Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'state average unemployment rate'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services May 13th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • State your name, who you're with, two minutes.
  • You might remember in the 2024 Malouf versus the state case.
  • I'm averaging 45 minutes just to get a simple quote.
  • would prefer that it be for actual negotiated rates.
  • and the state of Texas.
Summary: The committee meeting centered on several significant bills regarding public health and safety, particularly focusing on healthcare access, transparency, and opioid crisis response. Notably, House Bill 4783 sparked considerable discussion as it aims to enhance the state's approach to prevent opioid overdoses by directing the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to prepare biannual reports on opiate antagonist programs. The testimony from public officials like Dallas City Council's Paula Blackman, who spoke passionately about the ongoing fentanyl epidemic, highlighted the urgent necessity of improved access to life-saving medications. In addition, House Bill 1314 drew attention for addressing hospital pricing transparency, attempting to ease financial burdens on patients by mandating accurate upfront estimates for healthcare costs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Workforce Apr 1st, 2025 at 09:00 am

House S/C on Workforce

Transcript Highlights:
  • States that the comptroller shall bar any employer

  • So that's 3.2 million workers in our state who lost a combined $12 billion in wages during that time.
  • Do you know if other states have a similar model to this bill?
  • I'm not sure about other states.

  • It is a group of people across the state who have a very difficult job to do every day.
Summary: The meeting of the Workforce Committee included extensive discussions around several key bills, primarily focusing on issues related to wage theft and child care services. Representative Gonzalez presented HB 669, highlighting the significant problem of wage theft affecting low-income workers. Testimonies from various stakeholders underscored the importance of creating a transparent database that would hold employers accountable for wage violations, emphasizing the need for a fair labor market for all workers. Several witnesses provided support for the bill, discussing its potential positive impact on Texas families and businesses.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Article III Feb 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Article III

Transcript Highlights:
  • Kelly Damphuis, President of Texas State University.
  • At Texas State, we're determined to help the state achieve

