Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'government waste'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We have a provision in Chapter 311 of the Government

  • $122 million to the federal government, and Texas was one
  • I am against, adamantly against, the government having more
  • 7722">Guess what I'm hearing is all three of those solutions involve involuntary detention by the government
  • And we've wasted years when the law is very clear that we
Summary: During the meeting, the committee engaged in substantial discussions surrounding several key pieces of legislation, particularly focusing on HB3004 which aims to enhance safety standards around high voltage power lines. Testimonies revealed concerns about the historical inadequacies of existing safety protocols, with multiple stakeholders advocating for strengthening provisions to avoid incidents of electrocution. Additionally, HB1088 was addressed, with debates regarding its potential implications on healthcare access, especially concerning transgender youth. There were conflicting opinions expressed regarding the necessity and impact of these legislative changes, highlighting the broader societal debates occurring around health and safety regulations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The federal government, the Federal Railroad Administration owns the
  • "358" data-time="2142"> In accordance with the operating laws that are set forth by the federal government
  • This is particularly true for local governments and is the
  • This is about waste, fraud, and abuse. This is about...
  • closest to the people has, to me, always been the best form of government.
Summary: The committee meeting included significant discussions surrounding several bills, particularly focusing on infrastructure projects and their implications for the community. House Bill 2989 initiated a dialogue around modernizing the legal framework for Cedarport National Park, which is vital for enhancing maritime transport and reducing truck traffic. Supporters emphasized the economic benefits and the project's potential to create a more efficient and sustainable transport network, highlighting testimonies from local officials who noted the bill's importance for regional growth and safety. Representative Metcalfe and others advocated strongly for the bill, underscoring its necessity in addressing the increasing container demand due to recent shifts in shipping patterns. The meeting was well-attended and included various testimonies for and against bills, showcasing the passionate involvement of community members and stakeholders. One key point mentioned was the need for grade separations to improve safety around railway crossings. In particular, concerns were raised about the impact of long trains blocking intersections in residential areas, prompting discussions about potential solutions. Overall, the meeting highlighted the ongoing collaboration between legislators, industry representatives, and community leaders to enhance infrastructure and ensure public safety.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Government does everything." Texas and Texans do incredible work.
  • First, I will say there will never be enough government responders.
  • The federal government and the state government have no funding to replace homes.
  • It is outside of any government purview at this point. I'm not saying we should control it.
  • and county government is to provide public safety.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several critical bills related to disaster response and water conservation. Senate Bill 1, the Natural Disaster Omnibus Bill, was extensively discussed, with testimonies reflecting on recent flooding incidents in Texas. Senator Perry emphasized the need for policy solutions to prevent future tragedies following historic flooding that resulted in significant loss of life. The committee adopted the committee substitutes for both SB1 and SB13 without objection, highlighting the broad support for these initiatives aimed at water conservation and improved emergency response protocols. Additionally, members expressed the importance of training and educating officials involved in disaster management to ensure they are equipped to handle emergencies effectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Mar 20th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We're obviously, this is the governance.
  • Under the guise of shared governance, I look at shared governance
  • He said that, in the government...
  • The emphasis behind my questions related to shared governance because I'm hearing in shared governance
  • If you believe in small government...
Summary: The meeting convened with significant discussions centered around higher education legislation in Texas, particularly focusing on research security and curriculum governance. Senator Brian Hughes introduced SB1273, which aims to establish a Higher Education Research Security Council to bolster security practices against potential espionage while promoting collaboration among Texas Tier 1 research institutions. Witness testimony included insights from Dr. Kevin Gamache of Texas A&M University, who underscored the importance of safeguarding academic resources to maintain Texas’s leadership in research. The committee unanimously adopted a substitute for the bill which elevated its scope to include private institutions as well, reflecting a broader approach to research security.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health Mar 31st, 2025 at 08:03 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I just get tired of government insulting the intelligence of consumers.
  • The Council of State Governments is a nonpartisan organization.
  • And your organization, the Council of State Governments, you do a lot of these.
  • So we are heavily reliant upon our local governments and subsidies for funding.
  • expense to our local governments.
