Transcript Highlights:

• Members, the committee substitute provides clarifying language that excludes monthly fee-based discount
• Costs are monthly fee-based membership discount programs
• They require consumers to pay both annual subscriptions and monthly fees, which creates a member-only
• reimbursement rates reflect the usual and customary fees
• The program I'm here to discuss with you today, House Bill 2402, would clarify that monthly fee-based

Bills: HB741, HB1199, HB2070, HB2402, HB2542, HB2665, HB2789, HB3096, HB3396, HB3595, HB3747, HB4116, HB4127

Keywords: child welfare, relative caregiver, monetary assistance, Department of Family and Protective Services, child custody, family law, emergency power, nursing facilities, assisted living, generator requirements, health and safety, emergency generators, nursing facilities, assisted living, power outage, health and safety, emergency generator, nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, power source

Summary: The meeting convened with Chair Hull overseeing the discussions, and a quorum was confirmed with all members present. The primary focus was on voting several bills that had been discussed in previous hearings. Notable among them was HB1155, which relates to monetary assistance from the DFPS to certain parents. The committee adopted a substitute for the bill without objection and subsequently moved it forward with recommendations for favorable approval to the full House. Another significant topic was HB136, which aimed to include lactation consultation in Medicaid coverage, which also passed out of committee with a substitute.

Transcript Highlights:

• impact cost and coverage analysis program, authorizing a fee
• to think about this in primary care; it's kind of like direct primary care where you pay a monthly fee
• So TDI is telling you what their just filing fee requirement is to go.
• span> Lawyers are expensive unless you guys help us cap those fees
• just want to clarify that the $9,000 figure is the cost to TDI for each exam, which is covered by a fee

Bills: HB139, HB1818, HB1942, HB1959, HB2221, HB2254, HB2563, HB2067, HB2275, HB3211

Keywords: advanced practice registered nurse, health maintenance organization, preferred provider, insurance, healthcare access, healthcare, insurance, provider ranking, cost-sharing, fiduciary duty, patient choice, insurance, annuities, health coverage, trade practices, rebates, inducements, health promotion, wellness programs, insurance

Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance was a significant gathering that focused on various health-related bills, including HB138, AB388, HB1942, and others. The committee heard testimony from multiple stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Medical Association, who emphasized the importance of health insurance transparency and compliance. Notably, HB1818 garnered attention as it aims to enhance the oversight of utilization review processes, which has previously faced challenges from both insurers and healthcare providers. The committee also discussed measures to improve the prescribed burning insurance under HB2563, a critical topic due to the increasing risk of wildfires in Texas. Several witnesses provided insights into the urgent need for a robust insurance framework to support prescribed burn managers, highlighting the current limitations and risks posed by the lack of coverage in the market.

Transcript Highlights:

• So as we begin the last of the scheduled hearings, have we really learned anything different? No.
• An election was scheduled right away, but instead, it is not until November.
• These few meetings hastily scheduled do not fit the intent of gathering public input. It only...
• These are the ones currently scheduled.

• Have any other hearings been scheduled?

Keywords: redistricting, gerrymandering, public testimony, congressional maps, representation, minority communities, discrimination, voting rights

Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on public testimonies regarding the revised congressional redistricting plan. Numerous witnesses presented their concerns about how the proposed changes could potentially dilute representation for minority communities. A consistent theme throughout the testimonies was the fear that the redistricting effort was not aimed at serving constituents but rather at securing power for political parties. Several participants expressed a strong opposition to what they perceived as gerrymandering tactics, claiming they would negatively impact African-American and Hispanic communities in Texas. The meeting revealed a clear public sentiment against the redistricting proposals, with nearly all witnesses speaking out against the changes. The Chair noted an overwhelming number of testimonies opposing the redistricting, indicating a strong community response to the proposed changes and their implications on fair representation.

