Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'institutional policy'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Jurisprudence Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • am also a faculty affiliate of the Sandra Rosenbauer Foundation, the School of Social Work, the Institute
  • I'm the vice president of policy with the Texas Public Policy Foundation, testifying in support of Senate
Summary: The meeting conducted by the Jurisprudence Committee featured significant discussions surrounding several bills focused on improving legal representation for indigent families and reforming the child support system in Texas. Notably, Senate Bill 2501 was presented to enhance access to legal counsel for families involved with the Child Protective Services, allowing them to choose their own attorneys. The bill was well-received with various testimonies supporting its potential positive impact on legal outcomes for families. Additionally, Senate Bill 629 aimed at reducing the interest rates on child support arrears was highlighted, with studies presented that indicated a decrease in non-custodial parents’ debt burden would lead to increased compliance in payments and better support for families.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security May 22nd, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If you're kidnapping someone that's a public policy maker, maybe that definition of terrorism applies
  • what's the mental state to determine what's needed to try to change public government actions, public policy
  • , or institutions?
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.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine turning back time, focusing on locking the clock. Apr 10th, 2025 at 09:00 am

Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • These are the kinds of smart policy choices we can make to protect people year-round.
  • Harkey is the president of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
Summary: The committee meeting was dedicated to discussing significant legislative topics, focusing particularly on the implications of daylight saving time (DST). Senator Scott advocated for the Sunshine Protection Act, which aims to eliminate the twice-yearly clock changes and keep daylight saving time year-round. He emphasized the negative health impacts associated with DST, including increased risks of heart attacks and accidents immediately following the time changes. Various witnesses provided personal testimonies and expert opinions, highlighting the confusion and health disruptions caused by the current time change practices.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs Aug 15th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I stand by the fact that this bill is harmful to public institutions like libraries, schools, and domestic
  • /span> is again going to strip funding from publicly funded institutions
  • just because you disagree with these institutions and what they teach their students or what they provide
  • This is not new information, and you've had experts and the people affected by policies like this tell
  • I'm sick and tired of hearing Republicans running my state are pro-life when your policies do nothing
Bills: SB6, SB7, SB8, SB11, SB12, SB13, SB15
Summary: This meeting of the committee addressed several significant bills, with strong expressions of support and opposition from various stakeholders. Notably, SB8, a controversial bill concerning gender identity and access to bathrooms, drew extensive public testimony. Many speakers voiced concerns about the implications of such legislation, emphasizing the potential harm to transgender individuals and the necessity for an atmosphere of safety and inclusivity. In contrast, other members supported the bill, arguing for the protection of women's spaces. The committee also discussed SB15 regarding police records, which sparked debates on transparency and accountability in law enforcement. The meeting concluded with the committee members voting favorably on several bills, despite ongoing public dissent and calls for more urgent discussion on flooding relief efforts and community safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part II) Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • appointed Chair of the Workforce Task Force, and President and CEO of Texas Healthcare and Bioscience Institute
  • I'm the public policy specialist with CASA, and I'm in support of Senate Bill 640 by Senator Johnson.
  • HHSC and the Selection Committee will select an Institutional Review Board, or better known as IRB, with
  • Policy already requires this under federal law, but I think by putting it in the family code, it's going
  • to advocate for public policy solutions to get less expensive
Summary: During this meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services, significant attention was given to various bills aimed at enhancing healthcare provisions and improving processes within the health sector. Notable discussions included the presentation of Senate Bill 547 by Senator Menendez, which seeks to streamline provider notice requirements for healthcare professionals by proposing a centralized database managed by the Texas Department of Insurance. The bill was favorably reported and moved forward with recommendations for local and uncontested calendars. Additionally, a committee substitute for Senate Bill 2308 was introduced, focusing on innovative mental health treatments for veterans, particularly regarding ibogaine as a treatment for opioid use disorder. This proposal received strong support due to its potential to lead the nation in mental health care advancements.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If not, we have members of the Texas Transportation Institute available as a resource.
