Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'legislative priorities'

Page 32 of 56
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Mar 20th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In the original file measure, one is a legislative council
  • With this legislation, is it an after, is it an aftereffect because of what happened at A&M?
  • legislative education equity coalition.
  • Legislation. Ideology is a complex matter.
  • Legislation that directs a hunt for Galileo, if you will, undermines that essential goal.
Summary: The meeting convened with significant discussions centered around higher education legislation in Texas, particularly focusing on research security and curriculum governance. Senator Brian Hughes introduced SB1273, which aims to establish a Higher Education Research Security Council to bolster security practices against potential espionage while promoting collaboration among Texas Tier 1 research institutions. Witness testimony included insights from Dr. Kevin Gamache of Texas A&M University, who underscored the importance of safeguarding academic resources to maintain Texas’s leadership in research. The committee unanimously adopted a substitute for the bill which elevated its scope to include private institutions as well, reflecting a broader approach to research security.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • span> to the Committee on Health and Human Services for the 89th legislative
  • He's been around for a while now, but he's joining me in this first session as my Legislative Director
  • I'm grateful to the Lieutenant Governor for giving a priority number to this. We have a number...
  • Be in compliance with this particular legislation.
  • It's time we legislate like it.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services centered around two significant bills, SB25 and SB314, aimed at addressing the growing health crisis in Texas, particularly concerning children. The legislators acknowledged the prevalence of diet-related chronic health issues, including obesity and diabetes, and emphasized the need for a legislative response to improve dietary standards in schools. Senator Kocher championed SB25, which promotes measures like nutrition training for physicians, enhanced food labeling, and physical activity in schools as ways to combat the health crisis. Senator Hughes presented SB314, focusing specifically on prohibiting certain harmful chemicals in school meal programs and ensuring that children have access to healthier food options during school hours.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Mar 18th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We should show you in the record as for the legislation. Thank you so much.
  • Texas Children, and I am testifying in favor of the affirming biological truth, advocating for legislation
  • I agree that the school sexual education priority...
  • We believe in a culture of life, as Senator King said, and we believe that this legislation helps support
  • this incredible legislation forward.
Summary: The Senate Education Committee convened to discuss multiple bills, primarily focusing on SB1619 and SB6019. Senator Dean Zaffirini presented SB1619, and the discussion revolved around modernizing the state's approach to epinephrine delivery devices. The highlighted importance of addressing anaphylaxis treatments in schools, particularly focusing on ensuring that both current and future delivery methods are adequately represented in the legislation was prominent. Participation from public testimony was also anticipated, allowing for community engagement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education May 6th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It was established by legislative action.
  • very process-oriented piece of legislation, right?
  • Again, I try to view this bill as a piece of governance legislation.
  • I mean, that might be the intent, but there's nothing in this legislation stopping that.
  • You don't see anything in the legislation.
Summary: The meeting focused on several significant bills, with notable discussions surrounding SB37, which aims to overhaul the governance and curriculum oversight of higher education in Texas. Representative Shaheen expressed that the bill is intended to ensure that degrees earned in Texas are valuable and properly aligned with workforce demands. Witnesses presented both support and opposition to the bill, presenting various perspectives on its potential impact on academic freedom and educational quality. One associate professor voiced concerns regarding SB37, arguing it could stifle open discussions and critical thinking in classrooms by imposing political oversight on curricula. The discussion highlighted a divide between representatives who support increased legislative oversight and those who fear it will undermine educational integrity.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I started reading up on some proposed legislation that.
  • Thank you for bringing this legislation.
  • Piece of legislation.
  • Certainly, judges don't actually offer comments on legislation.
  • entertain purposeless legislation.
Summary: The committee meeting centered around a range of bills, with significant focus on public safety and welfare issues. Discussions highlighted the implications of HB166, which aims to enhance protections for vulnerable populations against the dangers of fentanyl exposure. Witness testimonies were presented both in support and opposition to the legislation. Representative Capriglione underscored the urgency of addressing this growing concern, as fentanyl's potency poses a lethal risk, particularly to children, elderly individuals, and disabled individuals. The session included a robust debate on how best to enforce these legal protections while balancing concerns about enforcement complexities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Mar 6th, 2025 at 08:03 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That would be my number one priority.
  • Members of the Texas Legislative Committee.
  • Thank you for including some of our legislative requests in this bill.
  • This legislative recommendation received a unanimous

