Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'rural counties'

Page 30 of 50
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Mar 27th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Highway 281 between County Road 304 and Huppergate Road in Brooks County as the Ernesto Salis Cantu Memorial
  • I'm the Navarro County Commissioner for Precinct One.
  • This road is a major destination road that goes from Newberry County to Ellis County.
  • the adjoining county.
  • Cameron County experienced a great tragedy when Deputy Ruben Garcia of the Cameron County Constable's
Summary: The Committee on Transportation convened to discuss several significant bills related to highway designations and public safety. Notably, House Bill 2457 aims to designate a stretch of US Highway 287 as the Mollie Mullins Mile, honoring a 9-year-old girl who tragically lost her life in a traffic accident. The bill highlights the efforts of her family to improve highway safety following their loss, receiving support from local authorities and advocates. The committee also discussed House Bill 2198, proposing the designation of a portion of State Highway 34 as the Jacob Candonza Memorial Highway, honoring a police officer who died in the line of duty. This tribute underscores the value placed on the sacrifices made by law enforcement in ensuring community safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) May 15th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It poses undue burdens on local libraries, especially smaller and rural libraries.
  • Small, rural, or underfunded libraries won't have the space
  • ...and the small systems and counties that will be taking
  • I think that's been overlooked, and I'm concerned that libraries and counties will be liable for lawsuits
  • This will be especially hard on rural libraries, not to mention the exorbitant costs involved.
Summary: During the meeting of the committee on state affairs, multiple bills were discussed, with a significant focus on HB186, which aims to implement age verification for social media usage among minors. Public testimony highlighted concerns regarding potential invasions of privacy, the overreach of governmental authority, and the impact on children's mental health. Advocates for the bill argued that it protects children from harmful online content, while opponents expressed worries about its broader implications on free speech and social connectivity for young people. The meeting attracted a diverse audience, including experts, advocates, and concerned citizens, each contributing passionately to the dialogue surrounding these important legislative issues.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • But here's the reality: even in rural Texas, where I'm from, you don't have to drive.
  • We have county courts that have backlogs.
  • dumpster fire that is Harris County.
  • I can't speak for everywhere else; I just know what happened in Houston and Harris County.
  • Right now, there are no numbers for Houston-Harris County for 2023 or 2024.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on the discussion surrounding HB1414, presented by Representative Bowers on behalf of Representative Dr. Alma Allen. The bill aims to eliminate the Class B misdemeanor penalty for driving with a suspended license (DWLI) for those with prior convictions, allowing county courts to dedicate resources to more serious offenses and potentially preventing many Texans from facing excessive debt and jail time. Representatives and witnesses provided insights into the bill's implications for individuals unable to afford civil surcharges that lead to license suspensions, highlighting the financial burdens placed on lower-income families.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice (Part II) Apr 29th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We also contacted Travis County.
  • In my home county, actually, the clearance rate's a little bit worse than that.
  • However, police departments, both urban and rural, are faced with numerous challenges that have strained
  • Just a couple of weeks ago, it was reported in Bexar County that due to a shortage of about 30 prosecuting
  • Offenses in that county.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to discuss several key legislative bills, focusing significantly on public safety and law enforcement. Among the prominent bills discussed was SB1858, which aims to amend the eligibility criteria for a law enforcement body armor grant program to include independent school districts (ISDs). This bill addresses safety concerns surrounding school resource officers by allowing them access to necessary protective gear. The committee also reviewed SB1723, which received a favorable recommendation for local non-contested status without any opposition. In total, a number of bills were passed with unanimous votes demonstrating bipartisan support for enhancing community security measures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Dallas County Commissioner's Court supports it.
  • I own and operate Freestone County Raceway in Wortham, Texas.
  • We're dealing with this up in my area right now in Collin County.
  • over the last two weeks in Collin County and also this week in Harris County.
  • Depending on the size of the county, some counties that fund is very, very small.
Summary: During this meeting of the legislative committee, significant discussions took place regarding various bills, including those focused on judge and courthouse security, construction defect lawsuits, and carbon capture legislation. A notable highlight was the presentation of HB4502, where representatives expressed urgency to address concerns surrounding harassment of judges and court staff, citing incidents that had raised alarms about their safety. The proposed changes aim to enhance the judicial security framework and rectify loopholes that currently hinder effective legal recourse for court personnel. Several witnesses provided testimony both in support and in opposition to the discussed bills, emphasizing the diverse perspectives and concerns surrounding each piece of legislation. Another key discussion involved HB2790, which aims to establish a comprehensive legal framework for carbon capture and storage, addressing the balance between promoting technological advancement and protecting property rights. Stakeholders, including landowners and industry representatives, presented contrasting views on the implications of the bill, highlighting the ongoing debate about environmental responsibilities versus economic development needs. The meeting concluded with several bills left pending, showcasing the committee's commitment to thorough deliberation and stakeholder engagement in legislative processes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs (Part I) Aug 4th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • , say, in Travis County, but the case is tried in Williamson.
  • I'm the chairman of the Williamson County Republican Party.
  • And the counties have the...
  • It was Don, a fire captain from Orange County.
  • I'm a constituent of Travis County.
Bills: SB7, SB14
Summary: The meeting focused on two primary bills, SB7 and SB14, which elicited passionate testimony from various stakeholders. Many speakers opposed SB7, arguing it disproportionally impacts transgender individuals under the guise of protecting women's spaces. Testimonies highlighted concerns about safety, privacy, and the potential for increased harassment against vulnerable populations, such as transgender youth. Supporters of the bill asserted it was a necessary measure for women's safety, yet critics emphasized that it would create further harm rather than protection. SB14 also saw substantial discussion regarding its implications for law enforcement record transparency, with some stakeholders supporting the need for confidentiality while others warned of accountability risks.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Dallas County? Yes, sir. And for the bill? For the bill? Yes.
  • Myself and Smith County Animal Control.
  • Smith County Animal Control and yourself.

