Transcript Highlights:

• At this time, the chair lays out Senate Bill 512 by Senator

• We filed Senate Bill 1607, which passed Business and Commerce
• unanimously and passed the Senate.
• I'm here to respectfully oppose Senate Bill.
• Is there any further business for the committee to address? If not, the chair moves to adjourn.

Bills: SB512, SB1024

Keywords: money transmission, public finance, certificates of obligation, tax anticipation notes, consumer protection, First Amendment, voter will

Summary: The meeting focused on the discussion of two significant pieces of legislation: SB512 and SB1024. SB512 aims to protect users of money transmission services by preventing penalties imposed by service providers for violating terms of service. Representative Hayes explained that this bill responds to troubling practices observed among money service businesses. Public testimonies were presented both in support and opposition to the bill, highlighting concerns over First Amendment rights and the implications for consumer protection. The committee ultimately left the bill pending for further consideration. In contrast, SB1024 addresses public finance issues, specifically the misuse of voter-rejected projects through certificates of obligation and tax anticipation notes. Senator Betancourt described instances where municipalities have circumvented voter will by issuing debt for projects previously rejected in elections. The committee heard extensive public testimony critiquing the proposed restrictions in the bill, with arguments centered around the potential unintended consequences for local governments and necessary infrastructure projects. Both bills generated lively discussions among committee members, leading to wider considerations of public finance ethics and the relationship between voters and local governments.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm proud to join you and join Senator Hagerty, Senator Gillibrand, and Senator Alsobrooks in bringing
• Hagerty, Senator Gillibrand, Senator Toomey, and myself.
• , commerce, the real economy on the other side.
• Senator Orrin, thank you.
• Without it, the committee is basically saying...

Bills: SB875

Keywords: banking regulation, federal agencies, reputational risk, financial services, supervision, Genius Act, FIRM Act, stablecoins, bipartisan, financial regulation, national security, consumer protection, innovation

Summary: This meeting focused on the markup of the Genius Act and the FIRM Act, two significant pieces of legislation addressing stablecoin regulation and the financial industry's regulatory framework. The Chairman noted the importance of providing clarity to the digital asset community and protecting American consumers, while also promoting innovation and competition within the financial sector. Members of both parties expressed varying viewpoints, with some highlighting concerns related to national security and the potential risks associated with stablecoins.

Transcript Highlights:

• of business on committee substitute for Senate Bill 2986.
• the regular order of business on Committee Substitute for Senate Bill 2858.
• Senator Creighton moves to suspend the regulations and order of business on the committee substitute
• order of business on Committee Substitute for Senate Bill 659.
• 1118 so that the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce can take up the following bills on Thursday

