Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senator Middleton'

Page 27 of 57
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator King.
  • Senator Hughes, Senator Paxman. And that's when we stood for something.
  • Senator West. Oh, okay.
  • Chairman, Senator King.
  • Senator King. Thank you.
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Congressional Redistricting focused primarily on the discussion of HB4 and SB4, concerning the redistricting process based on the 2020 Census data. Chairman King opened the session, expressing gratitude to the committee members for their attendance and emphasizing the importance of completing redistricting within the special session's 30-day timeframe. Public testimony was a major component, with numerous individuals voicing their opinions both in favor and against the proposed redistricting maps, emphasizing issues of representation and concerns of racial injustices inherent in the process. The majority of witnesses highlighted the need for immediate attention to pressing issues such as flood relief instead of focusing solely on redistricting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations May 5th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Senator Birdwell.
  • Thank you, Senator Eckhardt.
  • Thank you, Senators. Thank you, Senator Eckhardt, for that lovely introduction.
  • Thank you, Senator Birdwell.
  • Thank you, Senator.
Summary: The meeting focused on discussions regarding the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's (TCEQ) oversight and regulations concerning Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs). Several members expressed concerns about the rapid growth facilitated by the creation of MUDs, with particular emphasis on the legislative authority over such entities. Senator Birdwell highlighted the importance of legislative control over MUD creation, discussing the second and third-order impacts on local communities and infrastructure. The discussion was characterized by a view that the current approval processes may lack necessary scrutiny, leading to community concerns about environmental impacts and infrastructure strain as new developments arise. Public testimony revealed a sense of urgency among constituents regarding environmental regulations and the role TCEQ plays in managing the challenges of population growth. Members of the committee raised issues around the clarity of TCEQ's powers and responsibilities, advocating for more transparency and proactive community engagement from the agency. As the meeting concluded, the need for improved communication and the importance of ensuring compliance with state law were emphasized, with a promise from TCEQ representatives to address these concerns moving forward.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Campbell.
  • Senator Flores.
  • Thank you, Senator Bettencourt; you are my senator.
  • Senator Perry moves that Senate...
  • Senate Bill 13 by Senator Perry.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several critical bills related to disaster response and water conservation. Senate Bill 1, the Natural Disaster Omnibus Bill, was extensively discussed, with testimonies reflecting on recent flooding incidents in Texas. Senator Perry emphasized the need for policy solutions to prevent future tragedies following historic flooding that resulted in significant loss of life. The committee adopted the committee substitutes for both SB1 and SB13 without objection, highlighting the broad support for these initiatives aimed at water conservation and improved emergency response protocols. Additionally, members expressed the importance of training and educating officials involved in disaster management to ensure they are equipped to handle emergencies effectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Veteran AffairsAudio only. Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Veteran Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ">Senator Hugenboe and Senator Parker move that Senate Bill 2007 be reported back to the full Senate
  • Senate, let the chair recognize Senator Menendez here.

  • Senate Bill 2938 by Senator Menendez.

  • Senator Parker moves that Senator...

  • Senate Bill 2938 does pass.
Summary: The Senate Veterans Affairs Committee meeting focused on discussing several important bills, including SB210, SB2007, SB2926, SB2938, and SB2543. Each bill was put forth for a vote, and all passed unanimously with no objections. Notably, Senator Parker played a significant role in moving several of these bills to the full Senate for further action. The committee also adopted a substitute for SB2543, clarifying the references to Veterans Cemeteries in the legislation, which showcased the committee's commitment to refining the language and ensuring clarity in legislative texts. The atmosphere was collaborative, with members actively participating in the discussions and decision-making processes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal JusticeAudio only. May 25th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Vice Chair Parker, Senator Hinojosa, Senator Huffman, Senator
  • Miles, Senator King, Senator Hagenbuch. 5 ayes and 0 nays, House Bill 2854 will be reported to the full
  • Senate with a favorable recommendation.
  • Senate sponsor, Senator, well, it says Hagenbuch, but it says Creighton, but which one is it? Me.
  • Recognizing the Senate sponsor, Senator Zaffirini, to

