Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'constitutional authority'

Page 27 of 55
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • to take action or not take action under the Constitution.
  • You know, what about the port authority in Beaumont?
  • Fair redistricting upholds constitutional safeguards.
  • Representative Guillen, you are a co-author of that bill.
  • Do ordain and establish this our Constitution.
Summary: The House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting convened to discuss a revised congressional redistricting plan as part of a special session. The meeting focused on public testimony regarding potential revisions to the redistricting map due to concerns about representation for Congressional Districts 2, 7, 8, and 9. Several witnesses testified against the proposed changes, expressing worries about gerrymandering and the disproportionate impact on minority communities. Notably, Deborah Allen, a former city council member, implored the committee members to heed the concerns of constituents who fear losing representation during this critical redistricting process. The atmosphere was charged as multiple lawmakers and public members voiced their frustrations about the perceived political motives driving the redistricting efforts rather than addressing urgent local needs. The committee faced questions regarding the lack of concrete maps available for public commentary, raising concerns about transparency in the redistricting process. Some members argued that the hearings should prioritize community engagement across the state rather than being limited to a few locations. Various testimonies highlighted fears that the redistricting plan might undermine the gains made in voter representation, particularly among marginalized groups. As the meeting concluded, it became clear that the committee might need to hold further hearings to ensure the public's voice was adequately represented before moving forward with any decisions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Apr 17th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It sounded like the author had experienced something where she was in line.
  • You've got to remember that these election judges have a lot of authority.
  • Constitution Article.
  • I'm very happy to be wrong, and I'll talk to the bill author on that and try to figure it out.
  • This bill is constitutional.
Summary: The meeting of the committee saw significant discussions revolving around several bills focused primarily on election laws and voter regulations. Chair Shaheen led the session, where the committee debated House Bill 3909, which proposed to amend the election code regarding the use of wireless communication devices near voting stations. Concerns were raised about the practicality of the existing regulations and the potential implications for electoral integrity. Additionally, House Bill 4253 drew attention due to fears of voter suppression, particularly how it might disproportionately affect communities of color. Testimony from members of the public highlighted the tension between maintaining election security and protecting citizens' voting rights.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I also presume we don't have the authority to compel someone from out of the state to attend.
  • Authorized by a two-thirds vote, the chair is authorized to issue subpoenas to a number of financial
  • It should not be a surprise that the current maps are still being reviewed by federal authorities.
  • Trump is afraid that a Democratic Congress will fulfill its constitutional duty of checking...
  • executive powers through its oversight authority.
Summary: The Senate special committee convened to address issues related to congressional redistricting, particularly focusing on the implications of a recent DOJ letter concerning majority-minority districts. Various senators expressed strong concerns about the motivations behind the proposed redistricting efforts, asserting that they may infringe on the rights of black and brown communities across Texas. Numerous members of the public provided passionate testimony, voicing their fears over potential voter suppression and gerrymandering, while others pushed for greater representation of underrepresented communities in the redistricting process. The committee aims to gather this public input as part of its overall redistricting considerations during the special session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • There isn't constitutional due process.
  • Constitution and Article One of the Texas Constitution.
  • The court asserted its authority, and the court asserted its authority in the interest of transparency
  • The author or the witness? Maybe the bill author, because, yeah.
  • That's in the Constitution.
Summary: In the recent meeting, the Judiciary and Cellular Disturbance Committee convened to discuss several critical issues, highlighted by the testimony surrounding HB1761. The committee chair emphasized the importance of the bill, gathering a panel consisting of key witnesses who offered various perspectives. Notably, Kathy Ward from the State Commission on Judicial Conduct voiced concerns regarding potential pitfalls of imposing sanctions on false complaints, advocating for a more inclusive process that considers mental health perspectives. Jacob Putnam, a District Attorney, echoed the sentiments, highlighting the bill's implications for public service recruitment and the necessity for competitive pay in public positions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development May 12th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members of the committee, House Bill 2768, authored by Chairman
  • ...authority for affiliated nonprofit organizations with the
  • authority granted to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for nonprofit organizations.
  • ...the Texas Constitution, and the victory of death letter
  • Commission to develop a plan to display the Texas Constitution
Summary: The meeting of the Economic Development Committee featured extensive discussions on several bills focused on streamlining processes, improving technology education, and preserving historical sites. House Bill 1240 was presented to unify the definition of the Texas-Mexico border region, which drew no objections during the public testimony segment. Another significant bill discussed was HB2768, aimed at establishing an IT apprenticeship credential to address workforce shortages in state government, indicating a proactive approach to enhancing the state's technical capabilities. The chair emphasized the importance of these initiatives in bolstering both education and economic capacity within Texas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Finally, it is remarkable that the bill author and other

