Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'border crossing'

Page 2 of 33
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security (Part I) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This cross-border fuel crime has disrupted lawful trade

  • crossing in the U.S. for produce, and the third largest trade hub along the Texas-Mexico border.
  • The port cross is roughly 6,000 miles long.
  • Border Patrol, and Texas DPS.
  • But they cross overweight and cross a... are the prohibitions of rolling trucks? At times, yes sir.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Border Security convened to discuss SB2949, focusing on the regulation of transportation for motor fuels and hazardous materials. Chairman Birdwell highlighted the urgent need for oversight due to recent increases in fuel-related crimes along the Texas-Mexico border, including theft, illegal documentation, and the operation of unregulated fuel depots. The committee received testimony from several experts, including representatives from the Comptroller's office and law enforcement, who elaborated on the environmental and safety risks posed by the current unregulated fuel transport practices. The discussion centered around how SB2949 aims to tighten regulations and enhance penalties for illegal hauling activities to safeguard public safety and compliance with state laws.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border SecurityAudio only. May 20th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Committee on Border Security will now come to order.

  • marker="5" data-time="38">Members, if you know of the business, come before the Senate Committee on Border
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 Regular

State Affairs Apr 28th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Section 3 would establish a border grant program.
  • Border security should be no different.
  • Section 6 would launch a border protection.
  • I would not want to not have probable cause at the border when they're crossing to see family.
  • Border Patrol.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several pressing legislative issues, with a significant emphasis on immigration-related bills such as HB256 and HB253. Witnesses provided differing perspectives on the implications of these bills, particularly concerning privacy and familial integrity in the context of immigration law. Notably, there were arguments against the invasive DNA testing proposed in HB256, highlighting concerns about accuracy and the potential consequences of errors leading to wrongful separations of families. This discussion revealed a palpable tension between security measures and the preservation of individual rights, prompting the committee to consider the ethical ramifications of such legislation. Additionally, House Bill 4552 was introduced, aimed at ensuring equal treatment in government contracting, which spurred further debate on the balance of meritocracy and social equity in public sectors.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security May 15th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • border, and even assist smugglers.
  • and maintain sovereignty over our borders.
  • This cooperation is essential in addressing cross-border

  • individual states to improve border security cooperation.
  • also serve to further enhance our border security efforts.
Bills: HCR98, HB180
Summary: The Senate Committee on Border Security convened to discuss key resolutions aimed at enhancing border security measures. Notable discussions centered around HCR98, which urges Congress to bolster intergovernmental cooperation in deploying counter-unmanned aircraft systems to address unauthorized drone activities at the border. Committee members expressed the urgency of establishing operational protocols for detecting and neutralizing drones that threaten national security. Additionally, HB180 was presented, focusing on elevating state-level cooperation with Mexican authorities to better manage cross-border challenges like drug and human trafficking. There were no public testimonies for either bill; however, HCR98 was reported favorably to the full Senate following a brief voting process.
US
Summary: In this meeting, key topics included national security concerns with an emphasis on threats from China, Russia, and transnational criminal organizations. Senior military officials provided testimony on the evolving risks posed by these adversaries, particularly focusing on cybersecurity and advancements in weaponry. The discussion highlighted the importance of a cohesive strategy among government departments to effectively respond to the challenges presented by these threats, emphasizing the need for modernization in defense capabilities. Committee members grilled the witnesses on border security and the implications of deploying military resources in domestic operations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Mar 5th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Obviously, border security is on everyone's radar.
  • to get past the border.
  • and border security.
  • Border Patrol from cutting the concertina wire that TMD placed along the border, successfully defending
  • just outside of the border concerning Operation Lone Star.
Summary: The meeting of the Homeland Security, Public Safety, and Veterans Affairs Committee fostered extensive discussions primarily focused on the ongoing border security issues. Members of the committee, chaired by Rep. Huffman, emphasized the shifting strategies under the new federal administration and highlighted the successful implementation of SB4, which seeks to curb illegal entry into Texas. Notably, the Attorney General's Office reported a 54% decrease in illegal crossings over the past year, signaling a change in the migration trends impacting Texas, largely due to new state and federal cooperation efforts. Additionally, the committee discussed the development of Operation Lone Star, which is now a statewide initiative aimed at addressing the challenges posed by illegal immigration and crime associated with it.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations Mar 10th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Summary: The meeting revolved around various critical discussions, primarily focusing on school safety and the challenges surrounding border security. Key testimonies highlighted the significant strides made in reducing illegal crossings but emphasized the need for continued vigilance against crime and drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl. Members expressed gratitude towards the Texas Senate's supportive role in funding for safety measures and strengthening resources to keep the state safe. Conversations also centered around the implementation of new safety protocols in schools, including the establishment of the Office of School Safety and Security, and how schools are addressing vulnerabilities identified from assessments. Furthermore, the importance of mental health resources was underscored as a complement to physical security improvements within educational institutions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security Feb 27th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am a border senator and the newest member.
  • crossings is in a sort of legal limbo.
  • Border Patrol sectors on the border; five of those are in
  • Legal border crossings by 90% to ensure we have every tool
  • It's not border-specific, but it is border-related at the
Summary: The meeting of the Border Security Committee was marked by intensive discussions surrounding the ongoing initiatives related to Operation Lone Star. Members shared updates on border security measures, underscoring the significant operational changes resulting from shifts in federal policies. General Salter provided extensive insights into the deployment of state resources, highlighting the 5,000 active personnel engaged in various border control operations. The various strategies employed for enhancing surveillance and interdicting drug smuggling were also covered, emphasizing the importance of strong collaboration between state and federal agencies.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • enforcement authorities to increase counter-terrorism narcotic activities by 500% and to cooperate cross-borders
  • with the failed open border policies of the Biden administration.
  • We share a nearly 2,000-mile border, and our deep economic integration, shared security and border challenges
  • I come from a state that borders Canada.
  • We share a 2,000-mile border that contains 47 active land ports.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on critical discussions concerning U.S. foreign policy, particularly relationships with Mexico and Japan. Notable attention was given to border security, trade agreements, and implications of drug trafficking. Ambassadorial nominees discussed their strategies to strengthen ties with these nations, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in addressing mutual challenges, particularly concerning security and trade. The committee engaged in extensive dialogue, highlighting the urgency of improving intergovernmental communications to deter drug trafficking and support democratic governance.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V Feb 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V