Transcript Highlights:

• This is the third of our four scheduled regional meetings.
• Thank you for scheduling today and for testifying as you did on Saturday. You make it plain.
• consider restructuring future hearings so that constituents speak first or near the time of the scheduled
• Loan repayment schedules and the Republican decision to increase tuition for undocumented students produce
• Lindquist, I want to thank you for testifying today and taking time out of your schedule to let your

Keywords: redistricting, congressional districts, DOJ letter, voter suppression, gerrymandering, public testimony, community representation

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.

Transcript Highlights:

• Through this study, I believe we can evaluate how establishing a telecom service fee or other types of
• It is, and I think it's because your bill was a fee.
• And this is not a fee bill; this bill establishes the trust
• We probably had an idea to create some permanent ongoing funding, which would have been, I think, a fee

• So, members, this is not a fee bill.

Bills: HB107, HB742, HB1639, HB1700, HB2071, HB2187, HB2402, HB2516, HB3211, HB4529, HB5342, HB694, HB923, HB4655

Keywords: sickle cell disease, registry, health data, confidentiality, healthcare access, human trafficking, first responders, health care, training, reporting, protection, cancer, female firefighters, health study, state health services, fire protection, telemedicine, teledentistry, telehealth, health records

Summary: The meeting of the committee featured a series of discussions primarily focusing on various bills aimed at enhancing accountability and safety in the healthcare sector. Notable highlights included the passage of HB694, which aims to promote transparency in the operations of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) by shortening the notification timeline for significant events from ten days to 48 hours. This bill received unanimous support from all members present, underscoring a strong consensus on improving communication with parents and stakeholders involved in the child welfare system. Another significant topic was the introduction of HB2187, which seeks to amend and update the existing nursing staffing laws to address emerging challenges faced by healthcare professionals, particularly stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill was presented as a response to the increased burnout rates among nurses and aims to provide a more stable working environment to retain talent in the healthcare sector. The committee took testimony from several experts and stakeholders, highlighting the urgency and importance of these legislative changes.

Transcript Highlights:

• fee scales, behavioral health services, and outreach for
• > Damages, so instead of plus court costs, attorneys' fees
• Placement fees are voluntarily negotiated.
• and the facility fee together, so they're ultimately a part of the overall cost.
• They can be paid with either a fee, where the health plan pays a fee, or they could be paid based on

Bills: HB712, HB722, HB946, HB1687, HB1809, HB1899, HB2528, HB2583, HB2741, HB2750, HB3021, HB3150, HB3265, HB3658, HB3812, HB3960, HB4392, HB4432

Keywords: prostate cancer, health benefit plans, insurance coverage, cost sharing, preventive health care, auto insurance, total loss evaluation, disclosure, insurance materials, vehicle appraisal, health benefits, out-of-pocket expenses, government employees, deductibles, medical services, fireworks, public safety, age requirement, permits, occupational licenses

Summary: The House Committee on Insurance convened to discuss multiple bills aimed at enhancing consumer protection and improving access to essential services. Notable discussions included HB2528, which seeks to eliminate prior authorization requirements for medications treating substance use disorders, thereby expediting access to crucial treatments for Texans. Representative Boosie laid out HB722, addressing transparency in auto insurance valuation processes, prompting engagement from various witnesses on how current practices potentially exploit consumers. Members voiced concerns about the intersection of bureaucratic delays and the urgency of addiction treatment, emphasizing the bill's potential life-saving implications.

Transcript Highlights:

• span> We will vote on that today, but several members have busy schedules

Keywords: nomination, Patrick Davis, Assistant Attorney General, Ed Martin, January 6th, public testimony

Summary: This meeting focused primarily on the nomination of Patrick Davis to serve as Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Legislative Affairs. Members discussed Mr. Davis's qualifications and experience, emphasizing his commitment to effectively serving the American public and working collaboratively with Congress. The committee also briefly revisited the nominations of John Eisenberg and Brett Shumate but decided to hold them over until the next meeting. Additionally, concerns regarding the nomination of Ed Martin as U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia were raised, particularly regarding his past statements and conduct related to the January 6th insurrection and its aftermath. The discussion highlighted the importance of reviewing Mr. Martin's responses to various questions before proceeding with a vote on his nomination.

