Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'USDA'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Not to mention that only 45% of retailers even have a point-of-sale system to manage SNAP, and per a USDA
  • Texas will need to work with the USDA to create a demonstration project to either increase efficiency
  • the checks and balances in this bill, this is a waiver, so Texas is going to have to apply to the USDA
  • , and the USDA and HHS will work together to define all the specifics on restricted items.
  • To better align SNAP with public health goals, the USDA and
Summary: The committee meeting covered a wide range of legislative proposals, with significant focus on addressing child welfare, language access, and transparency in funding for children's advocacy centers. Representative Richardson presented HB5136, aimed at strengthening governance and accountability in child advocacy centers, reflecting concerns over transparency due to recent scandals. The bill was discussed extensively as members expressed the need for better oversight in organizations receiving public funding. Additionally, HB4838 was championed for enhancing language access in emergency services, with witnesses emphasizing its critical importance for non-English speakers during crises. Overall, strong engagement from both representatives and the public was evident, with passionate testimonies highlighting the necessity of these legislative measures.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • According to the USDA, up to 20% of SNAP households

  • The USDA says that this is nutritious.
  • But we know that it requires a waiver from the USDA that would be...
  • follow-up to that: has any state actually passed it in their state, and it's been rejected by the USDA
Summary: The meeting of the committee primarily focused on several significant bills aimed at enhancing accountability and transparency within Texas's Medicaid and long-term care systems. Notably, SB457 seeks to ensure that a substantial portion of Medicaid funds is allocated directly to patient care in nursing facilities, addressing concerns about the misuse of taxpayer dollars. Various testimonies were provided from key stakeholders, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by nursing homes and the pressing need for reform. Notably, AARP Texas endorsed SB457, emphasizing the critical need for improvements in care quality, especially in light of staffing shortages and neglect issues prevalent in some facilities.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Native education is supported by a network of federal agencies beyond Ed, including HHS, USDA, and Commerce
Summary: The meeting focused on the responsibilities of the U.S. Department of Education towards Native students, highlighting the importance of federal education programs that satisfy treaty obligations to Native communities. Various witnesses testified about the impact of educational policies designed to support Native students who primarily attend public schools. Concerns were voiced over recent proposals that could potentially undermine these programs, citing the role of federal funding in ensuring successful educational outcomes for Native youth. The chair of the committee emphasized the need for continued federal support and attention to the unique educational challenges faced by Indigenous populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 14th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • 2934">For example, a preserve accredited by the Zoological Association of America and licensed by the USDA
  • Is it the state regulations or the ones from the USDA?
  • The USDA does regulate and supersedes state law.
  • /span> Texas state regulations fall within compliance with the USDA
  • You know, the closest elephant reserve where we can really send them is in Oklahoma, which is also USDA
Summary: The committee convened to discuss several significant pieces of legislation, primarily focusing on energy policies and public safety regulations. Notable discussions included Representative McLaughlin's HB4341, which mandates energy response maps for critical infrastructure, and received unanimous support for its favorable report. Meanwhile, HB3356 faced substantial opposition due to concerns over its potential to increase consumer costs and the undue penalties it imposes on existing generators. The discussions also touched on Representative Kitzman's HB3120 aimed at improving oversight and regulations for facilities housing unaccompanied minors, reflecting the committee's commitment to child welfare and safety in Texas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • that federal programs that the Department of Agriculture may have access to or can apply for, like USDA
  • But were you aware that according to the USDA Ag Census, Texas lost nearly...
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs was marked by critical discussions surrounding several agricultural bills aimed at addressing the challenges faced by the farming community in Texas. Notably, House Bill 43 was presented, which seeks to update the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority to improve financial support for farmers experiencing crisis due to extensive agricultural losses, exacerbated by drought and supply chain issues. The committee heard testimonies from stakeholders emphasizing the urgent need for these reforms to help secure the agricultural industry’s future and ensure support for farmers during these trying times. Another significant topic was House Bill 4163, which aims to relieve agricultural operations from excessive municipal regulations concerning land management along public roadways, highlighting the burdens placed on farmers by local governments.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part II) Feb 11th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • USDA has enhanced surveillance and enhanced inspection protocols in place, as well as preventive treatment
  • As we continue to work with our federal partners, we are also collaborating with USDA and DSHS on surveillance
  • The difficulty is that we are managing the certification program for CWD for the USDA, and you basically
  • Additionally, the repair portion of the program is where the federal funds that are available through USDA
  • There is a federal program at USDA NRCS called the Watershed
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting included a comprehensive discussion on various upcoming budget recommendations impacting the Railroad Commission and water funding allocations. Significant dialogue focused on Senate Bill 30, which addresses water funding appropriations crucial for developing and maintaining the state's water infrastructure amidst growing demand. Testimonies from various stakeholders emphasized the urgency of addressing water resource issues in Texas, given the state's increasing population and the forthcoming infrastructure needs. Additionally, climate change impacts and funding challenges were heavily underscored by the participants, showcasing a collective concern over future water supply and management. The committee also reviewed the implications of Senate Bill 8 and Senate Joint Resolution 75 regarding the creation of new funds and programs for water management and development. Importantly, the potential for a dedicated revenue stream was raised, echoing the sentiment that a historic investment in water infrastructure is critical. The meeting adjourned with plans for a follow-up to further evaluate and confirm budget appropriations, reflecting a strong commitment to tackle Texas's pressing water challenges.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health Apr 17th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health

