Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'attorney general authority'

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TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The Attorney General of the State of Texas, who spent much of his time during the Biden administration
  • Your Attorney General. But where is he today?
  • Even our Attorney General has testified that it was legal.
  • The Attorney General has backed up this claim, but let me just boil this down into something that my
  • Additionally, the Attorney General engaged in conversation, at least in written communication, with the
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on public testimonies regarding the revised congressional redistricting plan. Numerous witnesses presented their concerns about how the proposed changes could potentially dilute representation for minority communities. A consistent theme throughout the testimonies was the fear that the redistricting effort was not aimed at serving constituents but rather at securing power for political parties. Several participants expressed a strong opposition to what they perceived as gerrymandering tactics, claiming they would negatively impact African-American and Hispanic communities in Texas. The meeting revealed a clear public sentiment against the redistricting proposals, with nearly all witnesses speaking out against the changes. The Chair noted an overwhelming number of testimonies opposing the redistricting, indicating a strong community response to the proposed changes and their implications on fair representation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V Feb 26th, 2025 at 09:30 am

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

Transcript Highlights:
  • Second General for the Texas—Major General, sorry, I apologize—Thomas
  • Seltzer, Adjutant General for the Texas Military Department.
  • Every O.C. usage is reported to the Office of Inspector General.
  • As we work for our attorneys when we go before SOA, before the state.
  • I'm a policy attorney with the Texas Civil Rights Project.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on comprehensive budget recommendations across various law enforcement and correctional agencies. Notable discussions included funding for the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and the Legislative Budget Board's educational and support initiatives for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Specific emphasis was placed on addressing staffing shortages and retention of personnel, particularly in parole and correctional officer positions, amid rising concerns regarding jail standards and operational efficiency. The meeting also saw testimonies from agency heads who outlined their needs and challenges, underscoring the importance of legislative support for public safety and corrections reform.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The Assistant Attorney General to appear before the committee
  • The Attorney General of the United States, by command of the President of the United States, has indicated
  • Literally, the state has been ordered to do what we're doing by the Attorney General.
  • In so doing, the Attorney General has singled out four congressional districts.
  • I'm also a fifth-generation Texan, a resident of Third Ward, and an attorney.
Summary: The House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting convened to discuss a revised congressional redistricting plan as part of a special session. The meeting focused on public testimony regarding potential revisions to the redistricting map due to concerns about representation for Congressional Districts 2, 7, 8, and 9. Several witnesses testified against the proposed changes, expressing worries about gerrymandering and the disproportionate impact on minority communities. Notably, Deborah Allen, a former city council member, implored the committee members to heed the concerns of constituents who fear losing representation during this critical redistricting process. The atmosphere was charged as multiple lawmakers and public members voiced their frustrations about the perceived political motives driving the redistricting efforts rather than addressing urgent local needs. The committee faced questions regarding the lack of concrete maps available for public commentary, raising concerns about transparency in the redistricting process. Some members argued that the hearings should prioritize community engagement across the state rather than being limited to a few locations. Various testimonies highlighted fears that the redistricting plan might undermine the gains made in voter representation, particularly among marginalized groups. As the meeting concluded, it became clear that the committee might need to hold further hearings to ensure the public's voice was adequately represented before moving forward with any decisions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce May 8th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...of ever generating.
  • The technology has not generated any electricity, and it's not close.
  • In the meantime, we can deploy a generation that is more affordable.
  • I'm Drew DeWalt with General Matter. I'm here in support of HB1041.
  • I'm the lead co-author on the bill.
Summary: The meeting was a thorough exploration of multiple bills, most notably focused on innovative energy solutions and public safety enhancements. Key discussions centered around HB14, which aims to bolster the state's nuclear energy capabilities through the establishment of a Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office. Senators and expert witnesses discussed the potential of nuclear power as a clean energy source and a strategic necessity for Texas's growth. There was strong support for the bill, with various stakeholders highlighting its importance for the future energy landscape. Additionally, other bills like HB132 addressed the need for enhanced confidentiality protections regarding sensitive information, while HB1584 sought improvements in power restoration procedures during emergencies. Overall, the committee engaged with multiple viewpoints, balancing innovation with safety and ethical considerations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Agriculture & Livestock Apr 1st, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House Agriculture & Livestock Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • a family that has farmed and ranched for generations.
  • farmer, I'm starting out as a first-generation farmer.
  • General of Texas and is being...
  • I am a fifth-generation rancher and veterinarian in LaGrange, Texas.
  • The Texas Attorney General filed an appeal in December.
Summary: The second bill, House Bill 3469, was introduced to address pest control regulations concerning nuisance birds. Representative Campos explained how the bill proposes non-lethal methods to deter these birds, such as the use of laser lights and sounds, which avoids conflict with both state and federal regulations. The committee heard impassioned testimonies from members of the public who shared firsthand experiences regarding the adverse effects of these birds on property and public health. The meeting concluded with both bills being left pending, reflecting a desire for further deliberation among the committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Mar 17th, 2025 at 10:00 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • 72">During the 87th legislative session, we passed House Bill 2106, which transferred rulemaking authority
  • I know Vice Chair Plesa is our joint author on the bill.
  • and debit card fraud with clarity and authority, safeguarding
  • Have the district attorneys weighed in on this?
  • attorneys in Smith County and Harris County have both reviewed this.
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Pensions, Investments, and Financial Services convened to discuss various bills aimed at enhancing financial governance and protections in Texas. Notably, Representative Perez laid out House Bill 201, which proposes expanding the scope of the Financial Crimes Intelligence Center to combat organized financial crimes, such as motor fuel theft. This bill garnered significant support from witnesses, including Captain Jeff Headley from the Financial Crimes Intelligence Center, who highlighted the urgent need for legislative measures to address increasing thefts that impact both consumers and state revenue. Subsequently, testimony from several members elucidated the impact of these crimes, emphasizing their detrimental effects on Texas' economic stability. The committee members expressed their interest in the advancements in tackling such issues through the proposed legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Are there other questions of the author?
  • If not, we'll call upon the resource witnesses, David Repp, Texas General.
  • Again, I'm using the term generically, the retail...
  • Is there any other questions of the author, Senator Middleton?
  • The author of the bill laid it out the way it's laid out for two reasons.
Summary: The committee meeting focused primarily on several significant legislative proposals, particularly detailing the plans for the Gulf Coast Protection District and various recycling initiatives. Notable discussions were led by Senator Alvarado regarding SB795, which is aimed at establishing a dedicated Gulf Coast Protection Account to secure funding for coastal infrastructure projects critical for flood protection. Stakeholders expressed gratitude for ongoing legislative support, emphasizing the potential for this project to become the largest civil works project in U.S. history. Additionally, testimony was heard on recycling bills including SB2689, which seeks to improve Texas's recycling infrastructure without imposing fees, and SB410 which manages the Gulf Coast Protection District’s operations to ensure safety and navigability within Houston's waterways. Public and expert witnesses contributed insights that highlighted the economic implications and community benefits of these initiatives, demonstrating the state's commitment to sustainable development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 5th, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Upon final adjournment or recess or during bill referral, the permissions granted are authorized to convene
  • Permissions granted are authorized to convene upon

