Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Unplug Texas Day'
Page 27 of 59
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Public Education Feb 25th, 2025 at 10:00 am
House Public Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- So this was very specific to Texas.
- You can call me any time, day or night.
- is set up so that they are in front of kids performing six hours a day, six and a half hours a day—I
- $1,000 per kid for four additional days.
- Texas has a similar trend.
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
Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII Feb 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII
Transcript Highlights:
Item one discusses the Texas Energy.
- total amount to the Texas Energy Fund to ten billion dollars.
- Lastly, item four, the Texas Advanced Nuclear Reactor, Texas
- by the state of Texas.
- I would say the responsibility for the state of Texas, the electric and water...
Keywords:
Texas Energy Fund, Public Utility Commission, taxpayer money, funding strategies, electricity regulation, public testimony, resource efficiency
Summary:
The meeting focused primarily on the public utility sector, with significant attention given to the Texas Energy Fund and its anticipated expansion. Discussions highlighted the funding strategies for public utility programs, with representatives questioning the necessity of further taxpayer investments in projects that have not proven their effectiveness. There was substantial debate over the management of resources and efficiency, particularly emphasizing the regulatory responsibilities of the Public Utility Commission. Member concerns were vocalized around the impact of increased spending on local taxpayers, and whether alternative measures could suffice without additional funding.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII Feb 24th, 2025 at 10:00 am
House Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII
Transcript Highlights:
- Centers throughout the state of Texas all day.
- Centers throughout the state of Texas all day.
- So what is that, like a day or two of classroom education that the Texas Lottery is paying for?
- I am on the Texas Emerging Leadership Board at Texas...
- One is about safety; every day in Texas, somewhere in Texas,...
Keywords:
Texas Lottery Commission, charitable bingo, regulatory framework, financial appropriations, Sunset Advisory Commission, lottery couriers, operational efficiency
Summary:
The meeting of the Texas Lottery Commission centered around vital discussions regarding the regulatory framework and operational issues related to the lottery and charitable bingo systems in Texas. The committee reviewed financial appropriations, focusing on the need for infrastructure improvements to the Charitable Bingo Operations Division and highlighted the ongoing work with the Sunset Advisory Commission to enhance operational efficiency and compliance. Significant attention was given to the unregulated activities of lottery ticket couriers, which have raised concerns about integrity and fairness in lottery games, prompting the commission to consider appropriate measures to stop such activities.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Mar 5th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Council, the Texas Emergency Management Council, and my favorite job is Chief of the Texas Division
- I have the privilege of chairing the Texas Energy Reliability Council, the Texas Emergency Management
- Yesterday was a rough day.
- Regionally, in Texas.
- in and day out.
Keywords:
border security, SB4, illegal immigration, Operation Lone Star, Texas Department of Public Safety, Attorney General, testimony
Summary:
The meeting of the Homeland Security, Public Safety, and Veterans Affairs Committee fostered extensive discussions primarily focused on the ongoing border security issues. Members of the committee, chaired by Rep. Huffman, emphasized the shifting strategies under the new federal administration and highlighted the successful implementation of SB4, which seeks to curb illegal entry into Texas. Notably, the Attorney General's Office reported a 54% decrease in illegal crossings over the past year, signaling a change in the migration trends impacting Texas, largely due to new state and federal cooperation efforts. Additionally, the committee discussed the development of Operation Lone Star, which is now a statewide initiative aimed at addressing the challenges posed by illegal immigration and crime associated with it.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and CommerceAudio only. May 26th, 2025
Senate Business & Commerce Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Chair lays out as a matter of pending business House Bill 150, relating to the establishment of the Texas
- Texas Cyber Command.
The Texas Cyber Command is now created as a standalone
- Several of you worried that we were prescribing Texas Cyber
- So just as we described and laid out in the testimony the other day, there is no change in that regard
Keywords:
Texas Cyber Command, Senate Committee on Business and Commerce, independent agency, procurement processes, cybersecurity, legislative oversight
Summary:
During this meeting of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce, significant discussions revolved around House Bill 150, which addresses the establishment of the Texas Cyber Command. Senator Parker presented a detailed overview of the bill, emphasizing its independence as a standalone agency that maintains legislative oversight while allowing the flexibility to partner with various state institutions. The members engaged actively, addressing concerns about procurement processes during cybersecurity emergencies and ensuring that local entities retain vendor choices without being forced to adopt particular systems. The committee unanimously supported the bill, moving it favorably to the full Senate.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Jul 23rd, 2025 at 09:07 am
House Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- , Central Texas, the Hill Country, and that would last over the next couple of days.
