Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Summer Willis Act'

Page 28 of 49
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part III) Apr 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...act of ESG-motivated economic punishment.
  • The act. So members, I've also filed this legislation, Senate Bill 27.
  • Judgment Act, along with the remedies that go with that.
  • Imagine that we have to tell fiduciaries to act in a fiduciary duty, but we do.
  • They are trying to act like they are doing Texas a favor by doing what they are supposed to be doing
Summary: The meeting conducted by the committee featured an extensive discussion on multiple bills, particularly focusing on the ethics reform via SB2403, aimed at enhancing the structure and enforcement processes of the Texas Ethics Commission. The conversation revolved around establishing a three-tier system categorizing violations and enhancing procedural fairness and accountability in ethics investigations. Senator Mayes introduced a committee substitute, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that enforcement processes are transparent and just, particularly relating to minor infractions. Public testimonies in favor of the bill highlighted the need for reform, while concerns were raised about maintaining integrity in oversight mechanisms.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It is the proper one, the one in the Immigration and Nationality Act.
  • illegally and create criminal acts in our state.
  • Additionally, it is not a defense that the trafficker acted independently.
  • It rolls back the gains made in the Sandra Bland Act when a person dies in jail.
  • This is already covered by a provision of the Public Information Act.
Summary: The meeting of the committee involved extensive discussions around several pieces of legislation aimed at improving law enforcement and addressing social issues in Texas. Notable among the bills was HB2217, introduced by Representative Wharton, which seeks to establish a grant program for equipping law enforcement vehicles with bullet-resistant components to enhance officer safety. The bill received support from multiple members who acknowledged the rising violence against law enforcement. Additionally, HB1775, which focuses on the transparency of the rape kit backlog, was also discussed, highlighting the importance of timely evidence collection in sexual assault cases. The committee heard testimonies both in support of and against various bills, showcasing a vibrant exchange of views on public safety measures and law enforcement accountability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ="856" data-time="5130">It would comply with robust federal protections like the Endangered Species Act
  • and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, both administered by the U.S.
  • However, what I would argue is we already have the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act that all of our
  • that you've heard of, the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act, and the Endangered Species Act.
  • I understand your position, and I get it, but shouldn't TPWD be able to not only speak but also act at
Summary: The meeting focused on the discussion of several bills, with members engaging in detailed commentary on the implications of each legislative proposal. Notably, House Bill 3724, aimed at supporting oyster mariculture along the Texas coast, was highlighted by Representative Villalobos, who provided insights into its potential ecological benefits. Public testimony was sought, and Representative de Villalobos garnered support from environment advocates who emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy oyster populations for ecological balance. The discussion around this bill reflected a collaborative approach to environmental legislation, indicating a consensus on the need for sound management practices. In addition, House Bill 3556 was introduced, which mandates notification to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for the construction of tall structures that may pose risks to migratory birds. Representative Flores expressed concerns over potential exemptions for spaceflight structures, indicating the complexities of balancing development with environmental protection. The meeting concluded with several bills left pending, emphasizing a commitment to careful scrutiny and consideration of the legislative impacts before final decisions are made.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) May 8th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And telling my story is an act of regaining ownership over my life.
  • And you've heard today, long after the actual physical act...
  • It's not a physical act; it's an emotional one. It affects a child's soul.
  • Section 3 says, subject to subsection B of this section, the changes in law made by this act apply to
  • , entered into before the effective date of this Act unless the person obtains a declaratory judgment
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss critical legislation aimed at preventing child sexual abuse, focusing on HB748 and SB835. Both bills received significant support from various witnesses, including representatives from the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, who emphasized the importance of eliminating non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) that allow perpetrators to escape accountability. Witnesses shared impactful personal testimonies, illustrating the harmful effects of NDAs on survivors and stressing the need for a transparent legal environment to protect vulnerable populations. The atmosphere underscored a collective commitment to reform and to stop allowing predators to hide behind confidentiality clauses.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • span marker="16" data-time="90">House Bill 3005 addresses audits that circumvent the Texas Prompt Pay Act
  • Right now, there are loopholes in the Public Information Act because...
  • This bill would apply the Public Information Act to non-profit state associations.
  • I'm testifying on behalf of the Texas Sunshine Coalition and the Freedom of Information Act.
  • Other states, like Wyoming, have already acted to give these organizations a home.
Summary: The meeting focused on various legislative proposals with notable discussions surrounding bills aimed at improving transparency in public information access, adapting workforce policies for state employment, and addressing public health workforce shortages in Texas. The key highlights included HB4214 which seeks to centralize public records request processes for better accessibility, and HB1803 aimed at enhancing the state's dental workforce through participation in a compact with other states. Several members presented arguments highlighting the necessity of these legislative initiatives in light of ongoing economic and social challenges facing Texas. Public testimonies supported these bills, demonstrating stakeholder engagement and community concerns regarding transparency, workforce efficiency, and health access.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine interdicting illicit drug trafficking, focusing on a view from the front lines. Feb 26th, 2025 at 10:00 am

Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2022, I secured

  • marker="137" data-time="1632">That is why I have included language in the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act
  • act and end the catch-and-release approach to Middle East
  • We also need to enact the Pay Our Coast Guard Act.

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation addressed critical issues surrounding maritime drug enforcement and the Coast Guard's role in stopping the influx of illegal drugs. The chairman highlighted the alarming consequences of current policies allowing drugs to cross borders, emphasizing the need for legislative reforms, such as the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act of 2025. There was an intense discussion regarding the operational challenges faced by the Coast Guard, which has recently made significant drug seizures, indicating progress but also revealing gaps that need addressing. Several witnesses, including victims of the drug crisis, shared their compelling testimonies, which underscored the urgency for stricter controls and comprehensive support for law enforcement agencies involved in drug interdiction efforts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Mar 24th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • It doesn't require any kind of particular intent in doing the act; you could accidentally do something
  • the purpose of the protective order statute is not to remedy past wrongs or punish prior criminal acts
  • Back and look at prior bad acts in 404, or prior acts,
  • The court would determine relevance under evidence rules 401 through 403 and then side on prior acts
  • If somebody goes off and commits an act of crime that's not associated with that person, meaning that
Summary: The meeting of the committee was marked by rigorous discussions focused primarily on child protection legislation, particularly HB116. The bill seeks to amend existing laws that allow for the termination of parental rights under vague circumstances, often without sufficient due process. Kate Murphy, Director of Child Protection Policy at Texans Care for Children, delivered a heartfelt testimony supporting the bill's intent to prioritize family preservation and ensure that parents facing challenges receive adequate support rather than facing punitive measures. This stirred considerable discussion among committee members about the implications of the current legal framework and how it disproportionately affects families without proven endangerment.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Mar 13th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In 1934, the National Firearms Act originally wanted to

  • citizens to own one if the firearm is owned in compliance with federal law under the National Firearms Act
  • Compliance with the National Firearms Act requires registration

  • This act by the ATF criminalizes approximately 60,000

  • The National Firearms Act was the first federal regulation
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding Senate Bills 1505 and 1596. The session began with an overview of SB1505, related to the Compassionate Use Program, which was moved favorably to the full Senate following extensive testimony. This bill garnered a positive reception among committee members, showcasing a unanimous vote for its advancement. Notably, public testimony highlighted various perspectives on the effectiveness and necessity of the Compassionate Use Program, contributing significantly to the discussions later in the meeting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Mar 19th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Sysop is the highest reserve for the most heinous acts.
  • This bill ensures that all responders are on the same page and ready to act from the start.
  • responding to an act of killing.
  • Because when the worst happens, they need to know how to act.
  • We already have the Real ID Act, where now our state IDs are more reliable and trustworthy.
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety involved a range of discussions surrounding significant bills aimed at enhancing public safety measures, particularly in response to issues highlighted by past events. Notable was the discussion on HB33, proposed by Representative McLaughlin, which sought to overhaul school safety and establish a statewide emergency response protocol for active shooter situations. This bill emphasizes the importance of coordinated training among law enforcement and school officials to ensure a swift and effective response in emergencies, aiming to prevent delays seen in past incidents. The discussions also included input from law enforcement officials who acknowledged the necessity of improving communication and coordination between agencies, which was a highlighted failure in previous responses to crises.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management May 22nd, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • use the City of El Paso versus Heinrich from lawsuits brought under the Uniform Declaratory Judgments Act
  • then act on the zoning case.
  • data-time="378"> so people don't even know what's happening, and it's violating not only the Open Meetings Act
  • because Selma is a general-law city, the mayor acts as the
  • Historic district before the effective date of this act,
Bills: SB2215, SB2639
Summary: The meeting focused on the review of two bills: SB2215 and SB2639. SB2215, presented by Representative Alders, aims to enhance property owners' rights by clarifying their ability to challenge municipal zoning ordinances that are improperly enacted without due process. The bill garnered support from various stakeholders who emphasized the need for accountability in zoning practices. Conversely, SB2639 sparked significant debate, as it seeks to provide further transparency in historic designations and ensure fair compensation for property owners impacted by such designations. Testimonies from developers and preservationists highlighted the ongoing tension between property rights and the safeguarding of historic sites, illustrating the complexities and implications of these bills on Texas communities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 19th, 2025 at 10:05 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • There's an act, there's a blanket restriction.

