Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'legislative amendment'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session (Part I) Aug 6th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • There is an amendment.
  • For amendment number one by Middleton and Birdwell.
  • This is just a clarifying amendment to clean up language.
  • Hearing none, the amendment is adopted.
  • Senator Hinojosa, you're recognized to speak on the amendment.
Bills: SB15, SB9, SB7
Summary: During this committee meeting, significant attention was directed towards property tax relief and reform, notably through discussions led by Senator Bettencourt regarding the upcoming options for homestead exemptions that would be voted on in November. The committee also reviewed a series of bills, including Senate Bill 9, which was presented as a committee substitute. There was a strong emphasis on how the legislation aims to streamline tax guidelines for local government expenditures while balancing taxpayer relief against budgetary constraints. The meeting was characterized by a collaborative atmosphere where committee members shared insights and feedback on the various bills under consideration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism May 1st, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That amendment will be reported favorably to the full house with the recommendation that it do pass and
  • Chair moves that SCR4, without amendment, be reported favorably to the full House.
  • Chair moves that SB2004, with that amendment, be reported

  • Chair moves that SB 1718, without amendment, be reported favorably to the full House.
  • The substitute includes legislative council language tracking
Summary: The meeting of the Culture, Recreation, and Tourism Committee centered on several important bills primarily aimed at enhancing Texas's wildlife management and cultural initiatives. One of the standout discussions was around HB5259, which advocates for the development of a wildlife corridor action plan by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The bill aims to address the high number of animal-vehicle collisions in Texas, proposing to set up designated areas to connect wildlife populations and habitats. Witnesses, including wildlife conservationists, testified in support of this bill, stressing its potential to significantly reduce accidents and protect endangered species like ocelots. The committee also deliberated on multiple Senate Bills aimed at streamlining hunting licenses and supporting state historical initiatives.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • That legislation was enacted long before any of this was going on.
  • I've worked with many states on similar legislation.
  • When you go back to the legislative history, there is no question.
  • Yet legislative inaction allows this crisis to persist.
  • The First Amendment stands on its own two feet.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on the pressing issues surrounding child safety online, with a particular emphasis on recent legislative efforts aimed at curbing child sexual exploitation and harmful content accessible through social media platforms. Senators engaged in a heated discussion regarding the implications of Big Tech's lobbying efforts against vital bills such as the Stop CSAM Act and the Kids Online Safety Act. Noteworthy testimonies highlighted real-life impacts of online dangers, including tragic cases of child exploitation and drug-related fatalities linked to social media interactions. The bipartisan nature of the committee's commitment to address these issues showcased a collective determination to make the digital environment safer for the younger generation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs May 19th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I did help draft this legislation, which I think is very important.
  • Hopefully, this legislation, both of these approaches...
  • HB 4157 amends Texas law to align with federal.
  • Thank you, Chairman Hughes, for sponsoring this legislation.
  • The way it's written, it needs to be significantly amended in our opinion.
Summary: The meeting of the State Affairs Committee focused on several significant bills, notably HB4145, HB2820, and HB4157, which address healthcare billing practices, charitable bingo operations, and protections for employees in the commercial spaceflight industry, respectively. Each bill received attention from members of the committee, with public testimony highlighting both support and concern among stakeholders. For instance, testimony on HB4145 underscored the importance of timely healthcare billing to prevent patient financial distress, while discussions surrounding HB2820 illuminated the challenges charities face in maintaining sufficient reserves amidst outdated regulations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Apr 30th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And I know in the past, I think you've had legislation

  • I know we've discussed legislation about...
  • ...equal protection and treatment in the 14th Amendment and
  • the 24th Amendment.
  • Now, I understand that the 24th Amendment is talking about voting, but it says that Congress shall not
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

