
  • In Williamson County, in...
Summary: The committee meeting conducted significant discussions around various bills, notably focusing on House Bill 223, which was reported favorably with recommendations for a full Senate pass. Several members, including Senator Middleton, participated in laying out the bill, emphasizing its potential impacts. Senator Gann's HB521 also garnered attention, receiving approval with aim to accommodate voters' needs, particularly those with disabilities. Throughout the meeting, members exhibited collaboration despite differing views on certain propositions, reflecting a commitment to legislative progress. Public testimony was sought for various bills, expanding the dialogue with stakeholders on topics affecting their communities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session Aug 12th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Republican in performance: CD 28 in the RGV, CD 32 in Dallas
  • In that...
  • in writing.
  • I've been working on transparency for officers in this state
  • ...entire continuity of government in an emergency situation
Bills: SB8, SB4, SB43, SB1, SB2, SB13, SB6, SB10, SB16, SB14, SB3
Summary: The meeting of the legislative committee prominently featured discussions surrounding several critical bills, including SB1, which addresses natural disasters and emergency preparedness in Texas. Senator Perry presented detailed amendments focusing on enhancing the state's response capabilities to flooding, which included the establishment of better training protocols for first responders and the development of a statewide flood monitoring system. Public testimony was actively solicited, with multiple witnesses providing input regarding the implications of SB1, highlighting the need for comprehensive disaster management strategies following recent floods that impacted the community severely. Additionally, considerable dialogue took place around SB6, relating to abortion-related civil liabilities, where senators debated the bill's implications on women's health and wellness in Texas, leading to contentious voting results and reflections on the bill's social impact.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • in our area.
  • just in the state but in the United States.
  • However, as you all know, the lines of government above the ground do not dictate the flow of water in
  • ...show a critical need for transparency in the process
  • These changes put forth by Representative Gerdes are a step in improving the transparency and governance
Summary: The committee meeting focused on addressing several important water-related bills, including HB391, HB420, and HB2626 among others. Representative Bell presented updates on HB391 related to accountability for rural water districts, achieving a consensus for statewide applicability and allowing for virtual meetings. Multiple testimonies were heard, showcasing both support for and concerns regarding the bills, specifically emphasizing the significance of maintaining water resources and addressing community needs amid Texas's growth. Representative Buckley advocated for HB2626 aimed at establishing the Central Texas Water Alliance to ensure sustainable water management across the region, which involves collaboration among various public, private, and state entities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Aug 5th, 2025 at 03:08 pm

House Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In that regard.
  • They're in the river. Of course, they're in the floodplain also, but they're in the river.
  • We would absolutely bring them in just like we did in this event.
  • the world, in the nation, and in the state.
  • And in the transparency realm, I don't believe...
Bills: HB2, HB1, HB18, HB19, HB20
Summary: The meeting focused heavily on disaster preparedness and management strategies in response to recent catastrophic events in Texas, particularly concerning House Bills related to flood response and communication infrastructure. Notably, House Bill 19 was introduced to mandate that campgrounds in flood-prone areas develop actionable flood plans to ensure safety during emergencies. Stakeholders voiced strong support for the bill, emphasizing its importance for child safety in recreational areas. Additionally, House Bill 18 aimed at improving emergency communication systems received considerable attention, as members raised concerns about the need for efficient and interoperable communication during disasters. Similar themes of ensuring preparedness and safeguarding communities were echoed throughout the discussions, with experts and witnesses providing impactful testimony on the challenges confronted during recent flooding incidents in Kerr County.

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