Transcript Highlights:

• We've already looked at several ways that you can save money by reducing some of those postage fees,
• and we've successfully reduced those postage fees.

Keywords: Department of Licensing and Registration, staffing needs, combative sports, industrialized housing, Waco examination center, cybersecurity, Financial Crimes Intelligence Center, financial crime prevention

Summary: The meeting focused on various aspects of the Department of Licensing and Registration, highlighting the need for enhanced staffing to manage increased demand in several programs such as combative sports and industrialized housing. Notably, discussions included the establishment of new examination centers to improve service delivery and licensing processes, with emphasis on the Waco center's contribution. There was also deliberation on cybersecurity measures, showcasing the department's efforts to protect infrastructure from breaches, alongside mention of the Financial Crimes Intelligence Center's successes in preventing financial crimes in Texas.

Transcript Highlights:

• ="5" data-time="38"> The bill affects all counties with a population over 1 million and changes the fee
• calculation language to allow a county to charge an annual fee equal to the amount the Department of

Keywords: HB1449, HB3711, reciprocity of permits, investigative assistance, Open Meetings Act, committee substitute, Senator Cook, Representative Cabriglione

Summary: The committee meeting focused on two primary bills: HB1449 and HB3711. HB1449, presented by Senator Cook on behalf of Representative Cabriglione, addresses concerns about reciprocity of permits among counties and modifies fee calculations. After a brief discussion and lack of opposing testimonies, the committee approved a substitute for the bill without objection, highlighting a smooth process for advancing the legislation. Similarly, HB3711 underwent scrutiny as it shifted investigative assistance for Open Meetings Act violations from the Department of Public Safety to the Attorney General's Office. Again, no testimonies were presented during the public testimony phase, leading to swift approval of the committee substitute with a favorable recommendation for the bill to proceed to the full Senate.

Transcript Highlights:

• Under the existing statute, the parole board has limited discretion regarding the scheduling of parole
• the authority and discretion to set off schedules of the

Bills: HB153, HB1828, HB2306, HB2498, HB3464, HB3488, HB3636, HB3673, HB3834, HB3860, HB4120, HB4937, HB1515

Keywords: education, funding, student resources, technology access, equal opportunity, veterans treatment court, mental health, criminal justice, rehabilitation, eligibility criteria, veterans, treatment court, military service, mental health, rehabilitation, veterans, treatment court, mental health, rehabilitation, legislation

Summary: The Committee on Corrections convened to discuss various proposed bills aimed at enhancing the criminal justice system in Texas. Noteworthy among them was HB1760, presented by Chairman Leach, which seeks to increase the minimum imprisonment term for individuals convicted of intoxicated manslaughter. The committee voted favorably on several bills, including HB1772, which addresses the eligibility for community supervision. Public testimony highlighted community concerns around parole decisions, especially regarding violent offenders, which added emotional weight to discussions on HB2306 concerning children’s parole eligibility. Several members expressed strong sentiments advocating for stricter regulations for repeat offenders, underlining the impact of violent crime on victims' families. The meeting wrapped up with additional bills pending further discussions.

Transcript Highlights:

• chair that the subcommittee has completed its deliberation and recommends that House Bill 3269 be scheduled
• data-time="7092"> The committee has completed its deliberations and recommends that House Bill 3269 be scheduled
• chair that the subcommittee has completed its deliberations and recommends that House Bill 632 be scheduled

Bills: HB231, HB475, HB488, HB632, HB821, HB1786, HB1955, HB2036, HB2060, HB2659, HB2677

Keywords: food access, food deserts, communities of color, health disparities, socioeconomic impact, nutritious food, food deserts, communities of color, food access, health effects, socioeconomic disparities, legislative recommendations, food deserts, communities of color, nutrition, health disparities, legislative recommendations, food deserts, nutrition, health disparities

Summary: The committee meeting engaged in comprehensive discussions surrounding various health-focused bills aimed at improving community services and mental health care access. Notably, House Bill 475 was refiled by Representative Johnson, highlighting the deficiencies in Texas Medicaid regarding community-based care for youth at risk for criminal behavior. The committee examined the merits of the bill, emphasizing the need for evidence-based intervention programs. Meanwhile, House Bill 2060 received attention for its focus on ensuring automatic Medicaid coverage for infants, addressing gaps in access highlighted by a report indicating a significant number of newborns missed enrollment at birth. Members expressed strong support for this initiative, delineating the critical nature of health coverage for Texas’ youngest citizens.