Bills: HB2407, HB3425
Summary: The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to discuss several important bills including HB2407, HB3425, and HB2854. HB2407, focused on strengthening penalties for repeated failures to comply with sex offender registration requirements, received unanimous support from committee members and was reported favorably to the full Senate. The discussion emphasized the seriousness of these registration laws and the bill's potential to enhance public safety by ensuring accountability among offenders. The hearing also highlighted concerns around doxing with HB3425, which aims to criminalize the unlawful disclosure of personal addresses and phone numbers through electronic communications, thus addressing a significant gap in current legislation. Meanwhile, HB2854 was passed forward with a recommendation, highlighting the committee's commitment to address various legal gaps.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Veteran Affairs Mar 18th, 2025

Senate Veteran Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • 651 and recognizes the Senate sponsor, Senator West, to explain the bill.
  • Senate Bill 651 will be left pending. Thanks, Senator West.
  • Chairman and members for allowing me to lay out Senate Bill 897 for Senator Blanco.
  • Senator Gutierrez, Senator Hagenbue, Senator Hall, Senator
  • Yes, Senator Higginbotham.
Bills: SB651, SB897, SB1814, SB1818
Summary: The Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs convened to discuss several significant bills aimed at enhancing support for veterans in Texas. The primary focus was on Senate Bill 897, which aims to adjust the funding match requirement for mental health services for veterans. There was substantial public testimony in favor of this bill, as many speakers highlighted the financial burden that large counties face under the current requirements. These discussions underscored the necessity of providing adequate mental health resources to veterans, emphasizing the challenges they encounter in accessing such services. Another notable bill, Senate Bill 1818, introduced provisions for temporary licensing for military spouses, ensuring they can continue their professional pursuits while transitioning to Texas. Testimony supporting this bill was also positive, showing a strong consensus on the need to ease professional transitions for military families.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Senator Reid.
  • Thank you, Senator Cotton.
  • Thank you, Senator Kramer.

    Senator King.

  • Thank you, Senator King.

    Senator Budd.

  • Thank you very much, Senator Schmidt. Senator Kelly.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on military procurement and modernization, with significant discussions surrounding the Air Force's capabilities and strategic needs. Key topics included the urgent need for recapitalization of the Air Force's fighter squadrons, as well as the importance of integrating new technologies like autonomous systems to bolster military effectiveness. Several senators raised concerns about the current resources available to the Air National Guard and the potential loss of skilled service members if recapitalization plans are not swiftly developed. There were also discussions on the importance of maintaining air superiority in light of evolving threats, particularly from adversaries like China.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • appointed by the president of the Senate.
  • of the Senate.
  • Thank you, Senators.
  • Before we adjourn, I would like to yield to Senator King for a memorial resolution. Senator King.
  • Parker, Senator Hughes, Senator Kolkhorst, Senator Creighton, Senator Perry, Senator Menendez, Senator
Bills: SB2, SB10, HB27, HB18, HB17, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB18, SR1, SR2, SR5
Summary: The meeting convened to address significant resolutions, including the formation of a committee to investigate the catastrophic flooding events in July 2025 that resulted in tragic losses across Texas. Senator Flores introduced Senate Resolution 2, aiming to conduct a comprehensive examination of the flooding's impacts and the effectiveness of immediate legislative responses. The resolution was adopted unanimously, indicating a shared commitment to understand and improve future disaster preparedness. Additionally, Senate Resolution 5 was discussed, which proposed amendments to the Senate rules regarding committee structure, particularly in creating a new combined committee for Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs. This resolution also received unanimous support, showcasing a collaborative effort to streamline legislative functions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) Apr 7th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 1927 by Senator Hinojosa.
  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 1927 by Senator Hinojosa and asks Senator Hinojosa to explain his bill
  • Senator Nichols.
  • As Senator Hughes said earlier, the significant delays—and Senator Nichols, Senator Bettencourt, I know
  • bill and Senator Bettencourt.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Local Government convened to discuss significant bills, primarily focusing on SB844, which seeks to reform zoning petition processes to enhance property rights and facilitate housing development. Senator Hughes, the bill's author, advocated that current laws overly empower a minority of landowners to block necessary housing advancements, asserting that such regulations hurt overall housing affordability. Concerns were raised about balancing individual property rights against community needs, with testimonies from builders and housing advocates supporting the bill's aims to streamline zoning decisions and reduce impediments to development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education May 20th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, Senate Bill 570.
  • It's an honor to lay out Senate Bill 735 by Senator Menendez.
  • Senate Bill 875 by Senator Birdwell relates to prohibiting election activities.
  • by Senator Birdwell.
  • We support Senate Bill 204.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several critical bills aimed at improving educational standards and student safety in Texas. Notably, the discussions around SB735 concerning Holocaust education highlighted the urgency of addressing rising anti-Semitism and ensuring comprehensive education on human rights histories within public schools. Testimonies from various witnesses underscored the necessity for students to learn from historical injustices to prevent future atrocities. Moreover, SB570, aimed at implementing stricter truancy policies to enhance student attendance, was discussed with testimony supporting its significance in improving educational outcomes for at-risk students.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Veteran Affairs (Part II)Audio only. May 15th, 2025

