Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Committee on Business and Commerce'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) Apr 24th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The committee on local government will come to order.

  • Working with committee members and thank you to Senator Nichols.
  • I appreciate the Chair and the committee members, and your
  • My brothers and sisters and I have worked in building safety, focusing on upholding the safety and standards
  • Yeah, right, and there's no committee that is more El Paso friendly.
Summary: The meeting of the local government committee covered several important bills, notably Senate Bill 1454, Senate Bill 1237, and Senate Bill 2520. Senator Betancourt presided over the proceedings, guiding the discussion on the multiple committee substitutes proposed for each of these bills. SB1454 focused on tax exemptions for housing authorities, with amendments that included stricter compliance measures for municipalities. The committee unanimously recommended that the bill proceed to the full Senate without objection.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Chair calls on Senator West to explain the differences between the bill as filed and the committee
  • changed that a little bit, and so my knowledge is bigger on the committee substitute, and it obviously
  • We're working on a committee substitute.
  • Well, we were working on a committee substitute, and

  • Chairman and members of the committee.
Summary: The meeting of the committee effectively reviewed and voted on multiple bills pertaining to public safety, affordable housing, and local governance. Notably, Senator Cook introduced SB2262, which grants municipalities authority to regulate automated defibrillators, aiming to enhance public health responses in urban areas. Public testimony was heard on several bills, illustrating community support and concerns, particularly around affordable housing issues raised by Senator Menendez's SB2137, which seeks to improve access to low-income housing by altering existing criteria used by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Additionally, the discussions also touched on the impact of various bills on local governance and property rights, highlighting the committee's aim to address essential services within communities effectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Okay, and you had one example that you wanted to give?
  • We'll call you up, sir, and I'm going to open up public testimony on.
  • It's about Homes for Heroes and it's adding to solid waste workers—the ones who deal with our water and
  • Good morning, Chairman Benton, court, and members of the committee.
  • Not to have a hodgepodge depending on what city you're in and how the voters think on this particular
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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 27th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • function that places an immense burden on families and loved ones.
  • At this time, we'll leave the committee substitute for Senate Bill 5 pending and move on to SJR.
  • The changes in the committee substitute allow for investment earnings and interest earned on amounts
  • And now Lance is on that.
  • at UT and one in Arkansas.
Bills: SB5, SJR3
Summary: The meeting focused on important legislative considerations surrounding dementia and healthcare funding in Texas. Discussions were centered on SB5 and SJR3, which aim to establish the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (DPRIT) and enhance funding for dementia research and prevention efforts. Senators highlighted the urgency of addressing the growing prevalence of dementia, emphasizing that nearly half of nursing home residents suffer from Alzheimer's or other related disorders. Public testimonies from experts and advocates underscored the need for research funding and the dire need for comprehensive care that could affect millions of Texans.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation (Part I) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Okay, so then we'll call it and we'll open up for public testimony on Senate Bill 39 and the committee
  • testimony on Senate Bill 39 and the committee substitute for Senate Bill 39.
  • So, at the time, the committees here and on the House side that heard the bill.
  • And the reason, and frankly, I wasn't even working on that.
  • The other Democrat, Harris County person on this committee, I've got a few questions and I'd like to
Summary: During the committee meeting, significant discussions revolved around three main bills: SB39, HB19, and SB2246. Senator Bettencourt laid out SB39, aimed at revising the admission rule related to commercial vehicle collision cases. The intention behind this bill is to standardize trial procedures by limiting the evidence admissible in the first phase, ensuring that unnecessary complexity does not cloud the issue of fault. Various stakeholders, including trial lawyers and business representatives, provided insights into the impact of these changes, highlighting concerns over insurance costs and practical implications on litigations. Public testimony reflected a mix of support and opposition, showcasing the contentious nature of the bill's modifications. Additionally, the committee addressed SB2246 regarding salvage auto dealers and the process of obtaining titles for vehicles that will not return to the road, which was met with relatively little challenge as stakeholders recognized the necessity for clarity and efficiency in this process. The meeting concluded with promises from members to continue discussions on these important legislative measures, indicating an ongoing commitment to addressing the complex issues at hand.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Mar 24th, 2025 at 11:00 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • may be in and out of the dais to lay out bills and attend to other committee business, so if members
  • On it, and I understand that we may be seeing a committee
  • So I want to say on behalf of West Texas and on behalf of House District 74, I appreciate you and your
  • One, one. Me and one other, sir.