Bills: HB2
Summary: The Public Education Committee meeting primarily focused on discussions related to House Bill 2, which addresses public education funding and the need for increased Texas teacher salaries. Testimonies were provided by various educators and stakeholders expressing concerns about the existing funding levels, particularly highlighting the inadequacy of the proposed $220 per student increase, which many believe falls short of what is necessary to meet inflation and the growing costs of education. During the testimony, members emphasized the need for a substantial increase to at least $1,300 per student, citing a critical shortage of certified teachers and the impact this has on student learning outcomes. Witness statements indicated that without a significant funding overhaul, students and teachers would continue to suffer from underfunded programs and resources.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am

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

Transcript Highlights:
  • Please note that the adoption of this would have to come in conjunction with the passage of legislation
  • So, has it been in prior legislation? Yeah.

  • That's, this rider is essentially giving that legislative
  • E-process to fulfill legislative mandates.
  • There was an initiative last legislative session.
Summary: The meeting of the appropriations committee focused on a range of topics including budget adjustments for various state departments and agencies. Key points of discussion included the Texas Department of Criminal Justice budget, which saw considerations for funding adjustments to support both community supervision and correction programs. The committee members exhibited keen interest in mental health resources, with some discussions revolving around a proposed additional funding for staff and programs aimed at improving support for vulnerable populations in the justice system. Additionally, there were discussions regarding the adequacy of existing resources for elderly inmates, and the potential need for policy changes around this issue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • data-time="36">All public comments submitted through the portal will be posted on the electronic legislative
  • My legislation will say that in 90% of cases, the body's