Transcript Highlights:

• Customers authorizing a fee, heard of the Committee on State
• structuring of water rates by retail public utilities to promote water conservation, authorizing a fee
• marker="1207" data-time="7236">HB 1454 by TEP relates to the waivers and reductions of tuition and fees
• /span>

  HB 1487 by Ladderback relates to the removal of a fee

Keywords: legislation, public testimony, environmental concerns, land management, community impact

Summary: The committee meeting featured a thorough examination of several bills, including discussions on SB4 and HB2214. Members expressed varied opinions on the implications of these bills, with particular focus on land management and environmental concerns. The chair facilitated an active dialogue among members, highlighting both support and opposition from various stakeholders. Notably, public testimonies were also heard, contributing to the committee's understanding of community impacts related to the legislation. The meeting reflected a commitment to transparency and thorough consideration of each bill's potential effects.

Transcript Highlights:

• data-time="1590">If you would like to take the opportunity to visit with me, please contact Paige to schedule

Keywords: memorial recognition, fallen officers, law enforcement, Jesus Jesse Vargas, Mark Butler, National Religious Freedom Day, service, community impact

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.

Transcript Highlights:

• data-time="1590"> Members, I'm about to announce the work schedule

Keywords: SCR7, adjournment, Texas House, legislature, staff recognition, birthday celebration

Summary: The meeting commenced with acknowledgments and thanks from the speaker for the staff's efforts in ensuring the session's success. Several members expressed their gratitude for the law enforcement presence which contributed to the safety of all attendees. The chair recognized members for various announcements, including a birthday celebration for a colleague, which contributed to a familial atmosphere within the chamber despite the busy schedule. Notably, Representative Guerin introduced SCR 7, which authorized the legislature to adjourn for more than three days, allowing for a planned break in procedures until the following Wednesday.

Transcript Highlights:

• ...and I get my attorney's fees if I win, but if I lose,
• I don't have to pay the city's attorney's fees.
• injunctive relief, costs, and attorney's fees.
• "> providing injunctive relief and covering attorney's fees

Bills: SB250, SB375, SB536, SB845, SB1633, SB1944, SB1957, SB2081, SB2137, SB2262, SB2299, SB2419, SB2452, SB2522, SB2549, SB2594, SB2605, SB2631, SB2639, SB2675, SB3029, SJR60, HB22, HB1392, HB2525

Keywords: municipal annexation, railroad, adjacent areas, local government, property rights, healthcare provider, Harris County Hospital District, hospital funding, healthcare services, public health program, home loans, nurses, veterans, public servants, Texas Heroes program, low-interest loans, social workers, home loans, housing assistance, veterans

Summary: The committee meeting predominantly focused on various pieces of legislation, notably Senate Bill 2299, which aims to redefine municipal immunity. Deep concerns were raised during discussions, particularly by public witnesses who underscored the bill's potential to undermine citizen accountability and local governance. Representative Monty Bennett argued passionately against the bill, citing its conflict with recent local charter amendments passed by Dallas voters, reflecting a significant public sentiment for local governance autonomy. Multiple attendees voiced strong opposition due to fears of increased litigation against municipalities, which could strain local resources and hinder governance effectiveness. In contrast, proponents of the bill, including city representatives, argued that it is essential for preventing frivolous lawsuits and maintaining fiscal responsibility for city budgets.

