Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'cost transparency'

Page 34 of 52
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 31st, 2025 at 04:03 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • HB 4161 by Munoz, relating to the cost of living increases

  • HB 181 by Kane relating to abolishing the Interagency Data Transparency
Summary: The committee meeting primarily addressed various proposed bills concerning public safety, education, and taxation. Notably, HB4250 was discussed, relating to emergency power sources for nursing facilities. During the session, several amendments were proposed, leading to an in-depth discussion on the adequacy of the current infrastructure to support emergency generators, especially in light of recent events. The committee members also engaged in conversations regarding H.J.R. 172, a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at tax exemptions for residential properties, which sparked considerable debate about its fiscal implications.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs Apr 29th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It sounded like it was a little difficult with procurement transparency.
  • Housing costs are often the largest.
Summary: The meeting focused on the presentation and discussions around several House Bills, notably HB769, which aims to enhance pedestrian safety by providing funding for the construction of sidewalks and other pedestrian infrastructure in disadvantaged areas. Representative Gervin Hawkins presented the bill passionately, highlighting the necessity of sidewalks as basic infrastructure that supports community health and mobility. Testimony from various stakeholders, including local officials and community advocates, supported the bill, emphasizing the urgent need for improved pedestrian pathways due to rising pedestrian fatalities in Texas. Several bills were left pending as discussions were extensive, indicating ongoing negotiations and considerations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means May 12th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • To capture the cost savings we might realize under SB 1030, we are implementing this exemption.
  • In the interest of reforming the INS tax rate setting process with an emphasis on transparency and accountability
Summary: The meeting of the committee involved extensive discussions on various important pieces of legislation. Notable among them was SB2206, which aims to extend and improve the state's research and development tax credits, ensuring Texas remains competitive in innovation-driven industries. This bill received strong support from the Texas Association of Manufacturers and other stakeholders, emphasizing the need for continued investment in R&D to bolster economic growth and job creation. Additionally, SB2779 was discussed, which focuses on proper allocation and use of hotel occupancy taxes (HOT) for beach maintenance in coastal communities, specifically addressing concerns about the oversight and management of these funds by local park boards.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Environmental Regulation May 8th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Environmental Regulation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Among other requirements, the facility shall notify TCEQ of a spill, identify its cause, and establish cost
  • Implementing industry standard preventative measures from the start would have cost a mere fraction of
  • It merely asks the TCEQ to study the problem so the legislature can act with full transparency on the
  • ...transparency a requirement and by creating guidelines
  • And therefore, it can be a cost-effective fertilizer for
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on the discussion of various environmental legislative bills, notably HB1341, which sets maximum allowable ground level concentrations of hydrogen sulfide, and HB1674 regarding PFAS regulations in biosolids. Representative Reynolds presented HB1341, emphasizing the health risks associated with hydrogen sulfide and the need for clear regulatory standards to protect communities near industrial operations. This received support from health advocates and oversight bodies, highlighting the urgent need for regulations to safeguard public health. Meanwhile, HB1674 faced significant opposition, particularly from environmental organizations which argued that the bill's provisions could disrupt biosolid disposal processes and increase costs significantly. Many testimony segments reflected concerns regarding the adequacy of scientific understanding related to PFAS and its implications for agricultural safety and water quality.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part II) Feb 11th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Today, it costs us an average of more than $57,000 per well.
  • of one-time costs.
  • Due to federal regulations, most administrative costs for this program...
  • Your agency could cut costs by having more authority.
  • , interest costs, labor—all of those things have increased.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting included a comprehensive discussion on various upcoming budget recommendations impacting the Railroad Commission and water funding allocations. Significant dialogue focused on Senate Bill 30, which addresses water funding appropriations crucial for developing and maintaining the state's water infrastructure amidst growing demand. Testimonies from various stakeholders emphasized the urgency of addressing water resource issues in Texas, given the state's increasing population and the forthcoming infrastructure needs. Additionally, climate change impacts and funding challenges were heavily underscored by the participants, showcasing a collective concern over future water supply and management. The committee also reviewed the implications of Senate Bill 8 and Senate Joint Resolution 75 regarding the creation of new funds and programs for water management and development. Importantly, the potential for a dedicated revenue stream was raised, echoing the sentiment that a historic investment in water infrastructure is critical. The meeting adjourned with plans for a follow-up to further evaluate and confirm budget appropriations, reflecting a strong commitment to tackle Texas's pressing water challenges.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This increased transparency fosters a stronger partnership