  • I'm going to go off of exactly what the author of the bill...
  • the middle of a census, in between censuses, after a census because populations change, and the Constitution
  • had to be redrawn, that it was a constitutional problem,
Summary: The House Select Committee on Congressional Registration convened to discuss and vote on HB4, a congressional redistricting bill. During the meeting, Representative Turner expressed strong opposition, labeling the bill as discriminatory and racially motivated, claiming it intended to dismantle historically minority districts. Overall, there was a significant public outcry regarding the process, with many constituents unable to voice their concerns effectively. Despite the strong backlash, the bill was moved forward without amendments, reflecting broader tensions in the committee regarding representation and civic engagement. Members voiced their concerns about the bill's implications on minority communities and how the redistricting process appeared opaque. Emotional testimonies highlighted the potential disenfranchisement of historically marginalized groups, with representatives stressing the importance of community representation in Congress. Although the bill was passed along party lines, it sparked a commitment among members to continue advocating for fairness and transparency in future legislative processes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The committee asked the author to work with TDCJ to address

  • Thank you also to one of my joint authors who is in the committee hearing, Representative Collier, for
  • of official power and deprivation of rights under the guise of legal authority.
  • Furthermore, this bill raises serious constitutional concerns.
  • So, some of the doubling down on punishments and reinforcing that raises some constitutional concerns
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several legislative bills, primarily related to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) and corrections. Notable discussions included the adoption of committee substitutes for bills such as HB1515, which proposes the TDCJ Sunset Bill, and HB2854, which discusses necessary hospital visits for inmates. The meeting featured extensive participation from members and witnesses, who provided testimonies in support of or opposition to the various bills. The atmosphere remained collaborative, with members showing mutual respect during discussions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The committee asked the author to work with TDCJ to address some of the members' concerns.
  • Thank you also to one of my joint authors who is in the committee hearing, Representative Collier.
  • It also authorizes the Texas Department of State Health Services to suspend, revoke, or deny emergency
  • power and deprivation of rights under the guise of legal authority.
  • Furthermore, this bill raises serious constitutional concerns.
Summary: The meeting of the committee involved extensive discussions on various legislative bills pertaining to corrections and transparency in Texas' penal system. Notable among these was House Bill 4764, which seeks to enhance data availability regarding individuals in restrictive housing, addressing transparency issues related to mental health and recidivism rates. An extensive public testimony period allowed for voices from advocacy groups and individuals affected by these issues, illuminating the psychological toll of solitary confinement as expressed by proponents of the bill during the discussions. There was also considerable debate around Senate Bill 1610 regarding civil commitment and its implications for public safety, with concerns raised about the potential for punitive consequences over rehabilitative efforts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources May 21st, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • At that time, counties and municipalities expressed confusion as to what constitutes credible evidence
  • Senate Bill 1855 requires the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to establish by rule what constitutes
  • rulemaking last summer and made these exact comments and asked them to consider outlining what would constitute
  • Currently, the district lacks authority and structured procedures.
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Natural Resources was convened to review several bills concerning water regulation and development. Chairman Harris facilitated discussions on SB1965, SB2885, SB2440, SB1855, SB2568, SB3058, and SB612. Notable was the acknowledgment of rising concerns over groundwater availability and the regulatory framework surrounding it. The members emphasized the essential nature of the decisions being made, particularly in light of recent developments in water conservation and infrastructure. The bill SB1855 emerged as a focal point, addressing ambiguities in prior legislation about groundwater certification, which has caused confusion among local officials and developers alike. Testimonies were provided by representatives from various counties, emphasizing the necessity for clear guidelines and standards to protect water resources and support sustainable development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Mar 11th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In our Law Enforcement Division, we have an authorized 300 FTEs.
  • The Constitution provides that the legislature, by law, may authorize and regulate bingo games conducted
  • Who authorized them? It wasn't the legislature.
  • We're not saying that we have regulatory authority over the courier entity.
  • Under the general authority that we have and the potential...
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on legislative discussions surrounding House Bills 11 and 3579, with a significant emphasis on regulatory measures concerning lottery ticket couriers and modernization of licensing systems for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Various committee members engaged in lively debates, particularly around the implications of using couriers within the lottery framework, as this raised concerns about regulatory gaps and the need for clearer oversight. Additionally, there was mention of the agency’s efforts to combat human trafficking through updated regulations and enforcement actions, indicating a priority agenda for the session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence May 21st, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • and constitutional rights of an applicant for or holder of
  • Members, this is Senator Zaffirini's bill relating to the authority of a supporter regarding legal proceedings
  • Parents have the constitutional right to the care, custody
  • that it is vitally important that parents be able to select their own attorney so that their constitutional
  • Members, this is Senator Hughes' bill relating to discrimination against or burdening certain constitutional
Summary: During this meeting of the Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence Committee, several significant bills were discussed, particularly focusing on Senate Bill 1960, which aims to protect Texans from unauthorized use of their voices or likenesses in the age of artificial intelligence. Chairman Hunter led the presentation, highlighting the importance of preserving artistic integrity while ensuring that First Amendment rights are respected. The committee welcomed public testimony, receiving support for the bill from representatives of the music industry, who expressed concerns about the misuse of AI in recreating artists' performances without consent. The discussion included insight from various stakeholders regarding the implications of such legislation on their professional rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Apr 8th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Any questions for the author?
  • Therefore, you've got to have a constitutional amendment.
  • Any other questions for the author? Seeing none, thank you, Mr. Harless.
  • Merit shops do not have this authority as our educational program...
  • I'll use the First Amendment to the United States Constitution.
Summary: The meeting was marked by thorough discussions regarding several pivotal bills aimed at addressing safety and regulatory reforms within various sectors. Notably, House Bill 3352 was a focal point, where industry representatives highlighted the urgent need for enhanced driver safety training in work zones due to a rise in fatalities. Supporters argued that including work zone safety in driver education programs could significantly improve awareness and reduce accidents. Additionally, House Bill 2186 drew scrutiny from small business owners who expressed concerns about the regulatory burden it would impose on electricians and the potential impact on employment within the industry. Despite the commitment to improve safety, stakeholders warned of unintended consequences that could affect operational viability for non-signatory firms.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine certain pending nominations. Apr 30th, 2025 at 09:15 am