Summary: The public health committee meeting convened to discuss a variety of bills aimed at improving health-related policies in Texas. Noteworthy discussions included House Bill 1887, which seeks to enhance access to birth certificates for adult adoptees, and House Bill 754, which mandates medical assistance personnel to complete training on human trafficking. Both bills received positive support from the members present, and there were assurances that the bills would be reported favorably to the full House. Public testimony was also encouraged, allowing stakeholders to voice their opinions on these significant pieces of legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Mar 6th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The federal government doesn't give us a penny for our local districts for those. Okay.
  • to govern.
  • And I show you registered as Monty Ekster, Director of Government Relations.
  • Is that how Lone Star Governance goes?

  • Is that how Lone Star Governance goes? This is it. Adult behavior is right here.
Bills: HB2
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on legislation related to educational funding and support for students with disabilities. Testimonies were heard regarding HB2, which aims to enhance special education funding and improve the overall educational environment for students. Advocates stressed the importance of investing in mental health services within schools, emphasizing that a holistic approach to student welfare is essential for fostering a safe learning environment. Concerns were raised about charter school funding and the lack of accountability in financial expenditures related to such institutions. Additional discussions highlighted the urgent need for updated policies that reflect current economic realities in education, especially regarding the basic allotment for school funding.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Sep 2nd, 2025 at 12:09 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • like that are a role of government.
  • Taxpayers must discipline the local governments, and this is a way to engage them in that process.
  • Bring me some protections from my local government so that we can make local spending decisions.
  • We can waste taxpayer dollars sending police to people's houses that we know are in another state.
  • light on what they perceive as government overreach.
Bills: HB18, SB54, SB10
Summary: The recent committee meeting addressed several significant bills, primarily focused on electoral processes and legislative conduct. Notably, HB18, which regulates political contributions by legislative members during absences, was passed with a notable vote of 86 ayes to 46 nays. Additionally, Senate Bill 54, centered on election procedures regarding the registration of voters with outdated addresses, also advanced successfully through the committee, although not without discussion regarding its implications. The chair emphasized the importance of these legislative measures and their potential impact on voting rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation (Part I) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • HB19 on the floor in the House essentially took the federal regulators and standards, the law that governs
  • It only repeals the law that governs their conduct already and it affects their responsibility in current
  • make the day before the crash, months before the crash, years before the crash that specifically governed
  • The federal government said, "Hey, trucking is so dangerous."
  • Several investigative reports have highlighted waste at the Harris County Toll Road Authority.
Summary: During the committee meeting, significant discussions revolved around three main bills: SB39, HB19, and SB2246. Senator Bettencourt laid out SB39, aimed at revising the admission rule related to commercial vehicle collision cases. The intention behind this bill is to standardize trial procedures by limiting the evidence admissible in the first phase, ensuring that unnecessary complexity does not cloud the issue of fault. Various stakeholders, including trial lawyers and business representatives, provided insights into the impact of these changes, highlighting concerns over insurance costs and practical implications on litigations. Public testimony reflected a mix of support and opposition, showcasing the contentious nature of the bill's modifications. Additionally, the committee addressed SB2246 regarding salvage auto dealers and the process of obtaining titles for vehicles that will not return to the road, which was met with relatively little challenge as stakeholders recognized the necessity for clarity and efficiency in this process. The meeting concluded with promises from members to continue discussions on these important legislative measures, indicating an ongoing commitment to addressing the complex issues at hand.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • That the evidence simply doesn't warrant wasting taxpayer money
  • It amends section 22.002 of the Government Code to allow the Texas Supreme Court to issue writs that
  • With the governor and the federal government as well.
  • government.
  • What you just referenced earlier, where if you were profiting off a local government...
Summary: The meeting focused on several crucial pieces of legislation, notably Senate Joint Resolution 40, which proposed a constitutional amendment to clarify the powers of the governor, the legislature, and the Supreme Court during emergencies. Senator Birdwell presented the resolution, emphasizing the need for legislative involvement during prolonged crises. It garnered broad support, passing with 29 votes in favor and only 1 against. Following this, Senate Bill 871, considered the enabling legislation, was also moved for discussion, with the aim of reinforcing the legislature's authority during emergencies while establishing clear guidelines for the governor's powers.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health Mar 17th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And so this money goes in grants to, what, private sector facilities, government hospitals?
