Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'public welfare'

Page 29 of 60
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Aug 22nd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • part of jingles, you're right, your lawyers did it, and yet there's no access to it by the general public
  • span marker="937" data-time="5616"> When I reviewed H before and it had five new districts that lean public
  • earlier today that you had not seen the map that's before us today until it was made available to the public
  • It added to compactness, which was something that came up in the public hearings.
  • marker="1405" data-time="8424"> expenditures and related materials, and the report would be made public
Bills: SB2, SB5, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB4
Summary: The meeting was centered around the discussions of several legislative bills, focusing on significant amendments proposed for House Bill 4, which pertains to the election of members of the United States House of Representatives from Texas. Senator Zaffirini presented an amendment to create a bipartisan Texas Redistricting Commission to address concerns over gerrymandering and to improve the fairness of the redistricting process. The amendment sparked a lively debate among the senators, highlighting different perspectives on the implications of such a commission. Some members voiced their support while others raised concerns regarding the potential need for constitutional amendments to adopt such changes. The discussions also included testimony from Senator Gutierrez, who addressed the importance of transparency and public trust in the redistricting process, emphasizing that voters should have confidence in the electoral maps drawn by the state officials.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part III) Aug 22nd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • The public understands and knows no way of expressing that sentiment.
  • Then we ask ourselves sometimes as public servants, why do people not vote?
  • At what cost to public faith in our institutions, in our elections?
  • What cost to the faith of the public?
Bills: SB2, SB5, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB4
Summary: In the recent committee meeting, the primary focus was on HB4, the congressional redistricting bill. Intense debates ensued regarding the implications of this proposed map on minority voting representation. Senator Zaffirini and other members expressed strong opposition, citing that the redistricting efforts were not only untimely but also undermined the gains made by minority communities in past elections. Significant testimony was provided from the public, showing overwhelming disapproval of the proposed changes, with 98% of the testimonies against the bill. Members highlighted the historical context of disenfranchisement and warned that this redistricting would further dilute the voices of crucial voting blocs in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session Aug 28th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Bills: SB2, SB5, SB10, HB17, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4
Summary: The meeting predominantly focused on the discussion of several bills, including SB3, SB16, and a number of House Bills such as HB16, HB23, HB25, HB26, and HB192. Members engaged in lively debates concerning the implications of these bills, with notable discussions centered around community impacts and administrative implications. The committee heard testimony from various stakeholders, reflecting a distribution of opinions on the bills being considered. The atmosphere was one of collaboration as members worked through differing perspectives on the proposed legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Mar 27th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • data-time="108">HB 1373 is an important bill and one that would greatly benefit law enforcement and public
  • Well, he's definitely a public servant. Thank you. Thank you.
  • Deputy Garcia was a dedicated public servant, and his loss is felt deeply by his family, friends, and
  • engineer's personal information, including their home address, etc., in a public file, and that has
  • If you're a DWI driver, all those public records become public, and I just—I understand that.
Summary: The Committee on Transportation convened to discuss several significant bills related to highway designations and public safety. Notably, House Bill 2457 aims to designate a stretch of US Highway 287 as the Mollie Mullins Mile, honoring a 9-year-old girl who tragically lost her life in a traffic accident. The bill highlights the efforts of her family to improve highway safety following their loss, receiving support from local authorities and advocates. The committee also discussed House Bill 2198, proposing the designation of a portion of State Highway 34 as the Jacob Candonza Memorial Highway, honoring a police officer who died in the line of duty. This tribute underscores the value placed on the sacrifices made by law enforcement in ensuring community safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • You know, we've edited at the local level, we have public hearings.
  • In addition to that, there is a public participation process that is.
  • And it's a robust process involving lots of public involvement.
  • There will be a public meeting.
  • So that you can recover those public dollars. Thirty years ago when I had Mr.
Summary: The Committee on Natural Resources convened to discuss two key pieces of legislation, HB2867 and HB2876, focusing on late fees associated with water and sewer services in Texas. Representative Gates laid out HB2867, highlighting the financial implications of payment deadlines and fees that disproportionately affect low-income households. He emphasized the need for limits on late payment fees to protect these vulnerable consumers from potentially abusive practices. A committee substitute was proposed to clarify some ambiguous language within the bill, aiming to promote fairness and transparency for customers. This led to a robust discussion among members and stakeholders present at the meeting, including testimony from representatives of municipal utilities who raised concerns about local control over fee structures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So you're suggesting that public water rights would be sold?
  • sold or transferred, those water rights, that the public has the right to...
  • That being owned by the citizens of Texas, it’s a public good.
  • or private, that the public would not know about it.
  • It provides planning time, and it allows collaborative efforts with the public.
Summary: The meeting of the committee was primarily focused on water management and infrastructure issues, highlighted by discussions surrounding several bills intended to address water supply and flood control. Representative Kitzman presented HB1535, which aims to extend the sunset review date for the Trinity River Authority, ensuring continued governance and operational improvements. Furthermore, HB3915 was introduced as a multi-purpose flood mitigation measure, offering solutions to the severe water scarcity in the region, particularly following recent catastrophic flooding events that emphasized the urgent need for improved water management. Public commentary reflected a strong interest in flood mitigation strategies, especially given the impacts of climate change and rapid population growth in the area.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) Apr 7th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Hearing none, we'll begin public testimony on the committee's substitute to Senate Bill 1927.
  • I represent the Texas Public Policy Foundation. I'm here to testify in favor of SB1927.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is now closed and Senate Bill 1927 will be left pending, subject to call
  • It's all public. Thank you.
  • Specifically, cities would continue to have a full public hearing process for any zoning changes.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Local Government convened to discuss significant bills, primarily focusing on SB844, which seeks to reform zoning petition processes to enhance property rights and facilitate housing development. Senator Hughes, the bill's author, advocated that current laws overly empower a minority of landowners to block necessary housing advancements, asserting that such regulations hurt overall housing affordability. Concerns were raised about balancing individual property rights against community needs, with testimonies from builders and housing advocates supporting the bill's aims to streamline zoning decisions and reduce impediments to development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...on public consciousness, public knowledge, public activity
  • , public behavior, and on democracy itself.
  • Farewell will open public testimony on Senate Bill 2781 and no one.
  • And again, I love our public schools and I am passionate.
  • We've got time here, but I think the public needs to hear from them directly.
Summary: The meeting focused on several legislative measures concerning alcoholic beverages, ethics, and the protection of free speech. Notable discussions included the presentation of Senate Bill 2633, which aims to modernize the framework for alcohol sales in local communities and allow local option elections within designated zones. Additionally, Senate Bill 2713 garnered significant attention, addressing ideological discrimination in professional associations based on political beliefs, urging a need for greater protection of free speech in Texas. Public witnesses provided testimony, with a mix of support and concerns regarding various bills, indicating a vibrant discourse among committee members and the public.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) May 25th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We will open public testimony.