- thousand days straight.
- the Panhandle to the Valley, Central Texas, East and West Texas.
- And then we lived through Memorial Day, Tax Day, and Harvey.
- , seven days a week.
Keywords:
flood management, Senate Bill 8, flood infrastructure fund, emergency response, public safety, regional planning, Texas floods
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on flood management and response strategies following the recent devastating floods in Texas. Notably, discussions centered around the creation of a flood infrastructure fund and Senate Bill 8, which aims to improve regional flood planning processes. Several experts provided insights into the challenges faced during the floods, including communication barriers, emergency response efforts, and the need for better coordination among local and state agencies. Public sentiments were shared regarding the necessity for improved flood prevention measures, conservation plans, and the expansion of existing infrastructure to cope with future climatic challenges.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Press Conference: Special Session Jul 31st, 2025 at 10:07 am
Transcript Highlights:
- The people of Texas deserve better.
The Texas legislature and the Texas Senate drew maps
- Donald Trump is using Texas.
- Thank you for coming to Texas.
- ...to the people of Texas, and Texas Democrats understand
Keywords:
redistricting, gerrymandering, Texas Democrats, voter suppression, Hakeem Jeffries, equitable representation, minority communities, legislative session, political motivations
Summary:
The meeting highlighted significant concerns regarding the proposed redistricting in Texas, primarily driven by perceived political motivations from the Republican leadership. Speaker after speaker emphasized the urgency of stopping what they described as an attempt to gerrymander districts and suppress the votes of marginalized communities. Key figures such as House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries underscored that the current plans threaten not just democratic principles but directly impact the well-being of Texas constituents, particularly minority populations. The meeting stirred passionate debate about ensuring equitable representation and addressing systemic injustices within the electoral process. The persistence of local leaders and their collective stand against these actions was a focal point throughout discussions, showcasing a unified front against manipulation of electoral boundaries.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Agriculture & Livestock Aug 19th, 2025 at 02:08 pm
House Agriculture & Livestock Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- It's just now reached the edge of Texas; it's in East Texas, so we screen for that and watch for that
- How many grams per day?
- In South Texas alone, a little over half a million whitetail deer roam that part of South Texas.
- So with deer, whether that be every day, or every other day, or every three days, that accumulation—you're
- There is a coalition, the Texas Screwworm Coalition, or Screwworm Coalition of Texas.
Keywords:
New World Screw Worm, livestock management, sterile fly facility, Texas agriculture, FDA emergency use, animal health
Summary:
The meeting of the Committee on Agriculture and Livestock addressed the ongoing threat of the New World Screw Worm, which poses significant risks to both livestock and wildlife in Texas. Chairman Kitzman emphasized the importance of a coordinated response among state and federal agencies, including the recent $750 million investment for a new sterile fly facility in south Texas, crucial for combating this threat. Several invited witnesses provided insights on current research, management strategies, and the collaboration needed to effectively handle potential infestations.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Press Conference: Testing & Accountability Aug 25th, 2025 at 09:08 am
Transcript Highlights:
- ="1" data-time="0"> Good morning, I'm Senator Gina Inocencio and I represent Central Austin in the Texas
- ="4" data-time="18"> Today we have with us students from all across Central Texas to speak about the
- to tell the state of Texas that we're not going down without a fight.
- That never works out well for our Texas students.
- We've been able to work collaboratively on minimizing testing in Texas.