Senate Veteran Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Veteran Affairs Committee will come to order.

  • Senator Parker sends up the committee substitute.
  • back to the full Senate with the recommendation it pass and be printed.
  • back to the full Senate with the recommendation it pass and be printed.
  • to the full Senate with the recommendation it pass and be printed.
Summary: The Senate Veteran Affairs Committee convened to discuss several key bills, primarily focusing on HB39, HB114, HB1875, and HB1965. Notably, Senator Parker presented a committee substitute for HB39, addressing concerns raised by state agencies to ensure better information accuracy and extending report deadlines to December 1st. The committee members unanimously adopted this substitute and recommended its passage. Further discussions included amendments and swift votes on multiple bills, with HB114 following suit with a similar committee substitute process, which was also passed without objection.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Sparks.
  • Senator Sparks?
  • Sponsor Senator Huffman.
  • Thank you, Senator.
  • Senator Blanco moves.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on a variety of bills primarily concerning water management and rights. Significant discussions included House Bill 3333, which addressed the management of groundwater and was moved favorably with a recommendation for local and contested calendars. Additionally, House Bill 4158 was passed unanimously, relating to the oversight of ecological water rights dedicated to the Texas Water Trust. Members of the committee emphasized the importance of these bills for sustainable water management practices in the state, reflecting a shift towards more responsible governance in resource use.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice (Part I) Apr 29th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Vice Chair Parker, Senator Hinojosa, Senator Huffman, Senator

  • Miles, Senator King.
  • Senator King?
  • Senator lays out Senate Bill 1212 and recognizes Senator

  • Senator Hagenbuch? I'm happy to defer to the older senator.
Summary: During this meeting of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice, the focus was on various bills aimed at enhancing public safety and addressing issues within the criminal justice system. Notably, Senate Bill 2460 was discussed, which allows for rapid DNA analysis at booking stations to address delays in forensic testing. The bill received support from several witnesses, including law enforcement officials, who emphasized the importance of this technology in solving cases more efficiently. Another significant topic was Senate Bill 1573, intended to provide due process protections for law enforcement officers accused of misconduct, which sparked a debate on balancing accountability and protecting the officers' reputations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice (Part I)Audio only. May 27th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Hinojosa? Aye.

  • Senator Huffman?

  • Senator Miles?

  • Senator King?

