Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senate Committee on Natural Resources'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security (Part I) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Committee on Border Security will come to order.
  • Thank you, Senator. Thank you, Senator. Members, two resource witnesses, Colonel Martin.
  • I will lay out the change, the committee, I'm sorry, not Senator Parker, Senator Flores.
  • The chair recognizes Senator Birdwell on the committee

  • to lay out the new committee substitute, Senate Bill 822.
Bills: SB36, SB2202
Summary: The Senate Committee on Border Security convened to discuss SB36, which aims to establish a Homeland Security Division within the Department of Public Safety. Senator Parker presented the bill, highlighting its intent to consolidate various homeland security operations to enhance coordination across federal, state, and local levels. Notable discussions revolved around the bill's focus on border security, critical infrastructure protection, and emergency preparedness. Testimonies from law enforcement officials and security experts emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration and the integration of advanced technologies in ensuring Texas’ safety against transnational threats and local criminal activity.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 8th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We have several on this committee.
  • The language was adjusted to allow Class 1 e-bikes on natural surface trails where traditional bicycles
  • And again, it's always important to know that 600 cubic feet of natural gas makes one liquid cubic foot
  • companion bill, Senate Bill 1493, by a vote of 30 to 0 in committee.
  • The committee needs to resource for the House floor session.
Summary: The meeting focused on various transportation-related bills, including discussions around essential infrastructure for flood control, electric bicycles, and safety measures for cyclists. Representative Martinez introduced HB3544, highlighting the flooding issues in the Rio Grande Valley and the need for proper stormwater management. The bill garnered attention as it addresses urgent concerns for local emergency services and community safety. Additionally, CSHB4089 outlined regulations for electric bicycles in state parks, promoting access and safety for all park-goers. There was a significant public turnout, with testimonies both in support and against various proposed bills, reflecting community engagement and interest in transportation safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband Apr 16th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband

Transcript Highlights:
  • a.m., so we are going to place a premium on efficiency and economy in the committee.
  • Chairman, members, under section 191.0525 of the Natural Resources Code, an entity may not begin a project
  • the Natural Resources Code.
  • for working with one of our members on this bill.
  • , Senate Bill 1152 and Senate Bill 1004, to be unconstitutional on these very grounds, determining that
Summary: The Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Broadband convened to discuss several important bills aimed at improving broadband infrastructure and managing the financial responsibilities associated with utility right-of-way relocation. Notably, Chair Morales advocated for HB3953, focused on assessing broadband availability in multifamily housing, highlighting significant gaps observed during the COVID-19 pandemic where families struggled to access necessary internet services for education. Testimonies were provided by various stakeholders, underlining the critical nature of broadband accessibility for vulnerable populations, including low-income families and students.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Going on today in various committees.
  • That's what the committee has always focused on, and it is
  • Good morning, Chairman Boozman, Ranking Senator Schiff, and members of the Committee on Environment and
  • Senator, I don't have a good answer for you on that at this time; I'd have to defer back to our state
  • ...it's on the Executive Committee.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and its implications for local water systems. Various witnesses highlighted the transformative impact of the bipartisan infrastructure law, which has provided an unprecedented amount of funding to help address long-standing issues in drinking water infrastructure, particularly concerning lead service line replacements and sustainability in water management. The discussions emphasized the urgent need for federal reauthorization to continue supporting these initiatives, as many rural and disadvantaged communities still face substantial barriers in upgrading their water systems. Additionally, cybersecurity risks were noted, raising concerns over the vulnerability of water systems across the nation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Committee on Culture, Recreation, and Tourism will