  • The Institute will allow only 30 days after the disaster.
  • span> The assumption of roadways by TxDOT and the subsequent institution
  • Finally, it would create collaboration with school districts, higher education institutions, and public
  • Furthermore, numerous studies from public health institutes demonstrate the adverse effects of outdoor
Summary: The committee meeting included significant discussions surrounding several bills, particularly focusing on infrastructure projects and their implications for the community. House Bill 2989 initiated a dialogue around modernizing the legal framework for Cedarport National Park, which is vital for enhancing maritime transport and reducing truck traffic. Supporters emphasized the economic benefits and the project's potential to create a more efficient and sustainable transport network, highlighting testimonies from local officials who noted the bill's importance for regional growth and safety. Representative Metcalfe and others advocated strongly for the bill, underscoring its necessity in addressing the increasing container demand due to recent shifts in shipping patterns. The meeting was well-attended and included various testimonies for and against bills, showcasing the passionate involvement of community members and stakeholders. One key point mentioned was the need for grade separations to improve safety around railway crossings. In particular, concerns were raised about the impact of long trains blocking intersections in residential areas, prompting discussions about potential solutions. Overall, the meeting highlighted the ongoing collaboration between legislators, industry representatives, and community leaders to enhance infrastructure and ensure public safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations Feb 18th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Policy?
  • Do we know how many additional schools and which schools, or is that a policy question?
  • HL's obviously a large mental institution, with lots of folks waiting to get transferred to the state
  • ...of federal health care policy and state health care
  • policy and the interplay between the two.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on reviewing the proposed budget for the upcoming biennium, with substantial discussions around House Bill 1 and its implications for public education, healthcare, and border security. The Comptroller presented a revenue overview indicating a total of $194.6 billion available for general purpose spending, which reflects a slight decrease compared to previous years due to fluctuating economic conditions. Members raised questions regarding spending limits and the impact of federal funding on state programs, highlighting concerns about the sustainability of funding in light of potential changes at the federal level.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Public Education Aug 21st, 2025 at 10:08 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • On key education policy issues.
  • Given the large number of students affected, this policy merits further review.
  • LaVonda Loney, testifying on behalf of the Texas Education Policy Institute, and she'll be testifying
  • LaVonda Loney, and I represent the Texas Educational Policy Institute.
  • I'm the Director of Education and Workforce Policy at Texas 2036.
Bills: HB8
Summary: The committee meeting focused on HB8, which proposes significant changes to the assessment and accountability system in Texas education. Key discussions involved the transition from the previous STAR testing framework to a new instructionally supportive assessment program that aims to provide timely feedback to enhance instructional strategies. Proponents of the bill argue that it encourages a growth-oriented approach, while opponents express concerns about the potential increase in high-stakes testing and the makeup of the advisory committee, which has limited educator and parental representation. Numerous witnesses spoke, highlighting both support and apprehension regarding the bill's implications for students, educators, and accountability standards.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Our Committee Clerk and Policy Analyst, Ms. Jenna Trevino, is our Vice Chair.
  • So, we are eating into our budget, and we need some policy direction from this.
  • Institutional memory is critical.
  • What specific proposals do you have in mind when you talk about those taxation policies?
  • Senator, I think you're really touching on the core of what should guide policy.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee focused on several key legislative initiatives, including the implementation of new regulations concerning geothermal injection wells as per SB786, and the jurisdiction over brine mining clarified by SB119 and SB1186. Commissioner Christy spoke about the achievements of the Railroad Commission of Texas in regulatory standards and emphasized the importance of updating environmental practices that safeguard groundwater and surface water while facilitating economic growth. Senators expressed their concerns regarding operational impacts on various sectors, highlighting the need for continued collaboration between agencies to address challenges related to water management and environmental compliance.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Mar 31st, 2025 at 04:03 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • For too long, hospitals and medical providers have been allowed to create their own policies for denying