Transcript Highlights:

• LaHood's bill, relating to the towing fee studies and the amount of non-consent towing fees, and certain
• political subdivisions authorizing an increase in existing fees.

Bills: HB2450, SB378, SB764, SB917, SB1254, SB1255

Keywords: elevator inspection, building safety, construction standards, health and safety code, regulatory requirements, public safety, licensing, regulatory measures, cosmetology, driver education, committee meeting

Summary: The committee meeting covered a variety of bills primarily focusing on public safety, regulatory measures, and licensing issues. Notable discussions included the approval of SB1366, which mandates the inclusion of construction and maintenance work zone information in driver education curriculums, and SB378, which clarifies the restrictions on cosmetologists and estheticians regarding injections and incisions, addressing safety concerns regarding unauthorized procedures. Members actively debated the merits of these bills, with several voiced concerns about the implications for public health and safety. The meeting also saw the passage of several bills without opposition, indicating a generally collaborative atmosphere among members.

Transcript Highlights:

• For purposes of this motion, committees and subcommittees scheduled to meet or reconvene today upon final
• In accordance with the Senate's planned work schedule for this week and next week, the resolution authorizes

Keywords: community recognition, healthcare, Audubon Texas, public service, resolution adoption, Delta Xi Chapter, Texas FFA Day

Summary: The meeting featured a range of resolutions being discussed, with many representatives emphasizing the importance of various community celebrations across the state. Notable mentions included HR288 recognizing Medical City Dallas Hospital for its contributions to healthcare, and HR273 honoring Delta Xi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority at the University of Texas for its historic significance and community work. The discussion emphasized praise for local organizations contributing to healthcare, education, and cultural heritage.

Transcript Highlights:

• data-time="1314"> Apprenticeships and internships are made possible through the flexible modalities and scheduling
• > They were ordered to pay millions of dollars in attorney's fees

Keywords: virtual education, Senate Bill 569, public testimony, educational accessibility, student needs, flexible learning

Summary: The Senate Education Committee meeting addressed several bills aimed at enhancing educational opportunities in Texas, notably focusing on virtual education and its implications. Senate Bill 569, introduced by Senator Betancourt, garnered considerable support, emphasizing the need for accessible high-quality virtual education. The committee heard public testimony from various stakeholders, including educators and students, who highlighted the significance of flexible learning environments in meeting diverse student needs. Key testimonies underscored that virtual education is not just beneficial for struggling learners but also advantageous for high-achieving students seeking more flexibility in their academic pursuits.

Transcript Highlights:

• Members, the current driver's education and traffic safety statute imposes a three-dollar fee for printing
• This bill removes the state-mandated unnecessary $3.00 fee.
• The rule is suspended, relating to the fee for a driving

• House Bill 3012, relating to the fee for a driving

• It also sets fair limits on transaction amounts and fees to stop predatory practices, ensuring compliance