  • HB 764, relating to authorizing certain taxing units for
  • HB 844 by Thompson, relating to the authority of a

  • HB 849, relating to the authority of a County Board

Summary: The committee meeting began with a moment of silence dedicated to the memory of the late Congressman Sylvester Turner, acknowledged by multiple members who spoke eloquently about his legacy and contributions to the community. This emotional tribute was followed by a series of announcements, including recognizing distinguished guests and discussing significant upcoming dates such as Alamo Day. The atmosphere of the meeting reflected a blend of mourning and celebration of service, as members recounted personal anecdotes and expressing gratitude for Turner's guiding influence in their political paths.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...substantial benefits for current and future generations
  • I'm speaking on behalf of the Texas Attorney General's Peace Officer Association, and I'm speaking in
  • The general meetings would not be open to the public. They may hold public hearings. They may.
  • We show you registered as Tom Oney on behalf of the Lower Colorado River Authority.
  • general.
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
Transcript Highlights:
  • Then they ended up asking for an attorney general's opinion. Yeah, I saw that in my packet.
  • So it doesn't mandate that they do it; they are just given the authority if they choose to do it.
  • The way that we read Senate Bill 23 and the way that we read this bill, all deputies that do general
  • We have Trey Leary registered as an attorney.
  • authority.
Summary: The meeting focused on various bills concerning law enforcement and budgetary practices in the state. Discussions highlighted the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies, particularly in Harris County, regarding staffing shortages and funding gaps. Representatives presented bills such as HB2413 and HB2014, which aim to address pay parity and improve law enforcement capabilities within the local jurisdiction. Witness testimonies underscored the urgency of ensuring that law enforcement agencies have the necessary resources to meet the demands of their communities, especially in light of rising crime rates and public safety concerns.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, any questions for the bill's author?
  • We disagree that the city should have any more authority.
  • and authorized by each respective participating entity.
  • Importantly, the district will not have taxing authority.
  • Our State Attorney General, Ken Paxton, has issued a lawsuit
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee was notably focused on critical infrastructure bills, particularly dealing with water resource management in Texas. Discussions centered around SB1169, which proposes a regional collaboration model to enhance water accessibility, particularly for small, rural communities facing significant water shortages. Advocates from various sectors provided testimony highlighting the urgency of addressing water supply issues exacerbated by population growth and climate challenges. Senator Hinojosa and other committee members expressed strong support for this initiative, emphasizing the need for expanded solutions and proactive legislation to secure Texas's water future.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Just a general statement to them.
  • General... General denial from Mexico's point.
  • Or in my family for generations as well.
  • In 2004, the Southmost Regional Water Authority, with Brownsville PUB as the owner-operator, <
  • Likewise, the loss of irrigated crop production in the lower Rio Grande Valley would generate a loss
Summary: During this committee meeting, significant discussions focused on water resource management and legislative measures required to address the ongoing water crisis in Texas, particularly the implications of non-compliance with the 1944 Water Treaty by Mexico. Chair Senator Perry highlighted the urgent need to enforce water allocation agreements as they have direct impacts on Texas agriculture and local economies. Notably, Senate Bill 744 and Senate Bill 1248 were passed, addressing the pressing needs for improved water management practices and data protection for wildlife information gathering, respectively. There was overwhelming support expressed for SCR 13, emphasizing the necessity for action to ensure Mexico meets its water obligations, which are critical for sustaining Texas's agricultural sectors and economic stability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This interpretation aligns with the 1987 Attorney General opinion supporting similar flexibility in HVAC
  • a current Attorney General's opinion...
  • Without intervention, we face losing a generation of Texas winegrowers.
  • Any other questions for the author? Seeing none.
  • Are there any questions for the author?
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused primarily on several key bills, including HB2286, HB1562, and HB1732, which were reported favorably to the full House with the recommendation that they do pass and be printed. Representative Hernandez notably contributed to the discussions on HB1562 and HB1732, both concerning massage therapy regulations. Furthermore, the committee heard discussions on HB491 regarding civil penalties for massage therapy violations and HB11 relating to occupation licensing reciprocity agreements. Most bills passed with unanimous support, indicating a strong consensus among committee members on these legislative issues.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human ServicesAudio only. Mar 27th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • data-time="19">The chair lays out the committee substitute for Senate Bill 268 and recognizes its author