Transcript Highlights:
  • In addition to that, we wore them out on the border and during violent crime operations.
  • Border Patrol uses it.
  • I want to turn to one other thing, and that is the border.
  • You're referring to border crossings? Yeah, apprehensions at the border. Yes, sir.
  • What you're seeing less of is large groups looking for Border Patrol to turn themselves in.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on the operations and budgetary recommendations for the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Key discussions included addressing the backlog of driver's licenses, recruitment challenges within the department, and strategies to enhance public safety amidst rising crime rates and border security issues. Representatives discussed specific budget requests aimed at improving infrastructure, recruiting more officers, and enhancing technological capabilities to better handle crime data and public safety operations. The urgency of training law enforcement personnel and the need for modernized facilities were also highlighted as critical issues. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing the impacts of the recent data breach involving driver's licenses and the measures installed post-incident to protect personal data. Public comments reflected support and concerns about the ongoing challenges DPS faces in managing resources and expectations related to law enforcement and public service. The meeting concluded with plans to reconvene for further discussions on the proposed initiatives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Jan 30th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • But could you just describe the process of cross-checking?
  • trade; let's have those meetings on the border."
  • I have met with governors of all four of our border states in Mexico.
  • ...of border security funding.
  • Well, you've got, you had 1,250 miles on the border.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting focused on several critical budget recommendations for various state agencies, including the Texas Facilities Commission, which proposed significant funding changes. Chair George Purcell highlighted a reduction in appropriations, along with the introduction of new funds aimed at refurbishing the Rudder Building and supporting facilities operations. Discussions also touched on border security, where it was reported that Governor Abbott formally requested congressional support to reclaim $11 billion in funding for Texas operations. The ongoing dialogue regarding the maintenance and responsibilities relating to border wall constructions was emphasized, noting the complexity and the need for clear allocation of responsibilities as discussions with federal authorities develop. Throughout the meeting, there were notable conversations about operational efficiencies, particularly in the context of expanding cyber threats and the need for improved cybersecurity measures at state agencies. Members engaged in deliberating the future hiring of staff and resources necessary for maintaining effective service delivery amidst increasing demand. The discussions concluded with a commitment to keeping an open line with constituents regarding the implications of these funding decisions and the overall strategic direction of the agencies involved.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security May 22nd, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Flores is recognized to address the urgent request for Congress to reimburse the state of Texas for border
  • data-time="126"> By launching Operation Lone Star in 2021, Texas has been able to combat illegal crossings
  • and strengthening security along our southern border.
  • The government's failure to secure the southern border has
  • led to millions of illegal crossings and an alarming influx of deadly fentanyl into our communities.
Bills: HCR40, HB214
Summary: The committee convened to discuss two significant bills: HCR40, regarding reimbursement for border security costs, and HB214, which addresses the prosecution of firearm and ammunition-related offenses. Senator Flores represented HCR40, urging Congress to reimburse Texas for expenses incurred under Operation Lone Star, citing ongoing issues with illegal crossings and drug trafficking. Though there was a commendable attempt at public testimony, none was received, and the bill was left pending with intentions for further discussions. Much emphasis was placed on the state's security responsibilities and federal inaction that led to a substantial financial burden on Texas taxpayers. In discussing HB214 introduced by Chairman Birdwell, key points included the need for refinement in identifying which offenses classify as terroristic. The members engaged in a comprehensive debate surrounding the expansion of offenses related to firearms smuggling and terrorism. Members expressed concern over including overly broad definitions that could lead to misuse of power and mislabeling of offenses. The committee's focus shifted towards creating a more precise framework that separates economic offenses from true acts of terrorism. The meeting emphasized collaboration and careful consideration in drafting legislation aimed at enhancing public safety without infringing on rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on International Relations Apr 28th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House S/C on International Relations