  • of a visitor center on the site to provide educational resources, exhibitions, and interactive experiences
  • in on the logistics side.
  • In any situation I've ever been in, you have lawyers arguing on the one hand, on the other.
  • this committee might as well.
Summary: The meeting focused on the discussion of several bills, with members engaging in detailed commentary on the implications of each legislative proposal. Notably, House Bill 3724, aimed at supporting oyster mariculture along the Texas coast, was highlighted by Representative Villalobos, who provided insights into its potential ecological benefits. Public testimony was sought, and Representative de Villalobos garnered support from environment advocates who emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy oyster populations for ecological balance. The discussion around this bill reflected a collaborative approach to environmental legislation, indicating a consensus on the need for sound management practices. In addition, House Bill 3556 was introduced, which mandates notification to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for the construction of tall structures that may pose risks to migratory birds. Representative Flores expressed concerns over potential exemptions for spaceflight structures, indicating the complexities of balancing development with environmental protection. The meeting concluded with several bills left pending, emphasizing a commitment to careful scrutiny and consideration of the legislative impacts before final decisions are made.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations Feb 24th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm happy to be back on this committee. I've been on it since I arrived in the Senate.
  • also Senator Birdwell to the committee.
  • I'm returning again for my second time and I'm glad to be back on this committee.
  • Senator Alvarado moves that the committee rules be adopted.
  • Senator Alvarado moves that the committee rules be adopted.
Summary: The meeting focused on several crucial issues, including the Texas Water Fund and its implications for development in the state. Various members highlighted the critical need for effective management of water resources, discussing the role of the Water Development Board and their strategies for outreach to local governments. The committee engaged in a thorough examination of funding projects and the sustainable financing necessary for communities facing challenges in meeting their infrastructure needs. Additionally, there was notable discussion regarding promoting workforce development and the alignment of educational programs with the demands of the job market as indicated by recent trends in community colleges.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas, testifying on Senate Bill 6.
  • our feedback on Senate Bill 6 as it was introduced.
  • and I'm here speaking on the bill, Senate Bill 6.
  • We've been on committees together.
  • Senator Cokers, when you were on Senate Finance...
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
Transcript Highlights:
  • Committee on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding will come

  • I would appreciate y'all's help on at least getting it to the Senate floor. Thank you.
  • Senator Kolkhorst is very relevant on this because districts do the same thing to me.
  • Senator Kolkhorst, do you have one more?
  • I've worked on this committee since we came into the Senate
Summary: The meeting focused on several key pieces of legislation, including HB20, which aims to address disaster fraud in Texas by enhancing protections for victims during emergencies. The committee substitute for the bill was adopted without challenge and moved forward for a favorable recommendation. Public testimony was closed with no registered speakers, indicating strong support or little opposition to the measures being discussed. Additionally, the committee addressed HB27, sparking a significant debate about groundwater management and local regulations, reflecting growing concerns about resource allocation in Texas. Members engaged in discussions surrounding the need for scientific studies before imposing moratoriums on water permits, highlighting the complexities of balancing ecological concerns with community needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Agriculture & Livestock Apr 22nd, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House Agriculture & Livestock Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • on the impact of seed banks and seed preservation on access
  • research in growing resilient crops in case of natural or non-natural
  • life sciences and natural resources, delivers wide-ranging educational programs focused on research-based
  • Members, this is Senator Sparks' bill.
  • Members, this is Senator Perry's bill. Senate Bill 2155.
Bills: HB5085
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several agricultural bills, including HB5085, SB1035, and SB2155. Representative Hawkins opened the discussion regarding HB5085, emphasizing the importance of seed banks and preservation efforts for maintaining food security and biodiversity in light of environmental challenges. The bill was passed favorably with a vote of six to three after discussion on its potential impact on local agricultural practices. The meeting proceeded with SB1035, which aims to provide a legal pathway for agricultural operators to contest unlawful local regulations, where a committee substitute was successfully adopted. This bill received unanimous support in voting before moving on to SB2155, which seeks to modernize the structure of the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, also passed with unanimous support.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • One thing that Senator Perry mentioned in the initial hearings for.
  • I really appreciate the work that you, Senators Cook, and Senators Eckhardt are doing on this.
  • And I'm so proudly signed on to Senator Johnson's bills because
  • And so prohibition simply does not work—one joint, one impulse purchase.
  • That's the message on the maps.
Bills: SB5, SB11, SB12
Summary: The meeting focused on the pressing issue of THC regulation in Texas, led by several key legislators including Senator Johnson who emphasized the need for a comprehensive regulatory framework for THC products. Key topics included the unregulated sale of hemp-derived THC, its negative impact on public health, especially among children, and the disproportionate incarceration rates for minor marijuana offenses. Senators discussed the need for reforms to create a safer, more enforceable regulatory environment as public sentiment increasingly favors regulation over prohibition. Numerous public testimonies highlighted personal experiences and the necessity of changing current laws to reflect public safety and health concerns.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Jan 27th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Finance will come to order.