Bills: HCR35, SJR59, SJR84, SCR30, SB127, SB317, SB324, SB457, SB506, SB511, SB529, SB547, SB584, SB619, SB636, SB646, SB659, SB715, SB732, SB735, SB771, SB784, SB800, SB801, SB904, SB1026, SB1049, SB1065, SB1181, SB1224, SB1250, SB1383, SB1467, SB1524, SB1528, SB1531, SB1568, SB1585, SB1640, SB1681, SB1754, SB1757, SB1777, SB1972, SB1980, SB2007, SB2041, SB2046, SB2050, SB2055, SB2069, SB2080, SB2119, SB2138, SB2139, SB2154, SB2201, SB2225, SB2268, SB2306, SB2308, SB2310, SB2330, SB2366, SB2375, SB2392, SB2401, SB2422, SB2480, SB2514, SB2530, SB2533, SB2543, SB2544, SB2589, SB2610, SB2615, SB2623, SB2660, SB2662, SB2693, SB2695, SB2707, SB2722, SB2742, SB2753, SB2807, SB2843, SB2844, SB2858, SB2880, SB2885, SB2891, SB2925, SB2938, SB2986, SJR3, SJR18, SB5, SB914, SB963, SB1197, SB1415, SB1437, SB1786, SB326, SB767, SB769, SB783, SB1035, SB1271, SB1619, SB1637, SB1806, SB1, SB260, HB135, HB1109, HCR35, HCR64, SJR36, SJR50, SJR63, SJR84, SJR59, SCR12, SCR39, SCR48, SCR19, SCR30, SCR3, SB2023, SB619, SB2742, SB646, SB1026, SB2880, SB62, SB666, SB847, SB284, SB854, SB1073, SB810, SB1505, SB583, SB1502, SB507, SB1434, SB1376, SB1585, SB1772, SB2016, SB1163, SB1122, SB731, SB397, SB508, SB1436, SB287, SB261, SB1882, SB393, SB1791, SB529, SB209, SB2429, SB1999, SB511, SB2309, SB510, SB584, SB1085, SB2046, SB1975, SB2717, SB1262, SB1524, SB636, SB2056, SB884, SB517, SB1200, SB1845, SB1863, SB2681, SB2200, SB2199, SB1757, SB2050, SB2458, SB2201, SB2660, SB2662, SB1065, SB801, SB2533, SB3014, SB3013, SB758, SB1721, SB2366, SB1013, SB2797, SB2383, SB1754, SB2119, SB2448, SB1777, SB1283, SB2392, SB2076, SB2786, SB2876, SB2284, SB2225, SB1540, SB2929, SB1972, SB2540, SB2595, SB2217, SB715, SB2330, SB1383, SB500, SB1640, SB2001, SB2080, SB506, SB2514, SB2753, SB2398, SB1241, SB2927, SB2173, SB2538, SB898, SB1449, SB2529, SB1531, SB2846, SB2476, SB986, SB1181, SB2075, SB2154, SB2864, SB1359, SB2386, SB771, SB2844, SB2550, SB1351, SB1423, SB1931, SB2245, SB2589, SB2707, SB2807, SB410, SB659, SB2776, SB2693, SB2580, SB1980, SB1886, SB1234, SB739, SB456, SB127, SB1666, SB2843, SB2801, SB800, SB2055, SB784, SB2986, SB735, SB1012, SB324, SB2926, SB2938, SB2007, SB2138, SB1242, SB2615, SB1049, SB2310, SB1224, SB2972, SB1568, SB2841, SB2885, SB3016, SB2858, SB2610, SB2139, SB1856, SB2035, SB2308, SB2306, SB2041, SB1528, SB1681, SB1141, SB2401, SB2530, SB2375, SB547, SB1266, SB1373, SB1467, SB2069, SB2269, SB2480, SB2544, SB672, SB904, SB2695, SB2891, SB2422, SB2543, SB1854, SB317, SB2539, SB2532, SB2925, SB1250, SB2082, SB2203, SB457, SB2357, SB2721, SB243, SB1285, SB2568, SB1959, SB1442, SB1454, SB2520, SB2541, SB1708, SB1237, SB1844, SB1586, HB1392, HB22, SB1551, SB3039, SB2819, SB66, SB629, SB1015, SB2342, SB2903, SB2933, SB1965, SB2477, SB3029, SB2605, SB2419, SB1957, SB375, SB250, SB777, SB628, SB2523, SB2367, SB2703, SB2608, SB2778, SB3044, SB2965, SB2521, SB865

Keywords: spaceports, tax-exempt bonds, aerospace investment, Texas space economy, Federal legislation, education funding, Texas State Technical College System, capital projects, infrastructure, higher education, tax exemption, property tax, homestead, fire damage, constitutional amendment, Birding Capital, Matagorda County, wildlife, conservation, Texas Legislature

Summary: The committee meeting centered around various legislative efforts, with a significant focus on Senate Bill proposals addressing issues such as medical claims mediation, human smuggling, and competitive bidding regulations. Senators discussed the implications of SB2544, which seeks to align mediation and arbitration options for out-of-network medical claims, and SB2046 aimed at enhancing penalties for bid rigging. The bill on human smuggling, SB659, received considerable attention as members underscored the seriousness of addressing corruption and criminal activities involving government resources. Overall, the meeting showcased a collective effort to advance critical legislation to safeguard public interests.

