Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senator Eckhardt'
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US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Business meeting to consider the nominations of Warren Stephens, of Arkansas, to be Ambassador to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Thomas Barrack, of Colorado, to be Ambassador to the Republic of Turkey, Tilman Fertitta, of Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:30 am
Senate Foreign Relations Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Thank you, Senator Cruz, for your motion. Is there a second? Thank you, Senator Shaheen.
Senator Risch: Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Senator Ricketts: Yes, absolutely.
- Thank you, Senator Cruz, for your motion. Is there a second? Thank you, Senator Shaheen.
- Senator Shaheen is usually more reserved than I am.
Keywords:
Senator Flinstone, HB22, SB4, amendments, public testimony, legislation, environmental impact, economic implications
Summary:
The meeting featured a thorough examination of various bills, including substantial discussions on HB22 and SB4. Key points included amendments proposed by committee members, particularly from Senator Flinstone, who emphasized the need for clarifications on certain provisions. The committee actively engaged with several witnesses providing public testimony, some in favor of the proposed legislation while others highlighted concerns and potential implications. The discussions were vibrant, showcasing different perspectives, especially on the environmental and economic impacts of the bills in question. The meeting concluded with a consensus to reconvene after a recess to further address the outstanding issues related to the bills.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Veteran AffairsAudio only. May 25th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
Senator Hall, there he is.
- Senator Hall moves to withdraw the committee substitute.
Senator, we're going to say Senator Hall moves in House
We report back to the full Senate with the recommendation
Senator Hall now moves that House Bill 5646 be recommended
Keywords:
Veteran Affairs, House Bill 5646, Senator Hall, committee substitute, recommendation, Logan contest calendar
Summary:
The City Committee on Veteran Affairs convened with a quorum present to discuss House Bill 5646. Senator Hall initiated the meeting by moving to withdraw the committee substitute, which was adopted without objection. The committee then deliberated and ultimately passed the bill to be printed and recommended it for inclusion on the Logan contest calendar. The meeting was characterized by a swift progression through the agenda items with a clear focus on HB5646, demonstrating the committee's efficiency in handling legislative matters.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and Commerce May 22nd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
Senator- Senator
- Thank you, Senator.
- Representative King in lieu of Senate Bill 1825 by Senator Schwartner.
- Senator King has an obligation, so we're going to do Senator King and then Senator Perry.
- So I'll talk with Senator.
Keywords:
House Bill 5247, HCR 102, capital cost recovery, nuclear energy, legislative testimony, Senator Campbell
Summary:
The meeting was characterized by a thorough examination of various bills, with particular focus on House Bill 5247, which dealt with capital cost recovery mechanisms for utilities and featured discussions on its implications for consumers. Senator Campbell presented the bill, emphasizing its balanced approach and necessity for clarity in existing utility provisions. Multiple members expressed support, leading to a unanimous vote for its approval, showcasing a collaborative atmosphere within the committee. Additionally, HCR 102 was highlighted, which sought to call attention to the importance of federal tax credits for sustaining and expanding nuclear energy in Texas. The testimony from industry experts reinforced the bill's significance as Texas seeks to maintain its leadership in energy production amidst rising demands and competitive pressures from international markets.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Veteran Affairs (Part II) May 23rd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
Senator Eckhardt? Here.
Senator Eckhardt? Yes.
Senator Eckhardt?
Senator Eckhardt?
Senator Eckhardt? Aye.
Keywords:
Senate Committee, Veteran Affairs, HB101, HB2193, HB5308, HB5329, Senator Menendez, bill passage, committee voting
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs focused on the discussion and voting of several bills, notably HB101, HB2193, HB5308, and HB5329. Senator Menendez led the proceedings, moving each bill to be reported back to the full Senate with recommendations for passage. Each bill received a unanimous vote of five ayes with no opposition, indicating strong support within the committee. The bills were discussed in a structured manner, with members expressing their opinions and facilitating the voting process efficiently. The session concluded with the acknowledgment of the pending business awaiting further discussion.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Border SecurityAudio only. May 20th, 2025
Senate Border Security Committee
Transcript Highlights:
Senator Birdwell? Present.