  • We strive to be conscious of language within proposed legislation.
  • We corrected two words that were a drafting error in the introduced legislation. Dr.
  • This legislative update will empower us to build upon our existing legislative authorities to rapidly
Summary: During this committee meeting, a range of bills focused on enhancing Texas's healthcare and educational workforce were discussed. Notable discussions included HB1787, which aims to improve cancer prevention through education and vaccination, with concerns raised about its implications on personal choice regarding vaccines. HB5180 addressed diploma designation issues amid institutional mergers, and students provided testimony on the emotional significance of diplomas bearing their attending institution's name. Meanwhile, the committee aggressively pursued initiatives under HB5333 to boost local STEM education and production of doctoral graduates within the state, promoting collaboration between institutions and industries to foster talent development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you for considering this vital legislation.
  • In 2015 and 2017, Texas enacted legislation to expand who can receive an order of nondisclosure.
  • The goal of this legislation is to keep...
  • House Bill 1826 builds upon our previous work with House Bill 2044 for the 88th legislative session.
  • This is the second time that I filed this piece of legislation, and I do think that it's an area and
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several legislative bills, primarily related to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) and corrections. Notable discussions included the adoption of committee substitutes for bills such as HB1515, which proposes the TDCJ Sunset Bill, and HB2854, which discusses necessary hospital visits for inmates. The meeting featured extensive participation from members and witnesses, who provided testimonies in support of or opposition to the various bills. The atmosphere remained collaborative, with members showing mutual respect during discussions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services May 6th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • that an SSCC is ready to move to the next phase based on those readiness stage gates has to be a priority
  • or any other legislation before this committee for that matter.
  • of this committee and legislation that affects that.
  • To engage on all future legislation.
  • This legislation paves the way for safer, more stable placements and better outcomes for the children
Summary: The meeting highlighted significant discussions surrounding child welfare and community-based care, focusing primarily on SB1398 and HB5396. Notably, representatives expressed concerns about the effectiveness and transparency of the current system, emphasizing the need for stronger documentation and accountability measures in handling cases of children and families. Senator Davis discussed the implications of SB596, which seeks to enhance data collection regarding outcomes of cases handled by the Department of Family and Protective Services, aiming to improve service delivery and outcomes for vulnerable children. Public testimony was heard from various stakeholders, highlighting the need for collaboration and understanding throughout the legislative process, which ultimately aims to better support families and prevent the need for child removal from their homes.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • It's been great; it was groundbreaking legislation way back when I was in the House.
  • Protecting the integrity of the food supply is the number one priority of food and beverage manufacturers
Summary: The committee convened to discuss SB25, receiving public testimonies from various stakeholders. Significant discussions centered around the implications of the bill, with multiple witnesses voicing their support and concerns. The atmosphere was engaging, with committee members actively questioning the witnesses to clarify their positions and gain deeper insights into the potential impact of the legislation. Chairman's leadership facilitated a structured dialogue that allowed for both support and opposition viewpoints to be expressed.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Like you, my priorities are the nearly 6 million public school students across the state.
  • move forward with some legislation designed to trim...
  • ...that are not legislative changes.
  • I believe we're talking about that and some other legislation.
  • We, I'm sure like many of you, had a legislative council draft that we're told just to move...
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Public Education involved significant discussions regarding several bills aimed at improving the functioning and quality of public education in Texas. Notably, Representative Tepper presented HB3627, which seeks to empower the State Board of Education to employ its own personnel to fulfill its responsibilities more effectively. Chairman Kinsey also provided testimony highlighting the continued commitment to enhancing educational materials and instructional quality following the successful passage of HB1605 in the previous session. The committee demonstrated active engagement as members reviewed the implications of these bills on teacher workload and administrative burdens associated with current educational regulations, indicating a desire to enhance the work environment for educators.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs May 5th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This legislation will help to ensure that libraries remain a safe place for children, where they can
  • Would you be okay with legislation, if this legislation were amended or changed, that said you can't
  • Last legislative session, this body passed Senate Bill 12, which attempted to ban.
  • Last legislative session, similar issues arose with even less broad language in this.
  • Simply, in this particular piece of legislation, it's four words. It's a word...
Bills: SB34, SB75, SB330, SB1535, SB18
Summary: The committee meeting was focused on several critical pieces of legislation, particularly SB34 aimed at enhancing wildfire response capabilities for volunteer fire departments throughout Texas. This bill introduces a statewide database for firefighting equipment and raises the grant cap for rural volunteer fire departments. Various witnesses, including experts and stakeholders, testified in support of the bill by emphasizing the increasing wildfire threats experienced in recent years. The committee spent considerable time addressing the amendments and concerns surrounding ongoing wildfire risks, ensuring that necessary resources are allocated to combat this urgency effectively. Discussion also revolved around SB75, a bill that seeks to codify security measures for the Texas electric grid in response to potential electromagnetic pulse threats and other vulnerabilities, with multiple testimonies highlighting the considerable risks posed to public safety and infrastructure if inaction persists. In addition to other bills discussed, there were notable debates around SB18 which aims to restrict public funding for libraries hosting certain performances. Critics expressed concerns over the potential limitations on community literacy programs, drawing attention to the overwhelming need for inclusive educational resources to combat literacy issues in Texas. The rigorous dialogue reflected the committee's commitment to not only legislative processes but also the significant impact these decisions hold for the broader Texas community. Overall, the meeting was well-attended, indicating active participation from both members and the public.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • What happened after the legislation was passed in.
  • We believe this is the intent of this legislation.
  • I'm the legislative officer.
  • Well, this legislation does allow that. It allows...
  • ...legislation.
Summary: The meeting highlighted significant issues regarding housing funding mechanisms, particularly surrounding the complexities of Housing Finance Corporations (HFCs). Members voiced their concerns about the financial impacts these HFCs have on local government revenues, given that many property tax exemptions are given while maintaining market-rate rents. This discussion was sparked by alarming statistics indicating a rapid increase in tax dollars removed from local jurisdictions due to HFC activities, stressing the need for regulatory reforms to preserve affordable housing without financially jeopardizing municipalities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Mar 10th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Holders receive payment in order of priority after the proceeds.
  • This legislation strikes a necessary balance between protecting electoral integrity and preserving free
  • an era where artificial intelligence makes convincing false media increasingly accessible, this legislation
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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Mar 25th, 2025 at 02:03 pm