Transcript Highlights:

• It's a local bill, and it passed the House and the Senate last
• A lot of y'all were on this committee and were part of that.
• Vice Chair Martinez offers a committee substitute.
• Is there any further business for the committee to address?
• Hearing none, the committee stands adjourned, subject to the call of the chair.

Bills: HB16, HB1618, HB2692, HB2712, HB2970, HB3609, HB3628

Keywords: water infrastructure, Texas Water Development Board, financial assistance, water supply projects, rural municipalities, water access assessment, aquifer storage, Edwards Aquifer, water injection, environmental regulations, groundwater management, San Antonio River, pollution control, flood management, water quality, conservation district, bonds, utility rates, ratemaking, water services

Summary: The meeting primarily focused on the consideration of several water-related bills, including HB1618, HB2970, HB3609, and HB3628. Representative Harris introduced HB1618, which aims to facilitate aquifer storage and recovery projects in Williamson County to support growth and address drought issues. Multiple witnesses testified in favor of the bill, emphasizing the need for effective water management in a rapidly growing area. The discussion highlighted the increasing water demands along the I-35 corridor. Representative Paul advocated for HB2970, which codifies navigation safety measures for the Houston Ship Channel, a vital component for Texas's economy. This bill is linked to a major federal project intended to protect against storm surges while ensuring two-way traffic on the channel.

Transcript Highlights:

• Speaker, I have a message from the Senate at the door of the House.

• I am directed by the Senate to inform the House that

• the Senate has taken the following action.
• Respectfully, Patsy Spahr, Secretary of the Senate.
• , referred to the Committee on House Administration.

Keywords: Texas, resolutions, community recognition, Mission Day, Alabama Cushata Tribe, local economy, cultural heritage

Summary: The meeting of the committee featured several resolutions and bills being discussed, highlighting statewide recognitions and honors. Notable among the resolutions was HR185, commemorating February 18, 2025, as Mission Day, which brings attention to the city of Mission's rich history and contributions to the economy, particularly in citrus production and international trade. Additionally, HR277 recognized the Alabama Cushata Tribe of Texas Day, honoring the tribe's heritage and its longstanding presence in the state.

Transcript Highlights:

• I am represented by Senator Judith Zaffirini, who sits on this committee.
• Senator Hall sends up committee substitute Senate Bill 19. Senator Milton, please explain the...
• The Senate Committee has provided misleading scientific inaccuracies.
• State your name and position on the committee substitute for Senate Bill 19.

• Is there any other business for the Senate Committee

Keywords: SB8, SB18, LGBTQIA rights, public testimony, discrimination, constitutional rights, drag performances

Summary: The meeting revolved around significant legislative discussions primarily focused on SB8 and SB18. Notably, the committee addressed public testimonies on SB18, which targeted drag performances and LGBTQIA individuals. Testimonies highlighted the potential discriminatory implications of the bill, raising concerns that it undermines constitutional freedoms. Various members of the public expressed both support and opposition, fostering a heated debate about its impact on community rights and protections.

Transcript Highlights:

• The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation

• ="125" data-time="1488">However, in recent years, the Senate
• Oversight rarely occurs within our standing committees, and I believe our country is worse off for it
• following reports that O'Hare Airport was housing illegal immigrants, I and six other members of the committee

Keywords: oversight, subpoena, illegal immigrants, Massachusetts Port Authority, O'Hare Airport, legislative practices

Summary: The meeting was convened by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, where robust discussions were held regarding the need for improved oversight within the Senate. The chairman emphasized the historical decline in oversight activities and proposed motions to authorize subpoenas related to an ongoing investigation involving the Massachusetts Port Authority and allegations of illegal immigrant sheltering at airports. This prompted a detailed examination of the current practices and measures needed to address such issues effectively, particularly in light of recent reports from O'Hare Airport. The committee engaged in deliberations that highlighted the importance of maintaining legislative oversight to safeguard national interests.

Transcript Highlights:

• Please vote this bill out of committee.
• Please vote this out of committee.
• I have not seen the committee substitute.
• We're the state chamber of commerce and we represent businesses of all sizes and across every industry
• for the committee to address?

