Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'state veterans commission'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations Apr 14th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • As you all know, the commission oversees the state-wide activities of the Texas Department of Transportation
  • No licenses with the state of Texas, no sir.
  • What are the policies of the state law at this point?
  • News and World Report for the state of Texas.
  • commission to keep us from BRAC.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Nominations convened to address various nominee confirmations, highlighting the significance of higher education and environmental management. Discussions centered around the responsibilities of the Brazos River Authority and the need for effective cooperation with the legislature and other state authorities. Several senators raised concerns regarding the agricultural runoff affecting impaired streams leading into the Brazos River. The committee emphasized the importance of stewardship, collaboration, and facilitating a balance between resource utilization and environmental protection.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas is one of 28 states; out of those, 20 states do not have an emergency risk protective order or
  • I'm a United States Navy disabled veteran.
  • It's 17 veterans a day for the VA. That's minus DOD, but it's 20 veterans a day for overdose.
  • mind there are 19 states plus D.C., only two states have had them for any significant amount of time
  • I'm a Navy veteran.
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding several proposed bills, including Senate Bill 990, which aims to expand the death penalty criteria. This bill faced substantial opposition from various stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty. They expressed concerns about the effectiveness and fiscal implications of the death penalty, urging the committee to consider alternative methods for ensuring public safety. Testimony highlighted research disputing the efficacy of the death penalty as a deterrent and called for a nuanced approach to justice, particularly concerning crimes against children. In addition to SB990, the committee reviewed SB1362 and SB1379, both related to increasing penalties for financial crimes in response to fraud surges exacerbated by the pandemic. Witnesses, including law enforcement representatives and banking officials, provided testimonies supporting these bills as proactive measures against rising financial fraud cases. The meeting concluded with motions on these bills pending further consideration, reflecting the committee's ongoing commitment to addressing these critical issues while debating the broader implications of each legislation.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Twenty-seven other states already do this.
  • States Army as a physician.
  • As with the case with the Veterans Administration in more than half of the states across this country
  • Philip Day, who is an Army veteran.
  • That happened in the state of Arizona.
Bills: SB2, SJR36, SB2, SB2, SR29, SB2
Summary: The committee meeting centered around the discussion of SB911, the Heal Texans Act, aimed at improving access to healthcare in underserved areas of Texas. Senator Cesar Blanco opened the discussion by highlighting the healthcare crisis affecting millions of Texans, emphasizing the need for immediate reform to allow nurse practitioners (APRNs) to deliver essential services without cumbersome regulations. The senator expressed gratitude towards his colleagues, including Vice Chair Charles Perry, for their joint efforts in advocating for this critical legislation. The need for SB911 was reiterated by several speakers, including healthcare advocates and those impacted by the lack of accessible care, underscoring personal stories that illustrated the dire situation faced by many rural residents who cannot easily reach medical care.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Aug 22nd, 2025 at 10:08 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • There are 2,800 agencies in this state, so it's a huge number.
  • Courts have stated that this is not personnel data.
  • It simply says that an agreement will preempt contrary state law.
  • As you stated, those are required investigations by TCOL, that is in state law.
  • This was a working group that went all over the state and had a lot of input.
Bills: SB15
Summary: The committee meeting centered around the discussion of SB15, which aims to standardize record-keeping protocols for law enforcement agencies across the state. It received a mixed reception from committee members and witnesses, with significant concern raised regarding its potential to obscure misconduct and limit public transparency. Public testimony included strong dissent from individuals and organizations advocating for greater accountability in policing, who argued that the bill could enable law enforcement agencies to suppress critical information under the guise of confidentiality. Significant dialogue pertained to the implications of the bill in light of recent events that highlighted the need for transparency in police conduct, particularly in controversial cases such as the Uvalde school shooting. Ultimately, the bill was passed out of committee with minimal opposition.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Transportation Funding Apr 14th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House S/C on Transportation Funding

