Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'senate committee'
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TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I'm happy to be back on this committee. I've been on it since I arrived in the Senate.
- also Senator Birdwell to the committee.
- Senator Alvarado moves that the committee rules be adopted.
- , and I welcome Vice Chair Hagenbuch and also Senator Birdwell to the committee.
- Senator Alvarado moves that the committee rules be adopted.
Keywords:
Texas Water Fund, water management, infrastructure funding, local governments, workforce development, community colleges, educational programs, sustainability
Summary:
The meeting focused on several crucial issues, including the Texas Water Fund and its implications for development in the state. Various members highlighted the critical need for effective management of water resources, discussing the role of the Water Development Board and their strategies for outreach to local governments. The committee engaged in a thorough examination of funding projects and the sustainable financing necessary for communities facing challenges in meeting their infrastructure needs. Additionally, there was notable discussion regarding promoting workforce development and the alignment of educational programs with the demands of the job market as indicated by recent trends in community colleges.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
The Senate committee on Video nominations will come to order.
There being seven ayes, the Senate Committee on Nomination
- There being five ayes and two nays, the Senate Committee on Nomination recommends that the full Senate
- Senator Schwartner is unable to make it, but there are a lot of committees going on at the same time.
- With no further business to come before the committee, the Senate Committee on Nominations stands adjourned
Keywords:
juvenile justice, rehabilitation, Officer Justin Barry, nomination, Senator Eckhardt, excessive force, staffing, recidivism, funding, community stakeholders
Summary:
The meeting of the committee predominantly focused on discussions surrounding juvenile justice reform and nomination confirmations. A notable point of contention was the nomination of Officer Justin Barry to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, which was met with dissent from Senator Eckhardt due to previous allegations of excessive force against protesters. The committee also engaged in discussions about the state of juvenile facilities and the Department of Juvenile Justice's current capacity and staffing, with various members emphasizing the importance of rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. There's a collective effort observed among committee members to adopt new strategies that encompass better training and improvements in facilities to ensure the proper care of youth within the system.
Towards the end of the meeting, members reflected on past legislative efforts to increase funding and resources aimed at enhancing the juvenile justice system's effectiveness. The committee adjourned with decisions to continue refining their approaches to juvenile rehabilitation and to reconnect with community stakeholders to improve outcomes. Public contribution to these matters was apparent, highlighting a commitment to collaborate with various entities for better juvenile justice practices in Texas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
Senate Transportation Committee will come to order.
Senator Hinojosa brings up a committee substitute and
- Alright, Senator Higinbotham.
- I think there is a committee substitute. Senator Hinojosa.
- Senator Hinojosa.
Keywords:
memorial highway, U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, Archer County, highway designation, vehicle weight, ports of entry, Texas Transportation Code, truck regulations, load limits, Adopt-a-County Road, funding, road maintenance, county partnership, public recognition, memorial designation, highway, Sergeant Mark Butler, transportation, Brazos County
Summary:
The committee meeting featured a number of bills focused on local issues, particularly in relation to transportation and public safety. Notably, Senator Alvarado presented HB3966 regarding the relocation of a Greyhound bus terminal to a residential area, which has raised community safety concerns due to increased crime. The bill aims to require commercial bus companies to notify residents before opening new locations, fostering accountability and transparency. The meeting highlighted testimonies from both supporters and opponents regarding the implications of such legislative changes on community dynamics.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs May 19th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
Last year, Hancock sends up a committee sub for Senate
- We are grateful to Lieutenant Governor Patrick, Senator Sparks, Chairman Perry, and this committee for
- The committee substitute for Senate Bill 823.
- Senate Bill 823 will be reported to the full Senate.
- Senator Weiner.
