Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'trade policy'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII Feb 27th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII

Transcript Highlights:
  • marker="22" data-time="126"> I will note significant funding changes regarding the selected fiscal and policy
  • For selected fiscal and policy issues, the first item

  • Turning to Section 3, Selected and Fiscal Policy Issues, it is on page five.
  • This includes not just website wording but also any actual structural or policy changes.
  • We work on water policy here in Texas.
Summary: The committee meeting addressed several pressing issues, notably focusing on funding appropriations for the Gulf Coast Protection District and infrastructure projects, including the Alamo complex. Members expressed concerns over budget constraints, with requests for substantial funds aimed at supporting environmental initiatives and the upcoming biennium. Discussion points included the efficacy of previous funding and the anticipated impact of new capital on local communities. Public testimony was encouraged at various intervals throughout the meeting, adding robust dialogue amongst members and stakeholders.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • is the busiest and most vital waterway in the U.S., serving as a critical artery for international trade
  • legislative policy recommendations, support public education
  • So what we do is we work on policies across the U.S

  • We obviously need harmony in our data here because that helps us inform what policies need to be made
  • During the interim, our members and our board thought hard on appropriate recycling policies here for
Summary: The committee meeting focused primarily on several significant legislative proposals, particularly detailing the plans for the Gulf Coast Protection District and various recycling initiatives. Notable discussions were led by Senator Alvarado regarding SB795, which is aimed at establishing a dedicated Gulf Coast Protection Account to secure funding for coastal infrastructure projects critical for flood protection. Stakeholders expressed gratitude for ongoing legislative support, emphasizing the potential for this project to become the largest civil works project in U.S. history. Additionally, testimony was heard on recycling bills including SB2689, which seeks to improve Texas's recycling infrastructure without imposing fees, and SB410 which manages the Gulf Coast Protection District’s operations to ensure safety and navigability within Houston's waterways. Public and expert witnesses contributed insights that highlighted the economic implications and community benefits of these initiatives, demonstrating the state's commitment to sustainable development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm not sure that moving forward, this is the policy the state should keep.
  • It strains trade.
  • Yes, we're a trade association focused on all sorts

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Business and Commerce Committee primarily focused on legislative issues following Hurricane Beryl, particularly Senate Bill 231, which aims to create a process for CenterPoint to compensate its customers for overcharges related to backup power and mobile generation units. During discussions, Executive Vice President Jason Ryan outlined CenterPoint's commitment to refund approximately $430 million and absorb future costs related to these generators. The bill's substitute also mandates that leased emergency generators be mobile and capable of quick deployment during significant outages, addressing previous concerns over inefficiencies experienced during past weather events.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Veteran Affairs (Part I) May 15th, 2025

Senate Veteran Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We also let them trade time, where one firefighter will work a shift for another, but then they have
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several key pieces of legislation aimed at improving services and support for veterans in the state. Notable discussions included House Bill 114, which proposes to transfer veterans' mental health initiatives to the Texas Veterans Commission, emphasizing the need for enhanced mental health resources. This bill received supportive testimony from various stakeholders who advocated for the importance of community-based mental health services for veterans. Additionally, House Bill 1965 was highlighted, seeking to expand the Military Veteran Peer Network to better serve rural communities and address increasing mental health needs. Testimonies reflected a strong commitment to reducing veteran suicides through peer support systems.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management Mar 27th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That's a policy decision for them.
  • That's really a policy question for the City Council