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That would be a cleanup for legislative council.
  • I'm trying to figure out the legislative intent of 38-37.
  • Legislative intent is what a legislator intended when he
  • What's in the legislative record?
  • It's just a legislative...
Summary: The committee meeting focused on a range of bills addressing important topics such as artificial intelligence and sexual exploitation laws. Notably, House Bill 235, which aims to add civil and criminal liability for the use of AI-generated deepfake materials, garnered discussion from multiple members and witnesses, including Adrian Shelley from Public Citizen who expressed support for the bill. Concerns about ensuring the legislation's clarity and enforcement were raised. Additionally, House Bill 207 was presented, which seeks to expand definitions within sexual offense laws to include representations involving anatomically correct dolls, eliciting varied perspectives from representatives during the debate.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Is this a priority for you?
  • So under the current law, I want to talk about legislation helping terminally ill individuals.
  • Over the last several congresses, I've been working in a bipartisan manner across the aisle on legislation
  • That's why I've co-sponsored legislation called the Expedited Disability Insurance Payments for Terminally
  • You know, obviously that should hit, you know, high priority
Summary: The committee meeting focused heavily on the nomination of Frank Bisignano as the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration, with intense discussions around the current state of Social Security and its management under the current administration. Members voiced significant concerns regarding potential changes to Social Security and Medicaid, specifically addressing issues such as office closures, delays in benefit processing, and the perceived policies from Elon Musk's association with the administration. Public testimonies highlighted fears that these changes would severely impact the accessibility of benefits for seniors and vulnerable individuals, resulting in a chaotic environment at the SSA. Members expressed a unified opposition to the notion of dismantling these critical programs, emphasizing the long-term implications on their constituents' well-being.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations Mar 31st, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span>

    I know Senator, Representative Kempel and I passed legislation

  • I know there are legislative priorities and other questions
  • I served in the Texas Legislative Black Caucus.

  • Borris Miles, and it was just such a privilege to be able to work with him, particularly not just on legislation
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:
  • The bill provides a legislative council draft and gets

  • it assigned legislative council numbers.
  • But currently, Florida, Louisiana, and Alaska have similar legislation.
  • Like Senator Hancock, we're in line, probably behind him, but we're waiting on the legislative council
  • Donor and patient safety is our top priority at blood centers, and the blood supply is very safe.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services focused primarily on several key bills aimed at improving health care regulations and patient rights. Notably, Senator Hall introduced SB125, aiming to allow for direct and autologous blood donations, which sparked passionate debates among committee members and invited witnesses. Concerns were raised regarding the bill's implications for patient safety and the feasibility of the proposed 72-hour notice period for hospitals. Testimonies highlighted personal experiences, including that of the Lehrer family, advocating for the bill based on their children's health needs and the challenges faced due to current regulations. Conversely, several representatives from blood centers expressed opposition, cautioning that the bill could burden the blood donation system and adversely impact the quality of care for patients with special needs. Additionally, SB315 was present to address genetic privacy issues, aiming to grant Texans property rights over their DNA and genetic information. This bill also brought forth discussions about the ethical implications of genetic testing and data privacy in light of technological advancements. As the meeting progressed, representatives underscored the importance of balancing legislative intentions with practical outcomes, initiating further discussions on amendments and committee substitutes that would refine the proposed laws.

Research Filters

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