Senator Flores? Present.
Senator Eckhardt? Present.
Senator Flores? Aye.
Senator Eckhardt? No.
Keywords:
Senate Committee, Border Security, House Bill 180, Representative Guillen, Senator Birdwell, legislation, committee report
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Border Security convened to discuss House Bill 180, sponsored by Senator Birdwell and originally proposed by Representative Guillen. The committee successfully established a quorum and moved forward with the reporting of HB180, which received a favorable recommendation for passage. A roll call vote was conducted, resulting in four affirmative votes and one dissenting vote against the bill. The meeting concluded with the announcement that the bill would be favorably reported to the Senate floor for further consideration. Members of the committee demonstrated strong support for the legislation, highlighting its importance.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Senate Special Committee on Congressional Redistricting Aug 17th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Senator Miles.
- Senator Miles.
- Thank you, Senator.
- does in the Senate.
- Chairman: On Senate Bill 4, Senator Parker moves that Senate
Keywords:
redistricting, Senate Bill 4, public testimony, Texas legislature, partisan gain, minority representation, Senator King
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Special Committee on Congressional Redistricting focused primarily on Senate Bill 4, which has sparked considerable public debate due to its implications on redistricting following the recent census. Senator King laid out the intent and details of SB4, which aims to make significant adjustments that critics argue will disenfranchise minority populations in Texas. Throughout the meeting, concerned citizens shared their testimonies, voicing opposition to the bill primarily on grounds that it manipulates district lines for partisan gain rather than community representation. The emotional testimonies of witnesses highlighted the serious concerns of many about representation in the Texas legislature going forward.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- This is Senator Eckhardt.
- Members, Senator Eckhardt.
Senator Eckhardt? No.
Senator Eckhardt. Yes.
Senator Eckhardt. No.
Keywords:
SB2201, intelligence databases, organized crime, civil liberties, law enforcement, SB2200, SB2199, committee discussions, Senator Birdwell
Summary:
The meeting of the committee centered around several significant legislative proposals, notably focusing on SB2201, which aims to enhance intelligence databases to tackle organized crime, including street gangs and terrorist organizations. Senator Birdwell led the discussions by emphasizing the need for strong measures to adapt to the evolving landscape of criminal activity in Texas and proposed key amendments designed to strengthen accountability for law enforcement. Members engaged in detailed conversations with testimonies supporting the bill's intention to safeguard civil liberties while bolstering law enforcement's ability to manage public safety concerns effectively. Additionally, SB2200 and SB2199 were discussed and subsequently passed favorably to the full Senate following committee substitutions that addressed minor drafting corrections and compliance with federal standards.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and CommerceAudio only. Apr 23rd, 2025
Senate Business & Commerce Committee
Transcript Highlights:
Senator King.
Senator Johnson.
- Senator Nichols. Here.
Senate Bill 324. Senator Colquhart moves that Senate.
- Senate.
Keywords:
Senate, Committee on Business and Commerce, Senate Bill 324, quorum, vote, legislation, Senator Colquhart, business agenda
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce was convened to discuss and vote on Senate Bill 324. After calling the roll and establishing a quorum, the committee discussed the bill's implications. Senator Colquhart moved that Senate Bill 324 be reported favorably to the full Senate, leading to a vote where there were 4 ayes and 2 nays. The bill was ultimately reported to the full Senate for further consideration. Chair Lee facilitated the meeting, ensuring all members had the opportunity to voice their opinions on the legislation. Following the bill's passage, the meeting was adjourned with discussions on potential upcoming business from the committee.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local GovernmentAudio only May 23rd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Cook to speak for Senator Parker as a sponsor on the bill.
- the full Senate with a recommendation to do.
- The full Senate.
- sponsor, Senator Middleton, will explain the bill.
- Senator Paxton sends up the committee substitute to House Bill 3711.