  • County.
  • I'm the former Harris County District Attorney from 2017 until 2024.
Summary: The meeting focused on a range of significant legislative proposals, notably addressing pressing issues such as fentanyl trafficking, animal cruelty, and road rage incidents. Representative Manchia presented HB2695 and conveyed the tragic context surrounding its inception, driven by the loss of young lives due to fentanyl-laced pills distributed via social media. The testimony of community members and law enforcement reinforced the urgency for enhanced penalties against digital facilitators of drug trafficking targeting the youth. This led to a robust discussion, highlighting the alarming prevalence of such drugs disguised as everyday items like candy, intended to be sold to minors. Public testimonies included heartfelt statements from bereaved families who shared their stories of loss and urged committee members to take decisive action against this growing issue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • requiring one thing of the agency, which is that TxDOT will then notify the military bases and the county
  • ="190" data-time="1134"> Railroad ties or flooring panels instead of throwing them into a city or county
  • For more than 1,000 cities and 254 counties, restaurants
  • Maybe never been to Starr County.
  • That was because traffic was down in our South Texas county, which was positive from that standpoint.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several important bills aimed at providing support and protections for agricultural producers affected by border-related crimes. Notable discussions centered around HB246, which proposed an expanded compensation program for damages, including not just real property, but also crops, livestock, and the necessary funds for soil restoration due to pollutions from such crimes. Representative Ginn led the conversations, emphasizing the critical role agricultural landowners play in the state’s economy and their need for fair compensation. Witnesses, including stakeholders from agricultural organizations, provided testimonies highlighting the inadequacies of the current framework and the urgency for legislative action.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part I) Mar 12th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • There is one workgroup provision for Rider 21, county

