Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'El Paso County'

Page 35 of 50
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations May 5th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Are you aware how many batch plant permits there are in Harris County? 156.
  • adjacent or the county that they are in.
  • ...13-county region. What is the RAQPC?
  • To what extent is TCEQ partnering with county governments and local enforcement?
  • We've done it, I think in the last year, nine times with Harris County alone.
Summary: The meeting focused on discussions regarding the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's (TCEQ) oversight and regulations concerning Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs). Several members expressed concerns about the rapid growth facilitated by the creation of MUDs, with particular emphasis on the legislative authority over such entities. Senator Birdwell highlighted the importance of legislative control over MUD creation, discussing the second and third-order impacts on local communities and infrastructure. The discussion was characterized by a view that the current approval processes may lack necessary scrutiny, leading to community concerns about environmental impacts and infrastructure strain as new developments arise. Public testimony revealed a sense of urgency among constituents regarding environmental regulations and the role TCEQ plays in managing the challenges of population growth. Members of the committee raised issues around the clarity of TCEQ's powers and responsibilities, advocating for more transparency and proactive community engagement from the agency. As the meeting concluded, the need for improved communication and the importance of ensuring compliance with state law were emphasized, with a promise from TCEQ representatives to address these concerns moving forward.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 25th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ; Mitchell County; Goliad County.
  • the county.
  • county courthouse.
  • Bell County, absolutely.
  • Since then, the county passed a county use policy stating that only a U.S. flag, a state flag, or a county
Summary: The committee meeting featured intense discussions surrounding HB5510 and HB229, both of which generated significant public testimony. Various witnesses expressed strong opposition to HB5510, particularly highlighting concerns over its potential to threaten equitable access to healthcare and its implications for women's rights. Testimonies revealed the emotional weight behind these bills, with speakers advocating for compassion towards vulnerable populations rather than punitive measures. The atmosphere was emotionally charged, as proponents and opponents alike provided firsthand accounts and perspectives that underscored the complexities surrounding these legislative issues. In contrast to the discussions on HB5510, commentary on HB229 mainly revolved around defining gender and safeguarding women's spaces. Many witnesses emphasized the bill's potential discriminatory effects on transgender and non-binary individuals, arguing that the legislation could fracture community relations rather than promote safety and dignity for all. Ultimately, despite the passion displayed in rebuttals from both sides, the meeting concluded with some bills left pending, leaving room for further consideration and debate in the future.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Apr 7th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • Is it Harris County or...

    Fort Bend County.

