Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'victim resources'
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TX
Transcript Highlights:
- and underpaying the more reliable resources.
- I do have a resource witness, and I will...
- But I just need to bring them up as a resource.
- Somebody from the AG's office is here as a resource. Are there questions for a resource witness?
- Members, are there further questions for our resource witness?
Bills:
HB45, HB755, HB1232, HB1555, HB2460, HB2702, HB2973, HB3120, HB3225, HB3314, HB3356, HB3371, HB3634, HB3638, HB4247, HB4283, HB4290, HB4302, HB4503, HB4511, HB4565, HB4581, HB4627, HB4632, HB4660, HB4668, HB4960, HB5042
Keywords:
housing, affordable housing, rent control, landlord-tenant laws, housing rights, lobbying, public entities, expenditures, government code, transparency, lobbying, public entities, transparency, Texas Ethics Commission, government regulation, lobbying restrictions, public entities, government accountability, transparency, taxpayer money
Summary:
The committee convened to discuss several significant pieces of legislation, primarily focusing on energy policies and public safety regulations. Notable discussions included Representative McLaughlin's HB4341, which mandates energy response maps for critical infrastructure, and received unanimous support for its favorable report. Meanwhile, HB3356 faced substantial opposition due to concerns over its potential to increase consumer costs and the undue penalties it imposes on existing generators. The discussions also touched on Representative Kitzman's HB3120 aimed at improving oversight and regulations for facilities housing unaccompanied minors, reflecting the committee's commitment to child welfare and safety in Texas.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs Apr 28th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Ty, I don't see you wishing to testify publicly; you're just here as a resource. All right.
- current resources are maintained.
- While you’re doing that, I need to go ahead and get TCEQ up here for a resource witness.
- I'm with TCEQ's Water Quality Division, resource witness on the bill.
- I need to go ahead and call up the Mayor Pro Tem if he has a resource.
Keywords:
water management, environmental regulations, migrant housing, labor standards, wastewater treatment, utility rates
Summary:
The meeting was convened to discuss several pivotal bills primarily relating to water management, environmental regulations, and labor standards. Amongst key discussions, SB243 aimed to reform migrant housing penalties, transforming the flat fee structure into a more compelling model that could incite improvements in living conditions for migrant workers. Furthermore, the committee deliberated on SB2159 and SB2568, both significant for addressing water resource management in Medina County, with testimonies from local water authority representatives emphasizing the urgent need for updated legislative support amid local growth pressures. Other bills discussed included SB1891 and SB1442, which prompted lively debates regarding utility rate adjustments and environmental compliance procedures for wastewater facilities.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Mar 12th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- work on our port of entry enforcement and focused on illegal smuggling and commercialization of resources
- we increased the number of game wardens in 2016, has added about 3 million people utilizing the resource
- We are looking for resources to attract officers from other
- You can also ask that question to the resource witnesses.
- I can answer any questions, and we do have some resource witnesses here as well.
Keywords:
firearm acquisition, gun smuggling, criminal offenses, ammunition, terrorism, public safety, driver's license, vision correction, medical verification, Texas Department of Public Safety, renewal fees, weapons, community supervision, law enforcement, retired officers, prohibition, criminal liability, public safety, missing children, law enforcement
Summary:
The committee convened to discuss several major legislative bills, focusing particularly on enhancing law enforcement's ability to respond to missing children and addressing increasing border security concerns. One significant bill discussed was HB908, which mandates that law enforcement agencies report missing children to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children within a strict time frame. Testimonies primarily supported the urgency and need for swift action regarding missing children, with members underscoring the imperative to streamline procedures to ensure every case is handled urgently. Additionally, discussions on HB674 centered around adjusting the penalty structure for criminal trespass incidents related to avoiding law enforcement checkpoints, seen as a crucial measure to deter illegal crossings and enhance border security.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Senate Committee on Education K-16 Apr 3rd, 2025 at 09:00 am
Senate Education K-16 Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- I believe there is a TEA resource witness available.