Bills: HB11, HB12, HB21, HB26, HB30, HB33, HB37, HB45, HB210, HB303, HB630, HB879, HB1041, HB1188, HB1261, HB1318, HB1465, HB1535, HB1593, HB1778, HB2559, HB2596, HB2692, HB2703, HB2712, HB2742, HB2809, HB2890, HB3012, HB3526, HB5061, HB5092, HB5238, HCR92, SB203, SB317, SB393, SB397, SB644, SB731, SB801, SB867, SB913, SB1071, SB1073, SB1086, SB1087, SB1250, SB1310, SB1359, SB1444, SB1483, SB1705, SB1782, SB1861, SB1897, SB1944, SB2023, SB2043, SB2082, SB2133, SB2215, SB2309, SB2497, SB2532, SB2549, SB2566, SB2617, SB2639, SB2696, SB2717, SB2747, SB2751, SB2790, SB2797, SB2799, SB2841, SB2850, SB2857, SB2891, SB2919, SB2928, SB2994, SB3051, SJR34, SB529, SB541, SB693, SB963, SB1968, SB2308, SB2544, SB1173, SB1646, SB1734, SB1833, SB1, SB17, SB260, SB509, SB1506, SB1637, HB1393, HB2559, HB26, HB3012, HB1593, HB2607, HB3526, HB3810, HB388, HB879, HB12, HB2703, HB30, HB2712, HB2692, HB1633, HB1318, HB685, HB630, HB4753, HB2742, HB303, HB198, HB1535, HB762, HB148, HB1520, HB5061, HB2286, HB1606, HB1041, HB132, HB11, HB45, HB48, HB1261, HB1465, HB1778, HB2596, HB5238, HB33, HB1188, HB210, HB1022, HB1458, HB5560, HB1240, HB1950, HB2027, HB2768, HB2788, HB2791, HB3146, HB3698, HB3699, HB1893, HB3700, HB4850, HB4187, HB1397, HB4885, HB4804, HB3751, HB3611, HB2775, HB2061, HB2003, HB1729, HB1242, HB791, HB2029, HB647, HB2522, HB4738, HB3033, HB3594, HB3474, HB2563, HB2802, HCR90, SJR36, SJR50, SJR63, SCR12, SCR39, SB2023, SB128, SB2043, SB62, SB666, SB847, SB284, SB854, SB810, SB1505, SB583, SB507, SB1434, SB1772, SB2016, SB1122, SB731, SB397, SB508, SB1436, SB287, SB1882, SB393, SB1791, SB209, SB2429, SB511, SB2309, SB1085, SB1975, SB2717, SB1262, SB636, SB2056, SB884, SB1200, SB1845, SB2458, SB801, SB3014, SB3013, SB758, SB2797, SB2076, SB2876, SB1640, SB1449, SB1181, SB1234, SB2926, SB2841, SB1528, SB2891, SB1854, SB317, SB1250, SB2082, SB1237, SB2819, SB629, SB2608, SB1602, SB2009, SB867, SB640, SB1698, SB2680, SB2994, SB913, SB1071, SB1086, SB1087, SB1483, SB1444, SB1553, SB1556, SB1703, SB2133, SB2297, SB2298, SB2622, SB2955, SB2334, SB1861, SB1367, SB2044, SB2363, SB2565, SB1888, SB3036, SB3057, SB3043, SB3063, SB3035, SB203, SB2799, SB2688, SB2522, SB2639, SB2459, SB2655, SB2251, SB1884, SB2617, SB2928, SB2566, SB1897, SB1749, SB2549, SB2553, SB2919, SB1782, SB1705, SB2696, SB1944, SB2215, SB1232, SB2850, SB2969, SB2497, SB1798, SB2603, SB2607, SB781, HB34, HB128, HB130, HB581, HB668, HB677, HB766, HB2259, HB2960, HB2358, HB2894, HB4384, HB2663, HB748, HB793, HB1193, HB1734, HB2340, HB2350, HB3104, HB5180, HB4739, HB1584, HB4344, HB4238, HB4219, HB3806, HB3805, HB3804, HB3803, HB3229, HB3228, HB1922, HB1522, HB431, HB3597, HB1612, HB4224, HB754, HB1314, HB2254, HB2789, HB3560, HB4643, HB1237, HCR98, SB3070, SB835, SB524, SB2233, SB2683

Keywords: licensing, reciprocity, regulation, Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, interstate agreements, housing finance, multifamily residential, low income, tax exemption, audit requirements, affordable housing, local government, development bonds, Medicaid, nutrition support, maternal health, chronic conditions, pilot program, disaster relief, tax rates

Summary: During the committee meeting, several bills were thoroughly discussed, leading to key legislative advancements. Notably, HB30, which relates to property tax calculations during disasters, received final passage after amendments were proposed and debated, highlighting the ongoing concern over the management of tax rates amid emergency situations. Senators expressed the importance of fiscal responsibility while also addressing the need for appropriate tax relief for affected areas. Additionally, SB835, concerning confidentiality provisions related to acts of sexual abuse, was passed unanimously, demonstrating a strong bipartisan commitment to supporting victims and ensuring their rights to speak out without fear of retribution.