  • Thank you, Senator Alvarado, for agreeing to serve on this committee.
  • it's great to be back on the Senate Finance Committee.
  • I look forward to working with **Senator Creighton** as a member of the Education Committee on that,
  • If you, Senator, or anyone else on the committee is

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Finance Committee was marked by extensive discussions around the budget proposals for various judicial services and the impact of proposed salary increases on staffing. Notably, there were concerns raised regarding a significant attorney shortage in rural areas, which has seen a 27% decline in attorneys taking positions compared to previous years. Scott Ehlers highlighted a crucial $12 million funding request aimed at addressing this shortfall to maintain the adequate operational capacity of indigent defense services across the state. The committee members, led by Chairman Hinojosa, emphasized the importance of finding solutions to improve legal access and representation in underserved areas to respond effectively to this critical issue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 28th, 2025 at 11:04 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • on Natural Resources.
  • on Natural Resources.
  • on Natural Resources.
  • on Natural Resources.
  • on Natural Resources.
Summary: The committee meeting covered a variety of bills focusing on issues ranging from housing development moratoriums to the regulation of Medicaid services. Notably, House Bill 2559, addressing building moratoriums imposed by municipalities, drew attention when Mr. Patterson presented it as crucial for aligning residential and commercial construction regulations. The bill passed to engrossment with a solid majority of 118 votes in favor. Additionally, House Bill 3126, which involves the election of certain school districts to participate in a uniform group coverage program, received significant support, affirming the commitment to enhance healthcare access for school employees. Equally critical was the discussion surrounding Senate Bill 963, aimed at improving Medicaid managed care organizations' ability to inform recipients about private health plans, reinforcing the legislature's focus on healthcare administration. This bill too was passed with a clear majority. The discussions showcased active participation from committee members, with multiple witnesses providing testimony on various bills, reflecting a collaborative approach to legislative advancements. The meeting concluded with plans for ongoing deliberations on the remaining agenda, emphasizing the importance of public feedback through testimonies.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice May 13th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • one or more bills, please register at one of the kiosks located behind the committee hearing room.
  • So this one will have to go to the Senate floor, Senator

  • I do have a committee substitute. Chair Flores is on the side of the committee, is there any...
  • Senator King is present. Senator Huffman, you have one more yes for Bill 45.
  • There are other people on this committee that are focusing on getting and have devoted their lives to
Summary: During the meeting, multiple bills were reviewed and discussed, with the most prominent being HB33, known as the Uvalde-Strong Act. This bill aims to improve school safety and preparedness in active shooting situations by implementing stringent security measures and training requirements for law enforcement and educational institutions. The bill generated significant discussion about its provisions, the urgency for enhanced safety protocols, and the lessons learned from previous tragedies. HB1261, which allows for dual publication methods for public notices, was also reported favorably without objections, reflecting a growing need to adapt legislative processes to modern communication standards. The meeting concluded with several bills advancing to the full Senate for further consideration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • on Natural Resources.
  • And resource for the Committee on State Affairs.
  • on Natural Resources.
  • on Energy Resources.
  • on Natural Resources.
Summary: The committee meeting highlighted a series of bills focused on various legislative concerns, including healthcare, education, and regulatory measures. The discussion was notably lively, with several members expressing strong support for initiatives aimed at enhancing workforce development in the healthcare sector. Specific bills such as HB3801 and HB3803 were examined, with members detailing the benefits of establishing dedicated councils to improve local health resonating throughout the meeting. Additionally, the incorporation of advanced technologies in the education system was a focal point, particularly in relation to HB3828 regarding the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources May 14th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Committee on Natural Resources will come to order.

  • There's also a committee substitute being worked on right now to ensure that even though you're going
  • The bill in its current form passed the Senate uncontested on national and local consent.
  • Honorable members of the Natural Resources Committee, my
  • We can't allow one neighbor to exploit that resource to the detriment of other property owners.
Summary: The Committee on Natural Resources convened to discuss several key bills addressing water management in Texas. Notable among these was SB2660, which aims to equip groundwater districts with improved management tools to handle the growing population's water needs. Support for the bill was voiced by constituents including the Hayes Trinity Groundwater Conservation District, emphasizing the necessity for proper resources to manage the aquifer sustainably. Additionally, discussions around SB1965 and SB1624 focused on enhancing the regulations surrounding water conservation and backflow prevention. There was notable public testimony both for and against these bills, highlighting the concern for public health and safety as well as the vested interests of landowners and water operators in the region.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs Apr 8th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The committee substitute changes one word from the original language. It changes.
  • Then you have an impact fee committee that makes a recommendation on what the collection rate is.
  • I'm with Droplet Resources in the Greater Houston area, focusing on custom construction and water capture
  • The one issue I brought up with Senator Perry.