Keywords:
agriculture, House Bill 43, House Bill 4163, Texas Agricultural Finance Authority, municipal regulations, economic crisis, fertilizer, drought, public testimony
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
Natural Resources (Part I) May 14th, 2025
Senate Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
9 o'clock, the Senate Committee on Natural Resources will now come
Members, Senator Zaffirini sends up the committee substitute
- The chair recognizes Senate Sponsor Senator Birdwell to explain the bill.
- Senate Bill 2510 by Senator Kolkhorst.
- Members, with no other business to come before the Senate Committee on Natural Resources, and I was about
Keywords:
occupational licenses, renewal, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, registration, license expiration, solid waste, landfill permits, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, environmental regulation, population density, municipal waste management, gas utilities, cost recovery, regulatory asset, rate making, Texas Railroad Commission, regulatory lag, natural gas utilities, infrastructure, wildfires
Summary:
The meeting included a robust discussion on several bills aimed at addressing regulatory issues in the state. Key among these was House Bill 4384, presented by Representative Darby, which focuses on alleviating financial burdens caused by regulatory lag for natural gas utilities. The bill seeks to allow temporary deferral of costs related to new infrastructure, and public testimonies highlighted a significant division in opinion, with some stakeholders arguing it would increase costs for consumers without adequate oversight. The committee members engaged actively with the testimonies, indicating a comprehensive review of the implications of the bill. House Bill 2663 was also introduced, aimed at preventing wildfires through better oversight of outdated electrical infrastructure at inactive oil and gas well sites, emphasizing the need for removed or de-energized equipment to avoid future incidents.
Additionally, several other bills like HB1237 and HB3071 were discussed, with the latter addressing the cancellation of inactive landfill permits to reflect current land use and community development. The overall tone of the meeting was collaborative, with members expressing gratitude for professionalism despite some disagreements on policy details. The meeting concluded with several bills left pending for further discussion before moving to votes in subsequent sessions.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Administration Jan 28th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- The Senate Committee on Administration will please come to order. The clerk will call the roll.
- ="0">**Senator Middleton**: Here.
- Committee on Administration.
- Hinojosa**, **Senator Eckhart**, and **Senator Cook**.
- If not, **Senator Hinojosa** moves the adoption of the committee rules. Is there any objection?
Summary:
The meeting encompassed discussions on a variety of legislative bills with notable presentations from several committee members. Key topics included fiscal responsibility and the impact of legislation on local communities. Members engaged in a productive dialogue regarding amendments to particular bills, demonstrating a commitment to fine-tuning legislative proposals to better serve constituents. Testimonies from several community stakeholders highlighted varied perspectives on key issues, further enriching the discussions.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local Government (Part I) Mar 24th, 2025
Senate Local Government Committee
Transcript Highlights:
First, I want to thank Senator Campbell and the committee
- You know, I was testifying this morning in the Senate Water Committee on.
- Let me correct that motion; the chair lays out the committee substitute to Senate Bill 1567.
Senator Paxton moves that the committee substitute
- Bill 1277, the committee substitute to Senate Bill 1277?
Keywords:
ad valorem taxation, tax exemption, franchise tax credit, income production, personal property, fireworks, retail sales, regulation, public safety, holidays, municipal management, continuation elections, districts, debt management, voter approval, charter amendment, home-rule municipality, local government, petition requirements, voter approval
Summary:
The committee meeting focused primarily on the discussion of various bills aimed at addressing key issues related to housing development and youth tobacco use. Notably, SB1882 was brought to the floor by Senator Betancourt, which aims to reassess the regulations surrounding moratoriums on residential and commercial property development. Several industry representatives testified in favor of the bill, emphasizing the necessity of increased transparency and more robust guidelines for imposing moratoriums. The discussions highlighted the economic impact that open-ended moratoriums can have on local builders and potential homeowners, urging the need for legislative changes to protect development rights and housing availability.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
The Senate Economic Development Committee will come to order.
- They'll be here shortly, and then another senator is walking away from their committee now and coming
- Senator Johnson sends up a committee substitute for House Bill 4341 and moves it to the floor.