- Resource witness. Senator Bettencourt.
- And there is a resource witness if we need them, Mr. Chairman.
- My name's Elaine Britt, and I work in human resources at Rice University.
- I don't need the resource witness. Thank you so much for being here, wherever she is.
Bills:
SB530, SB757, SB769, SB1085, SB1241, SB1242, SB1409, SB1878, SB2138, SB2314, SB2231, SB2361, SB2431, SJR59
Keywords:
accreditation, postsecondary education, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, baccalaureate degrees, junior colleges, program delivery, faculty recruitment, higher education, performance standards, student loan debt, degree programs, funding, higher education, students with disabilities, accessibility, enrollment, report, Texas State Technical College System, land acquisition, facilities development
Summary:
The meeting focused on significant education reform, particularly the transition of the University of Houston-Victoria into the Texas A&M system. Senator Kohlkorst led the discussions, highlighting the historical context of the partnership and the challenges ahead in transitioning governance, especially regarding accreditation and technical support. Community leaders expressed their support, emphasizing the need for alignment with regional industry needs to enhance educational programs that would ultimately benefit both students and the local economy. Notably, testimony from James Hallmark and Dwayne Crocker highlighted both the potential growth for the region and the collaborative spirit of the involved institutions in implementing this transition.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- A resource.
- You know, we talk a lot about kids being the most important resource.
- If not, thank you very much for being here as a resource.
- Oh, we do have a few resources.
- Any other questions of the resource witness?
Bills:
SB249, SB546, SB744, SB927, SB1227, SB1229, SB1353, SB1365, SB1366, SB1394, SB1464, SB1709, SB1729, SB1733, SB1744, SB1745, SB1746, SB1772, SB1816, SB1841, SB1939
Keywords:
memorial markers, law enforcement, officer memorials, killed in the line of duty, highway signage, school bus, traffic enforcement, safety, recorded evidence, video monitoring, Veterans Memorial Highway, highway designation, Smith County, commemoration, transportation, driver education, work zones, traffic safety, construction, penalties
Summary:
The meeting of the committee was marked by numerous discussions regarding various bills, notably around Senate Bills 1772 and 1816. SB1772, which aims to honor Jose Maria Longoria Sr. by designating a portion of Farm-to-Market Road 2360 as a memorial highway, received unanimous support with no objections from members during the voting process. In contrast, SB1816's committee substitute was adopted without contention, leading to its approval by a vote of seven ayes and no nays. Additionally, discussions around SB1841 centered on privacy issues, culminating in the bill being favorably reported to the full Senate as well. The atmosphere was collaborative, with ample public testimony and participation from various stakeholders, driving meaningful dialogue around the importance of these legislative efforts.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I am Reverend Janet Collins of Agape Resource and Assistance Center in Plano.
- It's vital that these families have seamless access to their needed resources.
- If they are, they'll be my resource witnesses.
- We will see if anybody needs to talk to the resource. We'll call you back.
- Do we have a resource witness from the AG's office here?
Bills:
HB551, HB1281, HB1378, HB1617, HB2868, HB2881, HB3374, HB4439, HB4726, HB4732, HB4878, HB4914, HB4921, HB4958, HB5200, HB5318, HB5402, HB5568, HB5573, HB5623, HJR218, HB5360
Keywords:
political contributions, address privacy, Texas Ethics Commission, election transparency, campaign finance, international organizations, World Health Organization, jurisdiction, state law, enforcement, United Nations, World Economic Forum, attorney general, international organizations, jurisdiction, World Health Organization, United Nations, World Economic Forum, state law, enforcement
Summary:
During this meeting, various important bills were discussed, including HB5573, which aims to provide whistleblower protections for public employees reporting wasteful government spending. Representative Bojani emphasized the need to encourage ethical governance and transparency in government operations. The committee adopted a key amendment to enhance protections against retaliatory actions towards these whistleblowers, highlighting a commitment to fostering accountability within the government. Additionally, HB5623 and HB4921 were moved forward with favorable reports, focusing on energy efficiency projects and the prohibition of state funds benefiting companies that outsource jobs, respectively, reflecting concerns about job retention in Texas.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Licensing & Administrative Procedures Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am
House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- As a resource witness, does anyone have any questions? Thank you, Charlotte.
