Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senate Economic Development Committee'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Bettencourt sent up the committee substitute for Senate Bill 1871.
  • Senator Parker moves adoption of the committee substitute for Senate Bill 1750.
  • Senator Parker sends up the committee substitute for Senate Bill 37.
  • Senator Middleton moves adoption of the committee substitute for Senate Bill 37.
  • Senator Paxton moves adoption of the committee substitute for Senate Bill 769.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Education covered various significant bills focused primarily on improving educational accessibility and accountability in Texas. Notably, Senate Bill 2252, aimed at supporting kindergarten readiness and early literacy, received a commendable endorsement from the committee, showcasing a unifying approach towards enhancing foundational education. Additionally, Senate Bill 1962, concerning public school accountability, stirred proactive discussions about the challenges faced by school systems, further bringing forth various stakeholder insights during public testimony. The atmosphere remained engaged as committee members debated the efficacy and implications of each proposal, reflecting a strong commitment to enhancing educational standards across the state. As the meeting progressed, various senators championed their respective bills, emphasizing the importance of flexibility in standardized college entrance exams as highlighted in Senate Bill 1241. The bill proposes to expand acceptable exams beyond the traditional SAT and ACT, reflecting a modernized approach to student assessments. Senators and representatives from key educational organizations contributed testimony, solidifying support for such measures while advocating for the continuous dialogue on educational reforms. With multiple bills reported favorably to the full Senate, the session exemplified a dedicated effort towards fostering educational advancements in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) May 5th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Flores on the committee substitute to Senate Bill 2655
  • Senator Bettencourt sends up the committee substitute.
  • Senator Gutierrez sends up the committee substitute to Senate Bill 2553.
  • Senator Paxton sends up the committee substitute to Senate Bill 2903. Senate Bill 7.
  • Senator Paxton sends up the committee substitute to SJR 72.
Summary: The committee meeting saw the discussion of several significant bills aimed at reducing the tax burden on small businesses and addressing public services in municipalities. Notably, Senate Bill 2907, introduced by Senator West, proposes to exempt perishable inventory and pharmaceutical goods from property taxes. This bill received robust support during public testimony, with various stakeholders emphasizing its potential to lower food prices and improve business conditions. Similarly, Senate Bill 1331 addressed the protective measures for smaller municipalities facing threats from petitions to remove municipal services, aiming to reduce the requisite population threshold for such actions. The lively discussions underscored the committee's commitment to supporting local communities and businesses in a challenging economic climate.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Huffman, you are recognized on the committee.
  • Committee Substitute Senate Bill 5 pertains to the

  • I move passage to engrossment of Committee Substitute Senate Bill 5. Are there any objections?
  • So with that, I move final passage of the committee substitute to Senate Bill 5.
  • Senator Huffman, you are recognized for the committee substitute for SJR.
Summary: The meeting featured significant discussions focusing on resolutions recognizing various communities in Texas. Notable among these were Senate Resolutions recognizing March 5th, 2025, as City of Alamo Day, Harlingen Day, Texas State Aquarium Day, and Wichita Falls Day. Senator Hinojosa took the lead in discussing the contributions and cultural significance of the cities being honored, showcasing the diverse heritage and community spirit within Texas. Each resolution highlighted the unique traits, strengths, and challenges faced by these cities, with representatives from each city present to receive acknowledgments from the Senate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session (Part I) Feb 5th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I appreciate you working on this in committee with us, Senator Paxton, and making sure those clarifications
  • Senator Alvarado?
  • Senator Gutierrez.
  • Senator Bettencourt, do you yield to Senator Creighton's question?
  • We can review these concepts in a separately filed bill in a hearing in the Senate Education Committee
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

Finance Apr 2nd, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Perry, did you have a committee?