Keywords:
HB1449, HB3711, reciprocity of permits, investigative assistance, Open Meetings Act, committee substitute, Senator Cook, Representative Cabriglione
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on two primary bills: HB1449 and HB3711. HB1449, presented by Senator Cook on behalf of Representative Cabriglione, addresses concerns about reciprocity of permits among counties and modifies fee calculations. After a brief discussion and lack of opposing testimonies, the committee approved a substitute for the bill without objection, highlighting a smooth process for advancing the legislation. Similarly, HB3711 underwent scrutiny as it shifted investigative assistance for Open Meetings Act violations from the Department of Public Safety to the Attorney General's Office. Again, no testimonies were presented during the public testimony phase, leading to swift approval of the committee substitute with a favorable recommendation for the bill to proceed to the full Senate.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
State AffairsAudio only. May 23rd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
Representative King, sponsored by Senator Perry.
- Senator Perry sends up a committee substitute.
Senator Perry is recognized to explain the subject.
- It will be reported to the full Senate with the recommendation that it do pass and be printed.
- ayes and no nays, the committee substitute for House Bill 46 will be reported in favor of the full Senate
Keywords:
Committee on State Affairs, House Bill 46, Senator Perry, teacup licensing, fingerprinting, program integrity, full Senate
Summary:
The meeting of the Committee on State Affairs focused primarily on House Bill 46, which was sponsored by Senator Perry and presented by Representative King. The discussion included a committee substitute that requires fingerprinting for teacup owners to maintain program integrity, as well as regulations around teacup licensing and location restrictions, particularly in relation to schools. The committee adopted the substitute without objection and recommended that the bill do pass and be printed for further consideration by the full Senate. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote in favor of the bill, with no opposing voices heard.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
Very well, Senator Paxton moves that Senate Bill 835,
I guess, Senator, we can always pull it off, Senator
- sponsorship by Senator Hughes.
- Senator Hughes moves that we report it favorably to the whole Senate.
- Hughes as the Senate sponsor.
Keywords:
genetic information, early voting, nondisclosure agreements, childhood sexual assault, legislation, committee substitute, Senator Hughes, unanimous support
Summary:
The meeting of the committee involved discussions on several key pieces of legislation, including House Bill 130, which aims to safeguard sensitive genetic information from adversarial use. Senator Hughes presented a committee substitute to enhance the bill's effectiveness by introducing an exemption for anonymous medical testing trials, garnering unanimous support from the committee. Other significant bills included House Bill 2259, concerning the instructions for early voting ballot applications, and Senate Bill 835, which prohibits nondisclosure agreements in cases of childhood sexual assaults and was also passed unanimously, reflecting broader support for survivor rights.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Business meeting to consider the nominations of Stephen Miran, of New York, to be Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers, Jeffrey Kessler, of Virginia, to be Under Secretary of Commerce for Industry and Security, William Pulte, of Florida, to b Mar 6th, 2025 at 10:00 am
Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee
Keywords:
nomination, Senator Warren, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Federal Housing Finance Agency, Undersecretary of Commerce, accountability, oversight
Summary:
The committee convened to discuss several nominations, notably for key positions including the directors of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Federal Housing Finance Agency, and Undersecretary of Commerce. Senator Warren raised significant concerns during her opposition to all four nominees, citing their failure to provide satisfactory answers regarding their qualifications and policy perspectives. She expressed particular alarm over Jonathan McKernan's ties to external influences and Jeffrey Kessler's hesitance to acknowledge geopolitical threats, leading to discussions about accountability in nominations and oversight. The votes resulted in a mixed outcome, with some nominees being approved while others faced substantial opposition.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- This is the House companion to Senator King's bill.
- Senator?
- Senator King is recognized to tell us about the substitute.
- Senator Paxton moves that House Bill 15, as substituted, be reported to the full Senate with the recommendation
- Bill 7 favorably to the whole Senate.