Senator Johnson moves that the committee substitute
- Senator Johnson moves that the committee substitute for House
Keywords:
Defense Economic Adjustment, grant applications, economic assistance, local government, Evaluation panel, judicial review, Texas Workforce Commission, unemployment compensation, legal proceedings, labor law, rural development, economic assistance, infrastructure, Texas economic fund, private investment, job creation, meteorological evaluation towers, wind resources, aviation safety, regulations
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Economic Development Committee focused on several key bills aimed at enhancing economic development and addressing infrastructure needs in Texas. Notably, House Bill 5195 was discussed to modernize state agency websites, making them accessible and user-friendly for small businesses. Senator Alvarado emphasized the importance of this legislation in providing a better online experience for Texas residents and businesses alike, noting that outdated websites pose significant barriers. The bill received strong support from both committee members and public witnesses, highlighting its potential to spur economic growth. Furthermore, House Bills 2760 and 2765 were also favorably reported, aimed at refining the unemployment benefit appeal process and expanding resources for rural economic development, respectively.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Feb 12th, 2025 at 10:02 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
The Texas Senate has had committees formed for many weeks
The Texas Senate has passed bills out of committee to the
The Texas Senate has had committee forms for committees
The Texas Senate has had committee forms for committees
- out of committee to the Senate for deliberation, an entire day of deliberation on one of them.
Keywords:
legislation, public safety, educational reforms, funding allocations, stakeholder insights
Summary:
The committee meeting revolved around a variety of legislative matters, with significant emphasis placed on ongoing debates surrounding public safety initiatives and educational reforms. Members expressed diverse perspectives, particularly on how proposed amendments might impact local communities. A number of stakeholders offered insights, highlighting both potential benefits and drawbacks associated with the new policies being discussed. Notably, there were discussions regarding funding allocations and their implications for state resources.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Senator Gutierrez sends up the committee substitute for Senate Bill SB1177.
- Senator West sends up the committee substitute to Senate Bill 2068, and the chair recognized Senator
- Senator West sends up the committee substitute to Senate Bill 1920.
- none, we'll now begin public testimony on the committee substitute for Senate Bill 1920.
- Senator Cook moves that the committee stand in recess until 15 to 30 minutes after.
Bills:
SB434, SB844, SB898, SB1177, SB1214, SB1454, SB1920, SB1927, SB1935, SB1965, SB2010, SB2046, SB2068, SB2073, SB2183, SB2260, SB3034, SB907
Keywords:
housing authorities, tax exemptions, local government code, multifamily residential development, municipal housing authority, municipal regulation, tree removal, Ashe juniper, military base, property protection, property owners' association, board governance, homeowner regulation, declarant control, assessment limits, guaranteed income, financial assistance, local government, public funds, employment programs
Summary:
The meeting covered several significant bills, primarily focusing on enhancing transparency and accountability within local government and homeowners' associations. Notably, Senator Hinojosa introduced SB1935, aimed to reform the operations of Property Owners Association Boards, addressing concerns over insufficient representation and transparency for homeowners. The bill drew a mix of support and opposition, with testimonies highlighting the need for greater homeowner engagement in decisions affecting their communities. Additionally, SB2046 was discussed, which would enhance penalties for public officials engaging in bid rigging, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement of competitive bidding processes to curb misconduct within government contracts.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Public Education May 20th, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Public Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- It's an honor to lay out Senate Bill 735 by Senator Menendez.
- The bill passed out of the Senate Education Committee 10-0 and the entire Senate 30-0.
- This committee should be in favor of Senate Bill 1447 for two reasons.