Bills: HB150, HB869, HB876, HB1043, HB1494, HB1522

Keywords: cybersecurity, state command, information resources, data protection, incident response, information technology, classification officer, job descriptions, state positions, competency-based, cybersecurity, information sharing, government efficiency, public sector, private sector, distributed ledger, title registry, real estate, property liens, pilot program

Summary: The meeting held by the committee involved significant discussions surrounding various bills, notably focused on transparency and budgeting processes. There were multiple testimonies from public citizens advocating for improved access to local budgets, emphasizing the need for transparency within governmental operations. One speaker highlighted that enabling public access to finalized budgets within three business days can ensure that community voices are heard prior to important votes, enhancing local governance and accountability. The committee members engaged actively, with questions posed to witnesses to clarify points made regarding public access to financial documentation.

Transcript Highlights:

• Committee..."
• We are joined by the chairman of the full committee, Senator Cruz, and I appreciate his presence here
• Senator Sullivan, thank you.
• No, Senator, but I...
• Senators will have until the close of business on Thursday, April 3rd, to submit questions for the record

Keywords: aviation safety, midair collision, American Airlines Flight 5342, Army Black Hawk helicopter, NTSB, FAA, ADS-B technology, safety protocols

Summary: The meeting focused on the discussions surrounding the tragic midair collision involving American Airlines Flight 5342 and an Army Black Hawk helicopter, which resulted in the loss of 67 lives. Testimonies were provided by key figures including NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy and FAA Acting Administrator Chris Richelieu. The committee expressed grave concerns regarding the existing safety protocols, questioning why the FAA failed to act on numerous warnings and data indicating potential collision risks. Members emphasized the need for urgent reforms in aviation safety to prevent such tragedies in the future. Specific highlights included the recognition of the importance of ADS-B out technology and concerns about the operational practices of military helicopters in controlled airspaces.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm pleased to be here with the committee staff.

• of Senate Bill 1208 and is currently in the Criminal Jurisprudence Committee.

• And is the Senate bill identical to that?

• Is there any further business for the committee to address?
• Hearing none, the committee stands adjourned, subject to the call of the chair.

Keywords: public safety, criminal penalties, HB544, vulnerable populations, child abuse, consecutive sentencing, HB689, elder abuse, public testimony

Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on discussing various bills addressing public safety and criminal penalties within Texas. Notable discussions included the introduction of HB544, which aims to expand consecutive sentencing for crimes against children and vulnerable adults. Representative Gervin Hawkins highlighted the urgent need for this legislation by referencing a shocking case in Bexar County involving severe abuse, illustrating the limitations of current law in imposing adequate penalties. The bill received public support and raised awareness of the ongoing issues surrounding the safety of vulnerable populations.

Transcript Highlights:

• The chair recognizes Senator Alvarado, who sends up the committee substitute.
• There is a committee substitute, Senator Birdwell.
• Committee substitute for Senate Bill 410 by Senator Middleton
• committee substitute Senate Bill 2351 by Senator Alvarado.
• to come before the Senate Committee on Natural Resources?

Bills: SB2082, SB2203, SB2351, SB2550, SCR48

Keywords: concrete crushing, hospital proximity, environmental regulation, public health, zoning laws, concrete plants, standard permit, construction regulation, environmental compliance, health and safety code, water rights, property transfer, disclosure requirements, coastal property, Texas legislation, real estate, environmental impact, Gulf of America, coastal resources, Texas sovereignty

Summary: The meeting of the committee convened to discuss multiple bills including SCR48, SB2351, SB2550, SB2203, SB410, and SB2082. Notably, Senator Miles presented SB2082, which aims to prevent concrete crushing facilities from operating near hospitals, following community outcry over health concerns linked to air pollution. The committee heard public testimony from various stakeholders, highlighting the community's significant opposition to such facilities in close proximity to critical healthcare services. Senator Alvarado's SB2351, addressing concrete plant regulations, was supported with favorable votes but faced concerns over the environmental implications of expansion requests. The meeting concluded with a recommendation for several bills to move forward to the full Senate for consideration.