Transcript Highlights:
  • ability to stage responses, deploy resources, and maintain command and control operations along the border
  • Richardson, along the border, the Rio Grande, and follow that line along the Rio Grande all the way down
  • If we were to look at this from a perspective of border

  • security and law enforcement, this is exactly what Border Patrol has asked us for.
  • a sweet spot, of being able to address Carrizo's needs, as well as an opportunity to address the border
Bills: HB1026, SCR37
Summary: The meeting centered on the discussion of two key pieces of legislation: HB1026 and SCR37. HB1026, presented by Vice Chair Morales, aims to address infrastructure issues by paving a critical 40-mile stretch of road between Eagle Pass and Laredo, which has been a longstanding concern for local communities and law enforcement. The bill received strong support from stakeholders citing the need for improved transportation routes and enhanced border security capabilities. Following the discussion on HB1026, SCR37 was introduced by Chairman Lujan, emphasizing the significance of the Panama Canal to Texas economic development and trade. The meeting saw ample opportunity for public testimony, with members expressing support for the proposed bills and asking insightful questions regarding their implications.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources May 12th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • They change papers on this side of the border prior to crossing
  • This cross-border commerce currently generates $3.3

  • They are mitigating the crossings as well.
  • We had members up and down the border.
  • The second trailer is then driven to a designated crossing point along the border.
Bills: SB290, SB2949
Summary: The meeting featured robust discussions surrounding several bills, particularly focusing on HB2 and SB2949, which aim to establish better regulations for gas facilities and address concerns over fuel transportation. Representative Rosenthal introduced HB2, explaining its intent to improve protocols for gas installations, and shared a personal account of safety concerns that arose from similar incidents in his area. SB2949 was discussed with emphasis on curbing illegal fuel operations while protecting legitimate trade across the Texas-Mexico border. The bill drew attention due to a rise in fuel-related crimes and the need for effective tracking of fuel movements. Both bills left pending, highlighting the committee's commitment to revisiting and refining the proposed measures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Mar 12th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • One is just standard border operations that go on along the Texas-Mexico border.
  • Customs and Border Protection, U.S.
  • of border encounters.
  • After going and working with the Border Patrol on the border
  • I go to the border. I've heard about the Texas Parks and Wildlife on the border.
Summary: The committee convened to discuss several major legislative bills, focusing particularly on enhancing law enforcement's ability to respond to missing children and addressing increasing border security concerns. One significant bill discussed was HB908, which mandates that law enforcement agencies report missing children to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children within a strict time frame. Testimonies primarily supported the urgency and need for swift action regarding missing children, with members underscoring the imperative to streamline procedures to ensure every case is handled urgently. Additionally, discussions on HB674 centered around adjusting the penalty structure for criminal trespass incidents related to avoiding law enforcement checkpoints, seen as a crucial measure to deter illegal crossings and enhance border security.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • -Mexico border and is the country's largest landowning port authority, encompassing 40,000.
  • The only state funding available for short line railroads is for maintenance of grade crossings.
  • In this bill, together with crossings and cities and stuff
  • While they were crossing in the crosswalk near the school, an individual turned left into the crosswalk
  • at any other crossing.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on legislative discussions surrounding multiple Senate bills, with a significant emphasis on Senate Bill 2080, which aims to modernize outdated regulations affecting navigation districts and port authorities in Texas. Senator Alvarado led the discussion on this bill, highlighting its potential to streamline operations and enhance flexibility in Texas ports, aligning them with national best practices. Several members of the committee expressed support for this legislation, citing its economic implications for Texas, particularly in relation to job creation and infrastructure improvement. However, concerns were raised by representatives from the city of Corpus Christi regarding provisions within the bill that might expand the port's authority, potentially impacting local governance and tax revenue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • -Mexico border and is the country's largest landowning port authority, encompassing 40,000...
  • The only state funding available for short-line railroads is for maintenance of grade crossings.