  • Sponsor Senator Higginbotham to explain the bill.
Bills: HB2217
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice was convened by Chair Flores and involved the discussion of two significant bills: HB2217 and HB2594. HB2217 was presented by Senator Higginbotham, establishing a grant program to equip local law enforcement vehicles with bullet-resistant components. The purpose of this legislation is to enhance officer safety amid rising violence against law enforcement personnel, as it aims to reduce fatalities caused by gunfire. The bill was favorably reported to the full Senate with unanimous support from committee members, indicating strong approval for initiatives aimed at law enforcement safety. Public testimony for the bill was minimal as no speakers registered for or against it.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources (Part I) May 14th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Blanco.
  • Are there questions for Senator Hancock?
  • The chair recognizes Senate Sponsor Senator Birdwell to explain the bill.
  • Good morning, Chairman Birdwell, Senator Hancock.
  • Senate Bill 2510 by Senator Kolkhorst.
Summary: The meeting included a robust discussion on several bills aimed at addressing regulatory issues in the state. Key among these was House Bill 4384, presented by Representative Darby, which focuses on alleviating financial burdens caused by regulatory lag for natural gas utilities. The bill seeks to allow temporary deferral of costs related to new infrastructure, and public testimonies highlighted a significant division in opinion, with some stakeholders arguing it would increase costs for consumers without adequate oversight. The committee members engaged actively with the testimonies, indicating a comprehensive review of the implications of the bill. House Bill 2663 was also introduced, aimed at preventing wildfires through better oversight of outdated electrical infrastructure at inactive oil and gas well sites, emphasizing the need for removed or de-energized equipment to avoid future incidents. Additionally, several other bills like HB1237 and HB3071 were discussed, with the latter addressing the cancellation of inactive landfill permits to reflect current land use and community development. The overall tone of the meeting was collaborative, with members expressing gratitude for professionalism despite some disagreements on policy details. The meeting concluded with several bills left pending for further discussion before moving to votes in subsequent sessions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education May 13th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 2310 by Senator Paxton.
  • Senate Bill 2431 by Senator Campbell is going to address