  • Now that Texas State is qualified to earn a full share.
  • Finally, at Texas State...
  • Texas State is swinging open the door.
Summary: The meeting primarily revolved around discussions on higher education funding, workforce development, and new program initiatives addressing critical shortages in Texas. Various university representatives presented requests for funds to support expansion in nursing, engineering, and technical programs aimed at meeting the demands of a changing job market. A strong emphasis was placed on the importance of combatting healthcare and workforce shortages, particularly in nursing and STEM fields, with calls for increased funding for institutional enhancements and support for significant projects like new education centers and degree programs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Then we roll that up to the state level, and we produce a state water plan every five years.
  • A lot of our small, tiny communities in the state have such a small rate base that they might already
  • the state or...
  • I think we in state government...
  • throughout the state.
Summary: During this meeting of the Texas House Natural Resources Committee, critical discussions centered on various legislative proposals impacting water management and conservation in the state. Chairman Harris emphasized the importance of balancing economic growth with conservation efforts, noting the urgency of addressing Texas's finite water resources. Several members raised concerns about the administrative processes governing water laws, and a variety of bills were presented, including a definition cleanup bill and modifications to reporting requirements. The committee heard testimony from multiple stakeholders who provided insights on existing issues and proposed solutions to enhance water management in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Mar 3rd, 2025 at 11:03 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • What is your state budget cost?
  • and contracting all over the state.
  • Part of the bill stated you had to have an active well-plugging program in the state.
  • Just last year, as the handout demonstrated, $27.3 billion was paid in state and local taxes and state
  • In Texas, the flaring rate dropped by 60% since June of 2019, to where we now have a flaring rate of
Summary: The House Committee on Energy Resources held its inaugural meeting where members emphasized their commitment to addressing critical issues facing the energy sector in Texas. Chairman Darby initiated discussions focused on legislative priorities, notably the management of inactive and orphaned wells, which have become a significant economic and environmental concern. The committee also discussed the balance between regulatory oversight and industry growth, emphasizing collaborative efforts among members and stakeholders to create effective policy. Testimonies highlighted the importance of tackling concerns related to produced water and ensuring sustainable practices in Texas's vast energy landscape, including innovations in hydrogen production and recycling.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development May 7th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This is already being done in eight other states.
  • You're down to two, and we now have a state law compliance issue.
  • Hayes stated.
  • state that the management company or the POA has to state
  • This bill does not impose mandates or require state funding.
Summary: The Committee on Trade, Workforce and Economic Development convened to discuss a range of bills addressing workforce policies, business practices, and data privacy issues. A highlight was the presentation of HB5146, aimed at expanding subsidized childcare eligibility to include parents pursuing non-credit workforce training, which drew significant support from both committee members and witnesses. Additionally, SB2121 was introduced to rectify clerical errors within the data broker law, ensuring better consumer protections around the collection and use of personal data. Various other bills saw quick passages with unanimous support, reflecting broad agreement among members regarding workforce development and operational efficiency.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 1st, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • negotiated rate.
  • There were some that came from out of state.
  • But here in the state of Texas, in New Mexico...
  • Lann, state your name.
  • Many PBM contracts have guaranteed rate provisions, meaning they guarantee a specific rate of rebates
Summary: The meeting centered on multiple significant legislative proposals aimed at healthcare reforms, notably focused on the operations of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and their impact on local pharmacies. Senator Hughes led the discussion on SB1236, which aims to regulate PBMs to prevent anti-competitive practices that have led to the closure of numerous community pharmacies. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including pharmacists, highlighted the challenges posed by current PBM practices, such as aggressive audit tactics and contract terms that disadvantage small pharmacies. The bill was generally supported in the committee due to its potential to restore balance and fairness in pharmacy operations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services May 19th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We have a maintenance and operations tax rate for a reason.
  • You don't know if interest rates are going to go up or if they're going to go down.
  • They're going to refinance that loan if they can and get their interest rate lower.
  • Have you consulted with any elections administrators or the Secretary of State?
  • For the second-largest state in the United States?