- Members, we have a resource person here, Doug Jennings, who will sign up to testify.
- Professional employer organizations provide critical human resource services.
- Members, we do have a resource...
- If anyone would like to hear from the resource witness.
Keywords:
elevator inspection, building safety, construction standards, health and safety code, regulatory requirements, public safety, licensing, regulatory measures, cosmetology, driver education, committee meeting
Summary:
The committee meeting covered a variety of bills primarily focusing on public safety, regulatory measures, and licensing issues. Notable discussions included the approval of SB1366, which mandates the inclusion of construction and maintenance work zone information in driver education curriculums, and SB378, which clarifies the restrictions on cosmetologists and estheticians regarding injections and incisions, addressing safety concerns regarding unauthorized procedures. Members actively debated the merits of these bills, with several voiced concerns about the implications for public health and safety. The meeting also saw the passage of several bills without opposition, indicating a generally collaborative atmosphere among members.
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
We do have a resource witness from the TCEQ.
- ...does anybody wish to ask questions of our resource witness
- Resource witness, if anyone wishes to have a resource witness
- We also have the Railroad Commission here as a resource.
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
Appropriations - S/C on Article III Feb 24th, 2025 at 10:00 am
House Appropriations - S/C on Article III
Transcript Highlights:
- Representative Martinez is a regarded member of this subcommittee and continues to be a valuable resource
- The annualization of Curriculum and Open Education Resource
- If you're going to do a significant resource infusion, you should also change the funding formula.
- Currently, four of our 100 campuses have access in the classroom to connectivity for online resources
- Students should have access to resources they need.
Keywords:
education funding, basic allotment, public testimonies, school districts, legislative recommendations
Summary:
The meeting primarily focused on reviewing updates and recommendations related to education funding and legislative measures for public schools. Significant discussions included the implications of the new educational budget proposal, as well as public testimonies advocating for increased funding to support school districts facing financial difficulties. Notably, there was a strong emphasis on adjusting the basic allotment to accommodate inflation and ensure that school funding is based on student enrollment rather than attendance, to better support districts struggling with deficits and operational challenges.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Do you have a resource if you need them? Okay, I don't think we have any questions.
- What we're trying to make, obviously, is that resources should be devoted to large fire...
- So I just know what the area is like and how difficult it is to get resources to the fire.
- Right now, members, we have two resource witnesses: Mr.
- As I said, we have a resource witness. Do we have any cards? No?
Keywords:
tax penalties, interest calculation, overpayment, tax law, refund process, historic preservation, heritage tourism, public engagement, Texas Historical Commission, education, pension system, actuarially sound, emergency services, legacy liability, anonymized contributions, economic stabilization fund, state finance, constitutional amendment, budget management, financial security
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Finance included the introduction of SB1337 by Senator Krayton. This bill aims to provide a fair and accurate system for calculating tax obligations, mandating the comptroller to assess penalties only on the net tax due from a taxpayer rather than allowing overpayments to offset underpayments under limited circumstances. Senator Krayton elaborated on how the bill ensures that taxpayers who overpay can use that surplus to cover any underpaid taxes of the same type, ensuring fairness for both the state and taxpayers. Several discussions ensued regarding the administration of the bill, with contributions from various members including representatives from the Comptroller's Office.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Delivery of Government Efficiency Mar 5th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- So those resources cost more money. It's a more high-touch resource.
- It's a wonderful resource for us.
- Our needs are different; resourcing is different.
- The resource that I'm aware of seeing is produced by TASB.
- We do try to be good stewards of taxpayer resources.