  • We also extend our sincere thanks to the Chair of the Senate Finance Committee.
  • To the honorable members of the Senate committee, as the EMS director for...
  • Senator Sparks, you are welcome to the Senate Finance Committee, and you're recognized on Senate Bill
  • Senator Bettencourt sends up the committee substitute to SB868.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Finance included the introduction of SB1337 by Senator Krayton. This bill aims to provide a fair and accurate system for calculating tax obligations, mandating the comptroller to assess penalties only on the net tax due from a taxpayer rather than allowing overpayments to offset underpayments under limited circumstances. Senator Krayton elaborated on how the bill ensures that taxpayers who overpay can use that surplus to cover any underpaid taxes of the same type, ensuring fairness for both the state and taxpayers. Several discussions ensued regarding the administration of the bill, with contributions from various members including representatives from the Comptroller's Office.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Chair, Vice Chair Charles Perry, Senator Bob Hall, Senator Angela Paxton, and Senator Mayes Middleton
  • Chair, Vice Chair Charles Perry, Senator Bob Hall, Senator Angela Paxton, and Senator Mayes Middleton
  • I'm here to stand with Senator Blanco, patients, and the over 40 organizations who support Senate Bill
  • Perry, Senator Angela Paxton, and Senator Mayes Middleton.
  • Let's pass Senate Bill 911.
Bills: SB2, SJR36, SB2, SB2, SR29, SB2
Summary: The committee meeting centered around the discussion of SB911, the Heal Texans Act, aimed at improving access to healthcare in underserved areas of Texas. Senator Cesar Blanco opened the discussion by highlighting the healthcare crisis affecting millions of Texans, emphasizing the need for immediate reform to allow nurse practitioners (APRNs) to deliver essential services without cumbersome regulations. The senator expressed gratitude towards his colleagues, including Vice Chair Charles Perry, for their joint efforts in advocating for this critical legislation. The need for SB911 was reiterated by several speakers, including healthcare advocates and those impacted by the lack of accessible care, underscoring personal stories that illustrated the dire situation faced by many rural residents who cannot easily reach medical care.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development will now

  • Developer that's been developing condos around the United States
  • I'm a developer.
  • We're also one of the largest developers of...
  • Hearing no objection, the Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development...
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development featured critical discussions surrounding several proposed bills, including SB1333, HB4876, and HB5567. Notably, the committee focused on issues related to property rights and squatting, with testimony emphasizing the urgent need for legislation to streamline the eviction process for squatters. Several witnesses, including representatives from various organizations, voiced strong support for SB1333, arguing that the current legal remedies are inadequate and contribute to escalating property disputes and community issues. Meanwhile, HB4876 aimed to address housing availability by allowing the use of escrow deposits for construction, which supporters believe will facilitate condominium development and ease the housing crisis in Texas. Finally, the committee adjourned after leaving several bills pending for further discussion, indicating the complexity and importance of these legislative efforts.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate of the first called session of the 89th Legislative Assembly

  • Legislation similar to Senate Bill No. 1278 from the

  • Legislation similar to Senate Bill number 648 from the 89th
  • Senator Schwertner.

    Thank you, Mr. President.

  • President and members, the Senate will meet as the.
Summary: The meeting of the 89th Legislature featured discussions primarily centered around several key bills, including SB648 concerning protections against title theft and deed fraud, SB1253 which addresses impact fees for builders incorporating water conservation measures, and SB2878 related to the administration of the judicial department. The session began with a prayer acknowledging the devastating floods that affected Central Texas, followed by a message from Governor Greg Abbott calling for the special session. Members engaged in robust debates on the importance of the proposed legislations, particularly focusing on community recovery efforts following recent natural disasters. Public testimonies were elicited, highlighting the varied perspectives on the bills under discussion and underscoring the significance of legislative action in response to constituents' needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs May 13th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, members, for the opportunity to lay out Senate Bill 2858.
  • I would ask that you not penalize us by passing Senate Bill 2858.
  • Chairman, members of the committee. My name's Bill Longley.
  • At this time, Senate Bill...
  • The committee stands at recess at 9:57 a.m.
Summary: The committee convened to discuss Senate Bill 2858, which aims to provide stronger enforcement mechanisms for compliance with state laws by local governments. The bill was met with significant opposition from various stakeholders including city council members and representatives from urban counties. They raised concerns that the provisions threaten local autonomy and could lead to severe financial penalties without due process. Specific testimonies highlighted the potential disruption to local budgets and public safety services due to immediate withholding of funds pending litigation outcomes. As such, the supporting and opposing views were thoroughly debated, reflecting the tension between state authority and local governance.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means May 12th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • strengthens the commitment to research and development, one of the most powerful engines in economic
  • Senate Bill 467 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 2779.
  • During a set of committee in the economic development on April 14th, there was...
  • Please pass Senate Bill 1030 so we can continue to grow aviation jobs, property tax revenue, and economic
Summary: The meeting of the committee involved extensive discussions on various important pieces of legislation. Notable among them was SB2206, which aims to extend and improve the state's research and development tax credits, ensuring Texas remains competitive in innovation-driven industries. This bill received strong support from the Texas Association of Manufacturers and other stakeholders, emphasizing the need for continued investment in R&D to bolster economic growth and job creation. Additionally, SB2779 was discussed, which focuses on proper allocation and use of hotel occupancy taxes (HOT) for beach maintenance in coastal communities, specifically addressing concerns about the oversight and management of these funds by local park boards.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) May 26th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Paxton, you are, I think, interested in a recess?