Keywords:
House Bill 8, standardized testing, student testimony, education policy, mental health, parent concerns, Texas Education Agency
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on the impacts of House Bill 8, which proposes increasing the frequency of state testing for students in Texas. During the meeting, various testimonies were provided by students, highlighting their concerns about the negative effects of standardized testing on their educational experience. Students expressed that the pressure of multiple assessments causes significant stress and detracts from the joy of learning. Some lawmakers voiced their opposition to the bill, emphasizing the need for a thorough review and consideration of alternative evaluation methods that prioritize student well-being over testing metrics.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Higher Education Apr 29th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Higher Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- The nearest option is 267 miles away in Albany, and the closest in Texas is 345 miles away at Texas Tech
- Juris Doctorate job openings still outnumber law school graduates in Texas, and critically, Texas needs
- Thank you for bringing the bill and for your advocacy for West Texas and Southwest Texas.
- every single day.
- And, you know, let's just keep Texas, Texas, and with that, I close.
Bills:
HB1784, HB2088, HB3062, HB3475, HB3741, HB4279, HB4763, HB5154, HB5294, HB5508, SB1401, HB232
Keywords:
students, homeless, foster care, higher education, liaison officer, housing assistance, transition support, law school, higher education, Rio Grande Valley, legal education, public university, accreditation, fentanyl prevention, drug poisoning awareness, higher education, mental health resources, substance abuse education, law school, higher education
Summary:
The committee meeting led by Chair Wilson focused on higher education legislation, notably addressing bills related to tuition fee exemptions, financial assistance for students, and combating fentanyl abuse on campuses. Significant discussions revolved around HB1527, which proposes fee exemptions for peace officers at public institutions, and HB3062, aimed at implementing educational initiatives to raise awareness of fentanyl dangers among students. Several representatives expressed support for these measures, citing the crucial need for educational programs to combat substance abuse and provide equitable access to education.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Juvenile Justice Apr 14th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House S/C on Juvenile Justice
Transcript Highlights:
- data-time="306">I'm not like Ryan Guillen, and I don't have multiple bills in every committee every day
- Defense and one of the gaps that the Texas Indigent Defense
- I am the executive director of the Texas Indigent Defense Commission as representative.
- These reforms align Texas with national best practices and federal juvenile justice standards.
- I'm the Director of Youth Justice with Texas Appleseed, testifying in support.
Bills:
HB1821, HB1822, HB1943, HB3882, HB4263, HB4476, HB4628, HB4631, HB4885, HB4923, HB5461, HB5483, HB5525
Keywords:
juvenile records, sealing, privacy, criminal justice, youth rehabilitation, legal procedures, juvenile court, record sealing, nondisclosure, age jurisdiction, criminal justice reform, juvenile board, compensation, Winkler County, juvenile justice, county funding, juvenile justice, grants, career education, technical programs
Summary:
The meeting was focused on several critical bills concerning juvenile justice in Texas, with particular emphasis on reforms to improve support for young individuals in the juvenile justice system. Notable discussions included House Bill 3882, presented by Dr. Lalani, which aims to expand eligibility for job training grants to youth in juvenile justice facilities, enhancing their opportunities for successful reintegration into society. Witnesses testifying in support illustrated the transformative impact of educational programs on at-risk youth. Additionally, House Bill 4923 was highlighted, with Speaker Moody advocating for a shift away from punitive measures against status offenders, emphasizing the importance of addressing root causes rather than criminalizing conduct associated with running away from home. The meeting included participation from various stakeholders, including local officials and advocates for juvenile justice reform, who underscored the urgent need for these legislative changes.
The committee's deliberations showcased a strong commitment to fostering a rehabilitative rather than punitive approach to juvenile justice, reflecting broader national trends and best practices in the field. Many members expressed support for the bills discussed, recognizing their potential to positively impact youth outcomes and community safety. The atmosphere was collaborative, with members actively engaging in discussions about amendments and potential adjustments to strengthen the proposed legislation. As the session wrapped up, several bills moved closer to the full committee for consideration.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
The Waco community relies on clean, safe water for day-to-day
- Now you are a disabled veteran residing in Texas. In 1972, Texas sought to...
- I entered military service in Texas and knew that when I retired in 2014, the great state of Texas was
- I represent the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
- I'm from West Texas, as many of you know.