Chairman and committee members, by passing Senate Bill
- The committee substitute for Senate Bill 568 aligns the bill with substitute language and HB 2 relating
Keywords:
parental rights, education, school trustees, training, handbook, adoption, parenting, education, family law, health curriculum, education, Holocaust, anti-Semitism, truancy, student safety, public testimony, legislation
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several critical bills aimed at improving educational standards and student safety in Texas. Notably, the discussions around SB735 concerning Holocaust education highlighted the urgency of addressing rising anti-Semitism and ensuring comprehensive education on human rights histories within public schools. Testimonies from various witnesses underscored the necessity for students to learn from historical injustices to prevent future atrocities. Moreover, SB570, aimed at implementing stricter truancy policies to enhance student attendance, was discussed with testimony supporting its significance in improving educational outcomes for at-risk students.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Business meeting to consider S.558, to provide for the consideration of a definition of antisemitism set forth by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance for the enforcement of Federal antidiscrimination laws concerning education programs or Apr 30th, 2025 at 09:00 am
Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Senator Murkowski? No by proxy. Senator Mullin? No by proxy. Senator Marshall? No. Senator Scott?
- Senator Sanders? Yes. Senator Murray? Yes, by proxy. Senator Baldwin? No. Senator Murphy? No.
- Senator Kaine? Aye. Senator Hassan? No. Senator Hickenlooper? No.
- This is a Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Senator Sanders.
- Senator Markey. No. Senator Kim. No. Senator Blunt Rochester. No. Senator Alsobrooks. No.
Keywords:
civil rights, higher education, discrimination, complaints, awareness campaign, antisemitism, discrimination, education, Civil Rights Act, IHRA definition, federal enforcement, Jewish community, anti-discrimination laws, Anti-Semitism Awareness Act, Protecting Students on Campus Act, First Amendment, Senator Tim Scott, free speech, college campuses, civil rights
Summary:
The committee meeting primarily focused on reviewing two significant bills: S558, the Anti-Semitism Awareness Act of 2025, and S163, the Protecting Students on Campus Act. Senator Tim Scott introduced S558, emphasizing its importance in combatting anti-Jewish violence and harassment, and providing the Department of Education with necessary tools to investigate incidents of anti-Semitism on college campuses. The bill sparked a vigorous debate among members who expressed concerns over potential implications for free speech, particularly regarding its definitions of anti-Semitism, and whether it would infringe upon First Amendment rights.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs May 23rd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs will come
- Unfortunately, I'm here to speak again against the Senate committee substitute offered for House Bill
- of this committee substitute laid out by the senator that
- Senator Hancock moves. Is there an objection? Hearing none, the committee substitute is adopted.
- The committee substitute for House Bill 5659 is reported in favor to the full Senate.
Keywords:
water management, groundwater, Texas Water Trust, sustainability, House Bill 3333, House Bill 4158, ecological rights
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on a variety of bills primarily concerning water management and rights. Significant discussions included House Bill 3333, which addressed the management of groundwater and was moved favorably with a recommendation for local and contested calendars. Additionally, House Bill 4158 was passed unanimously, relating to the oversight of ecological water rights dedicated to the Texas Water Trust. Members of the committee emphasized the importance of these bills for sustainable water management practices in the state, reflecting a shift towards more responsible governance in resource use.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Senate Committee on Education K-16 Mar 25th, 2025 at 08:00 am
Senate Education K-16 Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Senator Bettencourt sends up the committee substitute for Senate Bill 1871.
- Thank you, Senator Bettencourt. Committee substitute.
- Senator Creighton, do you have a committee substitute?
- Senator Hinojosa sends up the committee substitute for Senate Bill 1924.
- Senator Hinojosa moves adoption of the committee substitute for Senate Bill 1924.