  • on the oil and gas industry.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on the discussion and advancement of several key bills, notably HB1285, HB2890, HB1971, and HB1169. Chairman Darby opened the session by presenting HB2890, addressing the economic impact of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, particularly in light of recent federal pauses on LNG projects which have affected Texas significantly. The committee heard testimonies regarding the necessity of increasing communication between Gulf states to protect the industry, illustrating the importance of unified action against federal regulations that may harm Texas's LNG sector.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education Mar 5th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education

Transcript Highlights:
  • And I'm, and it is one that's dragged away, but we do have some resource witnesses here, and somebody
  • And so all of them, while one district may...
  • And you're here on behalf of the Texas Education Agency, and you were neutral on the bill, correct?
  • Bonin and the House Appropriations Committee on a rider, if necessary, to provide tuition assistance
  • Bonin and the House Appropriations Committee on a rider if necessary to provide tuition assistance for
Bills: HB20, HB120
Summary: The meeting focused on significant discussions surrounding career and technical education, particularly in relation to House Bills 120 and 112. Various representatives and experts testified on the importance of enhancing CTE accessibility for students, especially those in economically disadvantaged and rural areas. Notably, there was strong advocacy for integrating current job market needs into curriculum offerings, including emerging fields like artificial intelligence. The committee heard passionate arguments about the need for better funding for guidance counselors and CTE programs to prepare students for high-demand jobs, while ensuring they can earn post-secondary credits.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Veteran Affairs Apr 29th, 2025

Senate Veteran Affairs Committee

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

  • If you would, state your name, who you represent, and your position on the bill.
  • I'm the President and CEO of the Texas Association of Business.
  • experience requirements on the job, then that person can come to TDLR and get a Texas license.
  • chins and say, I don't know which one to follow.
Bills: HB102, HB300, SB2255
Summary: The meeting centered around various legislative bills, notably focusing on HB102, HB300, and SB2255. Senator Sparks presented SB2255, aimed at easing occupational licensing for military spouses and veterans, eliminating bureaucratic delays that hinder their employment opportunities after relocation. Key testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted the importance of this bill, emphasizing how it could alleviate the economic burden faced by military families when transitioning to new roles. The updates on HB300 aimed at revitalizing the Texas Armed Services Scholarship Program underscored efforts to modernize assistance for military students.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation (Part II) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We're on Senate Bill 2722 and the committee substitute by

  • And one last question to you both and also to Mr. King.
  • I'm the Chairman of the Houston Regional Business Coalition, and I'm here on behalf of HRBC in favor
  • is a financial burden on individuals and businesses in the Houston area.
  • in Precincts One and Two.
Summary: The meeting involved significant discussions around several bills focused on public safety and infrastructure, particularly involving the Texas Toll Road Authority. A prominent topic was SB2722 and its implications for funding essential services at the local level. Various members expressed concerns that the bill could undermine local budgets and infrastructure projects, potentially redirecting funds intended for critical transport services to cover emergency responses without proper oversight. Fire and police representatives emphasized the importance of toll revenue being used for its intended purposes rather than being diverted to address fiscal mismanagement within the city.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services May 6th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And then stage three is incentives and remedies, based on the performance.
  • Being the first time on this committee, I see bills and statutes
  • And Madam Chair, one more question, and then I'll go on. What is the process?
  • to having open dialogue with me and these other members on bills that come before this committee that
  • But we frequently have bills before this committee, and none of you have engaged on any issue.
Summary: The meeting highlighted significant discussions surrounding child welfare and community-based care, focusing primarily on SB1398 and HB5396. Notably, representatives expressed concerns about the effectiveness and transparency of the current system, emphasizing the need for stronger documentation and accountability measures in handling cases of children and families. Senator Davis discussed the implications of SB596, which seeks to enhance data collection regarding outcomes of cases handled by the Department of Family and Protective Services, aiming to improve service delivery and outcomes for vulnerable children. Public testimony was heard from various stakeholders, highlighting the need for collaboration and understanding throughout the legislative process, which ultimately aims to better support families and prevent the need for child removal from their homes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services May 6th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Committee on Human Services will come to order.