  • We kind of settled on the litigation around the Federal Bail Reform Act, which was Christopher in the
  • So, bringing this bill into compatibility with the Bail Reform Act of 1984 gives us a viable <
  • with the Lake and Riley Act that passed earlier this year.
  • The Texas Construction Trust Fund Act was enacted over 30 years ago.
Summary: The committee's meeting was marked by several key discussions surrounding numerous bills and resolutions. Notably, HCR 9 and HCR 40 were adopted, with representatives urging Congress for reimbursement related to border security under Operation Lone Star. Additionally, HCR 118 showed expressions of support for the warship manufacturing industry, reflecting a strong emphasis on local economic development. Senate Bills 1321, 2143, and 2145 passed various readings, which included provisions regarding law enforcement authority and the adaptability of public improvement districts to conduct meetings virtually. The meeting was well attended and featured numerous votes on significant legislative items, showcasing active participation from both members and the public.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation (Part I) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • acting

  • not presented to the jury, the driver may be unfairly held responsible for the collision, despite acting
  • In part two, it was to determine if there were bad enough acts that either the driver's bad acts or the
  • company's bad acts warranted punitive...
  • and hopefully deterred from acting that way in the future.
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

Transportation Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • as we've heard regarding the grant from the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvement Act
  • of Senate Bill 1013 actually reach back to 2017, when there was a bill called the Lisa Torrey Smith Act
  • span> So, in 2021, Senator Huffman passed the Lisa Torrey Smith Act
  • It's not applicable under the Lisa Torrey Smith Act as it does not apply to other sidewalk users, like
  • Smith Act and where he saw deficiencies in the transportation
Summary: The committee meeting focused on legislative discussions surrounding multiple Senate bills, with a significant emphasis on Senate Bill 2080, which aims to modernize outdated regulations affecting navigation districts and port authorities in Texas. Senator Alvarado led the discussion on this bill, highlighting its potential to streamline operations and enhance flexibility in Texas ports, aligning them with national best practices. Several members of the committee expressed support for this legislation, citing its economic implications for Texas, particularly in relation to job creation and infrastructure improvement. However, concerns were raised by representatives from the city of Corpus Christi regarding provisions within the bill that might expand the port's authority, potentially impacting local governance and tax revenue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session (Part I) Feb 5th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • With over 7,000 members, TWA advocates and defends the rights of landowners to act in the best interest
  • I rise today to present Senate Bill 2, the Texas Education Freedom Act.
  • It's called the SAT and the ACT.

  • The public schools who are paying for these SAT and ACT scores?
  • an unlawful act with a student or a minor.
Bills: SB2, SJR36, SB2, SB2, SR29, SB2
Summary: The meeting focused extensively on the amendments and discussions pertaining to SB2, which is aimed at establishing an education savings account program. Various members presented and debated amendments that targeted transparency, accountability, and potential conflicts of interest within the private education sector. Notably, Senator Cook proposed an amendment to require educational service providers to make their budgets public, while Senator Blanco highlighted the need for disclosures relevant to parents of special education and English language learners. The bill saw intense discussion around protecting taxpayer dollars and ensuring that the provisions did not segregate or discriminate against students within the program. Throughout the meeting, the committee demonstrated robust engagement with both proponents and opponents of the bill, examining the implications of the proposed amendments critically. The overall atmosphere suggested a strong desire to balance educational freedom with accountability and oversight. The meeting concluded with calls for diligence in ensuring that public funds are appropriately utilized, setting the stage for future discussions as the bill proceeds through the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 19th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • acted within the bounds of the law.
  • If someone is acting objectively when it's not immediately
  • So if somebody is acting as a bad actor, they're still going to get in trouble.
  • becomes wise to this, and the person who was acquitted, no-billed, or otherwise justified in their act
  • Without this law, bad actors can weaponize the civil court system to harass law-abiding citizens acting
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on various legislative proposals, with significant discussions surrounding bills aimed at enhancing legal protections for citizens and jury privacy. Notably, House Bill 1110, presented by Chairman Shaheen, addresses safeguards for citizens reporting suspicious activities, ensuring they are protected from legal repercussions when acting in good faith. There was unanimous support for HB 349, which relates to civil liabilities associated with removing individuals from vehicles, illustrating the committee's commitment to providing social protections amid rising concerns around public safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • and Utah's 2021 Cybersecurity Affirmative Defense Act.
  • When last session, this committee passed House Bill 2127, the Texas Regulatory Consistency Act, which
  • Chairman, last session we passed the Regulatory Consistency Act, which essentially just required local
  • >