  • So that is one of our concerns, is how would we comply with that section and to get a right trades plan
Summary: The meeting addressed significant bills with a focus on housing and property rights, specifically discussing HB2149 and HB2559. Representative Tepper introduced HB2149, which aims to amend amortization and non-conforming land-use procedures to better protect private property rights. The bill received testimony supporting its intent to maintain a balance between property development and municipal zoning regulations. Furthermore, Representative Patterson discussed HB2559, emphasizing the need for establishing reasonable protections against development moratoriums that affect homeowners and builders, highlighting the necessity for adequate notice and a higher threshold for moratorium approvals. Both discussions prompted vigorous dialogue and engagement among committee members as well as the public, illustrating the complexities involved in balancing growth and regulation in real estate development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice Apr 1st, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • FBI, members of the Texas congressional delegation, the Texas Railroad Commission, numerous state policy
  • I'm the Associate Director of Policy for the Texas Civil Rights Project, respectfully in opposition to
  • According to the Prison Policy Initiative, using data from the National Former Prisoner Survey, nationwide
  • I am the Director of Policy and Governmental Relations for the City of Galveston.
  • great pride in being able to work with fellow members who work together to establish good public policy
Summary: The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to address pressing issues surrounding oil field crime and safety on Texas highways. The meeting was initiated by Chair Flores, who emphasized the need for improved tools to combat repeat offenders having committed intoxicated driving, alongside tackling oil field theft that has escalated due to organized criminal activities. The committee heard public testimonies and engaged with various stakeholders, including law enforcement and industry representatives, who highlighted the complexities and dangers associated with these crimes. Notably, a significant focus was placed on Senate Bill 1320, which aims to establish a dedicated unit within the Department of Public Safety to investigate and address thefts specific to the oil and gas industry. This initiative seeks to strengthen coordination among various law enforcement agencies and improve training for local officers to combat these sophisticated theft operations more effectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 30th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In the meantime, doing this would be really smart policy.
  • We have an exit policy for weapons.
  • It applies to an employment program's classroom that teaches trade skills.
  • I'm a senior policy analyst at Texas Appleseed.
  • , regulatory policy, and consumer interests.
Summary: During this meeting, various important bills were discussed, including HB5573, which aims to provide whistleblower protections for public employees reporting wasteful government spending. Representative Bojani emphasized the need to encourage ethical governance and transparency in government operations. The committee adopted a key amendment to enhance protections against retaliatory actions towards these whistleblowers, highlighting a commitment to fostering accountability within the government. Additionally, HB5623 and HB4921 were moved forward with favorable reports, focusing on energy efficiency projects and the prohibition of state funds benefiting companies that outsource jobs, respectively, reflecting concerns about job retention in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Agriculture & Livestock Aug 19th, 2025 at 02:08 pm

House Agriculture & Livestock Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We shut it down to get Mexico's attention and use it as a trading tool.
  • We're a statewide trade association that represents the interests of 13,000 veterinarians and support
  • I always like to reiterate that we're the oldest trade association in the state of Texas.
  • TSCRA is a 148-year-old trade association.

Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Agriculture and Livestock addressed the ongoing threat of the New World Screw Worm, which poses significant risks to both livestock and wildlife in Texas. Chairman Kitzman emphasized the importance of a coordinated response among state and federal agencies, including the recent $750 million investment for a new sterile fly facility in south Texas, crucial for combating this threat. Several invited witnesses provided insights on current research, management strategies, and the collaboration needed to effectively handle potential infestations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Mar 26th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Katrina Miller, Foreman City, Transportation Policy

  • So this bill enforces the state public policy of the state
  • We successfully reversed a policy that had previously banned these vehicles.
  • Today we're here in support of Senate Bill 1816, which seeks to codify this existing policy into law.
  • policy reversals.
Summary: The meeting of the committee was marked by numerous discussions regarding various bills, notably around Senate Bills 1772 and 1816. SB1772, which aims to honor Jose Maria Longoria Sr. by designating a portion of Farm-to-Market Road 2360 as a memorial highway, received unanimous support with no objections from members during the voting process. In contrast, SB1816's committee substitute was adopted without contention, leading to its approval by a vote of seven ayes and no nays. Additionally, discussions around SB1841 centered on privacy issues, culminating in the bill being favorably reported to the full Senate as well. The atmosphere was collaborative, with ample public testimony and participation from various stakeholders, driving meaningful dialogue around the importance of these legislative efforts.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • , then maybe come up with better policies.
  • Strengthen environmental policies.
  • You know your policies are unpopular.
  • We have seen the harm this policy caused in Texas when our state adopted that six-month enrollment policy
  • Again, if these policies are so popular...
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

State AffairsAudio only. Apr 30th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 2713 is Senator Middleton's bill about discrimination in membership in professional or trade
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss a variety of bills focused on voting rights, public communications, and societal concerns related to discrimination and political contributions. Notably, Senate Bill 2363, led by Senator Hall, was a significant discussion point concerning the unlawful publishing of ballots. The bill passed without objection, reflecting a bipartisan agreement on the need for confidentiality in voting and ensuring equality in the electoral process. Other key bills such as Senate Bill 2044 and Senate Bill 2633 also moved forward with favorable recommendations, illustrating the committee's focus on clear regulations in public communications and localized alcoholic beverage laws.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • commit that public land disposals will fully comply with existing federal laws like the Federal Land Policy
  • of the Natural Gas Act, which has the inverted presumption for the granting of permits to non-free trade
  • More broadly, as a matter of policy, do you believe