Transcript Highlights:
  • According to USDA, 58 of Texas's 254 counties are considered food deserts, and Texas has the second highest
Summary: The meeting revolved around critical discussions regarding health-related bills, particularly focusing on women's health and food access issues highlighted in HB1786 and HB231. Representative Howard proposed HB1786 to reinstate the Women's Health Advisory Committee, emphasizing its necessity to address women's healthcare challenges in Texas due to the dissolution of the committee, which had previously facilitated valuable collaboration among healthcare providers. The discussions included testimonials from various stakeholders including health professionals and representatives from advocacy groups, all supporting the need for an advisory body that could effectively address women's health concerns. Additionally, there was strong support for HB231, which aims to study the impact of food deserts on vulnerable populations, as articulated by Representative Morales, making a case for equitable access to nutritious food across the state.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • We must make sure that the USDA has the resources available

Summary: The committee meeting focused on crucial discussions surrounding the challenges faced by the agriculture sector, particularly concerning avian flu and its impact on poultry and dairy producers. Members provided insights into the economic struggles within the industry, emphasizing the need for a new bipartisan farm bill that addresses the diverse needs of specialty crop and livestock producers. Witnesses from various agricultural sectors spoke about their experiences, illustrating the high costs, regulatory burdens, and emerging diseases that threaten their operations. The meeting underscored a commitment to exploring solutions that will help maintain market stability and ensure food security.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Fish and Wildlife, USDA, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and other organizations to save species.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several critical pieces of legislation, including discussions around HB1720, aimed at enhancing the security of animal housing facilities to prevent unauthorized trespassing. Representative Gerben-Hawkins emphasized the bill's importance in protecting both the animals and the safety of facilities. The discussion highlighted personal accounts, including a notable incident involving a break-in at the Dallas Zoo, underscoring the urgency of implementing stricter penalties for trespassers in these settings. The bill aims to classify such trespassing as a jail felony or even a third-degree felony depending on the circumstances of any harassment towards the animals involved. Additionally, HB2593 was brought up, proposing to increase penalties for indecent assault against the elderly and disabled, reflecting a growing concern for the safety of vulnerable populations. The committee also discussed HB4414, which addresses mail theft related to checks and introduces offenses for the theft of mail keys. The meeting was well-attended, with ample public testimony supporting these legislative measures, indicating a strong concern from the community about animal welfare and protection for vulnerable citizens.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The USDA stated purpose for the SNAP program is to provide food benefits to low-income families to supplement
  • According to the USDA, up to 20% of SNAP households' food expenditures were spent on sweetened beverages
Summary: During this meeting of the committee, key discussions were held regarding various bills, particularly those concerning contract requirements related to the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). Multiple bills, such as HB4129, HB4130, and HB4131, were unanimously reported favorably without any debate, showcasing a clear consensus among members about their importance in regulating contracts with single-source continuum contractors. Notable attention was also directed towards HB3750, which pertains to reimbursement for legal expenses incurred by DFPS employees, demonstrating acknowledgment of the need to protect staff operating in complex legal environments. Public testimony was welcomed, allowing voices from the community to add value to the legislative dialogue. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue examining the implications of these bills as they move forward in the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband Mar 24th, 2025 at 10:03 am