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs May 14th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Amending submission criteria for the Texas Intelligent Databases
  • And once again, Texas is leading with this legislation. Other states...
  • Senate Bill 659 simply amends the Texas Penal Code to expand certain provisions in the definition of
  • This amendment risks encouraging more political investigations against humanitarian groups.
  • ...1585, without amendments, be reported favorably to the
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered on several critical pieces of legislation concerning public safety and foreign influence. A significant focus was placed on SB659, which addresses the prosecution of smuggling offenses using government resources, with witnesses presenting varying perspectives on the implications of the bill. Supporters highlighted the necessity to combat cartels and foreign terrorist organizations effectively, while opponents raised concerns about potential overreach impacting humanitarian aid efforts. The discussion around SB2201 aimed to enhance law enforcement capabilities by improving intelligence database criteria, which sparked debates on privacy and civil liberties safeguards. Throughout the proceedings, multiple bills were moved favorably for further consideration in the legislature.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair moves that SB 1245, with that amendment, be

  • The chair moves that SCR 29, with that amendment, be

  • The chair moves that SCR 43, with that amendment, be

  • that HB 4811, with that amendment, be reported favorably to
  • legislative council language tracking the original bill.
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around significant legislative measures, including several bills aimed at enhancing wildlife safety through the establishment of wildlife corridors and licenses for outdoor activities. Key discussions highlighted House Bill 5259, led by Vice Chair Flores, which proposes a wildlife corridor action plan to reduce animal-vehicle collisions in Texas. This bill is crucial given Texas's alarming rate of wildlife-vehicle accidents, and testimonies from supporting members emphasized the need for action to protect both wildlife and public safety. Furthermore, Senate Bill 1247 was brought forward, simplifying the non-resident hunting license system to improve compliance and conservation funding. The committee also addressed multiple concurrent resolutions recognizing towns for their cultural significance, reflecting a broader commitment to community identity and heritage.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • amendment to the floor.
  • So I had to pre-file with an amendment, and then, ultimately, before I could actually bring the amendment
  • I had to hand my amendment off to one of my colleagues.
  • So my amendment, it had...
  • I worked during the 83rd legislative session with the Honorable Sylvester Turner through the legislative
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