  • Federal firearm reporting training for county clerks

  • Under item number three, the Rural Water Assistance Fund
Summary: The committee also reviewed workforce optimization projects and critical capital improvements, underscoring the importance of maintaining and enhancing state infrastructure. A work group revision related to Senate Bill 9 was adopted, further demonstrating the committee's proactive approach to addressing fiscal responsibilities and ensuring effective allocation of state resources. The meeting concluded with an overview of adopted items and a commitment to continue enhancing services for the public.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • and a former Harris County employee under the Tax Collector-Assessor.
  • Counties, which would be 102 or more counties, two-thirds
  • of the counties, and three or more trauma service regions.
  • The local counties, the local sheriffs, and so forth.
  • It was only one county along the border, and that was Hidalgo County.
Summary: The meeting focused on several crucial pieces of legislation, notably Senate Joint Resolution 40, which proposed a constitutional amendment to clarify the powers of the governor, the legislature, and the Supreme Court during emergencies. Senator Birdwell presented the resolution, emphasizing the need for legislative involvement during prolonged crises. It garnered broad support, passing with 29 votes in favor and only 1 against. Following this, Senate Bill 871, considered the enabling legislation, was also moved for discussion, with the aim of reinforcing the legislature's authority during emergencies while establishing clear guidelines for the governor's powers.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It is very specifically bracketed to Laredo, Texas, and Webb County, and no other county in the state
  • , not just counties of 250,000 and above.
  • Noeli, it’s open to Webb County peace officers.
  • I'm not associated with the county at any level.
  • I called some of my friends at Webb County...
Summary: The committee meeting convened to discuss various issues pertinent to recent legislative proposals. Notably, several bills were reviewed and debated, with members expressing differing opinions on their implications and potential impact on the community. Discussions ranged from public safety measures to resource allocation, reflecting the committee's broad mandate and the importance of legislative oversight. Engaging testimonies from citizens and stakeholders underscored the significance of the proposed legislation, bringing personal perspectives and expert opinions into the dialogue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health Apr 24th, 2025 at 08:04 am