  • responsibilities, growing populations, increased acuity of the individuals we support, or simply the cost
  • It's odd that there is no fiscal note acknowledging the increased cost to the local entities responsible
  • Some may argue about costs, but I ask you this: what is the cost of watching our children become the
  • How do we bring those costs down?
Summary: The committee meeting featured a comprehensive discussion primarily focused on HB1188, which seeks to establish an early connection for families of children diagnosed with intellectual and developmental disabilities to local IDD authorities. Multiple testimonies highlighted the urgent need for such a system, emphasizing how it could transform the experience of families by providing critical information and resources at the moment of diagnosis rather than at a later age. Representative Emanuel passionately presented the bill, underlining its potential to make a significant positive impact in the lives of families across Texas. Additionally, there were discussions regarding other bills related to education and child services, including HB123 and HB2310, with emphasis on the importance of early intervention and support for young children with disabilities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism Mar 6th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • 9% of our budget is spent on administrative costs, and the
  • That's what it would cost if we were to go out and protect that land.
  • So I've tried to provide some transparency as to what we
  • That's what it would cost if we were to go out and protect that land.
  • So I've tried to provide some transparency as to what we do in those things.
Summary: During this committee meeting, members discussed several bills, including HB2, HB22, and HB4, focusing on various state issues. Key discussions revolved around the impact of legislation on local communities, with members expressing differing viewpoints on the measures proposed. Witnesses were invited to provide testimonies, highlighting both support and concerns regarding the bills, particularly in terms of economic implications and social justice reform. Overall, the meeting reflected a robust engagement from the members and public, showcasing the complexities of the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Mar 12th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Do you know what the rough annual cost is to the state of Texas to...
  • That was the cost to Texas taxpayers?

  • The cost per client here is $43,075.

  • The average cost in the United States is $172,000.
  • The cost-benefit here seems concerning.
Summary: The House Committee on Corrections convened to discuss various operational issues and concerns surrounding the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Notably, Executive Director Brian Collier highlighted ongoing initiatives to enhance inmate rehabilitation services, including job training programs aimed at reducing recidivism rates. While the session was not dedicated to voting on bills, the committee reviewed the budget cuts impacting correctional facilities, which raised questions regarding the potential effects on facility operations and inmate management. Concerns were also aired about maintaining standards for educational programs within the correctional framework.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Improving data transparency, this bill empowers schools
  • The teacher had to go out, and I think the new prescription glasses cost $450.
  • Long wait lists for diagnoses, high medical costs, and the demands of therapy ...
  • Are the costs worth it, the protection?
  • Also, we're not using all the tools that don't cost money.
Summary: The committee meeting predominantly focused on educational reform, discussing several bills designed to enhance school safety and address chronic absenteeism. In particular, House Bill 6 was scrutinized for its proposals to modify disciplinary measures within schools, specifically allowing longer in-school suspensions for students who cause significant disruptions. Advocates and experts presented testimonies emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe learning environment while also addressing behavioral issues in a manner that supports at-risk students. The discourse highlighted the need for balancing discipline with educational support, particularly for students with disabilities who may exhibit challenging behaviors due to their conditions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 6th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The costs for the software of everything we do is dramatic.
  • Just look at what private school costs versus what y'all cost.
  • It's going to cost 120 million dollars.
  • And so I'm all for having greater clarity and transparency.
  • What would it cost, or what will it cost, to help

Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting of the committee was primarily focused on budget requests and legislative priorities from various educational institutions. Each institution expressed the need for increased funding to support academic programs, STEM education, and critical health initiatives. For instance, representatives from UT Dallas highlighted the importance of their Fentanyl Protection Initiative and advances in pain therapy, reaffirming their commitment to combat the opioid crisis in Texas. Other notable discussions included the need for updates to campus infrastructure and the request for new programs aimed at enhancing workforce development across various fields, particularly healthcare and technology. Topics such as the restoration of Institutional Enhancement Funds and the increase of appropriations for research initiatives were also extensively discussed. The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration among universities to strengthen Texas's overall higher education landscape.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Article III Feb 26th, 2025 at 09:02 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Article III

Transcript Highlights:
  • We support clarity and transparency on exactly how these funds are used.
  • The total academic cost for a degree at UTRGV, the average total academic cost that students pay, is
  • We have about half of the cost of that through the private gift, and so this would match the private
  • at the same time that they reduce costs.
  • NK cells, at a cost of no more than $1.5 billion.
Summary: The meeting focused on various initiatives related to health, education, and technological advancements. Notably, the Fentanyl Detection Initiative was presented, highlighting the urgency as five Texans die daily from fentanyl poisoning. Researchers at UT Dallas are developing portable detectors to accurately quantify fentanyl, facilitating faster medical responses by first responders. Additionally, funding requests for the Center for Advanced Pain Studies, aimed at developing effective pain therapies without addictive opioids, were discussed, which emphasize the need to address the opioid crisis. The conversation also covered funding allocations to support various health-related programs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 8th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...an unnecessary cost simply for choosing to hand count our
  • Recognized as the gold standard, hand-counted ballots are already fully transparent, accurate, verifiable
  • you were, let's say that $1.5 trillion was the amount of money that states had in the market at any cost
  • My attorney sent a demand letter for $50,000, just enough to cover the cost of counseling.
  • However, the one thing that is prohibited is silencing coming at the cost.
Summary: The meeting held by the committee covered multiple critical bills focusing chiefly on the implications of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) related to child sexual abuse and the prohibition of state investments in companies tied to nations deemed as threats, such as China and Russia. Debate around HB34 emphasized the necessity of protecting Texas taxpayers and maintaining national security by avoiding investments in these adversarial nations. Additionally, House Bill 748 spurred poignant reflections and testimonies from abuse survivors aiming to combat the silencing effect of NDAs on victims. The legislators expressed a consensus on the urgency of these issues, particularly the need for Trey's Law, which aims to empower survivors and diminish the influence of NDAs that shield abusers from accountability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Mar 19th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • number of homeowners who have installed rooftop solar panels in an effort to reduce monthly electricity costs
  • House Bill 1640 is an attempt to bring transparency

  • So, as much transparency as we can offer or predictability with respect to maintaining a list is appreciated
Summary: The committee meeting covered a wide range of bills with robust discussions centering around House Bill 267, which aims to limit the exhibition of harmful content to minors. Representative Patterson emphasized the importance of narrowing the affirmative defenses allowed for educators regarding such material, advocating for the protection of children from exposure to objectionable content at schools. His testimony sparked considerations about existing legal loopholes and heightened concerns over child sexualization in educational settings. The bill was left pending for further discussion. Additionally, significant support was noted for House Bill 1640, which seeks to improve transparency in the rooftop solar industry by requiring the Public Utility Commission to guide consumers in understanding solar installations better.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • regardless of the political cost.
  • Yesterday, it promotes transparency and accountability in
  • This exemption costs about $560 million, and so what we're trying to do is have a...
  • So, limited cost, but high cost of compliance for businesses
  • Incidentally, this is at no cost whatsoever to the

Summary: The committee meeting highlighted significant discussions surrounding several key bills, including HB908, which aims to establish a required reporting protocol for missing children cases. The bill received robust support, with members emphasizing its potential to enhance child safety and streamline law enforcement responses. Another notable piece of legislation discussed was HB1392, which addresses delays in property tax payment due to unforeseen circumstances like natural disasters and other emergencies, ensuring Texans are not penalized for situations beyond their control. The meeting concluded with enthusiastic participation from both committee members and the public, showcasing the community's engagement in the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 21st, 2025 at 10:05 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • He has the ability to recover costs, correct?
  • And so this is about transparency.