  • And I'd ask that you work with us to roll back that harmful policy.
  • implementing hopefully more robust research security policies
Summary: The committee meeting was dominated by discussions on a variety of legislative bills including major topics such as nuclear energy advancement, the effects of regulatory hurdles on energy production, and proposals to improve national park staffing and maintenance. Members expressed concerns over the federal government's handling of uranium imports and the necessity for maintaining a robust domestic nuclear supply chain. Efforts to streamline permitting processes to facilitate more efficient energy project development were also a focal point, alongside public testimony from stakeholders in the energy and environmental sectors. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure development to meet rising energy demands while addressing climate change impacts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management Apr 3rd, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • As you all know, he's a veterinarian by trade, which kind of makes sense.
  • understand impact fee proposals leads to smarter feedback, sharper debate, and ultimately better policy
  • ...community to enforce interconnection and service policies
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several pressing bills concerning housing and municipal regulations. Notably, House Bill 2225, presented by Representative Buckley, aimed to improve transparency regarding impact fees, which have been increasingly burdening homebuyers in Texas. The bill proposes that political subdivisions must present land use plans at least 60 days prior to hearings, giving stakeholders ample time to review. The discussion highlighted the significant effects of rising impact fees on housing affordability, with testimonies from various stakeholders emphasizing the need for accountability and clearer processes. The bill stirred a lively debate, with proponents arguing for increased transparency and opponents expressing concerns about the ramifications of the proposed changes on local governance and infrastructure funding. House Bill 2304 was another crucial point of discussion, seeking to streamline the approval process for residential backup power systems. The bill faced support from numerous witnesses, including energy industry representatives, who touted its potential to enhance energy resilience and efficiency. The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency for revisiting these issues in future sessions, as committee members and advocates for both bills anticipated more rigorous discussions ahead in light of the housing market challenges in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Opening Ceremonies of the 89th Legislature Jan 14th, 2025 at 12:01 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • We, as members, vote on policy that impacts every Texan, but we rarely know what it's like to choose
  • The thing is, these are policy choices, and it doesn't

  • But policies that allow only a few to rise to the top prevent the rest of us from having a fair shot
  • share an opportunity because they have access to a great education, a college they can afford, or a trade
  • span>

    The rules exist to guarantee open and respectful policy

Summary: The meeting of the Texas House of Representatives marked a significant start to the 89th Legislature, highlighted by the election of the new Speaker, Dustin Burroughs. The session began with heartfelt speeches from various members, emphasizing unity and the importance of collaboration in tackling Texas's pressing issues such as property tax relief, educational support, and water infrastructure investment. Members voiced their support for Burroughs, noting his ability to foster an inclusive environment for all representatives. The elected speaker's commitment to transparency and cooperation was a recurring theme throughout the discussions, which set an optimistic tone for the upcoming legislative session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Feb 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I changed the policy.
  • Is that what informed the concerns that led to our policy statement?
  • And so I ordered that as an initial step with our new policy.
  • So we first had the top-down policy.
  • We didn't make policy decisions without consulting the board.
Summary: The meeting was a crucial session for discussing several important bills including SB992, which aims to establish a clear time frame for the Attorney General's approval on outside legal counsel for state agencies. Senator Nichols presented the bill, emphasizing its necessity for timely responses to ensure efficient legal processing. Another notable discussion centered around SB523, which seeks to allow parole and probation officers to use a business address on their driver's licenses for safety and security purposes. This bill passed favorably out of the committee, with public testimony supporting the need for such provisions due to the risks these officers face.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice (Part I) Apr 29th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • that Senate Bill 1946 would establish a two-year time-limited lethality factor task force to develop policy
  • It's Nikki Llewellyn, and I serve as the Policy and Advocacy
  • My name is Kirsten Budwine, and I'm a policy attorney with the Texas Civil Rights Project.
  • To say we're not looking to change the policy at all, it's
  • Frankly, drug dealers have traded in the street corner for their cell phones.
Summary: During this meeting of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice, the focus was on various bills aimed at enhancing public safety and addressing issues within the criminal justice system. Notably, Senate Bill 2460 was discussed, which allows for rapid DNA analysis at booking stations to address delays in forensic testing. The bill received support from several witnesses, including law enforcement officials, who emphasized the importance of this technology in solving cases more efficiently. Another significant topic was Senate Bill 1573, intended to provide due process protections for law enforcement officers accused of misconduct, which sparked a debate on balancing accountability and protecting the officers' reputations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Jul 15th, 2025 at 01:07 pm