    SB2858 seeks to expand the Texas Regulatory Consistency Act

  • away their rights as those annexations were expedited, trying to get around the provisions of that act
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce centered around critical legislation including SB2858, SB324, and several others pertaining to regulatory consistency and enforcement in local governments. Notably, SB2858 was introduced to address the apparent noncompliance of some cities with state laws by empowering the Attorney General to enforce regulations more effectively. The members deliberated on the implications of this bill, with public testimony highlighting the need for stronger measures against local governments that ignore state mandates. Aside from regulatory discussions, SB2610 was well-received as it aimed to provide cybersecurity protections for small to medium-sized businesses, encouraging compliance with industry standards while simultaneously minimizing potential legal repercussions for companies against data breaches. The committee aimed to strike a balance between ensuring business security and avoiding undue burden on smaller enterprises.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 23rd, 2025 at 10:04 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • acted within the letter of the law and demonstrated great
  • This is the second piece of the reforms to the Emergency Powers Act.
  • Pastors are limited to acts of God or man-made catastrophes
  • itself, the Emergency Act, or a provision related to the sunset of an agency of the state.
  • It does not change the ability of the PUC to later say we acted imprudently or gold-plated, to use Mr
Summary: The committee meeting was marked by discussions on several key legislative measures, particularly focusing on amendments to emergency powers and local food vendor regulations. A highlight was the presentation of SJR 40 by Representative Slauson, aimed at redefining how the state handles emergency declarations and asserting legislative authority beyond the traditional session times. This proposal elicited significant interest and debate among committee members, emphasizing the need for a more responsive governance framework to better handle future crises like COVID-19. In regards to food regulations, House Bill 2844 was discussed, seeking to streamline licensing requirements for food trucks operating across multiple jurisdictions. Testimony included perspectives from both supporters advocating for fewer regulatory hurdles and critics warning about potential public health risks.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Apr 22nd, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • This resolution acknowledges that reality and calls on us to act.
  • And so in 2001, Texas passed the Uniform Parentage Act,
  • No one would consider that parent who commits such an act to be a fit parent.
  • And so I urge the committee to pass this act.

  • Then the court can't act.
Summary: During the meeting of the committee, several key bills were debated, most notably HB3281, which addresses the grounds for terminating parental rights. The discussion revolved around significant concerns presented by various members regarding the language change in the bill that requires serious bodily injury for termination, a shift that many find troubling. Witnesses also testified, with some advocating for amendments to ensure child safety, emphasizing the importance of a balanced approach without unintended consequences. Additionally, HB4696 was introduced, focused on improving access to protective orders through remote testimony, further engaging committee members and experts on the necessity of such reforms for survivors of domestic violence.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management Apr 17th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Under current law, when a municipality acts to disannex

  • acts of territory and cease providing services because they
  • House Bill 5437 is a cleanup bill that proposes to validate the creation of, and subsequent acts of,
  • opposition to the validation of the district and its acts
  • Specifically, House Bill 5437 validates prior acts

Summary: The committee meeting focused on a variety of bills, with notable discussions surrounding the challenges faced by municipalities in managing growth and public safety. Bills such as HB447 and HB3897 sparked conversations on the impact of Municipal Utility Districts in high-density areas and the necessity of thorough traffic impact assessments before approving new developments. Representative Cook highlighted concerns over a specific project related to HB3671, which aimed to dissolve a municipal district due to contradictory prior agreements. Public testimonies included concerns from residents, signaling the tension between development needs and public safety requirements.

Research Filters

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