  • The chair recognizes its author, Senator Miles, to explain
  • Senator Cook sends up a committee substitute for Senate Bill 732 and recognizes its author, Senator Miles
  • , as a matter of pending business, a committee substitute for Senate Bill 1188 and recognizes its author
  • General.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services met to discuss multiple bills, notably including SB731, SB732, SB1589, SB397, and SB1188. Senator Miles explained amendments to SB732, detailing that the bill now allows existing buildings a five-year compliance period, and emphasized that it is not retroactive. Senator Cook moved the adoption of the community substitute to SB732, which passed without objection. SB1589 was also favorably reported and recommended for a local calendar, while SB397 faced a similar fate with unanimous support from committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • and the Attorney General to conduct audits and take enforcement action.
  • Any other questions for the author?
  • Members, any questions for the author on the 24?
  • fiction or general nonfiction sections.
  • I'm a journalist, playwright, author, and poet. My job is words.
Summary: The meeting saw significant discussions centered around several Senate bills, notably SB2487, SB1698, and SB2101. Senator Parker introduced and advocated for SB2487, which aims to enhance crisis service models for mental health interventions, receiving feedback from various stakeholders during formal testimony. The committee adopted the substitute version of this bill, which emphasizes local governance, expands service options, and tightens clinical timelines, responding to concerns from communities about service accessibility. Furthermore, the bill successfully passed from the committee with unanimous support, moving forward to the full Senate for consideration. In addition to SB2487, the committee reviewed SB1698, focusing on regulatory changes surrounding e-cigarette products. The committee recognized the importance of aligning state law with federal guidelines while ensuring strong consumer protections. Public testimonies included insights from enforcement officials and industry participants, highlighting the newly proposed measures aimed at preventing youth access to e-cigarettes. Lastly, SB2101, which addresses the regulation of sexually explicit materials in public libraries to ensure safe environments for minors, generated mix responses, with testimonies reflecting concerns over censorship and parental rights. The meeting concluded with the passage of SB2819 as well, which addresses political activities of county election administrators.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 10th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This looks like an increase in general revenue (GR).
  • A $1 increase in the basic allotment generates generally
  • actually generate the basic allotment.
  • We do not have the authority.
  • 41 through 44 generate only half the general education
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting covered a wide range of topics, focusing primarily on pending legislation and various policy issues facing the committee. Discussions were notably animated surrounding several bills, with members expressing both support and concern over their implications. Witness testimonies were heard, shedding light on different perspectives regarding the legislation in question, indicating a robust public interest and engagement in the topics discussed. Members collaborated to address constituents' concerns while seeking solutions that align with the committee's objectives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Apr 23rd, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Since the FTA program's inception, legislation has expanded courts' authority to weigh fees and assign
  • General.
  • 514 addresses this gap by giving DPS authority to verify
  • The sub authorizes DPS to contract with private vendors
  • And so, we have suggested to the author a number of changes, but...
Summary: The committee meeting was primarily focused on discussing measures to address family violence in Texas through legislative initiatives. One of the most significant pieces of legislation discussed was HB4155, which aims to establish a Family Violence Criminal Homicide Prevention Task Force. This task force is designed to analyze risk factors and develop actionable solutions for reducing family violence homicides in the state. Representative Manuel presented this bill, highlighting the alarming statistics that revealed a critical crisis in family violence. Members engaged in a thorough discussion about the bill's implications and the importance of coordinated state-wide efforts to tackle this issue effectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session (Part III) Feb 26th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Proud to join the author of this bill.
  • Question for the author.