Bills:
HB485, HB1367, HB1370, HB1827, HB1879, HB2032, HB2133, HB2357, HB3581, HB3830, HB4060, HB4085, HB4270, HB4979, HB5217, HB5268, HB5478, HJR96, HJR97, HJR119, HJR195, HJR209, SB4, SB23, SJR2, SJR85
Keywords:
healthcare, insurance, access, affordability, public health, emergency services district, sales tax, gas and electricity, residential use, tax exemption, emergency services, sales tax, gas, electricity, residential use, tax exemption, ad valorem, property tax, residential taxation, local governance
Summary:
The meeting covered several key legislative proposals aimed at enhancing property tax relief and supporting community development initiatives. House Bill 2032, which addresses tax exemptions for disabled veterans, was discussed; the bill proposes a proportional property tax deduction based on disability ratings, helping veterans secure housing stability amidst rising property costs. House Bill 4270 was also introduced to revitalize declining neighborhoods by offering property tax exemptions for young families moving into these areas—an initiative prompted by demographic shifts in urban areas such as El Paso. The discussions emphasized the critical need for fostering sustainable communities and supporting vulnerable populations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
Every day, we work to protect Texas children and
- Think of Texas.
- to Texas law.
- Texas knows what it needs.
- and True Texas Project.
Keywords:
school safety, border security, fentanyl trafficking, public testimony, legislative funding, mental health resources, Texas Senate, safety protocols
Summary:
The meeting revolved around various critical discussions, primarily focusing on school safety and the challenges surrounding border security. Key testimonies highlighted the significant strides made in reducing illegal crossings but emphasized the need for continued vigilance against crime and drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl. Members expressed gratitude towards the Texas Senate's supportive role in funding for safety measures and strengthening resources to keep the state safe. Conversations also centered around the implementation of new safety protocols in schools, including the establishment of the Office of School Safety and Security, and how schools are addressing vulnerabilities identified from assessments. Furthermore, the importance of mental health resources was underscored as a complement to physical security improvements within educational institutions.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- in Texas at that time.
- We went from 6,000 a day.
- There were several days last week that we had less than 100 across the entire Texas, all five sectors
- It's a nine-day deployment, so they get two days of 24 hours of straight overtime.
- Nine days.
Keywords:
Operation Lone Star, border security, Texas Military Department, drug smuggling, federal policy, apprehensions, public safety, human trafficking
Summary:
The meeting of the Border Security Committee was marked by intensive discussions surrounding the ongoing initiatives related to Operation Lone Star. Members shared updates on border security measures, underscoring the significant operational changes resulting from shifts in federal policies. General Salter provided extensive insights into the deployment of state resources, highlighting the 5,000 active personnel engaged in various border control operations. The various strategies employed for enhancing surveillance and interdicting drug smuggling were also covered, emphasizing the importance of strong collaboration between state and federal agencies.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- The new Texas...
- the Texas-Mexico office and the new state of Texas-Taiwan
- Education Agency, the Texas Workforce Commission, and the Texas Health and Human Services Commission
- by Taiwanese companies, promote Texas trade with Taiwan, and assist Texas communities and Taiwanese
- In the State of the State, he talked about building a stronger Texas, the Texas of tomorrow.
Keywords:
Texas CHIPS Act, semiconductor industry, foreign investment, international business, economic development, Governor Abbott, Taiwan office, workforce development
Summary:
The meeting primarily focused on the implementation and impacts of the Texas CHIPS Act, aimed at bolstering the semiconductor industry within the state. Legislators praised its potential to create jobs and capital investment. The discussion also highlighted recent international business development missions undertaken by Governor Abbott, including visits to India, the UK, and Taiwan, to foster stronger economic ties and attract foreign investment. Chairwoman Button emphasized the importance of a robust economic development strategy to maintain Texas's leading position in job and economic growth.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V
Transcript Highlights:
- Exciting day. A quorum is present for all official business.
- to 90 days after the close of the fiscal year.
- I'll start with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission technical adjustments.
- I'll be presenting the Texas Commission on Fire Protection, the agency requests.
- This is actually a partnership with TEEX and Texas A&M Forest Service.