  • But even if this bill passes and HHSC is required to put the photos on these cards,
  • Vice Chair Manuel and esteemed committee members,
  • We don't know it's not in the bill, and the federal government won't act on that because it's actually
  • And also, and I'm just going to ask this question, and I'll be quiet.
Summary: In this meeting of the Committee on Human Services, key discussions centered on Senate Bills 1183 and 1952. The committee examined SB 1183, which proposes requiring the Lone Star card used for financial assistance programs to feature the recipient's name and photo. This bill faced significant opposition with members arguing that implementing the changes would lead to wasteful spending of taxpayer funds without effectively reducing fraud. Representatives highlighted that the majority of fraud involves retailers rather than recipients, raising questions about the bill's actual impact. The discussions also emphasized the potential challenges faced by caretakers and families in accessing benefits during emergencies due to new identification requirements imposed by the bill.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health Apr 28th, 2025 at 11:04 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It is addressing one thing and one thing only, and that is who has the authority to...
  • months and one day.
  • I've been on this committee seven times, and I haven't received anything where they've asked us to change
  • , and certainly on this.
  • So, we're working with TDLR and DISHES on a committee substitute
Summary: During this meeting of the health committee, several key bills were discussed primarily focusing on health care practices and patient rights in Texas. In particular, House Bill 4553 drew significant attention as it aims to improve transparency in midwifery practices and ensure the safety of out-of-hospital births. Testimonies were presented both in support and opposition, with concerns raised by midwives regarding the implications of the bill on their practice and autonomy. Additionally, House Bill 3708, designed to assist those burdened by medical debt, was strongly supported by several witnesses bringing forth personal stories underscoring the need for improved access to charity care information. The meeting also covered discussions on organ transplant eligibility and informed consent related to vaccines, echoing larger public health considerations in the post-pandemic era.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 2nd, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • on Health and Human Services will come to order.
  • There being seven ayes and one no.
  • There being seven ayes and one nay.
  • There being seven ayes and one nay, the committee substitute
  • One more time, name, organization, and position on the bill.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services convened to discuss several significant bills, including SB968, SB966, and SB437. Senator Zaffirini presented SB968, which aims to modernize podiatry regulations in alignment with current practices, while SB966 involves the licensing and regulation of podiatry, addressing outdated provisions following a 2017 transition to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Both bills indicate a necessary clean-up of statutory language to better reflect contemporary standards in healthcare regulations. Additionally, Senator Hinojosa proposed SB437, which focuses on providing effective regulatory frameworks for chemical dependency treatment facilities, highlighting an urgent increase in demand due to rising substance abuse rates post-COVID-19.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Administration Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Administration Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Administration will come to order

  • Members, they will be hearing and voting on bills.

  • Chairman and members.
  • It recognizes the state's economic vitality and the contributions of the ranchers, farmers, and chefs
  • the Stars and Stripes.
Bills: SCR4, SCR18, SCR31, SCR43, SCR46
Summary: The Senate Committee on Administration convened to discuss SCR46, a resolution aimed at renaming the 'New York Strip Steak' to 'Texas Strip Steak' in tribute to Texas's significant agricultural heritage. Senator Sparks presented the resolution, emphasizing Texas's position as the number one beef cattle producer in the United States. The discussion highlighted the importance of the beef industry in Texas, with an emphasis on the economic contributions and cultural significance of ranchers and farmers in shaping local cuisine. The meeting also allowed for public testimony, which indicated strong community interest in the matter.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures May 13th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If you think of a tongue and groove kind of wood floor type situation where they snap together on the
  • So it saves time and money from the electrician.
  • " and "council" with "advisory board" and establishing a uniform framework on how these boards are created
  • and governed.
  • If there is no further business for the committee to address, the chair moves for adjournment.
Summary: The committee meeting addressed several notable pieces of legislation, focusing particularly on SB650, which requires electronically readable information for verifying purchasers' ages in alcohol sales. The bill was substituted and subsequently reported favorably with unanimous support. Another key piece of legislation was SB1376, aimed at enhancing code enforcement by allowing trainees to operate unsupervised in towns lacking registered officers, crucial for effective zoning and sanitation enforcement. Following discussions, the committee agreed to leave SB1346 related to lottery regulations pending as further considerations were necessary. The meeting concluded with a collective acknowledgment of the importance of these bills in addressing both public safety and regulatory clarity in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services will come