  • So they kind of separate themselves, and it's an attorney thing.
  • The attorneys make those boundaries pretty clear.
  • It's important, and the Capitol community in general.
Summary: During this meeting, the Texas Senate discussed the pivotal CSSB26, aimed at addressing the rights and compensation of public school educators. The bill represents a significant shift in financial support for teachers, marking a historic commitment to permanently allocate resources for teacher salaries while removing existing constraints on district funding. Senator Creighton emphasized the need for comprehensive support not only for teachers but also for support staff such as librarians, bus drivers, and cafeteria workers. The meeting notably featured discussions on the implementation of the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) and the introduction of new protection measures aimed at enhancing the teaching environment and ensuring educator safety.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Any further questions of the author?

  • House Bill 5138 has to do with that important matter of the attorney.
  • The Attorney General's authority to prosecute election crimes
  • certain elections on a measure to authorize the issuance of bonds.
  • brewer's license holder, authorizing a fee increase.
Summary: The committee meeting conducted significant discussions around various bills, notably focusing on House Bill 223, which was reported favorably with recommendations for a full Senate pass. Several members, including Senator Middleton, participated in laying out the bill, emphasizing its potential impacts. Senator Gann's HB521 also garnered attention, receiving approval with aim to accommodate voters' needs, particularly those with disabilities. Throughout the meeting, members exhibited collaboration despite differing views on certain propositions, reflecting a commitment to legislative progress. Public testimony was sought for various bills, expanding the dialogue with stakeholders on topics affecting their communities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs Mar 3rd, 2025 at 11:03 am

House S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs

Transcript Highlights:
  • General Thomas Schuessler, General, welcome.
  • And Brigadier General Moni Ulis. Did I say that correctly, sir? Yes, sir. Welcome, General.
  • I'm Major General Tom Selzer, I'm the Adjutant General.
  • My name is Brigadier General Monty Ulis, and I'm the Deputy Adjutant General Army for the Texas Military
  • That is General Ulis and General Camacho, who will come and talk to you about the Air and Army National
Summary: The meeting of the Defense and Veterans Affairs Committee served as the inaugural session for the legislative year, focusing on various significant veteran issues and programs. Chairman Cortez led discussions around the upcoming legislative workload, with an estimated 75 bills anticipated for review. Members acknowledged the importance of addressing recruitment and retention challenges within the defense forces, with insights on necessary facility upgrades and the impacts on local communities. Collaborative efforts, such as home loan programs and the Veteran Entrepreneur Program, were highlighted to demonstrate the support provided to veterans in transitioning to civilian life. The committee emphasized the vital role of outreach initiatives to ensure veterans are aware of available services.

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