  • span marker="436" data-time="2610"> State and Probate Institute
  • Affairs for the Texas Real Estate and Probate Institute,
Summary: The meeting of the Family and Judiciary Committee was productive, with in-depth discussions focused on multiple bills that address important aspects of family law. Notable conversations revolved around HB2495, which aims to clarify the rights of parents regarding their children's education amidst existing ambiguities in lower court rulings. Testimony supporting this bill highlighted the necessity for legal clarity to ensure children can be enrolled in school without delays. The committee also discussed HB3181, which seeks to enhance the enforcement of child possession orders by linking repeated contempt findings to custody modifications, reinforcing accountability for parents who violate court orders.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • , then maybe come up with better policies.
  • Strengthen environmental policies.
  • You know your policies are unpopular.
  • We have seen the harm this policy caused in Texas when our state adopted that six-month enrollment policy
  • Again, if these policies are so popular...
Summary: The House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting convened to discuss a revised congressional redistricting plan as part of a special session. The meeting focused on public testimony regarding potential revisions to the redistricting map due to concerns about representation for Congressional Districts 2, 7, 8, and 9. Several witnesses testified against the proposed changes, expressing worries about gerrymandering and the disproportionate impact on minority communities. Notably, Deborah Allen, a former city council member, implored the committee members to heed the concerns of constituents who fear losing representation during this critical redistricting process. The atmosphere was charged as multiple lawmakers and public members voiced their frustrations about the perceived political motives driving the redistricting efforts rather than addressing urgent local needs. The committee faced questions regarding the lack of concrete maps available for public commentary, raising concerns about transparency in the redistricting process. Some members argued that the hearings should prioritize community engagement across the state rather than being limited to a few locations. Various testimonies highlighted fears that the redistricting plan might undermine the gains made in voter representation, particularly among marginalized groups. As the meeting concluded, it became clear that the committee might need to hold further hearings to ensure the public's voice was adequately represented before moving forward with any decisions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Mar 17th, 2025 at 11:00 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am the policy manager for Commission Shift Action, the
  • of the constituents who brought this idea to me, Texas must not leave the door open for similar policies
  • mentioned in the layout, this is, as all proposed constitutional amendments are, a forward-looking policy
  • All in all, current SAWS policies that are currently in place are provided to them when they actually
  • I share this background to emphasize my extensive experience in this policy arena.
Summary: The meeting focused on various legislative discussions, prominently featuring HB1285 and HJR107, which aimed to address significant issues around energy production and damage prevention. Key discussions involved providing the Railroad Commission with additional tools for inspection and responding to incidents, as articulated by proponents emphasizing the benefits for public safety and efficiency. Members voiced their concerns about balancing energy production with environmental protection, highlighting the ongoing tension between economic development and ecological sustainability. Testimonies from industry experts and environmental advocates framed the debate, with strong support for maintaining Texas's status as a leader in energy while ensuring public health is not compromised. Throughout the meeting, several members expressed their intent to refine policies surrounding utility damage prevention and excavation standards, as current laws have reportedly not evolved to address modern challenges. There was a clear acknowledgment of the technological advancements that necessitate an update to existing regulations. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of optimism for proactive legislation and apprehension regarding potential impacts of energy-related developments. As discussions drew to a close, there was a commitment to revisit these topics in future sessions to ensure thorough consideration of both industry and community perspectives.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • ...those policies on their website.
  • Energy Institute.
  • I'd like to thank Chairman Shortener for your thoughtful and insightful policy leading on nuclear policy
  • The smartly designed policy results in a cost-effective.
  • That commission cannot dictate licensing policy to states.
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