Keywords:
HB15, HB7, Senator King, Representative Leach, police confidentiality, abortion pills, pro-life, legislative support, committee staff
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on two primary bills: HB15 and HB7. Senator King led discussions on HB15, which seeks to address the confidentiality of police officers' files by dividing them into department and personnel files. This bill has seen multiple discussions in previous sessions and was once again favorably reported after discussions removed certain amendments made during its time in the House. Notably, the bill received bipartisan support, although some members voiced concerns during the voting process. Meanwhile, Representative Leach's HB7 addressed the issue of illegal abortion pills entering Texas, receiving wide support from pro-life groups, including the backing of Catholic bishops, while medical groups remained neutral. The meeting concluded with positive sentiments from members towards ongoing legislative efforts and gratitude towards departing committee staff, concluding a session marked by significant dialogue on sensitive legislative matters.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
The Senate moves to excuse Senator Miles on account of
- of business on Senate Bill 703.
- That passes Senate Bill 21.
Senate Bill 1384, introduced by Eckhardt, relates to
Senate Bill 1510 by Eckhardt relates to the General
Keywords:
SB703, SB21, Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, SB790, criminal implications, license reform, tenant disputes, financial strategy, Senator Zaffirini
Summary:
The meeting focused on several significant bills, including SB703, which addresses the criminal and licensing implications for various massage establishments and was aimed at aligning state laws with federal regulations by closing existing loopholes. Senator Zaffirini played a vital role in facilitating discussions on multiple bills, including SB21, which proposes the establishment of the Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, emphasizing the need for Texas to explore forward-thinking financial strategies amidst federal monetary inflation concerns. Additionally, SB790, aimed at streamlining the resolution process for tenant-landlord disputes regarding water and wastewater billing, was also presented, drawing attention to due process concerns but ultimately supported for its efficiency improvements.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
The Senate committee will come to order.
- data-time="19">The chair lays out House Bill 1057 by Representative Bojani in the House, sponsored by Senator
- Senator Hinojosa, you're recognized to explain your legislation
Senator Hinojosa moves that House Bill 1057 be reported
- favorably to the full Senate.
Bills:
HB1057
Keywords:
teacher salary, retirement benefits, career education, work experience credit, Texas Education Code, HB1057, career and technology education, teacher recruitment, educator compensation, Senator Hinojosa
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on the discussion of HB1057, which was presented by Senator Adam Hinojosa. The bill aims to enhance the recruitment and compensation of top talent in career and technology education. Specifically, it proposes to increase the recognition of industry experience for educators from two to five years, allowing for a more qualified teaching workforce. This legislation is designed to address teacher shortages and improve educational outcomes for students by bringing in professionals with practical experience starting in the 2025-2026 school year. After a brief discussion, the committee moved to pass the bill unanimously, marking a significant step forward in educational reform within the vocational sector.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- The committee substitute to Senate Bill 15 is a combination of Senate Bill 15 as filed and Senate Bill
- Senator Kolkhorst is my representative here, or my senator, and we actually...
- Thank you, Senator Campbell.
- Senator Wythe.
- Hearing none, Senator Kolkhorst moves adoption of the committee substitute for Senate Bill 15 without
Bills:
SB15
Keywords:
real property, recording requirements, county clerk, photo identification, property law, property fraud, deed theft, SB15, SB2611, Senator Kolkhorst, criminal prosecution, public testimony, property rights
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce focused primarily on the discussions surrounding SB15 and SB2611, which address the significant issues of property fraud and deed theft. Senator Kolkhorst led the meeting, emphasizing the integration of these bills to effectively tackle the criminal aspects of deed fraud. Numerous testimonies were heard from affected individuals and stakeholders, highlighting the growing problem of property fraud which has seen a disturbing rise over recent years. Guests shared personal accounts of the devastating impacts of such fraud, stressing the bill’s necessity for safeguarding property rights.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
Senator Hinojosa moves that Senate Bill 1559 be reported
- Senator Zaffirini.
- Senate.
- be reported to the full Senate.
- for Senate Bill 1839.