Senate Judiciary Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • To serve a search warrant that was authorized by the

  • Did you directly transfer the intelligence to the Mexican authorities? No, sir, I did not.
  • I do understand that the DEA has been given Title VIII authority to help and assist ICE agents.
  • But that constitutional balance is now at risk, and you, Mr. Siralta, may be threatened.
  • Title 18 authority arrest powers.
Summary: The committee meeting centered on the urgent crisis of fentanyl abuse and the government’s response to the drug trafficking epidemic. Key discussions revolved around the nomination of Terrence Cole as the Administrator of the DEA and Judea Serrata as Director of the U.S. Marshals Service. Cole emphasized his commitment to combating the fentanyl crisis, highlighting the rising number of overdose deaths and the necessity of bipartisan efforts to dismantle drug cartels. Members engaged in dialogue on the effectiveness of various strategies and the importance of education aimed at preventing drug-related deaths among youth. Additionally, the challenges of social media in drug trafficking were highlighted, indicating a need for greater accountability in how platforms handle such issues. Senators voiced concerns about the impact of administration policies on judicial security and the resources available for marshals to perform their critical roles.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 11th, 2025 at 02:02 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm grateful to live in a country Where we have a constitutional
  • This is a record vote required by the Constitution. Will ring the bell.
  • span marker="424" data-time="2538"> February 11th, 2025, as Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority
  • " data-time="2538">Today in our gallery, standing, is our Corpus Christi Regional Transportation Authority
  • Authority.
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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 31st, 2025 at 02:05 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Authority.
  • Would you characterize them as sex clubs, as the author did?
  • I'm not advised the way the author did.
  • Would you characterize them like the author did as sex clubs?
  • The Constitution has recognized that role multiple times, enshrining it in the United States Constitution
Summary: The meeting involved extensive discussions around several key bills, with highlights focused on the implications of SB12, which emphasized the Texas Parent Bill of Rights. Members debated its potential impacts on educational practices, particularly concerning diversity and inclusion efforts in schools. Concerns were raised about how the removal of DEI programs could adversely affect students with disabilities, particularly those on the autism spectrum. Additionally, SB1506 was addressed, with a significant change proposed to include stricter regulations regarding fentanyl possession, reflecting ongoing concerns about substance abuse in the community. The meeting was well-attended, featuring participation from multiple representatives expressing opinions regarding these bills. The chair recognized various members to provide input, and all discussions culminated in multiple votes on the proposed conference committee reports. The atmosphere was charged as representatives weighed the consequences of these legislative actions on their constituents. In conclusion, the committee successfully adopted multiple measures and set the stage for further engagement on the legislative agenda ahead.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management May 15th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Because they were determined to be developers, anything that constitutes two pieces or more under the
  • At the same time, it maintains the city's authority to issue stop work orders when there is imminent
  • Authority would be comfortable with.
  • to a non-government entity, because we can't do that under the Constitution.
  • ...different regulatory authority through zoning powers,
Bills: SB1708, SB2523, SB1450
Summary: The meeting involved discussions primarily around SB1450, SB2523, and SB1708. The highlight was SB1450, which seeks to streamline the review process for building permits by allowing licensed third-party professionals to conduct inspections. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including local housing advocates and property developers, indicated strong support for the bill, as it addresses the ongoing housing crisis by reducing permitting delays. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on county regulatory authority, emphasizing the need for counties to retain oversight in the review process, especially regarding flood insurance and safety regulations. The committee members showed proactive engagement in addressing amendments to the bill aimed at safeguarding public interests, while also facilitating efficient housing development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Jan 16th, 2025 at 10:01 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • and he was very involved with our local bus transit in San Antonio via the Metropolitan Transit Authority