Jurisprudence Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the director of public policy for Texas CASA. I am here in support of Senate Bill 2165.
  • for guardianship to include the phone number and date of birth, if applicable, of the person or institution
Summary: The meeting included significant discussions surrounding several bills focusing on children's welfare, particularly regarding foster care and supportive decision-making agreements. Notably, Senate Bill 2165 was presented, which addresses the issue of foster children who go missing and the legal implications of dismissing their cases while they are unaccounted for. The bill aims to ensure that courts retain jurisdiction over these cases to provide continuous support and monitoring until the children reach adulthood. Several witnesses, including legal experts and advocates, expressed fervent support for the bill, highlighting the vulnerabilities of youth in the foster care system and the risks of human trafficking associated with missing children. The importance of maintaining oversight and support for these youth was a common sentiment throughout the testimony.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • They set rates, we enact policies, we invest in the

  • That with protecting some of our historical institutions
  • So yeah, there's a reason for this to be good policy because it incentivizes good behavior.
  • Most general liability insurance policies will not cover intentional acts.
  • by the way, you don't cover punitive damages for an insurance policy because the punitive effect of
Summary: The Committee on Natural Resources convened to discuss two key pieces of legislation, HB2867 and HB2876, focusing on late fees associated with water and sewer services in Texas. Representative Gates laid out HB2867, highlighting the financial implications of payment deadlines and fees that disproportionately affect low-income households. He emphasized the need for limits on late payment fees to protect these vulnerable consumers from potentially abusive practices. A committee substitute was proposed to clarify some ambiguous language within the bill, aiming to promote fairness and transparency for customers. This led to a robust discussion among members and stakeholders present at the meeting, including testimony from representatives of municipal utilities who raised concerns about local control over fee structures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Feb 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I changed the policy.
  • Here, this is why we instituted this policy now, having
  • And so I ordered that as an initial step with our new policy.
  • So we first had the top-down policy.
  • Also, when we have a win, like we did at Winner's Corner this week, I instituted a policy to say, hey
Summary: The meeting was a crucial session for discussing several important bills including SB992, which aims to establish a clear time frame for the Attorney General's approval on outside legal counsel for state agencies. Senator Nichols presented the bill, emphasizing its necessity for timely responses to ensure efficient legal processing. Another notable discussion centered around SB523, which seeks to allow parole and probation officers to use a business address on their driver's licenses for safety and security purposes. This bill passed favorably out of the committee, with public testimony supporting the need for such provisions due to the risks these officers face.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice (Part I) Feb 12th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 9 includes several different policies to

  • us so we can work on good policy. Thank you very much.
  • Part of it is the policies.
  • Well, the policy was a great part of that. Would you agree with that?
  • I'm a senior fellow at the Texas Public Policy Institute, and I'm here before you today in strong support
Summary: The committee meeting centered around discussions of Senate Bill 9, focusing on bail reform and the recent trends affecting public safety in Texas. Multiple witnesses provided testimony, both in support of and against the bill, highlighting the implications of current bail practices. Supporters argued that the bill would enhance public safety and reduce the release of violent offenders, while opponents raised concerns about due process and the potential negative impact on low-income individuals unable to pay bail. The chair acknowledged the heartfelt testimonies from victims' families, emphasizing the emotional weight of the legislative changes being considered. The meeting was marked by a passionate discourse about balancing public safety with individual rights in the judicial system.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Apr 14th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Also, when this whole thing about the TASER came up, I changed my policies so that the TASER-10, that
  • I've attended the Force Science Institute, which has

  • It is not the time to bring guns into our political and democratic institutions.
  • I'm a policy attorney representing the Texas Civil Rights Project in opposition to HB1794.
  • Texas Gun Sense advocates for common sense, evidence-based policies to reduce gun injuries and deaths
Summary: The meeting of the committee addressed several significant bills related to firearm regulations, notably HB2470, which proposes allowing individuals ages 18 to 20 to carry handguns in public. This bill sparked intense debate, with numerous witnesses providing public testimony against it, expressing concerns about youth gun violence and the implications of allowing younger individuals to carry firearms. Advocates of the bill argued that it aligns with constitutional rights and addresses current legal ambiguities. Discussions also included HB3669, aimed at clarifying the classification of less-lethal projectile devices, with supporters presenting evidence of the safety benefits these technologies could provide to law enforcement. The meeting concluded with an acknowledgment of the diverse opinions presented, indicating a need for further consideration of the drafted legislation before finalizing decisions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Workforce Apr 1st, 2025 at 09:00 am

House S/C on Workforce

Transcript Highlights:
  • I serve as the policy director for the Workers Defense Action Fund, and I'm here to speak in support
  • 5544">House Bill 3173 promotes collaboration among stakeholders, especially between educational institutions
  • Director of Policy for Children at Risk and yourself testifying
  • These are simple policy changes that don't require

Summary: The meeting of the Workforce Committee included extensive discussions around several key bills, primarily focusing on issues related to wage theft and child care services. Representative Gonzalez presented HB 669, highlighting the significant problem of wage theft affecting low-income workers. Testimonies from various stakeholders underscored the importance of creating a transparent database that would hold employers accountable for wage violations, emphasizing the need for a fair labor market for all workers. Several witnesses provided support for the bill, discussing its potential positive impact on Texas families and businesses.

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