Bills: SB414, SB621, SB2395
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several key bills impacting public funds, particularly regarding the use of unspent bond proceeds and mandated transparency during bond elections. Notably, Senate Bill 621 was discussed, which seeks to prohibit political subdivisions from establishing public banks, emphasizing core governmental functions and preventing taxpayer exposure to financial risks. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted concerns about the appropriateness of using public funds for non-essential projects, which led to vigorous debate amongst committee members. Additionally, Senate Bill 414 was addressed, which requires clear disclosures about estimated interest costs in bond proposals, aiming to enhance voter awareness and accountability.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • income based on dollars paid through state funds.
  • ton of work for cities, states, and counties.
  • , in our own state things?
  • In this state, you can argue what your stance is, but we are a pro-life state.
  • It's wrong for the patients of the state, and it's wrong for the patients of the employers of the state
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on SB6, which is aimed at facilitating greater liability and addressing the challenges associated with load interconnection. The chair reopened discussions on the bill, engaging with several public testimonies. Among the 27 registered witnesses, many expressed support for the bill, emphasizing its significance in ensuring accurate load visibility and addressing issues in the energy sector. Notably, Lee Bratcher from the Texas Blockchain Council commended the committee's efforts while highlighting concerns related to transmission costs and their potential impact.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This is well known in the state.
  • universities in our great state of Texas.
  • the CLT but that are not state universities.
  • of Florida, the state of Arkansas, and the state of Wyoming.
  • You mentioned a couple of states had adopted it. Were there any states that have rejected it?
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on several bills related to education and public safety. Notable discussions included HB1105, which seeks to provide EMS employees with tuition exemptions similar to those received by firefighters and police officers, thus addressing educational parity among first responders. Representative Ward-Johnson presented the bill and highlighted the growing responsibilities of paramedics in the changing landscape of emergency services. Witnesses from the Austin EMS Association spoke in support, emphasizing the importance of quality education for EMS workers in enhancing public safety and service delivery. The committee also discussed HB1705 and HB2290, which aim to improve educational accreditation and health benefits for students, respectively, indicating a broad focus on enhancing the educational framework within the state.
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:
  • The state purchases.
  • Guard only within the state.
  • That is a state responsibility.
  • This is state mandated. I am the chair. There are 20 state agencies, and we meet every week.
  • cemeteries across the state.
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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • state senators and state representatives.
  • state in terms of tornado claims.
  • This is rated for ages four and up.
  • What other states are working on this?
  • Losell, if you'd state your name.
Summary: The meeting held by the Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development involved a variety of discussions centered around multiple bills aimed at improving workforce development and addressing contemporary challenges in digital spaces, particularly concerning youth and technology. A notable point in the meeting was the presentation of HB 4196, which aims to modernize Texas's manufacturing sector through digital integration and automation, enhancing job creation and addressing barriers to innovation. Committee members engaged in extensive dialogue with witnesses advocating for and against various bills, with many emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with the protection of consumer rights, particularly in the realm of children's safety online. Committee Chairwoman Button guided the discussions and maintained an efficient pace to cover a considerable number of bills. Several bills passed with bipartisan support, showcasing a collective interest in fostering economic growth through strategic legislative measures. Public testimonies were incorporated into the proceedings, with representatives from various sectors, including education and technology, providing their insights, which enriched the discussions and highlighted community concerns.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • state senators and state representatives.
  • But yes, it's for the entire state.
  • This is rated for ages four and up.
  • There's a challenge if the state...
  • Losell, state your name.
Summary: The committee meeting covered a wide array of bills focusing primarily on workforce development, manufacturing improvements, and online safety for children. Notably, provisions were discussed under HB4196, aimed at modernizing the manufacturing sector through increased digital integration and automation strategies. Witnesses from various sectors, including manufacturing companies and educational representatives, offered their perspectives on the importance of creating a skilled workforce able to adapt to new technologies. Additional discussion highlighted the pressing need for legislation that protects minors in the digital landscape, with testimonies emphasizing the adverse effects of unfiltered online content on children’s mental health, as encapsulated in HB4901.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I think whether it's a blue state or a red state, it should
  • Other states are going to gerrymander.
  • Hidalgo County has a high poverty rate, significantly exceeding both the state and the national level
  • average of 12 percent.
  • State Senator John Kuffman, who chaired the Senate Redistricting Committee, stated during a legislative
Summary: The Senate Special Committee on Congressional Redistricting convened to gather public input regarding redistricting in the North Texas region. With an emphasis on improving public participation, several committee members expressed the need for in-person hearings, highlighting the limitations of virtual formats. Despite technical glitches, participants were encouraged to provide testimony via video conference. Notably, one citizen voiced concerns about the legislature's shift away from traditional redistricting processes, arguing that mid-decade changes undermine fair representation. The committee reiterated its commitment to collecting public opinion and plans to hold future hearings in different regions of Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 26th, 2025 at 09:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • One state, under God, one indivisible. Thank you.