  • The bill passed both the Senate K-12 and K-16 committees, and the full Senate with unanimous support.
  • Is there anyone here who wishes to testify for Senate Bill 3039?
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 800 and recognizes the chair.
Summary: The Committee on Higher Education convened to discuss several significant pieces of legislation aimed at enhancing educational outcomes and access in Texas. A notable discussion was around SB2431, which seeks to improve access to foreign language courses through study abroad programs, as demand for such skills continues to grow in various industries. Additionally, SB2786 was presented, aimed at exempting certain public officers from assessment requirements under the Texas Success Initiative, to better accommodate their professional training and development needs. The meeting showcased a range of witnesses and testimonies in support of these initiatives, reflecting the committee's commitment to addressing educational barriers for students and professionals alike.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 21st, 2025 at 10:05 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am directed by the Senate to inform the House that the Senate has taken the following action.
  • Senate Bill 4 is finally passed.
  • Senate Bill 23 is finally passed.
  • Senate Bill 34 is finally passed.
  • Senate Bill 650...
Bills: SB31, SB33, SB20, SB217, SB264, SB269, SB650, SB681, SB528, SB502, SB740, SB916, SB995, SB10, SB2581, SB2570, SB3031, SB24, SB379, SB1171, SB1121, SB1120, SB1061, SB1036, SB1019, SB890, SB11, SB868, SB1188, SB1254, SB2778, SB2543, SB2443, SB1333, SB1259, SB1401, SB1404, SB2139, SB2165, SB2237, SB2268, SB1202, SB1198, SB1212, SB1451, SB1470, SB1498, SB965, SB1547, SB1667, SB1818, SB1902, SB2129, SB2078, SB2069, SB1737, SB1589, SB1318, SB387, SB1150, SB1574, SB2127, SB3034, SB860, SB1278, SCR5, SCR32, SB4, SB23, SB1762, SB34, SB60, SB706, SB1814, SB1220, SB523, SB565, SB1253, SB840, SB764, SB2383, SB2155, SB1535, SB1423, SB1566, SB1804, SB1728, SB1816, SB1952, SB75, SB2068, SB1455, SB213, SB627, SB2037, SB670, SB896, SB917, SB1184, SB971, SB1255, SB1261, SB1283, SB991, SB1733, SB21, SB231, SB739, SB1252, SB1371, SB646, SB3, SCR27, SB552, SB1405, SB1948, SB243, SJR1, SB31, SB33, SB20, SB217, SB264, SB269, SB650, SB681, SB528, SB502, SB740, SB916, SB995, SB10, SB2581, SB2570, SB3031, SB24, SB379, SB1171, SB1121, SB1120, SB1061, SB1036, SB1019, SB890, SB11, SB868, SB1188, SB1254, SB2778, SB2543, SB2443, SB1333, SB1259, SB1401, SB1404, SB2139, SB2165, SB2237, SB2268, SB1202, SB1198, SB1212, SB1451, SB1470, SB1498, SB965, SB1547, SB1667, SB1818, SB1902, SB2129, SB2078, SB2069, SB1737, SB1589, SB1318, SB387, SB1150, SB1574, SB2127, SB3034, SB860, SB1278, SCR5, SCR32, SB546, SB647, SB648, SB1493, SB1709, SB2001, HB5669, HB3115, HB5655, HB5675, HB5689, HB5690, HB5653, HB3228, HB2802, HB45, HB1318, HB5560, HB2894, HB4344, HB2775, HB33, HB12, HB148
Summary: The meeting focused on the discussions surrounding multiple bills, including several amendments and motions proposed by various members of the committee. Notably, Senate Bill 1405 passed after discussions led by Mr. Ashby, which highlighted its significance to the state's taxation policies. Additionally, SB4 saw considerable support, enabling an increase in school district homestead exemptions to $140,000, while SB23 aimed for exemptions tailored for seniors and disabled individuals. The committee shared insights on legislative priorities while engaging with public witnesses on controversial topics. Members received updates about upcoming committee meetings, illustrating a proactive legislative atmosphere.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 12th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Adam Hinojosa.
  • by Senator Nichols.
  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 2246 by Senator West and recognizes the representatives.
  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 2246 by Senator West

  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 546 by Senator Menendez

Summary: The meeting of the committee addressed several key bills focused on transportation and vehicle regulations. Notably, SB1353 introduced by Representative Gaines aims to create a regulatory framework for towing vessel pilots in the port of Brownsville, alongside testimonies highlighting support from local authorities. Additionally, SB1902 proposed by Senator Nichols seeks to amend the previous legislation affecting license plate transfers, addressing concerns over dealer inventory storage issues. The discussion around SB249 centered on alleviating the financial strain on families of fallen peace officers regarding highway dedications, shifting the burden to TxDOT for funding and maintaining signs. Despite the positive atmosphere, some bills, such as SB1029, faced opposition due to potential customer trust issues related to advertising vehicles not currently in dealers' possession.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine certain pending nominations. Apr 29th, 2025 at 08:30 am

Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel

Transcript Highlights:
  • Yes, Senator.
  • Thank you, Senator Reed.

    Senator Budd.

  • Thank you, Senator Shaheen.
  • WPS was passed by a unanimous vote in the Senate in October of 2017, when the Senate was majority Republican
  • This is most important, and again, Senator King and Senator Fischer have taken the lead on this as allies
Summary: The meeting of the committee revolved around critical discussions on enhancing the defense industrial base, focusing on small business engagement and the importance of streamlined processes in defense contracting. There was a significant emphasis on the need for more investment in the defense manufacturing sector, particularly in the face of competition from countries like China. Some members expressed frustration over the treatment of small businesses, citing barriers that prevent these innovative companies from effectively participating in defense contracts. The need for a workforce capable of meeting the common challenges posed by evolving technologies and geopolitical threats was also highlighted throughout the meeting.

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