  • Together, where crossings and cities and stuff like that, the state could put in state funds for the
  • at any other crossing.
  • But because the activities under that broad definition are cross-referenced into this section of the
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several bills aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of Texas transportation and port authorities. Key discussions included the implications of SB2080, which seeks to streamline operations for navigation districts by raising procurement authority, exempting security discussions from recording requirements, and aligning Texas ports with national standards to foster economic growth. Senator Alvarado advocated fervently for the bill, emphasizing its positive impact on competitiveness with ports in states like Virginia and New Jersey. Public testimony reflected mixed responses, with strong support from industry representatives but opposition from some municipal authorities concerned about the potential overreach of port authorities into local development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government May 19th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Property owners along the Texas border face a unique predicament.
  • initiatives to stop illegal border crossing and other border-related issues.
  • Although crucial to our state's border security, it should not place an unexpected burden on property
  • and reasonable solution by ensuring that any increase in a property's appraised value due to the border
  • Okay, and this one was, okay, this one is the border wall.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on a range of bills covering various legislative matters. Notably, bills concerning property rights, environmental sustainability, and public safety were debated prominently. HB2011 was presented and discussed in detail, with supporters highlighting its importance for ensuring property owners can repurchase their land if it has been acquired through eminent domain without due payments of property taxes. Furthermore, Senator Cook emphasized the need for accountability in the process while several senators expressed concerns regarding potential unintended consequences of new laws affecting local jurisdictions and public safety standards. Public testimony was also received from stakeholders both in support and against various bills, reflecting a diverse range of views on the proposed legislation. In addition to HB2011, several other bills, including HB4809 and HB2421, moved forward with recommendations for passage and were set for future calendars.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education May 6th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I live along the border.
  • At triple and sometimes quadruple counting cross-listed
  • If someone were to really cross the line and to somehow reprimand a student, or somehow...
  • But I'm Israeli, and I'm Jewish, and I do that because I believe that we need to cross lines and look
  • But we are unusual Israelis because we are able to cross borders and look at different ideas through
Summary: The committee meeting focused on heated discussions surrounding SB37 and HB4848, with numerous testimonies given by concerned citizens, educators, and students. Advocates for SB37 emphasized the need for educational reform, arguing that current higher education standards are overly influenced by political ideologies and do not adequately prepare students for the workforce. Opponents voiced strong concerns about the bill's potential to undermine academic freedom and lead to the removal of essential courses from the curriculum, which would diminish the quality of education in Texas. The meeting highlighted a clear divide on the future of educational policies and governance in universities, reflecting broader social and political tensions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Apr 14th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The bill is written specifically for counties that border Oklahoma and are bisected by U.S.
  • our ability to compete internationally, attract investment, and showcase the unique vibrancy of our border
  • You may have heard earlier, the silver line actually crosses through the green line, which makes Carrollton
  • include a municipality with a population between 70,000 and 180,000 that is located in a county bordering
  • relevant statutes to include municipalities with a population of 25,000 or less located in counties that border
Summary: The committee meeting involved a range of discussions focused on local economic development through various House Bills primarily related to hotel occupancy taxes. Noteworthy was the presentation of House Bill 2370, which aims to allow municipalities like Harlingen to use hotel occupancy tax revenue retroactively for convention center expenses, facilitating fiscal responsibility and community involvement via voter approval. Representative Lopez encouraged support for the bill, highlighting its potential benefits for the city's budget and operational flexibility. Testimonies from local leaders, including Harlingen's Mayor, reinforced the need for this legislative change to support vital city projects.

Research Filters

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