  • The remaining members on the committee would have of me,
Summary: The meeting of the committee addressed multiple bills focusing primarily on local government regulations concerning environmental policy and spending practices. Notably, HB4313 and HB4314 were discussed, with advocates expressing concerns about the overreach of local governments in implementing stringent environmental regulations that might impact efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Testimony included perspectives from organizations like the Texas Public Policy Foundation, emphasizing that local governments should focus on practical criteria rather than subjective social governance measures, particularly in contracting processes.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I expect to hear that at 7 o'clock on Thursday night on the Senate floor, and it will be voted off the
  • And members of the Senate Select Committee on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding, thank you for allowing
  • I offer myself as a resource if the committee has any questions.
  • I'm really grateful for what I've heard from Senator Perry and others on the committee.
  • Committee substitute for Senate Bill 1.
Summary: The meeting focused on discussion around SB1, addressing safety reforms in youth camps in light of a tragic flooding incident that resulted in multiple fatalities. The committee heard testimony from various stakeholders, including family members of the victims, who shared heartfelt stories and the urgent need for reforms to ensure that such a tragedy would not happen again. The testimonies highlighted the importance of establishing better safety measures, including evacuation plans and compliance with new safety regulations. Senator Perry emphasized that the bill aims to create objective standards that protect children attending camps, prompting a strong emotional response from attendees as they reflected on the lives lost during the flash floods.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services will come

  • Senator Perry moves the adoption of the committee substitute for Senate Bill SB636.
  • Senator Miles sends up the committee substitute.
  • One of the things that the Committee Substitute for Senate Bill 719 does is it adds that data to a reporting
  • I'm here today testifying on Senate Bill 2119.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services primarily focused on several pieces of legislation aimed at improving mental health care in Texas, especially for vulnerable populations. Notable discussions were held around SB719, which seeks to conduct a comprehensive assessment of inpatient psychiatric bed capacity in Texas, addressing the significant shortages faced by facilities. There was widespread support from committee members and public testimonies praising the need for improved mental health resources and proactive measures to enhance service delivery. Witnesses highlighted the critical situation surrounding mental health admissions, emphasizing the human impact of ongoing bed shortages and the tragic consequences for patients awaiting treatment.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 4th, 2025 at 02:02 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Harrison: We know this is still possible because the Senate passed a bill out of committee last week
  • : the Senate has...
  • Our oil and natural gas resources have led to an unprecedented level of energy security for the United
  • And today, we know this is still possible because the Senate has passed a bill out of committee last
  • The oil and gas and natural gas production, storage, and refining of our resources have led to an unprecedented
Summary: The committee meeting highlighted several key resolutions, including the recognition of various days to celebrate regions and groups within Texas. Notably, H.R. 127 was passed, recognizing February 4th, 2025, as Texas Energy Day, underscoring the significance of the oil and gas industry in Texas' economy. During discussions, Representative Harrison voiced strong opposition to SCR 11, expressing concerns over legislative inaction and advocating for tackling pressing issues like property taxes and educational reform. His remarks underscored frustrations with the current leadership’s handling of significant legislation, suggesting a pattern of strategic inaction to avoid accountability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Jul 31st, 2025 at 09:07 am

House Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Committee on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding, come to order

  • The Senate committee is working on it, so thank you.
  • Well, I think we are all committed; everybody on this committee...
  • Would you care to elaborate on that for the benefit of this committee on your reasoning for that?
  • That center was a one-stop shop for those resources.
Summary: This meeting, held in Kerr County, focused on the recent flooding disaster that affected the area. Lieutenant Governor Patrick and Speaker Burroughs spearheaded discussions, emphasizing the need for improved emergency response and flood management. Various testimonies highlighted the community's resilience while revealing critical gaps in communication and the effectiveness of evacuation strategies during the flooding. The commitment from state leaders to address these issues was evident, as they assured the local populace that legislative action would follow to prevent future tragedies. Overall, the meeting served as both a reflection on the recent disaster and a clarion call for enhanced preparedness measures across Texas.

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