  • So the state only needs...
  • But if the state can't prove that, then why on earth...
  • The officers who wield the judicial power of the state.
  • If we can agree that the average Texan has been priced...
Summary: The meeting featured a address by Chief Justice Jimmy Blacklock, who emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the legal system and ensuring fair access to justice for all Texans. He addressed the challenges facing the judiciary, notably the need for increased funding for district judges, which has not seen a raise since 2013. The Chief Justice highlighted how inadequate compensation has affected the ability to attract and retain qualified judges. He urged the legislature to consider a substantial increase in judicial salaries as a matter of public interest and necessary for the state's judicial system.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part I) Jan 28th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • In the state of Texas, outside of Dallas and Houston, the only state agency responding to new allegations
  • It's a mix of hourly rate, and it's negotiated.
  • So our basis was state law claims.
  • So our basis was state law claims.
  • So our basis was state law claims.
Summary: The meeting of the committee primarily focused on the Office of the Attorney General, where General Ken Paxton and his staff presented budget recommendations, highlighting a proposed decrease of $163.9 million from the 2024-25 biennium budget. Discussions included essential service funding such as the Crime Victims Compensation Program, which is facing challenges due to revenue shortfalls and increased demand. The committee raised concerns regarding the method of finance swaps that impacted the overall budget, leading to a $38 million cut that the Attorney General’s office deemed an error. Representatives from the LBB were also questioned about the implications of these funding changes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Mar 17th, 2025 at 11:00 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • director holds the title of State Geologist.
  • Is it your experience that the state, in your experience, has the state passed regulations?
  • rates, is make sure that local or state regulatory entities do not become impediments to the private
  • invest in our state.
  • I'm also the State Secretary.
Summary: The meeting focused on various legislative discussions, prominently featuring HB1285 and HJR107, which aimed to address significant issues around energy production and damage prevention. Key discussions involved providing the Railroad Commission with additional tools for inspection and responding to incidents, as articulated by proponents emphasizing the benefits for public safety and efficiency. Members voiced their concerns about balancing energy production with environmental protection, highlighting the ongoing tension between economic development and ecological sustainability. Testimonies from industry experts and environmental advocates framed the debate, with strong support for maintaining Texas's status as a leader in energy while ensuring public health is not compromised. Throughout the meeting, several members expressed their intent to refine policies surrounding utility damage prevention and excavation standards, as current laws have reportedly not evolved to address modern challenges. There was a clear acknowledgment of the technological advancements that necessitate an update to existing regulations. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of optimism for proactive legislation and apprehension regarding potential impacts of energy-related developments. As discussions drew to a close, there was a commitment to revisit these topics in future sessions to ensure thorough consideration of both industry and community perspectives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Judicial Council to identify, support, and highlight the excellent work done by courts across the state
  • across the state, all the different marks that it takes.
  • We have 24 probate courts across the state.
  • usage rate in 2020 up to a 74 percent rate in 2022.
  • This bill saves staff time and state resources spent processing paper tax.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several key bills including SB2873, SB2900, HJR4, SB1574, and SB2774. Senator Nichols played a prominent role in discussing and moving multiple bills forward, indicating strong bipartisan support as votes consistently showed 'aye' without any dissent in the committee. Public testimony was received during discussions of these bills, notably around HJR4, which addresses concerns from the financial sector regarding the imposition of new taxes on transactions, and SB2774, which modifies the tax definitions to better include industrial uniform rental businesses. The discussions highlighted the importance of economic implications as well as sector-specific needs and benefits, ensuring various sectors were represented in the discourse. The committee adjourned with all bills reported favorably for further consideration by the full Senate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session (Part III) Feb 26th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Yes, that's right, and during the last year, the average salary for a teacher in the United States was
  • average.
  • for the state?
  • I will say this so everyone can take this home: in 2019, the average teacher salary across the state
  • Then we are in a sorry state. A sorry state.
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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Jurisprudence May 7th, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Committee on State Affairs will come to order.

  • What is the state of the law today?
  • State your name and your position on the bill and enlighten us.
  • We became the 31st state to have an operational business court.
  • They average, and have over the last 12 to 14 years, 52 cases.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several key pieces of legislation including HB1734, HB2340, HB3376, and HB2350. Notably, discussions surrounding HB1734 centered on streamlining the transfer of court files related to parent-child relationships, with testimony suggesting significant support for the changes aimed at promoting efficiency. Meanwhile, HB2340 was discussed to enhance the qualifications and training requirements for child custody evaluators, reflecting a commitment to improving standards in this sensitive area.

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