Keywords:
Senate Bill 1559, Senate Bill 387, Senate Bill 1838, Senate Bill 1839, Senate Bill 1923, protective orders, bond requirements, probate proceedings, committee recommendations, Senator Zaffirini
Summary:
The meeting of the Committee on Jurisprudence focused on several Senate Bills, including SB1559, SB387, SB1838, SB1839, and SB1923. Each bill was discussed and moved forward favorably with recommendations to the full Senate. Notably, SB1559 concerning protective orders was reported without objection, while SB387, dealing with bond requirements for judges, faced objections but was ultimately approved. Significant discussion occurred around SB1838 and SB1839, both presented by Senator Zaffirini, focusing on attorney appointments and the delivery of wills in probate proceedings. These bills were similarly advanced without contention. The meeting concluded with a strong endorsement for these pieces of legislation, highlighting the collaborative efforts of committee members.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I know Senator Bettencourt's.
- Bill 686 and Senate Bill 12, which have both passed the Senate floor.
- So thank you, Senator Parker. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Senator West.
- And then, Senator Mitchell.
- Thank you, Senator Hinojosa.
Keywords:
House Bill 2, education funding, public schools, special education, teacher pay, Senate Committee on Education K-16, substitute bill, public testimony, Senator Creighton, educational reforms
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Education K-16 convened to discuss House Bill 2, which focuses on public education funding and reforms. Senator Creighton presented amendments to the bill, highlighting significant increases in funding for special education and enhancements to teacher pay. Notably, the committee adopted a new substitute version of the bill after thorough discussions regarding its implications on districts and educators. Several senators expressed their concerns and support for the bill, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that all educational stakeholders are adequately compensated and that the bill addresses ongoing educational challenges in Texas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Senator Birdwell, aye. Dean Zaffirini, aye. Senator Alvarado, aye. Senator Blanco, aye.
- Senator Flores, Senator Hancock, Senator Hughes, Senator
- Senator Birdwell, aye. Dean Zaffirini, aye. Senator Alvarado, aye. Senator Blanco, aye.
- Senator Flores, aye. Senator Hancock, aye. Senator Hughes, aye. Senator Parker, aye.
- Senator Flores, aye. Senator Hancock, aye. Senator Hughes, aye. Senator Parker, aye.
Keywords:
oil and gas waste, application fees, permit amendments, environmental regulation, Texas natural resources, SB1150, inactive wells, Railroad Commission, compliance plan, Senator Middleton, committee substitute, effective date extension, stakeholder engagement
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Natural Resources convened to discuss developments regarding SB1150, related to the plugging of inactive wells. Senator Middleton presented the committee substitute for the bill, detailing key adjustments, including extending the effective date by two years to September 2027 to provide operators and the Railroad Commission adequate time for implementation. The discussions sought to address concerns regarding compliance complexity, particularly for wells inactive for more than 15 years. The relaxed timeline was intended to mitigate an initial rush before escalating requirements were imposed on stakeholders. In addition to the new timeline, revisions were made to enhance the clarity of reporting standards for operators regarding inactive wells.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Senate SessionOpening Day of the 89th Legislature Jan 14th, 2025
Texas Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
State Senator District 14, **Sarah Eckhardt**.
State Senator District 18, **Sarah Eckhardt**.
- **Senator Betancourt**: I see Senator Colcourse, I see Senator
- or **Senator Creighton**.
- And some of you, **Senator West**, **Senator Hinojosa**, **Senator Zaffirini**, **Senator Nichols**,
Bills:
SCR7
Keywords:
legislature, adjournment, permissions, Texas Constitution, session, legislature, adjournment, Texas Constitution, session, legislative authority, Senate Bill 1760, tax relief, Senator Creighton, Governor Abbott, budget surplus, leadership nominations, Texas governance, public testimony
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee was marked by a robust discussion focused on Senate Bill 1760, which centered around crucial tax relief measures. Senator Creighton, the sponsor of the bill, passionately shared his experiences and the importance of tax cuts for the constituents of Texas, emphasizing the need for fiscal responsibility and community support. The Senate also witnessed nominations for key leadership positions, setting forth a collaborative tone for the upcoming session. Governor Abbott's address highlighted the importance of unity and effective governance amidst the challenges ahead, including managing the state's substantial budget surplus.