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

Transcript Highlights:
  • positions must have must have experience in working with rural
  • marker="28" data-time="162">By adding the doula perspective and emphasizing the need for experts in rural
  • span> an additional set of two doulas, one that is more focused on rural
  • various rural, urban, and all racial and ethnic backgrounds
Summary: The committee meeting focused on addressing critical maternal health issues through discussions of two main bills, HB2140 and HB2610. Representative Simmons presented HB2140, which proposes to add two doula seats to the Texas Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee, emphasizing the importance of including diverse perspectives in discussions about maternal health. Testimony from various witnesses highlighted the positive impacts doulas can have during pregnancy and postpartum care, particularly for vulnerable populations. The bill left pending after debate reflects the committee’s commitment to enhancing maternal health outcomes in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If it hasn't come to your county yet, it will be soon.
  • I work for the Bell County Sheriff's Department.
  • Harris County Deputy Fernando Escueta was killed on July 10th, 2024, and then finally Harris County..
  • The county recently settled with her family for $775,000.
  • So if we had a death in my jail, which is Harris County, the Harris County Sheriff's Office is not allowed
Summary: The meeting of the committee involved extensive discussions around several pieces of legislation aimed at improving law enforcement and addressing social issues in Texas. Notable among the bills was HB2217, introduced by Representative Wharton, which seeks to establish a grant program for equipping law enforcement vehicles with bullet-resistant components to enhance officer safety. The bill received support from multiple members who acknowledged the rising violence against law enforcement. Additionally, HB1775, which focuses on the transparency of the rape kit backlog, was also discussed, highlighting the importance of timely evidence collection in sexual assault cases. The committee heard testimonies both in support of and against various bills, showcasing a vibrant exchange of views on public safety measures and law enforcement accountability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations Mar 10th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • One's in Collin County and one's in Dallas.
  • Harris County makes their statistics public.
  • ...partner of schools in most rural areas.
  • Chairman, members, Adam Haynes, Conference of Urban Counties.
  • But counties deal with it, and we follow.
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
Transcript Highlights:
  • in Dallas County.
  • Four years ago, our county, Brazos County, got spaghettified into District 10.
  • I live in Hidalgo County.
  • Let me tell you some stats about Hidalgo County.
  • And like I said, come to Hidalgo County, see for yourself.
Summary: The Senate Special Committee on Congressional Redistricting convened to gather public input regarding redistricting in the North Texas region. With an emphasis on improving public participation, several committee members expressed the need for in-person hearings, highlighting the limitations of virtual formats. Despite technical glitches, participants were encouraged to provide testimony via video conference. Notably, one citizen voiced concerns about the legislature's shift away from traditional redistricting processes, arguing that mid-decade changes undermine fair representation. The committee reiterated its commitment to collecting public opinion and plans to hold future hearings in different regions of Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health May 12th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • hospitals with basic death record information, including the county
  • ...and that we do serve patients who have Medicaid and are in rural
  • marker="850" data-time="5094"> rates have decreased and access to care has improved, especially in rural
Summary: The meeting featured vigorous discussions around several significant bills, including SB2024 concerning youth vaping and its potential consequences. Witnesses presented compelling testimonies highlighting the dangers of e-cigarette use among teenagers, emphasizing how marketing tactics cleverly target this demographic. The bill faced no opposition during discussions but was left pending for further review and amendments. Additionally, HB5537 aimed to empower psychologists to prescribe medication, spurred different viewpoints from committee members about mental health measures and prescription regulations. Amidst these discussions, there was a focus on ensuring access to care while maintaining safety and quality standards.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Mar 19th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In my part of the state, certainly in rural areas, as well as many other areas of the state, there are
  • 27 counties in Texas that already have no printed newspaper in their county.
  • ...who look for bids in any county or any city in Texas.
  • Depending on the county, the cost of running the ads in local newspapers.
  • , with an amazing Wharton County Junior College with satellite campuses.
Summary: In this meeting, the focus was on HB1093, which addresses the advertising requirements for self-service storage facility lien sales. The bill, presented by a representative, advocates for updating outdated newspaper notice requirements that have been in place since 1984. The representative emphasized that many areas in Texas no longer have access to printed newspapers, making it crucial to adapt the law to allow for advertising on publicly accessible internet platforms and other methods to ensure transparency and access to information regarding lien sales. Several stakeholders and witnesses shared opinions on the merits and potential drawbacks of the bill, leading to a lively discussion.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Environmental Regulation Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Environmental Regulation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • but a majority of the time, in our larger urban communities and surrounding areas, like Montgomery County
  • And the batch plants are a major concern for the City of Houston and the residents of Harris County,
  • Last July in my district, a massive fire broke out at a storage container site in northern Ector County
  • Facilities like the one in Ector County, which collect hundreds of empty or semi-empty chemical storage
  • Then on rural areas, I'm assuming under number seven on the exemptions where it's regulated by the Railroad
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on several key bills aimed at addressing environmental concerns and regulatory frameworks affecting communities across Texas. A significant portion of the discussion revolved around House Bill 573, which aims to enhance the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's (TCEQ) ability to respond to concrete batch plant inspection requests, effectively prioritizing community health concerns. Concerns regarding dust and air pollution from these plants were raised frequently, highlighting the challenges faced by constituents living nearby. Additionally, House Bill 1499 introduced a grant program to help small concrete batch plants improve their environmental impact, reflecting the committee’s commitment to sustainable development while balancing economic growth.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security (Part I) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • /span> For other U.S. jurisdictions, the operation in border counties
  • marker="289" data-time="1728"> It's the progress report, and it will send you a report in Cameron County
  • But it also does away with a few depots in the other border counties.
  • I'm going to be the president of the Star County Industrial
  • These permits help cover the cost of damages to county and state roadways.
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

State Affairs Mar 10th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I just came from water, agriculture, and rural affairs.
  • for whatever county jurisdiction y'all are, or us, both of
  • We're going to reach out to the local county or wherever you're from to make sure they're not already
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on State Affairs focused on various legislative bills, including SB1346, which seeks to address challenges in the Texas Lottery resulting from fraudulent activities. Senator Hughes, the bill's author, highlighted recent investigations regarding an international syndicate's attempt to purchase nearly all possible winning tickets for a $95 million jackpot, thus undermining public trust in the lottery system. The committee engaged in a deep discussion about the bill's measures to prevent similar future occurrences, suggesting strict penalties for licensed retailers involved in such schemes. The testimony included endorsements from several stakeholders, emphasizing the bill's significance for fair lottery practices in Texas.

Research Filters

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