Transcript Highlights:
  • remains one of the few states without such a program.
  • volumes of alien smuggling and drug trafficking in the state.
  • The Transportation Code states that the interest earned...
  • Texas has over 628 miles of toll roads across the state.
  • The commission is commissioned a comprehensive study to evaluate the effectiveness and financial efficiency
Summary: The committee meeting centered on several key legislative bills focused primarily on transportation and toll road policies. Notable discussions included HB1589, which aims to require voter approval before any new toll road can be constructed. Representative Dirty emphasized that Texans should have a voice regarding tolling roads they didn't vote for, while opponents argued that this could impede necessary road funding. HB2725, which proposed toll exemptions for first responders, also received significant attention as it seeks to alleviate financial burdens on those who serve the community during emergencies. Witnesses testified on behalf of these bills, providing personal stories and statistics to support their positions.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm a state worker and I love my job.
  • This is not a new issue for state agencies or state employees.
  • other compact member states.
  • home state.
  • That commission cannot dictate licensing policy to states.
Summary: The meeting was characterized by a thorough examination of various bills, with particular focus on House Bill 5247, which dealt with capital cost recovery mechanisms for utilities and featured discussions on its implications for consumers. Senator Campbell presented the bill, emphasizing its balanced approach and necessity for clarity in existing utility provisions. Multiple members expressed support, leading to a unanimous vote for its approval, showcasing a collaborative atmosphere within the committee. Additionally, HCR 102 was highlighted, which sought to call attention to the importance of federal tax credits for sustaining and expanding nuclear energy in Texas. The testimony from industry experts reinforced the bill's significance as Texas seeks to maintain its leadership in energy production amidst rising demands and competitive pressures from international markets.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 14th, 2025 at 09:04 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • My name is Laura Gary, and I am the widow of Tom Gary, a United States Air Force veteran.
  • and the state of Texas.
  • payments made to the state.
  • Oh no, I was a state senator. Oh my goodness, you were a state senator in Illinois.
  • It's not a state issue.
Summary: The meeting involved extensive discussions around several house bills, with notable emphasis on HB700, which aims to increase transparency in the merchant cash advance (MCA) sector. Representative McQueen provided a detailed explanation of the issues small business owners face due to aggressive tactics and lack of regulation in this area. The committee also examined HB4609, which focuses on updating the Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) benefits to provide clearer options for cities regarding cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), allowing cities to offer retirement benefits in a more flexible and informed manner. Additionally, the meeting featured a strong public testimony segment, where witnesses voiced their support and concerns, especially regarding the implications of digital currencies framed in HB703.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 5th, 2025 at 10:02 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you for what you do for our great state. We're proud you're here. Enjoy your state capitol.
  • And whereas veterans like Rep.
  • State your inquiry.
  • Reynolds: Jordan, who was the first black state senator in this state and one of the first black state
  • state senator in this state and one of the first black state
Summary: The meeting featured significant discussions on various resolutions presented by members, including the recognition of different communities and contributions. Notably, H.R. 153 was introduced by Mr. Landgraf to recognize Midland and Odessa Days at the State Capitol, which was highlighted as a crucial economic region within Texas. Several members expressed pride in the accomplishments of their communities, emphasizing their contributions to state growth and development. H.R. 160 commemorated Webb County Day, led by Mr. Raymond, who spoke on the county's role as an international trade hub.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs May 14th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...share information with other state agencies?
  • Of those states, we have seen that state and local law enforcement
  • Other states...
  • How many instances have state or federal employees been caught in smuggling?
  • There will also be a mandatory integration into cybersecurity for state employees.
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered on several critical pieces of legislation concerning public safety and foreign influence. A significant focus was placed on SB659, which addresses the prosecution of smuggling offenses using government resources, with witnesses presenting varying perspectives on the implications of the bill. Supporters highlighted the necessity to combat cartels and foreign terrorist organizations effectively, while opponents raised concerns about potential overreach impacting humanitarian aid efforts. The discussion around SB2201 aimed to enhance law enforcement capabilities by improving intelligence database criteria, which sparked debates on privacy and civil liberties safeguards. Throughout the proceedings, multiple bills were moved favorably for further consideration in the legislature.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Jan 23rd, 2025 at 02:01 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I abolished Defense and Veterans.
  • Speaker: State your inquiry.