Keywords:
government efficiency, accountability, public hearings, cybersecurity, state agencies, taxpayer dollars, oversight, modernization, legislative proposals
Summary:
The meeting of the House Committee on Delivery of Government Efficiency marked the beginning of a new era focused on holding government agencies accountable and eliminating inefficiencies. Chairman Capriglione emphasized the committee's role in modernizing state government, implementing rigorous oversight, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used effectively. The committee plans to address waste, mismanagement, and corruption, aiming for an ambitious agenda over the next 22 months. Discussions included the establishment of public hearings to foster transparency and the development of legislative proposals to drive reform. Several state agencies provided insights into their operations, with a particular focus on how they can better serve the public through increased efficiency and enhanced cybersecurity measures.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Are they resource or invited testimony?
- Are you invite testimony or resource?
- Okay, and you're the resource witness. What is your role, sir?
- What a wonderful resource.
- We're checking on that resource.
Keywords:
higher education, tuition rates, financial support, immigration status, Texas law, athletic scholarships, foreign students, higher education, Texas Senate Bill, public universities, charter school, adult education, high school diploma, liability protection, performance metrics, enrollment capacity, school start date, education, local control, district of innovation
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Education Committee was marked by intense discussions surrounding several key pieces of legislation, particularly focusing on SB1798, which seeks to repeal the Texas DREAM Act. Advocates for the bill argued that it is important to restrict state financial aid to individuals unlawfully present in the United States, asserting that taxpayer resources should primarily benefit legal residents. Conversely, numerous witnesses testified against SB1798, emphasizing the economic contributions of Texas DREAMers and the long-standing positive impacts of the existing DREAM Act on Texas communities and workforce. The heated debate highlighted the stark divisions surrounding immigration policies and their implications on education and opportunity for young Texans who have grown up in the state. The meeting concluded with SB1798 left pending, awaiting further consideration, signifying ongoing concerns and unresolved sentiments among committee members.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services May 20th, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- We only have registered to testify a resource witness.
- I would urge you to direct resources to women, ensuring access to those resources before she makes her
- I'm speaking here today as a resource witness.
- However, UTMB does have a resource witness here.
- Those are resource only.
Bills:
HB163, HB216, HB721, HB2035, HB2038, HB3057, HB3153, HB3233, HB3595, HB3801, HB3812, HB4076, HB4129, HB4377, HB4535, HB4666, HB4730, HB4743, HB4903, HB5149, HB5155, HB1534
Keywords:
epinephrine, healthcare, emergency response, administration, medical policy, health care, itemized billing, patient rights, provider regulations, Texas Health and Safety Code, health care, cost disclosure, insurance, benefit plan, administrators, chemical dependency, treatment facilities, minor admissions, parental notice, mental health
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services discussed multiple bills focused on diverse health issues including maternal care, organ transplant eligibility, and child welfare regulations. Notably, HB215, presented by Senator Perry, received attention for its provisions on requiring itemized bills from healthcare providers to enhance transparency. The bill garnered support from various witnesses who emphasized the importance of clearer billing processes for patients. Another significant discussion point was HB4076, which aimed to prevent discrimination against individuals seeking organ transplants based on vaccination status. This bill sparked public testimony highlighting the ethical implications of such mandates on vulnerable patients, especially children. Overall, the committee's deliberations emphasized a commitment to improving health care transparency and patient rights in Texas.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and Commerce (Part I) Apr 8th, 2025
Senate Business & Commerce Committee
Transcript Highlights:
We're not limited; we're not resource-limited in the
- David Stagg, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, is available as a resource for this.
- As kind of a steward, if there are companies that do not succeed, their resources would revert, kind
- OSMOS is here really as a resource.
- Resources everywhere, and people are stressed right now.