Transportation May 8th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The legislation would allow bicyclists to treat.
  • ridden individually with legislators.
  • So that may be a good amendment.
  • I will take that friendly amendment, Mr. Speaker.
  • So thank you, and whatever amendment you want to bring.
Summary: The meeting focused on various transportation-related bills, including discussions around essential infrastructure for flood control, electric bicycles, and safety measures for cyclists. Representative Martinez introduced HB3544, highlighting the flooding issues in the Rio Grande Valley and the need for proper stormwater management. The bill garnered attention as it addresses urgent concerns for local emergency services and community safety. Additionally, CSHB4089 outlined regulations for electric bicycles in state parks, promoting access and safety for all park-goers. There was a significant public turnout, with testimonies both in support and against various proposed bills, reflecting community engagement and interest in transportation safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Jan 27th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • This is his sixth legislative session and fourth as Chief of Staff, having worked previously as my legislative
  • You know, this legislative session hasn't passed yet.
  • I'm **Julie Lindsey** with the Legislative Budget Board.
  • I don't think we need additional legislation on this.
  • Yes, we passed legislation last time.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Finance Committee was marked by extensive discussions around the budget proposals for various judicial services and the impact of proposed salary increases on staffing. Notably, there were concerns raised regarding a significant attorney shortage in rural areas, which has seen a 27% decline in attorneys taking positions compared to previous years. Scott Ehlers highlighted a crucial $12 million funding request aimed at addressing this shortfall to maintain the adequate operational capacity of indigent defense services across the state. The committee members, led by Chairman Hinojosa, emphasized the importance of finding solutions to improve legal access and representation in underserved areas to respond effectively to this critical issue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Mar 17th, 2025 at 11:00 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And yet, legislator in concert with the Legislative and Conservation Director?
  • So this amendment enshrines the right to engage in producing minerals.
  • So I'd recommend you reject this amendment.
  • that this body was able to remedy that without a constitutional amendment.
  • I know some of the opposition to this piece of legislation is...
Summary: The meeting focused on various legislative discussions, prominently featuring HB1285 and HJR107, which aimed to address significant issues around energy production and damage prevention. Key discussions involved providing the Railroad Commission with additional tools for inspection and responding to incidents, as articulated by proponents emphasizing the benefits for public safety and efficiency. Members voiced their concerns about balancing energy production with environmental protection, highlighting the ongoing tension between economic development and ecological sustainability. Testimonies from industry experts and environmental advocates framed the debate, with strong support for maintaining Texas's status as a leader in energy while ensuring public health is not compromised. Throughout the meeting, several members expressed their intent to refine policies surrounding utility damage prevention and excavation standards, as current laws have reportedly not evolved to address modern challenges. There was a clear acknowledgment of the technological advancements that necessitate an update to existing regulations. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of optimism for proactive legislation and apprehension regarding potential impacts of energy-related developments. As discussions drew to a close, there was a commitment to revisit these topics in future sessions to ensure thorough consideration of both industry and community perspectives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 5th, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Legislative Council support staff are available on the floor if you need assistance.
  • He was my personal hero when I started, not even as a legislator.
  • Legislative Council support staff are available on the floor
  • span> He was my personal hero when I started, not even as a legislator
  • Congress to propose and submit to the states for ratification a federal balanced budget amendment to
Summary: The committee meeting began with a moment of silence dedicated to the memory of the late Congressman Sylvester Turner, acknowledged by multiple members who spoke eloquently about his legacy and contributions to the community. This emotional tribute was followed by a series of announcements, including recognizing distinguished guests and discussing significant upcoming dates such as Alamo Day. The atmosphere of the meeting reflected a blend of mourning and celebration of service, as members recounted personal anecdotes and expressing gratitude for Turner's guiding influence in their political paths.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This bill is just going to ensure that the Legislative code is consistent with our state agency rules
  • As you've heard, this legislation creates a grant program.
  • The legislature needs to amend the code to ensure that students who take and pass the pre-ACT receive
  • It has been amended several times over the years, the last time being in 2023.
  • ...of the purpose of the legislation.
Summary: The meeting convened with a focus on educational legislation, with discussions spanning several key bills concerning mental health support for students, school safety measures, and the involvement of students in school governance. House Bill 1441, aimed at enhancing training for school resource officers on mental health awareness, received notable attention. Advocates highlighted the importance of equipping officers with the skills to address grief and trauma, thereby fostering a supportive environment for students. The bill was backed by testimonies from stakeholders emphasizing the critical need for proactive measures in schools to prevent crises and support students in need. Another significant piece of legislation was House Bill 3672, introduced by Chairman Ashby, focused on creating grant programs for extracurricular community education, providing essential resources for youth development and engagement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services May 19th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Is there any merit to the bill being amended to put it out for a vote so that...
  • I think that's a friendly amendment that would do some good.
  • This legislation ensures that voters are aware of the true financial...
  • If there are no obvious abuses, why would we legislate this?
  • I'd have to see the legislation.

Bills: SB414, SB621, SB2395
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several key bills impacting public funds, particularly regarding the use of unspent bond proceeds and mandated transparency during bond elections. Notably, Senate Bill 621 was discussed, which seeks to prohibit political subdivisions from establishing public banks, emphasizing core governmental functions and preventing taxpayer exposure to financial risks. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted concerns about the appropriateness of using public funds for non-essential projects, which led to vigorous debate amongst committee members. Additionally, Senate Bill 414 was addressed, which requires clear disclosures about estimated interest costs in bond proposals, aiming to enhance voter awareness and accountability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So we quickly came to a strategy and decided that we should bring this forward to the legislation to
  • Senate Bill 784 aims to correct that and ensures the intent of the original legislation is carried out
  • I urge your support of this pro-family legislation.
  • I think that's kind of exactly what we're looking at here, doing it at the legislative level to give
  • I think that we always want to put forth legislation that promotes positive education.
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