Bills:
SB27, SB226, SB326, SB570, SB605, SB870, SB991, SB1871, SB1872, SB1873, SB1874, SB1924, SB1925
Keywords:
residency, public schools, child safety placement, enrollment, education code, antisemitism, student conduct, education, disciplinary actions, Texas Education Code, school marshal, handgun, open carry, school safety, Texas Education Code, mental health, telehealth, public schools, discipline management, student support
Summary:
The meeting was centered on reviewing several Senate bills focusing on school safety and discipline, primarily Senate Bills 870, 1871, 1872, 1873, 1874, and 1924. Senator Perry emphasized the urgent need for reform in school discipline policies due to increasing incidents of violence and classroom disruptions. The committee acknowledged testimonies from various educators and public witnesses who supported the proposed bills, highlighting their significance in ensuring a safer learning environment. Key discussions revolved around the ability of teachers to maintain classroom discipline, the implications of disciplinary actions, and the support necessary for students with behavioral issues.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
Senate Committee on Finance will come to order.
Senator Schwertner sends up the committee substitute for
The committee substitute for Senate Bill 2345 reforms the
- Senator Schwertner moves that we adopt the committee substitute without objection, so ordered.
- Senator Schwertner moves that we adopt the committee substitute without objection, so ordered.
Keywords:
diesel fuel tax, tax credit, auxiliary power units, power take-off equipment, refund, energy efficiency, firefighter retirement, municipal contributions, pension system, retirement benefits, funding ratios, sales tax exemption, exotic animals, game animals, agriculture, livestock, firefighter pension reform, tax equity, diesel fuel, auxiliary power units
Summary:
The Senate Finance Committee meeting covered crucial legislative discussions surrounding several important bills, particularly focused on firefighter pension reforms and tax equity for diesel fuel. Senate Bill 771, presented by Senator Hinojosa, seeks to rectify a gap in state tax law regarding tax credits for diesel fuel used in auxiliary power units. The bill drew support from several witnesses who emphasized its importance for maintaining fairness in tax treatment across fuel types. Additionally, House Bill 135, aimed at providing tax exemptions for exotic game sales, was discussed with fervent support from stakeholders within the industry. Public testimonies highlighted the positive economic impact of the bill on rural communities in Texas. The committee also reviewed Senate Bill 2345, another pension-related bill, which showcased collaboration between the city and the firefighters' association.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and Commerce May 23rd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Thank you, chair, committee. Thank you, Senator Campbell.
- Senator Campbell sends up the committee substitute for House Bill 4211, and Senator Hughes is also involved
- Senator Campbell sends up the committee substitute for House Bill 111, and Senator Hughes is also recognized
- There is a committee substitute. Senator Blanco sends a committee substitute.
- With that, members, the Senate Committee on Business...
Keywords:
public records, transparency, workforce policies, healthcare access, dental workforce, Texas legislation
Summary:
The meeting focused on various legislative proposals with notable discussions surrounding bills aimed at improving transparency in public information access, adapting workforce policies for state employment, and addressing public health workforce shortages in Texas. The key highlights included HB4214 which seeks to centralize public records request processes for better accessibility, and HB1803 aimed at enhancing the state's dental workforce through participation in a compact with other states. Several members presented arguments highlighting the necessity of these legislative initiatives in light of ongoing economic and social challenges facing Texas. Public testimonies supported these bills, demonstrating stakeholder engagement and community concerns regarding transparency, workforce efficiency, and health access.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine certain pending nominations. Apr 29th, 2025 at 08:30 am
Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel
Transcript Highlights:
- Chairman Worker, Ranking Member Reed, members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, thank you for the
- Yes, Senator.
- on this committee.
- Thank you, Senator Shaheen.
- I look forward to working with Senator Schmidt and with you and all of the members of this committee.
Keywords:
defense industrial base, small business, workforce development, acquisition processes, national security, cybersecurity, critical minerals
Summary:
The meeting of the committee revolved around critical discussions on enhancing the defense industrial base, focusing on small business engagement and the importance of streamlined processes in defense contracting. There was a significant emphasis on the need for more investment in the defense manufacturing sector, particularly in the face of competition from countries like China. Some members expressed frustration over the treatment of small businesses, citing barriers that prevent these innovative companies from effectively participating in defense contracts. The need for a workforce capable of meeting the common challenges posed by evolving technologies and geopolitical threats was also highlighted throughout the meeting.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Senator Schwertner sends up a committee substitute for Senate Bill 2322, and it's recognized in the absence
- Senator Sparks sends up a committee substitute for Senate Bill 2004.