  • I think it also makes that committee more important to the State.
  • I believe this gives our state a stronger voice in the global arena.
  • I think, for example, state affairs has certain resolutions that go to it.
Summary: The meeting convened to discuss the adoption of H.R. 4 and the structuring of new committee roles within the legislature. A significant point of contention was the restructuring of committees, where several committees were abolished in favor of creating two new committees: Delivery of Government Efficiency and Intergovernmental Affairs. Speaker Hunter emphasized the importance of these changes for efficiency and collaboration, while some members expressed concern about the rapidity of these changes and their implications for democratic input. The passage of H.R. 4 was ultimately approved, signaling the start of the committee assignment process within the newly defined legislative framework. Discussions highlighted a commitment to ensuring thorough understanding of new rules among members, particularly the newly elected members. It was noted that in the interest of transparency and efficiency, the committee makeup would be predominantly composed of members from the majority party with specific roles allocated to facilitate collaboration. The session concluded with appeals for unity and a collective effort to address key issues impacting constituents throughout the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Wouldn't we be better off stating that?
  • 14,000 cemeteries across the state, and that number continues to grow.
  • , or I think it is the commission, the historical significance to the state.
  • And perhaps the state needs to provide additional dollars for...
  • These are real issues facing the justice courts across our state.
Summary: The committee meeting featured extensive deliberations on several bills, most notably House Bill 1110, concerning civil suits against individuals reporting suspicious activity in good faith, proposed by Chairman Shaheen. The committee expressed unanimous support for the bill, and it was reported to the full House without amendments. Additionally, House Bill 865, introduced by Speaker Moody, addressing civil liability related to firearm hold agreements, also garnered unanimous approval, underscoring a collaborative effort among committee members. Public testimony highlighted concerns regarding proposed bills, specifically criticisms of House Bill 1748, aimed at exempting municipal courts from language certification requirements, which raised significant opposition related to equitable access to justice for non-English speakers.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations Mar 10th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We're the state chamber... For the state of Texas.
  • the United States of America.
  • I am the Military and Veterans Director for the Texas State
  • Imagine if a state prohibited the enforcement of out-of-state domestic violence protective orders.
  • of other states.
Summary: The meeting revolved around various critical discussions, primarily focusing on school safety and the challenges surrounding border security. Key testimonies highlighted the significant strides made in reducing illegal crossings but emphasized the need for continued vigilance against crime and drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl. Members expressed gratitude towards the Texas Senate's supportive role in funding for safety measures and strengthening resources to keep the state safe. Conversations also centered around the implementation of new safety protocols in schools, including the establishment of the Office of School Safety and Security, and how schools are addressing vulnerabilities identified from assessments. Furthermore, the importance of mental health resources was underscored as a complement to physical security improvements within educational institutions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I was recruited to the state of Texas from Vanderbilt University in Nashville.
  • The fund typically targets recruitments from outside the state of Texas.
  • This legislature passed a law stating that it is the policy of this state to protect the expressive rights
  • I don't understand why we would put that in state statute.
  • ...one state, which is Israel.
Summary: During the committee meeting, key issues surrounding higher education legislation were discussed, focusing on several significant bills. Notably, discussions revolved around SB2233, which mandates public institutions in Texas to prohibit non-immigrant visa holders from supporting terrorist activities. This bill raised concerns regarding free speech and potential overreach in monitoring students and faculty, with various testimonies highlighting its implications for academic freedom. The bill faced opposition from various civil rights organizations and law students who emphasized that such measures could create a chilling effect on political expression and disproportionately affect marginalized communities. In contrast, SB735 on Holocaust education received strong support, aiming to improve educational resources and awareness amid rising anti-Semitism, with calls for comprehensive training for educators. Other bills discussed included SB2683, which restricts institutional benefits from foreign entities considered to pose a national security risk, further emphasizing the tension between security concerns and academic freedom.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Agriculture & Livestock May 14th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Agriculture & Livestock Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It is legal right now to sell ungraded eggs direct-to-consumer, and farmers all over the state at hundreds
  • span>