Transcript Highlights:

• data-time="1128"> Senate
• Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will come to order.
• miles of land, land that ultimately became part of 14 states, many of which are represented on this committee
• Alaska from Russia, spending $7.2 million for what became our 49th state, ultimately giving this committee
• Senator Dan Sullivan.

Keywords: Greenland, acquisition, national security, Arctic, geopolitical, China, Russia, icebreakers, trade routes

Summary: The meeting convened by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation focused on the potential acquisition of Greenland by the United States. This issue, first raised by President Trump in 2019, has gained renewed significance amidst shifting global dynamics and the strategic importance of Greenland in relation to transatlantic trade routes and national security. The members discussed the geopolitical implications of Greenland's position, especially given the increasing influence of China and Russia in the Arctic region. Notably, the urgency to address military presence and icebreaker capabilities in the Arctic was a major point of contention, with a call for a new fleet to counter foreign dominance in the area.

Transcript Highlights:

• We love doing business here.
• Thank you, committee.
• Committee, thank you.
• Thank you, Chair, Committee.
• The committee substitutes.

Bills: HB1039, HB2289, HB2370, HB2404, HB3066, HB3076, HB3117, HB3118, HB3169, HB3178, HB3179, HB3182, HB3196, HB3241, HB3377, HB3500, HB3567, HB3715, HB3954, HB4098, HB4109, HB4222, HB4226, HB4412, HB4659, HB4682, HB4683, HB4755, HB4926, HB5165, HB5562, HB5596

Keywords: hotel occupancy tax, municipal revenue, tax authority, border counties, tax legislation, municipalities, hotel tax revenue, convention centers, economic development, local government authority, hotel occupancy tax, county authority, tax revenue, economic impact, Oklahoma border, municipal tax revenue, hotel projects, convention centers, state tax code, economic development

Summary: The committee meeting involved a range of discussions focused on local economic development through various House Bills primarily related to hotel occupancy taxes. Noteworthy was the presentation of House Bill 2370, which aims to allow municipalities like Harlingen to use hotel occupancy tax revenue retroactively for convention center expenses, facilitating fiscal responsibility and community involvement via voter approval. Representative Lopez encouraged support for the bill, highlighting its potential benefits for the city's budget and operational flexibility. Testimonies from local leaders, including Harlingen's Mayor, reinforced the need for this legislative change to support vital city projects.

Transcript Highlights:

• "1476"> Senator

Bills: SJR37, SJR57, SCR8, SB8, SB108, SB125, SB251, SB318, SB378, SB379, SB396, SB472, SB487, SB503, SB533, SB565, SB583, SB608, SB650, SB686, SB689, SB707, SB710, SB763, SB854, SB875, SB916, SB924, SB925, SB958, SB961, SB965, SB987, SB988, SB1006, SB1019, SB1021, SB1024, SB1026, SB1038, SB1146, SB1185, SB1194, SB1202, SB1252, SB1253, SB1330, SB1343, SB1362, SB1497, SB1498, SB1499, SB1527, SB1547, SB1596, SB1697, SJR36, SJR12, SJR57, SJR37, SCR22, SCR12, SCR8, SB925, SB1362, SB565, SB765, SB62, SB666, SB707, SB888, SB687, SB847, SB1248, SB504, SB857, SB305, SB296, SB284, SB1497, SB1499, SB1498, SB241, SB304, SB621, SB1023, SB1024, SB686, SB371, SB204, SB609, SB670, SB850, SB854, SB413, SB1346, SB1033, SB1220, SB1073, SB810, SB1539, SB447, SB875, SB406, SB985, SB965, SB1119, SB1505, SB1194, SB1253, SB1215, SB1302, SB856, SB583, SB673, SB681, SB1172, SB1252, SB378, SB608, SB955, SB957, SB988, SB1019, SB1021, SB1120, SB251, SB541, SB379, SB1737, SB266, SB1415, SB1527, SB125, SB599, SB1330, SB53, SB916, SB1352, SB785, SB710, SB472, SB1450, SB1502, SB1566, SB414, SB1062, SB961, SB1038, SB578, SB711, SB746, SB942, SB1404, SB1448, SB1738, SB108, SB8, SB318, SB507, SB533, SB689, SB1026, SB1349, SB1355, SB1433, SB1434, SB1596, SB1403, SB1146, SB763, SB667, SB1059, SB617, SB1567, SB503, SB16, SB310, SB311, SB396, SB505, SB1209, SB1210, SB1470, SB264, SB924, SB1029, SB1185, SB1202, SB1358, SB1364, SB1569, SB1697, SB1376, SB1228, SB519, SB878, SB1350, SB462, SB1535, SB827, SB1585, SB207, SB1207, SB1619, SB1396, SB920, SB1484, SB1273, SB1741, SB7, SB927, SB1227, SB1229, SB1353, SB1366, SB1464, SB1709, SB1729, SB1733, SB1744, SB1772, SB1816, SB1841, SB2188, SB1147, SB879, SB1008