  • data-time="0"> Other business that needs to come before the committee
  • /p>

    With no other business to come before the Local Government Committee

  • , the committee will stand in recess, subject to the call of the chair.
Summary: The meeting appeared to lack substantial content, primarily focusing on procedural matters rather than engaging discussions on specific topics or bills. A motion was made by Senator Paxson to recess the meeting, which was accepted, indicating a brief interruption in proceedings. There were no notable discussions or testimony recorded that highlighted the meeting's purpose or advancements on legislative items. This may have contributed to a less vibrant atmosphere, with minimal public engagement observed.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Jun 1st, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • committee report on Senate Bill 1610.
  • committee report for Senate Bill 650.
  • committee report on Senate Bill 650.
  • committee report on Senate Bill 1660.
  • committee report on Senate Bill 2753.
Summary: The committee meeting held a comprehensive discussion on multiple bills, with significant focus on Senate Bill 2900 and its implications for streamlining agency oversight regarding advisory committees. Senator Sparks led the conversation, emphasizing the need for ensuring local communities maintain their input on critical funds essential for indigent health care, following amendments that were made in the House. Additionally, the conference committee reports for Senate Bill 2753, which deals with election code changes, and House Bill 46, focusing on prescription medication management, were passed with a strong bipartisan support, reflecting the commitment to improving state governance in these areas.
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:
  • There is no committee substitute.
  • 4696 favorably out of committee.
  • Chairman, members of the committee, for the opportunity to lay out the committee substitute for House
  • But in that instance, if there is a committee substitute, if you will lay out the committee...
  • We're going to leave that last bill pending in the committee, waiting for the committee to set.
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

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 31st, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So, Senator Bettencourt, you had explained to us a committee

  • And Senator Bettencourt moves that the committee substitute
  • Chairman Schwertner has invited the members of this committee to work with him in developing this bill
  • ...Economic Development Corporation.
  • Good evening, Chairman Hughes and Senate Committee

Summary: The Senate Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss several critical pieces of legislation including SB30 and SB38. Senator Betancourt introduced a committee substitute for SB38 which underwent a smooth adoption process, moving it favorably toward the Senate. The meeting featured a mix of invited testimonies where both proponents and opponents took the floor. One notable highlight included a testimony from Melissa Casey, who criticized the current legal state as prone to fraud and detrimental to both insurers and the public at large, contending that it inflated insurance costs across the board. The discussions delved deeply into the implications of the bills on judicial processes and potential insurance ramifications, with spirited debates surrounding issues of non-economic damages and jury rights. The atmosphere remained engaged as committee members heard varied perspectives on the bills, showcasing a robust democratic process. The meeting underscored the importance of public testimony in shaping legislation, ensuring that multiple voices were considered as the committee pressed on towards making decisions that affect the legal landscape of Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Transportation Funding Apr 14th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House S/C on Transportation Funding

Transcript Highlights:
  • It's all about increasing economic development and attracting business and industry to these small and
  • I'm also the CEO and President of the Greenville Economic Development Corporation.
  • We used 1.2 million from economic development funds