Keywords:
utility systems, Texas A&M, regents authority, construction, improvement, construction contracts, trust funds, property rights, mechanics lien, contractors, trustee liability, construction contracts, trust funds, mechanic's lien, liability, attorney's fees, windstorm insurance, Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, insurance regulation, administrative penalties
Summary:
In this committee meeting, a wide range of topics were addressed, notably the advancement of nuclear energy in Texas. The committee discussed Senate Bill 2967, aimed at exploring innovative energy technologies and the role of nuclear power in ensuring energy security. Several expert testimonies were heard, including insights from former PUC Commissioner Doug Robinson, who emphasized the potential of modular reactors and necessary state support to navigate the financial challenges commonly faced by nuclear energy projects. The committee's focus was on understanding current nuclear technology stages, determining required state incentives, and assessing the overall energy landscape in Texas.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Energy Resources Apr 7th, 2025 at 12:00 pm
House Energy Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- I think it's David Ferguson as a resource witness, potentially, that we can call to.
- In the Natural Resources Code, the fine would increase from $10,000 to $25,000, and in the Water Code
- I think we only have one witness, and that's the Railroad Commission as a resource.
Does anyone want to hear from the resource?
- The Railroad Commission does a great job with the resources they have to plug these wells.
Keywords:
inactive wells, oil and gas regulation, environmental protection, Railroad Commission of Texas, well plugging, Railroad Commission, penalties, violations, pipeline safety, civil penalties, criminal penalties, environmental protection, wildfire prevention, oil and gas, safety inspections, administrative penalties, Railroad Commission of Texas, excavation, notification, utilities
Summary:
The meeting of the House Committee focused predominantly on House Bill 3791, which aims to reform the notification requirements for excavators before commencing work. Representative Batson introduced the bill, emphasizing the need to update Texas's current 48-hour notification system to align with 45 other states, where the notification period is typically two business days. The bill aims to enhance public safety and streamline the excavation process, allowing for a more efficient and timely communication system among excavators and utility locators. During the discussions, Vice Chair Morales raised concerns regarding equitable enforcement and the absence of penalties for locators if deadlines aren't met, which led to a more in-depth conversation about enhancing responsibility across parties involved in the excavation process.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services (Part I) Mar 5th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- We do have a resource witness if you have questions.
- We do have a resource witness if you have questions.
- Thank you, HHSC, for being a resource witness.
- I've got to go to Natural Resources, right?
- down, but also on our EMS resources.
Keywords:
healthcare reform, pharmacy benefit managers, consumer protection, community-based care, child welfare, Senate Bill 513, House Bill 1919, House Bill 1763
Summary:
The meeting involved in-depth discussions focused primarily on several significant bills aimed at reforming healthcare, improving consumer protection, and enhancing community-based care. Key highlights included House Bill 1919 and House Bill 1763, which address the roles and regulation of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) in Texas. Lawmakers emphasized the need for these bills to create a fairer landscape for independent pharmacies while ensuring patient access to necessary medications. Public testimonies reflected both support for the reforms and concerns regarding their potential implications. Another major topic was Senate Bill 513, which proposes the development of a pilot program for community-based care in rural West Texas, aiming to improve child welfare services in regions facing unique challenges.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Agriculture & Livestock Mar 4th, 2025 at 02:00 pm
House Agriculture & Livestock Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Hunter: Yes, sir, I'm just here as a resource for you.
- Lansford, Deputy Executive Director and Assistant State Veterinarian, just here as a resource.
- We at TSCRA want to be a resource for y'all.
- Across the state of Texas, rapid population growth is increasing demand for our water resources.
- Any legislation that's going to ask this agency to vote time and resources...
Summary:
The meeting covered various topics and was characterized by in-depth discussions among the members. There were significant dialogues about the implications of recent legislation and its impact on community services. The chair facilitated input from multiple members, allowing for both support and opposition to be voiced regarding key issues. Additionally, there were several public testimonies that added to the discourse, reflecting diverse perspectives on the matters at hand.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- > I am from Midland in support of this bill, and I'm here as a resource
- Well, there are costs associated with donating this resource.
- This work requires significant resources and funding.
- There's also a resource from the comptroller's office who can answer your questions.
- As indicated, we do have a resource witness. Does anybody have any questions for the witness?