  • And so, how much does it cost if you know?
  • ...then the cost will not be as it should be.
  • A reckless ban would cost the state.
Bills: SB31, SB33, SB20, SB217, SB264, SB269, SB650, SB681, SB528, SB502, SB740, SB916, SB995, SB10, SB2581, SB2570, SB3031, SB24, SB379, SB1171, SB1121, SB1120, SB1061, SB1036, SB1019, SB890, SB11, SB868, SB1188, SB1254, SB2778, SB2543, SB2443, SB1333, SB1259, SB1401, SB1404, SB2139, SB2165, SB2237, SB2268, SB1202, SB1198, SB1212, SB1451, SB1470, SB1498, SB965, SB1547, SB1667, SB1818, SB1902, SB2129, SB2078, SB2069, SB1737, SB1589, SB1318, SB387, SB1150, SB1574, SB2127, SB3034, SB860, SB1278, SCR5, SCR32, SB4, SB23, SB1762, SB34, SB60, SB706, SB1814, SB1220, SB523, SB565, SB1253, SB840, SB764, SB2383, SB2155, SB1535, SB1423, SB1566, SB1804, SB1728, SB1816, SB1952, SB75, SB2068, SB1455, SB213, SB627, SB2037, SB670, SB896, SB917, SB1184, SB971, SB1255, SB1261, SB1283, SB991, SB1733, SB21, SB231, SB739, SB1252, SB1371, SB646, SB3, SCR27, SB552, SB1405, SB1948, SB243, SJR1, SB31, SB33, SB20, SB217, SB264, SB269, SB650, SB681, SB528, SB502, SB740, SB916, SB995, SB10, SB2581, SB2570, SB3031, SB24, SB379, SB1171, SB1121, SB1120, SB1061, SB1036, SB1019, SB890, SB11, SB868, SB1188, SB1254, SB2778, SB2543, SB2443, SB1333, SB1259, SB1401, SB1404, SB2139, SB2165, SB2237, SB2268, SB1202, SB1198, SB1212, SB1451, SB1470, SB1498, SB965, SB1547, SB1667, SB1818, SB1902, SB2129, SB2078, SB2069, SB1737, SB1589, SB1318, SB387, SB1150, SB1574, SB2127, SB3034, SB860, SB1278, SCR5, SCR32, SB546, SB647, SB648, SB1493, SB1709, SB2001, HB5669, HB3115, HB5655, HB5675, HB5689, HB5690, HB5653, HB3228, HB2802, HB45, HB1318, HB5560, HB2894, HB4344, HB2775, HB33, HB12, HB148
Summary: The meeting focused on the discussions surrounding multiple bills, including several amendments and motions proposed by various members of the committee. Notably, Senate Bill 1405 passed after discussions led by Mr. Ashby, which highlighted its significance to the state's taxation policies. Additionally, SB4 saw considerable support, enabling an increase in school district homestead exemptions to $140,000, while SB23 aimed for exemptions tailored for seniors and disabled individuals. The committee shared insights on legislative priorities while engaging with public witnesses on controversial topics. Members received updates about upcoming committee meetings, illustrating a proactive legislative atmosphere.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 22nd, 2025 at 10:05 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • My parents escaped a world where speaking freely could cost you your job or your life.
  • I'd rather talk about funding schools, expanding health care, and lowering the cost of child care.
  • Are you referring to administrative costs for the...
  • Do costs differ by location?
  • It ensures that every ballot is handled under consistent and transparent rules.
Summary: The meeting was characterized by robust discussions surrounding various Senate Bills, with a notable focus on social justice legislation. One significant highlight was the passage of SB1278, which establishes an affirmative defense for victims of trafficking, receiving unanimous support from members. The bill was championed by Dean Thompson, who passionately emphasized the importance of holding traffickers accountable. Also discussed was SB263, which clarifies the tax obligations for FCC-licensed radio broadcasters, showcasing a cooperative attitude among committee members in aligning state laws with federal standards. SB370, enhancing confidentiality protections for employees of the Attorney General's Office, was also passed, reflecting ongoing efforts to improve privacy rights in legal contexts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...background checks and authorizes a fee to cover the cost
  • "298" data-time="1782"> ...a charity can retain in its bingo account to help pay for the increased costs
  • It also authorizes TABC to adjust licensing and renewal fee costs for implementing these expanded contract
  • ...that may just involve increased costs.
  • These complications have come with increased costs that ultimately have been passed on to the customer
Summary: The committee meeting was held to discuss a variety of bills concerning state regulations and community needs. Key discussions revolved around HB2885, which aims to allow local political subdivisions to call for option elections regarding alcoholic beverage sales. The bill was well received, passing favorably without amendments. Another notable bill discussed was HB2996, relating to gambling offenses, which also passed favorably, indicating a broader support for regulatory improvements in these sectors. Public testimony was provided on several bills, emphasizing community engagement and the importance of local governance in decision-making processes.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • That's why I pointed out this cost us $1.2 million to call this special session, which should be the
  • ...and one that costs money and time.
  • First, I'm astonished by the lack of transparency