  • leadership and the work on this committee on all things children's mental health.
  • I have said over and over, go to your county and ask who is on the ICW.
  • here and the graded ones there.
  • We do intend to work on a committee substitute to address agency feedback on the fiscal note, and I would
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services primarily focused on several pieces of legislation aimed at improving mental health care in Texas, especially for vulnerable populations. Notable discussions were held around SB719, which seeks to conduct a comprehensive assessment of inpatient psychiatric bed capacity in Texas, addressing the significant shortages faced by facilities. There was widespread support from committee members and public testimonies praising the need for improved mental health resources and proactive measures to enhance service delivery. Witnesses highlighted the critical situation surrounding mental health admissions, emphasizing the human impact of ongoing bed shortages and the tragic consequences for patients awaiting treatment.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Mar 25th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I mean, there aren't that many people, but the ones that have been here, they're a long time and were
  • Jackson, please state your name, who you represent, and your position on the bill.
  • to register based on my education and work experience, without
  • and supervising.
  • and Canada.
Summary: The meeting of the committee predominantly focused on several key bills aimed at addressing significant social issues, particularly around human trafficking and workforce development. Among the notable discussions was House Bill 491, which seeks to empower local attorneys to collect penalties from illicit massage parlors to fund anti-human trafficking efforts. Testimonies revealed the alarming rise of such establishments in Texas and underscored the importance of effective legislative solutions. There were also discussions surrounding House Bill 1757, introduced to create an additional pathway for CPA licensure, addressing workforce shortages in the accounting field, which has become increasingly urgent as Texas experiences a population boom.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Mar 31st, 2025 at 02:03 pm

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • may be in and out to listen, lay out bills in other committees, and take care of other business.
  • If you already have a prepared speech, look at it and see if you can work on it and reduce it.
  • As you know from testimony and dialogue last week on...
  • And we spend about $2 million a year just on energy costs.
  • and we're going on to the last one, Sean Hallett.
Summary: The meeting of the Energy Resources Committee was marked by extensive discussions on several key legislative bills, particularly those concerning carbon capture, geothermal energy, and oilfield theft. Representative Zwiener laid out HB2612, aimed at creating a carbon dioxide sequestration policy council under the Railroad Commission. The bill's supporters emphasized its potential economic benefits while addressing safety concerns raised by witnesses regarding existing underground injection practices. Notably, there was a strong consensus among proponents that addressing these complex issues proactively is essential for Texas to maintain its leadership in the energy sector. The committee also heard testimony on HB1647, focused on combating petroleum product theft, which remains a growing concern within the state. Witnesses highlighted the pressing need for improved coordination among law enforcement and the establishment of a dedicated task force to tackle this issue effectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs May 9th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Committee on State Affairs, come to order.

  • Chairman and committee members, my name is Mark Stover.
  • on that foundation, creating clarity for consumers and consistency for ethical businesses.
  • You're here on behalf of TDLR and you're neutral in the...
  • Is there further business to discuss for the committee? If not, the chair moves to...
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several Senate Concurrent Resolutions and Senate Bills. Notably, SCR8 was introduced to express Texas' strong opposition to the creation of a central bank digital currency, raising concerns about cybersecurity and privacy implications. There was no public testimony for or against, but committee members engaged in dialogue on its potential impact. Another highlight was SCR5, which proposed naming a gymnasium at the Texas School for the Deaf after Robert Rivas, recognizing his significant contributions. This sentiment garnered unanimous support from committee members, highlighting the importance of honoring legacies within the state educational system. In addition, various bills concerning utilities were discussed, particularly SB1566, which clarifies utility connection requirements, and SB1036, aiming to regulate the solar panel sales industry to protect consumers. The discussions reflected a commitment to enhance transparency in utility rate changes and impose stricter regulations on the solar market to prevent consumer fraud. Overall, the meeting showcased a collaborative approach to addressing pressing legislative matters, with an emphasis on consumer protection and legacy recognition.

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