Keywords: voter ID, citizenship, election integrity, constitutional amendment, voting rights, immigration enforcement, ICE agreements, sheriff grants, law enforcement, county jail, federal immigration law, criminal law, magistrates, Bell County, judicial authority, legal framework, SNAP, sweetened drinks, candy, nutrition assistance

Summary: The committee meeting was marked by an extensive discussion on multiple bills, including HB2 and SB1, which sparked debate around public safety and health regulations. Members expressed diverse opinions, with Senator Jackson voicing strong support for HB2 due to its potential to enhance community health initiatives. On the contrary, Representative Lee raised concerns regarding the implications of SB1 on small businesses, prompting a discussion that included testimonies from affected stakeholders who provided insights into the potential economic impact. Public testimony was actively encouraged, with many community members participating, sharing their perspectives, and influencing the committee's considerations.

Transcript Highlights:

• Senator Nichols sends up the committee substitute.
• Senator Paxton, I gather, is a committee substitute.
• There is a proposed committee substitute; Senator Middleton sends up the committee substitute to House
• Senator Nichols moves to adopt the committee substitute.
• Senator Paxton moves that the committee...

Bills: HB1532, HB2731, HB3483, HB4308, HB4580, HB4582, HB5509, HB5663

Keywords: Lake Houston, dredging, maintenance district, flood control, environment, public works, industrial development, county development districts, bonds, economic incentives, sales tax, human trafficking, hotel regulation, occupancy certificate, municipal authority, law enforcement, human trafficking, municipal powers, House Bill 5509, due process

Summary: The Senate Committee on Local Government convened to discuss various important bills, primarily focusing on housing and local governance issues. Significant discussions included House Bill 5509, aimed at enhancing municipal powers against human trafficking by allowing the suspension of hotel occupancy certificates when crimes are suspected. The committee thoroughly reviewed the proposed committee substitutes for several bills, stressing stakeholder input and the importance of due process in legislative changes. Additionally, public testimony highlighted community support for the new amendments designed to ensure safety and welfare, particularly concerning vulnerable populations. House Bill 5663, addressing vital infrastructure needs and associated funding, also received a favorable recommendation from the committee, advancing its path through legislative scrutiny.

Transcript Highlights:

• The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation

• which I will reintroduce this week along with Senators Cantwell
• Chairman, the jurisdiction of our committee to have oversight over transportation security.

Keywords: Coast Guard, maritime drug enforcement, illegal drugs, fentanyl crisis, legislative reforms, public testimony

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation addressed critical issues surrounding maritime drug enforcement and the Coast Guard's role in stopping the influx of illegal drugs. The chairman highlighted the alarming consequences of current policies allowing drugs to cross borders, emphasizing the need for legislative reforms, such as the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act of 2025. There was an intense discussion regarding the operational challenges faced by the Coast Guard, which has recently made significant drug seizures, indicating progress but also revealing gaps that need addressing. Several witnesses, including victims of the drug crisis, shared their compelling testimonies, which underscored the urgency for stricter controls and comprehensive support for law enforcement agencies involved in drug interdiction efforts.