  • If we want Texans to continue placing trust in medicine, public health, and science, we must ensure that
  • span> Including science communicators being able to educate the public
  • Seeing and hearing none, public testimony is closed.
  • We have closed public testimony, and the bill is still in front of us.
Summary: The meeting held by the Committee on State Affairs focused on two significant bills, HB3441 and HB3385. HB3441, aimed at holding vaccine manufacturers liable for harm caused by their advertised products, generated considerable discussion among committee members and witnesses. Senator Hall presented the bill, emphasizing the need for accountability and drawing attention to the lack of liability for vaccine manufacturers under current federal law. The committee heard testimonies from various stakeholders, expressing both support and concern regarding the implications of this bill on public trust and medical practices. Following extended dialogue, HB3441 was reported favorably to the full Senate with a recommendation to pass, gathering a vote of nine ayes to one nay.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education May 13th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span marker="7" data-time="36">The House Committee on Administration has established an electronic public
  • All public comments submitted through the portal will be posted on the electronic legislative system.
  • Directions on how to submit public comments on the portal

  • The public comments portal has been opened and will close

  • Just to clarify, the bill starts out and says it relates to a public institution.
Summary: The Committee on Higher Education convened to discuss several significant pieces of legislation aimed at enhancing educational outcomes and access in Texas. A notable discussion was around SB2431, which seeks to improve access to foreign language courses through study abroad programs, as demand for such skills continues to grow in various industries. Additionally, SB2786 was presented, aimed at exempting certain public officers from assessment requirements under the Texas Success Initiative, to better accommodate their professional training and development needs. The meeting showcased a range of witnesses and testimonies in support of these initiatives, reflecting the committee's commitment to addressing educational barriers for students and professionals alike.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 21st, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We'll open up public testimony on House Bill 2427.
  • We'll open up public testimony on House Bill 3966.
  • If not, we'll close public testimony.
  • We'll close public testimony and leave the bill pending.
  • If not, we'll close public testimony.
Summary: The committee meeting featured a number of bills focused on local issues, particularly in relation to transportation and public safety. Notably, Senator Alvarado presented HB3966 regarding the relocation of a Greyhound bus terminal to a residential area, which has raised community safety concerns due to increased crime. The bill aims to require commercial bus companies to notify residents before opening new locations, fostering accountability and transparency. The meeting highlighted testimonies from both supporters and opponents regarding the implications of such legislative changes on community dynamics.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Administration (Part I) May 27th, 2025

Senate Administration Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We'll open up for public testimony.
  • Seeing no questions, we'll open public testimony.
  • Seeing none, we'll open for public testimony.
  • Seeing and hearing none, public testimony is closed.
  • Seeing and hearing none, we'll open public testimony.
Summary: The meeting held by the committee involved discussions on multiple house and concurrent resolutions including HCR83, HB5689, and HB5655. Senator Hinojosa presented HCR83, which recognizes Rusk County as the Syrup Capital of Texas, emphasizing the cultural significance of ribbon cane syrup production in the area. The resolution passed favorably with no public testimony against it, showcasing community support. Additionally, HB5689, which amends laws regarding the Coal Ranch Improvement District No. 1, was reported favorably to the full Senate alongside HB5655, aimed at improving drainage systems in Fort Bend County. Both bills progressed without opposition, suggesting a consensus among committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Mar 4th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • >

    I'm so proud that my kids have both attended Montgomery Public

  • also the home of our very own Barbara Jordan and Mickey Leland, who are namesakes of the School of Public
  • city's economic future and led to the decision to take down all of the white and colored signs in public
  • marker="1024" data-time="6138"> including homelessness, racism, inequality, and even creating the Public
Summary: The committee meeting covered a range of topics, including memorial resolutions in honor of influential figures such as L. Clifford Davis and Reverend Dr. William Lawson. Senator West spoke warmly about Judge Davis, highlighting his contributions to civil rights, while others praised Reverend Lawson for his community service and leadership. These discussions underscored the committee's focus on recognizing individuals who have shaped Texas's history and values, fostering a deeper appreciation for the state's heritage.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Jan 27th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • After a public hearing.
  • After a public hearing, right?
  • , and you can also get public service loan forgiveness if you work for a public defender office.
  • , and you can also get public service loan forgiveness if you work for a public defender office.
  • , and you can also get public service loan forgiveness if you work for a public defender office.
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

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

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • From the Office of Public Insurance Counsel.
  • All right, with that, we're going to open up public testimony.
  • information request if it's concerning public activity.
  • We'll open up public.
  • Notice to the public, public process, public meetings, environmental impact reviews, cleanup funds—these
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

Business and Commerce (Part II) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Intelligence can streamline public sector operations.
  • Members, questions of Senator Parker in the public sector AI bill?
  • David Dunmoyer with the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • Hearing nobody else, we're going to close the public testimony.
  • The Chair is going to open up public testimony. We have...
Summary: The meeting focused on several important legislative proposals, with significant discussions around AI regulation and copyright protections in light of emerging technologies. Notably, Senate Bill 1964, aimed at promoting ethical AI adoption within government bodies, was presented by Senator Parker. The bill received support from witnesses who emphasized the need for transparency and a regulatory framework that safeguards civil rights while fostering innovation. Conversely, concerns were raised about potential overreach and the implications for accountability in AI implementation. Additionally, Senate Bill 1960 sparked a passionate debate concerning the protection of individuals' digital likenesses from unauthorized use, highlighting the rising stakes as digital content increasingly intersects with personal rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • What is the public safety? What do the surety bond folks bring to the table for public safety?
  • public service charge, PR bond.
  • Public safety is not one thing. Public safety is not one little sliver of a thing.
  • Public safety is a...
  • Is that what public safety is?
Summary: The committee meeting centered around a range of bills, with significant focus on public safety and welfare issues. Discussions highlighted the implications of HB166, which aims to enhance protections for vulnerable populations against the dangers of fentanyl exposure. Witness testimonies were presented both in support and opposition to the legislation. Representative Capriglione underscored the urgency of addressing this growing concern, as fentanyl's potency poses a lethal risk, particularly to children, elderly individuals, and disabled individuals. The session included a robust debate on how best to enforce these legal protections while balancing concerns about enforcement complexities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm Brent Bennett with the Life Care Campaign of the Texas Public Policy Foundation, testifying in support
  • So, Adrian Shelley is representing Public Citizen for the
  • For the driver, for our constituents, for just the public
  • Currently, the penalty for misuse of public information for
  • instances of misuse of public information from a Class C misdemeanor to the same tiered felony charges
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several important bills aimed at providing support and protections for agricultural producers affected by border-related crimes. Notable discussions centered around HB246, which proposed an expanded compensation program for damages, including not just real property, but also crops, livestock, and the necessary funds for soil restoration due to pollutions from such crimes. Representative Ginn led the conversations, emphasizing the critical role agricultural landowners play in the state’s economy and their need for fair compensation. Witnesses, including stakeholders from agricultural organizations, provided testimonies highlighting the inadequacies of the current framework and the urgency for legislative action.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span marker="790" data-time="4734"> The task force brought together state agencies, utilities, and public
  • We work on public policy related to insurance finance, but also on adaptation, risk resilience, and risk
  • public

  • But they can't do the public good. Yeah.

  • I am a policy analyst with the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
Summary: This meeting of the State Affairs Committee primarily focused on discussing several important bills, including HB1846, which aims to establish an Electric Truck Advisory Council for developing a statewide electric vehicle infrastructure plan. Representative Wally detailed the need for this council to facilitate the growing medium and heavy-duty electric vehicle market, emphasizing collaboration with state agencies and the private sector. The discussions included an in-depth analysis of proposed amendments and the fiscal implications of the bill. Witnesses provided testimony both supporting and opposing the bill, highlighting various perspectives on infrastructure development and economic impact.
TX
Summary: The meeting was convened to announce the formation of the Texas Legislative U.K. Caucus, aimed at strengthening the relationship between Texas and the United Kingdom. Representative Claudia Ordaz and other legislators discussed the historical significance of this relationship and its implications for trade, cultural exchange, and innovation. The formation of this caucus is seen as a vital step towards promoting Texas interests abroad and enhancing bilateral policy discussions on key economic sectors such as energy, technology, and healthcare. Talks included plans for establishing a Texas trade office in the U.K., inspired by successful models with Texas and Taiwan.

Research Filters

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