  • Members, this week we took the oath of office and we vowed to uphold our Constitution.
  • >Religious freedom is one of the most important and fundamental rights guaranteed to us in the Constitution
Summary: The meeting included significant discussions around memorial recognitions for fallen law enforcement officers, specifically honoring Brazoria County Deputy Jesus Jesse Vargas and Navasota Police Sergeant Mark Butler. Representatives expressed their condolences and shared memories of the fallen officers, highlighting their service and the impact they made in their communities. The emotional nature of these tributes emphasized the importance of solidarity and respect for those who serve in law enforcement. The meeting also included an acknowledgement of National Religious Freedom Day, emphasizing the fundamental rights of all citizens to practice their faith freely.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We want it to pass constitutional muster.
  • Governor having the authority to update the designations.
  • Constitution and vote no on House Bill 17.
  • Actually, I'm an author in Texas for over 10 years.
  • Constitution and the fundamental value of equality for all.
Summary: The Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety and Veterans Affairs meeting focused on multiple legislative proposals primarily addressing issues related to safety, security, and law enforcement. Chairman Heffner led the committee through discussions on various bills including HB2318, which establishes a statewide Human Trafficking Data Repository, and HB2363, which expands the authority of peace officers to arrest individuals without a warrant outside their jurisdiction. Testimonies from various stakeholders were heard, emphasizing the importance of these measures in combating crime and enhancing public safety in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Apr 30th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • > and the Secretary of State already does more than this bill authorizes
  • We also recommend it include the authority to utilize

  • ...uphold the constitutional rights of political association
  • Constitution, it adjudicates...
  • This bill in front of us now is the constitutional right thing to do to fix this issue.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused primarily on discussions surrounding HB4309, aimed at allowing third parties to handle filing fees similarly to major political parties. Witnesses from the Libertarian Party, including Wes Benedict, expressed the need for equitable treatment in political financing, highlighting how fees imposed on them currently do not assist their party in any meaningful way like they do for Republicans and Democrats. Concerns were raised regarding the lack of accountability for fees collected from third parties, with committee members discussing potential oversight mechanisms.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Transportation Funding Mar 10th, 2025 at 10:03 am

House S/C on Transportation Funding

Transcript Highlights:
  • Pursuant to the Texas Constitution, the funds may only be used for constructing...
  • an additional constitutional amendment for transportation funding.
  • I'm the executive director for the Harris County Toll Road Authority.
  • The Harris County Toll Road Authority, commonly referred to as HECTRA, is a toll road authority.
  • $900 million in bonding authority.
Summary: The meeting of the Standing Subcommittee on Transportation addressed crucial issues relating to state transportation funding, focusing primarily on Propositions 1 and 7. The discussions, led by Chairman Canales, highlighted the significant contribution these propositions make to Texas's transportation budget and the impending challenges tied to a projected funding shortfall of $15 billion. Mark Williams, Executive Director of TxDOT, along with Stephen Stewart, CFO, emphasized the importance of sustained funding to support Texas’s growing infrastructure needs amidst rising costs and diminishing revenue sources, notably due to changes in vehicle fuel efficiency and increased reliance on electric vehicles. Notable public testimony from Pete Sepulveda from the Cameron County Regional Mobility Authority provided insights into local funding mechanisms and their role in enhancing the regional transportation networks.

Research Filters

States
Terms / Sessions
Date Range
Chamber Records
Meetings / Events / Calendars