    I did an Open Records Act request to the Department of State

  • Army veteran.
  • The aspects under the bill, as put in front of the committee, state that they changed it from...
  • Now, currently, today in the state of Texas, anybody can sell eggs.
Bills: SB1864
Summary: This meeting of the committee centered around the discussion of SB1864, which aims to increase access to the graded egg market for small-scale producers. Chairman Wilson introduced the bill, highlighting its potential to lower barriers for entry, allowing smaller producers to sell ungraded eggs to retailers and wholesalers with proper labeling and documentation. The committee heard differing viewpoints, with supporters emphasizing the importance of farming diversity and access to local markets, while opponents raised concerns about food safety and maintaining quality standards. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including farmer representatives, industry experts, and regulatory bodies, were presented, showcasing the tension between market access for small producers and the need for consumer protection through existing food safety regulations.
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.
  • Worst state as far as hail damage claims, the worst state
  • 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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) May 15th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Hearing none, Betsy, state your name and who you represent.
  • Emily, state your name and who you represent.
  • Susan, state your name and who you represent.
  • All right, Rick, state your name and who you represent.
  • So when there is a cost overrun there, we pay as the state.
Summary: The meeting of the committee covered significant legislative matters, emphasizing the discussion around several bills such as HB2025, which aims to streamline the process of filing plats with tax receipts to prevent rejections. Representative Tepper and Senator Hughes led extensive discussions to clarify the implications of this bill, which resulted in public testimony that was ultimately closed with no opposition. Additional discussions included SB3065 regarding the creation of specific municipal management districts, where the committee expected to reconcile drafting errors in a forthcoming committee substitute. Besides, the committee reviewed HB4506, which proposes electronic delivery of zoning notices to enhance communication efficiency in municipalities. Overall, the meeting demonstrated a focused approach towards improving housing and governance-related processes within the community.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Article III Feb 27th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Article III

Transcript Highlights:
  • In the legislative session, the state allocated $159 million for a new state behavioral...
  • and advance the economy and vitality in that part of the state.
  • Again, would we see savings, Texas National Guard, State Guard?
  • They are very interested in the state of Texas doing something.
  • ...out of state.
Summary: The committee convened to discuss critical funding and legislative matters regarding various state initiatives, notably focusing on workforce development, health services, and emergency management. The discussions revealed the heightened importance of supporting community colleges and addressing workforce shortages in healthcare, especially considering the increased demand for veterinary services as pet ownership rose due to the pandemic. Representatives from various organizations presented their requests for funding, emphasizing the necessity of enhancing educational outcomes and preparedness programs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The text of the record states that the telephonic registration

  • Go ahead and state your name for the record, whichever

  • The disabled and veterans exemption was $10,000.
  • So for over 40 years, the disabled and veterans exemption

  • faith in the property tax system, it’s incumbent that your constituents and the taxpayers of this state
Bills: SB23, SJR85
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee focused on significant property tax legislation, predominantly revolving around SB23 and HJR85, both introduced by Senator Bettencourt. These proposals aim to enhance the homestead exemption for senior and disabled taxpayers, raising it from $10,000 to $60,000. Senator Bettencourt expressed enthusiasm about the potential impact of these bills, which he emphasized as the most significant tax relief measure for seniors in Texas in decades. The discussion included estimated savings of $950 per qualifying homeowner, which drew positive remarks from committee members regarding the importance of making property taxes more manageable for vulnerable populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The state of Tennessee and other states have taken meaningful steps to...
  • So for the state of Texas and other states to have a committee actively...
  • located in the state.
  • Please state your name.
  • in the United States.
Summary: The Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety and Veterans Affairs meeting focused on multiple legislative proposals primarily addressing issues related to safety, security, and law enforcement. Chairman Heffner led the committee through discussions on various bills including HB2318, which establishes a statewide Human Trafficking Data Repository, and HB2363, which expands the authority of peace officers to arrest individuals without a warrant outside their jurisdiction. Testimonies from various stakeholders were heard, emphasizing the importance of these measures in combating crime and enhancing public safety in Texas.

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