House S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband

Transcript Highlights:
  • That was faced in 2010 by the FCC and USDA, and there was an outcry at that time from
Summary: The Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Broadband convened for its inaugural meeting, focusing on the critical issue of broadband access in Texas. The committee aimed to understand the current landscape of broadband provision, identify barriers to connectivity, and discuss how state and federal programs can facilitate access across all demographics, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The chair emphasized that high-speed internet is now a necessity for constituents rather than a luxury, as it supports various sectors including small businesses and healthcare systems. The meeting featured testimonies from twelve witnesses who provided insights on the broadband situation and potential solutions to the challenges faced.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Apr 22nd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • All of these first five principles are recognized by the USDA; they don't use the term regenerative agriculture
  • The sixth one is context, and that is something that the USDA doesn't discuss as much.
Summary: In this meeting of the Committee on Higher Education, various bills were laid out and discussed, with particular emphasis on education and research funding, alongside measures to support Texas's agricultural sector. Notable discussions included House Bill 5339, which aims to establish a program for regenerative agriculture, facilitating long-term research on agricultural practices and aiming to improve soil health and food quality. The committee members engaged in discussions about the implications of such research on local farming communities, stressing the importance of evidence-based practices in addressing modern agricultural challenges. The meeting also included concerns related to the nursing shortage, with House Bill 3032 presented as a measure to identify more clinical training sites for nursing students. Additionally, members touched on issues such as retaining Texas students in state universities, given the rising trends of students leaving for opportunities in other states.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism Mar 6th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • To this day, the USDA and Panama have a standing sterile fly facility still producing these flies.
  • In January of this year, the USDA released its cattle

  • And to this day, the USDA and Panama have a standing sterile
  • In January of this year, the USDA released its cattle inventory report, which shows the number of cattle
Summary: During this committee meeting, members discussed several bills, including HB2, HB22, and HB4, focusing on various state issues. Key discussions revolved around the impact of legislation on local communities, with members expressing differing viewpoints on the measures proposed. Witnesses were invited to provide testimonies, highlighting both support and concerns regarding the bills, particularly in terms of economic implications and social justice reform. Overall, the meeting reflected a robust engagement from the members and public, showcasing the complexities of the legislative process.
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:
  • Additionally, the repair portion of the program is where the federal funds that are available through USDA
  • Having been built by USDA NRCS, the local governmental entities are responsible for future maintenance
  • number off the top of my head—but at least eight of those have received indemnity funds through the USDA
  • with these facility owners to develop herd plans along with the Texas Animal Health Commission and USDA
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

Ways & Means Mar 10th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • According to the last USDA Census of Agriculture, Texas has
Summary: The meeting of the committee on ways and means centered on several significant bills aimed at addressing property tax issues, particularly regarding agricultural and border security infrastructure. A committee substitute for HB247 was discussed, emphasizing a voluntary approach with private landowners in light of enhanced border security measures, which reassured many stakeholders previously hesitant about such initiatives. Notably, the bill provides tax exemptions for landowners who allow construction of border security infrastructure, effectively alleviating concerns about increased property values leading to higher taxes. Committee members expressed support for transparency and fairness in how these laws impact stakeholders, especially those along the Texas-Mexico border.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • USDA.
  • The debt issued by USDA or the Texas Water Development