  • ...head of the federal government, not surprising, but the
  • So, the federal government is the primary funder of general medical education, and the residency slots
  • and bring transparency and accountability to government.
  • So that type of administrative burden that is being put on, whether it's government, private, or both
Summary: The committee meeting welcomed discussions centered on maternal health, particularly relating to the delays in the Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee's report. The Commissioner noted significant delays due to a backlog in the review process for maternal death cases and staff shortages, essentially making it difficult to meet statutory deadlines. A proposed bill, HB713, aims to allow nurses to access unredacted materials during the review to expedite the Committee's reporting process and address the increasing maternal mortality rates in Texas. The urgency surrounding this legislation indicates the committee's commitment to improving maternal outcomes in the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Public Health Aug 22nd, 2025 at 09:08 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Ten state agencies govern children. None of them, none, not one.
  • So that's the procedure under which we're governed, but it
  • If the government is going to start regulating and

  • So that's all I'm asking is that it sounds like you do support government intervention in one aspect,
  • Where would you suggest the government steps in to protect them?
Bills: HB265, HB25
Summary: In this meeting of the Public Health Committee, the primary focus was on youth camp safety and legislation designed to address serious regulatory gaps. Representative Hull presented HB265, which aims to reform the oversight of youth camps to ensure better safety protocols and stricter regulations. The emotional testimony from families affected by past incidents highlighted the urgent need for change and accountability in camp operations. Representatives discussed necessary amendments to the bill, emphasizing the inclusion of child safety experts on the advisory committee and proposing measures to improve the enforcement of safety standards.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 30th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • baby girl and allow us to mourn her and hold her properly, without treating her as if she was medical waste
  • /span> It's a fiction, but that's what he was told by our government
  • The bill amends Government Code 540 to allow Medicaid-managed care organizations to provide medical care
  • And I serve as a government relations manager at the Houston
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services covered multiple bills focusing on healthcare, education, and child welfare. A key highlight was the presentation of Senate Bill 3001, which aims to add medical nutrition counseling as a Medicaid service for patients with chronic conditions. Chairman Korkhorst emphasized the importance of this bill in addressing healthcare needs in low-income communities. Public testimony was gathered, with several professionals supporting the inclusion of nutrition services to improve health outcomes for Texans, particularly those battling chronic diseases. Another notable discussion revolved around Senate Bill 425, designed to enhance the accuracy of investigations into child and adult protective services. Members raised concerns regarding the need for transparency and improved protocols in these sensitive areas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Local governments and local elected officials, such as those who...
  • So just basically what this bill does is it states that we can't use government funds or government employees
  • They are government agencies, and they should not be involved in partisanship.
  • Why is the government doing this when the government really
  • to be distributing voter registration applications at government agencies and our government offices
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several key legislative bills relating to election integrity and voter registration. Notable discussions were held around HB817, HB1478, and HB1661, which addressed issues such as the termination of majority votes, compliance with voter registration laws, and penalties related to election supplies. Throughout the meeting, various representatives vocalized their opinions, alongside public testimonies that provided diverse perspectives on the bills being considered. The chair led the proceedings efficiently, allowing for a balance of viewpoints while ensuring that legislative business was conducted promptly. Overall, the atmosphere was characterized by active engagement from members of the committee, with many bills being reported favorably to the full House for consideration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Again, I am Reagan Elmer, Director of Government Affairs

  • House Bill 2275 seeks to require that arbitration be conducted in Texas and governed by Texas law.
  • Owner's associations or condo associations that are governed
  • And government entities are not subject to ERISA.
  • And wasteful care, not fraud and abuse.
Summary: The committee meeting revolved around key discussions on several proposed bills, particularly focusing on HB3211, which aims to improve patient access to optometrists. Multiple stakeholders participated, expressing their views and concerns regarding the impact of the bill on vision care networks. The discussions highlighted the need for a clearer application process for optometrists to be included in vision plan networks, reflecting a powerful sentiment from both healthcare professionals and patients about access to care. The meeting also encapsulated varying perspectives on the legal aspects surrounding HB2275, addressing arbitration provisions for surplus policies, illustrating the committee's diligence in scrutinizing regulatory frameworks for consumers.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Isn't the point of the Doge Committee to be reducing government and making government more efficient?
  • It improves the way the government operates by defending our citizens.