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That desired future condition is very much a policy decision.
  • Trade secrets, you know, they're very limited on...
  • Texas Realtors has had a very strong interest in water policy for a long time.
  • Chairman, as we start talking about policy decisions and changes.
  • And so I'm not a part of the committee, so my policy...
Summary: The meeting of the Texas House Natural Resources Committee was focused on issues surrounding groundwater management and recent legislative developments, specifically addressing concerns over high-capacity groundwater wells. Various experts and community members provided testimony emphasizing the need for thoughtful regulation to balance conservation and property rights. The discussions highlighted the necessity for legislative action to strengthen regulations, manage groundwater sustainably, and clarify the criteria for issuing export permits. Notably, the overwhelming participation from local residents showcased the community's commitment to addressing these critical water issues, which will have long-term implications for the region's land and resources. The meeting concluded with calls for further review of groundwater regulations with the intent to come up with effective solutions that prioritize the needs of local communities while ensuring sustainable water practices.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 14th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • in a late-night deal with the Speaker, Senate President, and the governor, they asked for this as a trade-off
  • I'm the Director of Technology and Innovation Policy at the National Restaurant Association, testifying
Summary: The meeting exhibited a heated discussion on the implications of House Bills 4124, 4061, and 40. Chairman Darby emphasized the importance of reducing credit card swipe fees that adversely affect small businesses in Texas, presenting HB 4124, which aims to exempt sales tax and gratuities from being subject to these fees. Various witnesses, including representatives from the Texas Retailers Association and the National Restaurant Association, supported HB 4124, arguing that it would alleviate financial burdens on local businesses and promote economic fairness. However, several opposing voices raised concerns regarding potential complications and regulatory hurdles that could complicate the business landscape further.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Transportation Funding Mar 31st, 2025 at 10:03 am

House S/C on Transportation Funding

Transcript Highlights:
  • as well that the City of Austin actually adopted a 211-page equitable transit-oriented development policy
  • span marker="1153" data-time="6912">In Chinatown, where it's not ADA compliant, they have a smart policy
  • 1153" data-time="6912"> They eliminate that part of the policy
  • There's no policy reason to keep these funds locked to a
  • November 3rd, 2017, in the Austin Chronicle, Senior Planner Lawrence Dieter stated that there are always trade-offs
Summary: The recent committee meeting focused heavily on transportation infrastructure, with significant discussions surrounding multiple bills aimed at addressing funding and operational strategies. Notably, HB263 aimed to update grant distribution from the Transportation Infrastructure Fund to better reflect the needs of rural and energy-producing counties, thereby ensuring equitable support for necessary infrastructure improvements. Public testimonies in favor of the bill highlighted its importance to local communities impacted by oil and gas activities on their roads. Additionally, HJR58 was discussed, proposing to permit the Texas Department of Transportation to allocate funds toward transit-oriented projects, marking a shift toward multi-modal transportation strategies to reduce congestion and foster economic development. However, opposition arose regarding the potential misuse of gasoline taxes for non-road purposes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the Deputy Director of Policy at IDRA.
  • This policy does change lives. Thank you for your time and consideration.
  • And that is exactly why our in-state tuition policy makes sense.
  • The Texas DREAM Act is not just a policy.
  • This wasn't just policy; it was principled leadership.
Summary: The meeting revolved around discussions on House Bill 232, which seeks to amend the Texas Dream Act regarding in-state tuition for undocumented students. Key testimonies were presented, with numerous advocates opposing the bill, arguing it would harm talented Texas youths by denying them affordable education opportunities. Speakers included community leaders and affected students who shared personal stories illustrating the bill's potential drawbacks, emphasizing the negative economic impact that could result from limiting access to education for Dreamers and the associated societal benefits. The committee also explored House Bill 5154, which updates the Joint Admission Medical Program to improve access for economically disadvantaged students, receiving positive feedback and support from committee members.

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