Summary: The committee meeting was centered around critical discussions on various bills aimed at improving water management and mitigating losses in municipal water systems. Notably, Senate Bill 1190 sparked significant conversation regarding the high water loss rates among large utilities, with stakeholders emphasizing the need for stringent, consistent validation measures and penalties. The chair expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts to enhance groundwater management through Bill 1855, which aims to clarify the certification process for groundwater availability, addressing concerns on the ambiguities in the previous legislation. Public testimonies were heard, with supportive sentiments towards improving water conservation strategies and accountability measures within water utilities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Mar 11th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The USDA found that food spending patterns of SNAP

  • The purpose of SNAP, according to the USDA, is to

Bills: SB568, SCR5, SB57, SB1447, SB27, SB24
Summary: The committee meeting centered around special education funding and safety provisions for children with disabilities. Key discussions were led by Senator Bettencourt regarding the transformative potential of SB568, which proposes a transition to an eight-tier service intensity funding model. This model is designed to better accommodate the needs of special education students, ensuring they receive the necessary services tailored to their unique requirements. The bill received strong support from stakeholders and included testimony from educators and advocates highlighting the importance of early intervention and the need for ongoing funding support.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Just like with mortgage-backed securities, as I was mentioning, we have FHA, VA, USDA, and conventional
Summary: The committee meeting predominantly focused on various pieces of legislation, notably Senate Bill 2299, which aims to redefine municipal immunity. Deep concerns were raised during discussions, particularly by public witnesses who underscored the bill's potential to undermine citizen accountability and local governance. Representative Monty Bennett argued passionately against the bill, citing its conflict with recent local charter amendments passed by Dallas voters, reflecting a significant public sentiment for local governance autonomy. Multiple attendees voiced strong opposition due to fears of increased litigation against municipalities, which could strain local resources and hinder governance effectiveness. In contrast, proponents of the bill, including city representatives, argued that it is essential for preventing frivolous lawsuits and maintaining fiscal responsibility for city budgets.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Public Health Aug 13th, 2025 at 09:08 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • to regulate hemp production, subject to USDA approval.
  • USDA has a USDA certification, and they come out and they
  • We report that also back to USDA through the Farm Service Agency as well.
  • I've been in agriculture in some sense my entire life, starting at the USDA, working under Dr.
Bills: HB5
Summary: The meeting of the Public Health Committee focused primarily on discussions surrounding HB5, which seeks to regulate THC consumables in Texas. Numerous witnesses provided testimony, both in favor and against the bill, highlighting concerns regarding public health and safety as well as the economic implications of regulation versus prohibition. Chairman Van Dever and other committee members actively engaged with witnesses to clarify the potential impact of the proposed legislation. The testimonies brought to light intense disagreements over how best to approach the management of hemp and cannabis products, demonstrating a division between those advocating for strict regulations versus those calling for responsible oversight without outright bans on THC.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 31st, 2025 at 02:05 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • changes that were made to bring the bill in line with Governor Abbott's request for a waiver from USDA
  • But I know that they do it through the USDA and with the retailers, that there's a system.
Summary: The meeting involved extensive discussions around several key bills, with highlights focused on the implications of SB12, which emphasized the Texas Parent Bill of Rights. Members debated its potential impacts on educational practices, particularly concerning diversity and inclusion efforts in schools. Concerns were raised about how the removal of DEI programs could adversely affect students with disabilities, particularly those on the autism spectrum. Additionally, SB1506 was addressed, with a significant change proposed to include stricter regulations regarding fentanyl possession, reflecting ongoing concerns about substance abuse in the community. The meeting was well-attended, featuring participation from multiple representatives expressing opinions regarding these bills. The chair recognized various members to provide input, and all discussions culminated in multiple votes on the proposed conference committee reports. The atmosphere was charged as representatives weighed the consequences of these legislative actions on their constituents. In conclusion, the committee successfully adopted multiple measures and set the stage for further engagement on the legislative agenda ahead.

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