Okay, the committee substitute for Senate Bill 2004
Senator Schwertner sets up the committee substitute
- Testimony for Senate Bill 1143 will be on the committee substitute.
Keywords:
hotel occupancy tax, municipal revenue, tax code, local government funding, Texas legislation, hotel occupancy tax, county taxation, economic development, hotel industry, Texas legislation, hotel occupancy tax, local government, counties, taxation, tourism, workforce development, youth programs, employment, education, technical training
Summary:
The meeting included rigorous discussions on several bills related to energy policy and local government incentives. Notably, SB1754 was a central focus, where many members voiced concerns about its implications for renewable energy projects, suggesting it might hinder the growth of solar and wind energy in Texas. Testimonies from stakeholders, including local residents and industry experts, illuminated the tension between economic incentives for renewable energy and community concerns over land rights and environmental impact. Additionally, the introduction of Senate Bill 1534 concerning workforce development in nuclear and radiological safety drew attention as Texas grapples with a skilled labor shortage in these critical sectors.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and Commerce (Part II) Apr 1st, 2025
Senate Business & Commerce Committee
Transcript Highlights:
Senate Committee on Business come to order.
- Senator Johnson sends a committee substitute, and you are recognized on the bill and substitute.
- Senate State Affairs Committee twice, and the full Senate three times.
- I assure you the Senate Finance Committee does not do collective bargaining.
- of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce.
Keywords:
electric generation, reliability, ERCOT, Public Utility Commission, penalties, performance requirements, energy policy, construction contracts, compensatory damages, government delays, contractor, legislation, broadband access, tax reduction, internet service, rural connectivity, infrastructure funding, distributed energy resources, interconnection, ERCOT
Summary:
The meeting of the committee featured extensive discussions surrounding SB2021 and SB2330, both of which sparked notable debate among members and stakeholders. SB2021, aimed at regulating Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), faced scrutiny for potentially creating barriers to integration and increasing costs for consumers. Advocates highlighted the bill's intention to clarify operational standards and improve accountability, while opponents raised concerns about excessive red tape hindering innovative energy solutions. SB2330 sparked similar contention, particularly regarding its implications for public employee unions and the suggested removal of government involvement in dues collection processes. Testimonies expressed worries that this would limit educators' access to professional resources and advocacy, crucial for their roles in the education sector.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
Good morning, Senate Committee on State Affairs.
- Senator Bettencourt sends up the committee substitute. Senator Paxton is.
- I'm Senator Paxton and the whole committee. I hope I said that right.
- Happy to see you, Senator Paxton, and members of the committee.
- Senator Hughes sends up the committee substitute for Senate
Keywords:
gambling, criminal offenses, penalties, defense, electronic devices, tobacco advertising, youth protection, public health, criminal offense, retailer regulation, e-cigarettes, nicotine products, health, public safety, regulation, e-cigarettes, advertising restrictions, public health, youth protection, health and safety
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on State Affairs featured intense discussions centered around the regulation of tobacco and e-cigarette products, with a particular focus on protecting minors from harmful marketing practices. Senators presented various bills addressing the marketing of these products, which included SB1313, SB1314, and SB1316. Senator Cook laid out SB1313, aimed at prohibiting deceptive marketing techniques that entice minors, alongside testimony from concerned parents advocating for stronger regulations against smoke shops near schools. The committee also examined the App Store Accountability Act, led by Senator Paxson, which aims to ensure age verification for app downloads and hold app stores accountable for protecting minors online. Public testimony played a crucial role in the discussion, with parents and experts weighing in on the necessity of stringent regulations to safeguard youth from exploitation by marketers of addictive products.