Keywords:
appropriations, budget adjustments, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, mental health resources, community supervision, elderly inmates, funding challenges
Summary:
The meeting of the appropriations committee focused on a range of topics including budget adjustments for various state departments and agencies. Key points of discussion included the Texas Department of Criminal Justice budget, which saw considerations for funding adjustments to support both community supervision and correction programs. The committee members exhibited keen interest in mental health resources, with some discussions revolving around a proposed additional funding for staff and programs aimed at improving support for vulnerable populations in the justice system. Additionally, there were discussions regarding the adequacy of existing resources for elderly inmates, and the potential need for policy changes around this issue.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- and contributing to the economy of Texas.
- looks like compared to East Texas.
- of Texas increasing.
- Texas exported 4 million barrels per day of oil and 4.9 million barrels per day of refined petroleum
- In 2010, the state of Texas was producing about 1.1 million barrels of crude oil per day, which represented
Keywords:
SB786, SB119, SB1186, geothermal injection wells, brine mining, environmental regulations, water management, Texas Railroad Commission, economic growth
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee focused on several key legislative initiatives, including the implementation of new regulations concerning geothermal injection wells as per SB786, and the jurisdiction over brine mining clarified by SB119 and SB1186. Commissioner Christy spoke about the achievements of the Railroad Commission of Texas in regulatory standards and emphasized the importance of updating environmental practices that safeguard groundwater and surface water while facilitating economic growth. Senators expressed their concerns regarding operational impacts on various sectors, highlighting the need for continued collaboration between agencies to address challenges related to water management and environmental compliance.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Mar 3rd, 2025 at 02:03 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
HB552 by Gonzalo Zopasso, relating to the study by Texas
HB556 by Gonzalo Zopasso, relating to improvements to the Texas
- The services to survivors of certain military—Texas military
- H.R. 35, proposing the creation and use of the Grow Texas
- Edward Cook of Eustis, Texas.
Keywords:
constitutional amendments, property tax, ad valorem taxation, environmental rights, public testimony, Texas Legislature, Committee on State Affairs
Summary:
The committee meeting included extensive discussions on numerous proposed constitutional amendments, focusing particularly on issues related to property taxation and environmental rights. Various members, including Representative Metcalfe and Representative Goodwin, brought forward bills addressing the appraised value of residential and commercial properties for ad valorem tax purposes, as well as amendments guaranteeing citizens the right to a clean environment. The conversation was vibrant, with a mix of supportive and opposing views presented by committee members and public witnesses who joined the discussions.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management Mar 6th, 2025 at 08:03 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- system and the Texas A&M University system.
- The Board is chaired by the Commissioner of the Texas...
- I'm General Counsel with the Texas Municipal League.
- You talked about these 30 days and 45 days.
- Over 1,300 people move to Texas every single day.
Keywords:
housing affordability, Texas population growth, regulatory burdens, development processes, land use, supply shortage, collaboration, testimony, legislative measures
Summary:
The Committee on Land and Resource Management convened to address pressing issues surrounding housing affordability in Texas. Central to the discussions was the testimony of various stakeholders, including housing developers, local officials, and advocates who highlighted an acute shortage of over 300,000 homes due to rapid population growth. The committee explored legislative measures aimed at reducing regulatory burdens that contribute significantly to housing costs, particularly related to the development and construction processes. A theme of collaboration with local governments and state agencies was a pivotal point, emphasizing the need for an organized approach to address housing supply while balancing local infrastructural concerns.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- God bless Galveston County Day.
- City Day here in the State Capitol.
- I think Texas should lead on this.
- Because we wanted Texas to lead.
- as the official state fruit of Texas and directs the Texas Department of Agriculture to promote it.
Keywords:
SB703, SB21, Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, SB790, criminal implications, license reform, tenant disputes, financial strategy, Senator Zaffirini
Summary:
The meeting focused on several significant bills, including SB703, which addresses the criminal and licensing implications for various massage establishments and was aimed at aligning state laws with federal regulations by closing existing loopholes. Senator Zaffirini played a vital role in facilitating discussions on multiple bills, including SB21, which proposes the establishment of the Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, emphasizing the need for Texas to explore forward-thinking financial strategies amidst federal monetary inflation concerns. Additionally, SB790, aimed at streamlining the resolution process for tenant-landlord disputes regarding water and wastewater billing, was also presented, drawing attention to due process concerns but ultimately supported for its efficiency improvements.