Transcript Highlights:

• Chairman and committee members.
• Thank you, members of the committee.
• versus local business?
• Chair and members of the committee.
• That concludes our business for today. If there’s no objection, the committee will stand adjourned.

Bills: HB2065, HB2462, HB2621, HB3187, HB3539, HB3563, HB3726, HB4164, HB4207, HB4368, HB4706, HB4916, HB4950, HB4967, HB5177, HB4429, HB5597

Keywords: commercial vehicles, parking regulations, residential areas, local governance, land use, traffic safety, high occupancy vehicle lane, pregnant operators, transportation, parental rights, motor vehicle regulations, live video feed, transportation, state agency, transparency, public safety, regional transportation, mobility program, sales tax, public infrastructure

Summary: The meeting was centered around the discussions of several bills, primarily focusing on HB3187, which proposes to reduce DART's funding by 25%. This bill drew significant opposition from various members and public witnesses who argued it would severely impact public transportation services in North Texas, especially with the upcoming FIFA World Cup in 2026. Many speakers highlighted the economic consequences, job losses, and diminished accessibility for residents that would result from passing this legislation. Members of the committee engaged in heated debates, with some representatives advocating for the preservation of DART's funding and others supporting the proposed cuts based on financial grievances from certain cities. The meeting ended with a resolve to consider future negotiations among local municipalities instead of pursuing state intervention on the funding issue.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm actually in the stone business.
• You mentioned being in the utility business.
• County Chamber of Commerce.
• On the commerce side, on the business side, and I...
• Is there any further business for the committee to address?

Bills: HB1520, HB1525, HB1530, HB1535, HB2068, HB2091, HB2347, HB2372, HB2805, HB2815, HB2867, HB3154, HB3482, HB3483, HB3663, HB3781, HB3901, HB3915, HB4135, HB4153, HB4158, HB4329, HB4331

Keywords: Lower Neches Valley Authority, board removal, training requirements, public testimony, complaints resolution, Sabine River Authority, board of directors, complaints, Texas Sunset Act, government oversight, ethics training, flood control, Harris County, governance, eminent domain, bonds, environmental improvements, water assistance, financial grants, Texas Water Development Board

Summary: The Committee on Natural Resources convened to discuss two key pieces of legislation, HB2867 and HB2876, focusing on late fees associated with water and sewer services in Texas. Representative Gates laid out HB2867, highlighting the financial implications of payment deadlines and fees that disproportionately affect low-income households. He emphasized the need for limits on late payment fees to protect these vulnerable consumers from potentially abusive practices. A committee substitute was proposed to clarify some ambiguous language within the bill, aiming to promote fairness and transparency for customers. This led to a robust discussion among members and stakeholders present at the meeting, including testimony from representatives of municipal utilities who raised concerns about local control over fee structures.

Transcript Highlights:

• by Senator Adam Hinojosa.
• I'm laying out Senator West's bill, Senate Bill 584.
• in the credit reporting industry by amending Section 20.05 of the Texas Business and Commerce Code.
• Senate Bill 584 seeks to prevent.
• SB2121 is pending business. Members, you remember this bill by Senator.

Bills: SB315, SB584, SB1228, SB1484, SB1860, SB1802

Keywords: landlord, tenant rights, repair obligations, housing conditions, property code, legal liability, SB140, SB1484, SB1802, catfish labeling, landlord responsibilities, consumer protection, Texas Aquaculture Association, senior safety

Summary: The meeting focused on several key legislative bills that were discussed thoroughly, including SB140, SB1484, and SB1802 among others. One of the notable discussions was around SB1484, which seeks to prevent food service establishments from misleading consumers by accurately labeling catfish products. Witnesses from the Texas Aquaculture Association testified in support of this bill, emphasizing the importance of truth in labeling to protect local producers. The bill passed with unanimous support, showcasing a collaborative effort to support Texas's catfish industry. Additionally, SB1802 proposed making it the landlord’s responsibility to repair elevators in senior housing, addressing safety concerns for vulnerable populations. The discussions around this bill resulted in proposed amendments to enhance protections for residents in such facilities.