  • Chairman, members of the committee.
  • Thank you to the committee.
Summary: The committee meeting centered on several key legislative bills focused primarily on transportation and toll road policies. Notable discussions included HB1589, which aims to require voter approval before any new toll road can be constructed. Representative Dirty emphasized that Texans should have a voice regarding tolling roads they didn't vote for, while opponents argued that this could impede necessary road funding. HB2725, which proposed toll exemptions for first responders, also received significant attention as it seeks to alleviate financial burdens on those who serve the community during emergencies. Witnesses testified on behalf of these bills, providing personal stories and statistics to support their positions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Apr 7th, 2025 at 10:00 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This project will meet the economic development needs of the
  • I want to mention a certain senator who ran for Senate in another state but had a homestead exemption
  • Chair and members of the committee.
  • In Salado, where I live, our craft brewery has become the hub of economic development for a sleepy little
  • Chairman Meyer, members of the committee, thank you for allowing me to lay out Committee Substitute House
Summary: The Committee on Ways and Means convened to discuss several proposed bills, including HB4044, HB103, and HB3045, focusing on tax reform and support for local development initiatives. Representative Troxler introduced a committee substitute for HB103, which was subsequently adopted without objection, demonstrating consensus on its merits. HB3045 sought to incentivize spaceport operations with franchise tax breaks for contracts related to the Department of Defense, emphasizing Texas's commitment to lead in the aerospace industry. The meeting concluded with discussions around the importance of the Property Value Study (PBS) and its impact on equitable taxation, with members addressing concerns about the effective administration of property appraisals and future legislative actions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) May 15th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Local Government will come to order.

  • Senator Cook sends up the committee substitute to House Bill 2149.
  • Senator Gutierrez says that the committee substitute for House Bill 24.
  • We humbly offer it to the committee and the senator.
  • Oh yeah, Senator Gutierrez sends up the committee substitute.
Summary: The meeting of the committee covered significant legislative matters, emphasizing the discussion around several bills such as HB2025, which aims to streamline the process of filing plats with tax receipts to prevent rejections. Representative Tepper and Senator Hughes led extensive discussions to clarify the implications of this bill, which resulted in public testimony that was ultimately closed with no opposition. Additional discussions included SB3065 regarding the creation of specific municipal management districts, where the committee expected to reconcile drafting errors in a forthcoming committee substitute. Besides, the committee reviewed HB4506, which proposes electronic delivery of zoning notices to enhance communication efficiency in municipalities. Overall, the meeting demonstrated a focused approach towards improving housing and governance-related processes within the community.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) May 15th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Bill 1331 by Senator Hancock, which was heard in the committee and left pending.
  • Senator West moves to adopt the committee substitute

  • Senator Gutierrez moves that the committee substitute

  • Senator Paxton moves to adopt the committee substitute to HB 4205. Is there objection?
  • Sends up the committee substitute, Senate Bill 3071.
Summary: The meeting of the Local Government Committee covered a variety of bills, with an emphasis on the proposed Urban Rainwater Harvesting Bill (SB1633), which passed unanimously with seven votes in favor. Another significant discussion involved the Joint Resolution SJR60, which aims to provide clearer guidelines on municipal governance and was also passed unanimously. Several other house bills, including HB2713 and HB4506, were similarly addressed with motions to pass, indicating a focused and efficient session where most bills moved swiftly to recommendations for approval.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband May 2nd, 2025 at 09:05 am

House S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair recognizes Ed Van Eno, CFO of the Center for Economic Cooperation and Development.
  • And good afternoon, Chair and committee members. My name is Ed Van Eno.
  • Senate Bill 924.
  • We're trying to achieve this through subsequent committee substitutes.
  • She's doing this kind of on... just as a side project while being the Economic Development Director for
Summary: The meeting of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Broadband included significant discussions surrounding Senate Bill 924, which addresses cable service providers and their financial obligations related to franchise fees. Council Member Julian Ramirez opposed the bill, emphasizing its potential fiscal impact on cities like Houston and Austin by restricting franchise fee collections, thus threatening vital public services funded by these fees. Public testimony supported his stance, highlighting the financial realities these cities face, particularly in maintaining public safety and infrastructure.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband May 2nd, 2025 at 08:05 am

House S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 9 to 4 by Senator Hancock,
  • Senate Bill 924 by Chairman Hancock.
  • I just want to make sure that the committee has its full attention.
  • Tab one is Senate Bill 924.
  • Chairman, members of the committee. Again, my name is Snapper Carr.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on two primary bills: HB2838 and SB924. House Bill 2838 aimed to modernize broadband speed standards in line with FCC definitions, aiming to enhance access and reduce tax burdens on Internet services. Chairman Ashby explained the bill's intent to clarify requirements for the Broadband Development Office and included provisions for tax relief to support broadband expansion. Public testimonies presented both neutral and supportive views, emphasizing the importance of aligning state regulations with federal standards, especially for underserved areas. Senators questioned the bill's implications for service equity and federal funding eligibility.

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