Natural Resources (Part I) Mar 12th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, as you know, Legislative Council has been the long
  • So, we have worked on crafting this legislation to address the increase in active well counts that we
  • It's hardship in compliance with this new legislation, so you know that it.
  • , bad legislation, and well-intended legislation from well-intended folks.
  • We recommend amending this bill to shorten the number of years that wells can remain inactive.
Summary: The meeting centered around the discussion of SB1150, which is designed to address the issue of inactive wells in Texas. Senator Middleton presented the bill, highlighting the concerns surrounding the current regulations that allow wells to remain inactive indefinitely, which poses various risks to health, safety, and the environment. The proposed legislation includes requirements for owners to plug or return inactive wells to production after certain timelines, with a compliance plan to be evaluated by the Railroad Commission. Several stakeholders participated in the discussion, expressing their support and emphasizing the importance of addressing the rising costs associated with orphaned wells and the financial burden on taxpayers. The bill is seen as a critical step toward sustainable oil and gas management in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So we're in support of this legislation.
  • So I think that's being addressed in other legislation.
  • I'm here in support of SB1825 with an amendment.
  • I recommend an amendment.
  • This legislation is directly antithetical to that.
Summary: The meeting included discussions primarily focused on energy and insurance-related legislation. Senator Schwartner led the committee in reviewing multiple bills, with a notable emphasis on SB819, which faced opposition from various stakeholders, including energy providers and advocacy groups. Testimonies highlighted concerns about regulatory burdens potentially stifling renewable energy projects, which are crucial to Texas's energy needs. Furthermore, the committee examined SB458, aimed at improving the appraisal process for insurance claims, which garnered support from industry representatives for promoting fairness and transparency.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Mar 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This one would make it possible for virtually any city in the state of Texas to amend its charter to
  • In accordance with the city's legislative program, I'm here to...
  • Of course, this appeals to the First Amendment.
  • The First Amendment concludes importantly stating...
  • Quite frankly, if you wanted to amend it, that's how you should amend it, into the bona fides.
Summary: The meeting addressed several key pieces of legislation, including SB1626, which proposes to enhance Texans' ability to pursue legal action against social media platforms for censorship. The bill aims to provide statutory damages, making it easier for individuals to protect their free speech rights. Testimonies were heard from various public representatives expressing support for the bill, emphasizing its importance in maintaining free speech in the digital age. Other bills discussed included SB1719 and SB1494, each receiving varying levels of scrutiny and support.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice Apr 15th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the first vice president and the legislative...
  • We've already seen the harmful impact of legislation like this.
  • legislative intent and undermine the criminal justice system.
  • Members, this legislation is about reciprocal discovery.
  • This legislation extends all financial crimes, Mr.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice covered a range of legislative measures focusing primarily on the improvement of mental health services and clarifying procedural aspects of emergency detention for individuals experiencing mental illness. Key bills, such as SB1164, which aims to enhance emergency detention procedures, were discussed. Testimonies from both supporters and critics highlighted the need for clear standards in mental health emergencies to ensure that due process is maintained while providing necessary care. The committee also addressed concerns around legislation impacting community supervision and administration, exemplified by SB663, and how it could streamline budget processes for local agencies. Overall, the discussions emphasized balancing public safety with mental health needs and ensuring fair representation in the judicial process.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • any legislation to amend Section 2 of the Voting Rights
  • Real legislation looks like actually taking up amendments

  • Real legislation looks like taking...
  • I have to amend that a little bit.
  • That violated my First Amendment rights.
Summary: The meeting focused heavily on congressional redistricting, centering around the discussion of HB4, a bill that aims to revise the congressional map based on population shifts and other demographic factors. Notable was Vice Chair Rosenthal's critique of the process and the lack of transparency regarding the bill's plans which he characterized as a 'rigged matter'. Multiple public hearings were conducted prior to this meeting, allowing citizens to register opinions about the congressional lines, and numerous testimonies were presented both for and against the proposed changes in the districts. The testimony revealed significant concern over how the redistricting could impact various communities and representations moving forward. Discussions included the implications of changing demographics, and members addressed how the modifications aimed to promote fair representation while considering historical voting patterns. As the committee adjourned, there were hints of continued deliberation on the matter with members expressing intention to finalize the bill in a subsequent session. The meeting demonstrated the committee's commitment to addressing public sentiment and legislative responsibility regarding district boundaries.

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