  • transparency.
  • It is not too late to put more time, transparency, and public availability into this process.
Summary: The meeting of the House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting primarily focused on public testimony regarding the proposed revisions to the congressional redistricting plan known as C-2193. Various members of the public expressed their concerns about potential racial implications of the redistricting process, particularly the impact on black and brown communities. Testimonies highlighted the urgency for the legislature to prioritize flood relief and infrastructure instead of redistricting mid-decade, arguing that it undermines representative fairness and could disenfranchise many voters. The session saw active engagement from constituents who emphasized the importance of public input and transparency in a potentially transformative legislative process. The chair outlined a two-phase hearing plan to gather comprehensive public feedback before moving forward with legislative drafts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Juvenile Justice Apr 3rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Juvenile Justice

Transcript Highlights:
  • Identifying, addressing, and reporting transparency early can
  • So my mom had to go to jail because each day in jail cost so much money.
Bills: HB2947, HB3276, HB3513
Summary: The Subcommittee on Juvenile Justice convened a meeting where they voted on several bills, notably HB1988, which allows the Texas Juvenile Justice Department to disclose personally identifiable information about former juvenile offenders with their consent. The motion to advance HB1988 passed with a four to one vote. The committee also discussed HB3276, aimed at holding individuals working with juveniles accountable for misconduct, which received considerable support from the committee members. The discourse highlighted the importance of protective measures for the juvenile justice system, ensuring that any individuals found unfit to serve would be effectively barred from such roles.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice May 20th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • As we all know, everything costs more these days.
  • The law does not reflect the actual cost of serving a warrant in today's world.
  • HB 2282 helps shift that cost.
  • That sounds a lot like shifting the cost of police time arresting bail jumpers onto the fugitive.
  • Court costs are supposed to be reimbursements, not punitive taxes, unlike fines.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to discuss a wide range of bills, focusing particularly on topics related to sexual assault, victim compensation, and oversight of parole violators. The meeting was characterized by a series of bills being introduced, each accompanied by testimonies from experts and public advocates. Notably, HB2355, which aims to enhance protections for victims of crime, saw extensive discussion, highlighting how the proposed changes intend to close existing loopholes in current law, ensuring that necessary records are kept confidential and victims' details are handled with the utmost privacy. Other significant bills included HB305, which addresses competency restoration for defendants, and HB47, an omnibus bill centered around sexual assault survivors' protections.

Research Filters

States
Terms / Sessions
Date Range
Chamber Records
Meetings / Events / Calendars