Bills:
HB249, HB1186, HB2313, HB2408, HB2508, HB2730, HB2974, HB3045, HB3232, HB3336, HB3710, HB4044, HB4236, HJR133
Keywords:
ad valorem taxes, property taxes, homestead exemption, disabled veterans, senior citizens, tax payments, installment payments, municipal tax revenue, hotel, convention center, tax code, economic development, local government, municipality, tax revenue, qualified projects, economic development, local government, municipal taxation, hotel project
Summary:
The Committee on Ways and Means convened to discuss several proposed bills, including HB4044, HB103, and HB3045, focusing on tax reform and support for local development initiatives. Representative Troxler introduced a committee substitute for HB103, which was subsequently adopted without objection, demonstrating consensus on its merits. HB3045 sought to incentivize spaceport operations with franchise tax breaks for contracts related to the Department of Defense, emphasizing Texas's commitment to lead in the aerospace industry. The meeting concluded with discussions around the importance of the Property Value Study (PBS) and its impact on equitable taxation, with members addressing concerns about the effective administration of property appraisals and future legislative actions.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Members, we have a resource witness. Would anyone like to ask the resource witness any questions?
- Members, we have a resource witness.
- Would you like to ask any questions of the resource witness?
- , our students, and my greatest resources, my family.
- It's a valuable resource, and we need to protect it.
Bills:
HB886, HB1514, HB2434, HB2688, HB2802, HB3161, HB3221, HB4029, HB4339, HB4591, HB4774, HB4802, HB4853, HB5627, SB1737
Keywords:
retirement, supplemental payment, benefits, Employees Retirement System, eligible annuitants, legislation, annuity, retirement, service credit, Employees Retirement System of Texas, employee benefits, pension reform, public retirement systems, municipality pensions, firefighters, police officers, retirement age, DROP program, actuarial studies, pension benefits
Summary:
The meeting was focused on a range of significant legislation including discussions on retirement benefits for public safety officers and specific bills aimed at addressing current challenges in the pension systems. Representative Busey introduced HB2802, aimed at stabilizing the Austin Firefighters Retirement Fund, which received support from various stakeholders including Mayor Kirk Watson, reflecting months of collaborative effort. Testimony emphasized the need for proactive changes to prevent future financial crises in the fund. Additionally, HB4029, proposed by Chairman Guillen, generated appeals from various members about the necessity of addressing retirement needs for peace officers in public schools, linking it directly to their recruitment and retention challenges in the current environment. Issues regarding recruitment and the financial sustainability of the Houston Fire Department were also highlighted with HB2688, enabling timely action on pressing pension reform to retain skilled personnel.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
Natural Resources will come to order.
- Chairman, Jeremy Mazur, Director of Infrastructure and Natural Resources Policy with Texas 2036.
- But I'm sure TCEQ, if they have a resource, can explain that.
- Ben Barkley, Office of Public Utility Counsel, and I'm just here as a resource.
- Because we know that water is a precious resource around Texas, right?
Keywords:
groundwater, export fees, conservation district, interlocal contracts, water supply, groundwater, water conservation, permit application, neighboring districts, aquifer, water rates, utility regulation, financial hardship, rate increase cap, Class A utilities, dissolution, special districts, water code, inactive districts, environmental quality
Summary:
The recent meeting of the Natural Resources Committee covered significant discussions primarily focused on various water-related bills, notably HB685, HB1918, HB2601, and HB2608. Representative Wally introduced HB1918, which seeks to limit water rate increases for Class A utilities to a maximum of 20% every 36 months. The bill is in response to alarming reports from constituents who experienced drastic increases in their water bills, leading to concerns about financial sustainability for residents on fixed incomes. Supporters emphasized the need for better regulations to protect consumers, while opponents argued that the bill could dissuade necessary investments in utility infrastructure, jeopardizing service quality. Public testimony was a vital component, with various stakeholders expressing both support and opposition to the proposals under discussion.