  • , and not just grows government by creating an entirely new government agency.
  • This is not cutting government. It's creating a new agency.
  • It's growing government.
Summary: The meeting facilitated a thorough examination of various legislative matters including the passage of significant bills such as HB451, which focuses on enhancing screening for children at risk of commercial sexual exploitation. Representative Thompson advocated for the bill by highlighting Texas's ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking and safeguard vulnerable children in foster care and the juvenile justice system. The bill passed with unanimous support, indicative of a strong consensus on the need for protective measures. Additionally, the committee addressed HB120, which aims to expand career and technology education, emphasizing its crucial role in preparing students for high-demand job markets in Texas. This bill also passed, furthering the committee's commitment to improving educational outcomes for students across the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Mar 3rd, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the Director of Government Relations for Texas Values.
  • It permits the government to suppress such religious expression.
  • There is no intent to keep the church out of government or government allowing. Right, exactly.
  • We oppose the use of government to force a medical...
  • The government.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate State Affairs Committee provided a platform for discussing a comprehensive agenda featuring multiple bills, particularly focusing on concerns surrounding THC regulations and its implications for public safety. Notably, Senate Bill 3, which seeks to ban consumable hemp products containing THC, drew strong public testimony from various stakeholders who expressed both support and opposition. Supporters argued the necessity to curb the proliferation of high-potency THC products in schools and among youths, while opponents warned of the potential negative economic impacts and push towards unregulated markets if such a ban were implemented.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Agriculture & Livestock Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am the Government Affairs Representative for the State Soil and Water Conservation Board.
  • This act is expressed in U.S. regulations and the U.S. government also regulates pest control services
  • The U.S. government also regulates pest control services
  • by the government.
  • Half of that time, I was with the government. I was with the Department of Agriculture.
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

Senate Session (Part I) Feb 5th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Florida's information, their arm of state government, like
  • Better than government, Senator West. Moms and dads are going to police that, right?
  • Here’s a section of the government code, 556-005.
  • How are homeschool families protected from government intrusion under Senate Bill 2?
  • Government contracts of every size, from a few dollars to binding agreements.
Bills: SB2, SJR36, SB2, SB2, SR29, SB2
Summary: The meeting focused extensively on the amendments and discussions pertaining to SB2, which is aimed at establishing an education savings account program. Various members presented and debated amendments that targeted transparency, accountability, and potential conflicts of interest within the private education sector. Notably, Senator Cook proposed an amendment to require educational service providers to make their budgets public, while Senator Blanco highlighted the need for disclosures relevant to parents of special education and English language learners. The bill saw intense discussion around protecting taxpayer dollars and ensuring that the provisions did not segregate or discriminate against students within the program. Throughout the meeting, the committee demonstrated robust engagement with both proponents and opponents of the bill, examining the implications of the proposed amendments critically. The overall atmosphere suggested a strong desire to balance educational freedom with accountability and oversight. The meeting concluded with calls for diligence in ensuring that public funds are appropriately utilized, setting the stage for future discussions as the bill proceeds through the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Mar 4th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Each community college has its own local governing board.
  • While we are not involved in the day-to-day governance of those institutions, their respective regents
  • students who begin at Kilgore College can seamlessly transition to pursue a bachelor's degree without wasting
  • that critically important role within the university, faculty are an important voice within our governance
  • example, is one of several faculty groups that have a vitally important advisory role in university governance
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on the transformative impact of House Bill 8, which restructured community college funding to emphasize outcomes that align with workforce needs. Dr. Brenda Kays highlighted the importance of community colleges in building Texas's economy, discussing successful partnerships that have emerged from the new framework provided by the bill. Testimonies from various representatives underscored the effectiveness of dual credit initiatives and workforce training, pointing out that increased enrollment and program development directly address regional skill gaps in high-demand fields such as healthcare and technical trades. The discussions revealed a commitment to ensuring that community colleges adapt to changing economic landscapes by equipping students with the skills necessary for sustainable employment.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 6th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thanks for trusting us with the state and population depth Division of Student Government and Governor's
  • We work with the national labs on this and with the federal government substantially— not just in the
  • Was it possibly because the government misled them?
  • We will likely never be able to access this information from the federal government.
  • So we use the governing...
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.

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