  • County, Fort Bend County, Bexar County, Travis County, and Austin.
  • In the cases that I've been involved in here in Travis County.
  • County.
  • , as well as Dallas County, Bexar County, and Galveston County.
Summary: The committee meeting centered around discussions on HB3284, which focuses on promoting family stability and the commissioning of a task force to evaluate existing regulations affecting marriage and family formation. Chairman Dutton initiated the conversation by emphasizing the need for governmental support in fostering a robust societal framework based on stable family units. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted the declining marriage rates in Texas, prompting discussions on effective strategies to reverse this trend. Public testimony was heard from representatives of Texas Values Action and the Texas Family Law Foundation, both advocating for stronger legislative measures to foster lifelong marriages and family stability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government Feb 11th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And the rate of change for the city and county is literally...
  • Kendall County. Booming, yeah.
  • I was the Travis County Auditor for 24 years. I'm now retired.
  • It isn't for city or county taxes or community colleges.
  • The 3.5% that's on cities and counties is about 30,000.
Bills: SB4, SJR2
Summary: The committee meeting centered around significant discussions regarding property tax relief, particularly through Senate Bill 4 (SB4) and Senate Joint Resolution 2 (SJR2). Chairman Bettencourt and other committee members expressed strong support for increasing the homestead exemption to $140,000, emphasizing the necessity of this adjustment in light of a multi-billion dollar revenue surplus. Public testimonies revealed a mix of support and opposition, highlighting the complexities of local government spending and its impact on tax relief effectiveness. Witnesses articulated concerns about rising property taxes and urged the committee to consider systemic reforms to enhance the efficacy of tax relief initiatives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Office, and Tarrant County D.A.
  • Smith County, Williamson County, Jasper County, Gregg County
  • So you're telling me that in Dallas County, because the bail bondsmen in Harris County, they run to the
  • large counties, when the bonds...
  • Because I would have to go into the Harris County District Clerk's website or whatever county I'm in
Summary: The meeting of the Juvenile Justice Committee on March 26th focused on multiple significant bills aimed at enhancing the juvenile justice system. Noteworthy discussions included House Bill 1831, presented by Vice Chair Johnson, which seeks to expand juvenile eligibility for drug court programs with a goal of increasing access to rehabilitative treatment for youth. The bill received strong support, passing with a vote of 9-2, and was recommended for favorable reporting to the full House. Additionally, House Bill 2147, introduced by Chairman Van Dever, allows for remote juvenile depositions and court proceedings to increase access and efficiency in the legal process, also passing unanimously with a vote of 10-1. The committee members engaged in thorough debates regarding the impact of these bills on families and juveniles, emphasizing the importance of rehabilitation over punishment.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Delivery of Government Efficiency Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I've been a prosecutor in Walker County and had the privilege to work for four county attorneys in Harris
  • County.
  • Some of our counties, obviously, here.
  • Harris County is one of our members, and the Harris County Attorney, but similar across many of our counties
  • We represent 35 of the largest counties in the state.
Summary: The meeting focused on a series of bills, notably HB2467, which aims to address pay disparities for peace officers in the state fire marshal's office. Representative Van Deaver highlighted the critical services provided by these officers, who perform essential law enforcement duties yet face compensation below their counterparts. Witnesses, including those from law enforcement, testified in favor of the bill, emphasizing the need for equitable pay. The committee showed support for the bill, agreeing to leave it pending for further evaluation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • county with a population of just 80,000.
  • We know that Wise County is growing, and we know that we can't stop that.
  • Counties save their wells.
  • This doesn't really apply to a MUD that would be, say, in the county.
  • Dallas County is out, is what you said.
Summary: The meeting featured public testimonies from various stakeholders, including mayors from small cities who described the difficulties of rapid development with limited staff and resources. They highlighted the importance of balancing property rights and groundwater management while planning for sustainable growth. The discussions were robust, addressing the challenges of infrastructure demands stemming from growth and the necessary partnerships between local governments and developers. Overall, the meeting showcased the committee's engagement with community concerns regarding local governance and sustainable development practices.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice (Part I) Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • He was an icon in Bastrop County.
  • I'm the District Attorney in Montgomery County, Texas.
  • Williamson County had this archaic policy called a closed-file policy.
  • County.
  • Yeah, the D.A. for Williamson County at that time lost his license.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice covered several significant legislative proposals aimed at improving the efficiency and safety of the Texas criminal justice system. Lead discussions focused on SB2405, which received attention for its comprehensive approach towards modernizing the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) and addressing recommendations made by the Sunset Advisory Commission. The bill includes provisions for enhanced staff planning and updated rehabilitation programs that are expected to yield substantial cost savings while promoting public safety. Senators engaged actively, expressing their support and raising questions about the implications of the proposed changes, especially concerning parole processes and facility management.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • on which county you're interacting with and the nature of your question.
  • Although Texas counties are providing the same or similar duties, the methods and processes each county
  • County clerks can gain instant, auditable access.
  • SB 143 wisely authorizes two county pilots, one urban and one rural.
  • A county judge from Matagorda County apparently felt that the law didn't recognize geothermal energy
Summary: The meeting focused on various legislative proposals with notable discussions surrounding bills aimed at improving transparency in public information access, adapting workforce policies for state employment, and addressing public health workforce shortages in Texas. The key highlights included HB4214 which seeks to centralize public records request processes for better accessibility, and HB1803 aimed at enhancing the state's dental workforce through participation in a compact with other states. Several members presented arguments highlighting the necessity of these legislative initiatives in light of ongoing economic and social challenges facing Texas. Public testimonies supported these bills, demonstrating stakeholder engagement and community concerns regarding transparency, workforce efficiency, and health access.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • from statewide county officials.
  • Because Chambers County, which is in my area, has brought this attention to me.
  • Yeah, and I think it's really important for rural counties, especially, that ...
  • I represent many counties, and I've heard from many counties
  • So I know for some of these counties, that's a concern.
Summary: The meeting of the Intergovernmental Affairs Committee featured significant discussions surrounding three key bills: HB158, HB1630, and HB3509. Representative Raymond presented HB158, a proposal to reutilize surplus government properties for veteran and low-income family housing, emphasizing the need for permanent housing solutions in Texas. The discussion also touched on the fiscal implications of the bill and potential housing resources. In another session, HB1630 was put forward to make social workers eligible for the Homes for Texas Heroes Home Loan Program, addressing the ongoing housing affordability crisis faced by many Americans, particularly younger generations. This bill garnered bipartisan support, showcasing the committee's collective awareness of the housing challenges impacting essential workers in the community. Lastly, Representative Enchia introduced HB3509, focused on Tourism Public Improvement Districts (TPIDs), which help collect revenue through hotel self-assessments to promote local tourism. This bill aims to enhance competitiveness for conventions in Texas and made clarifications for ease of creating and managing these districts. The committee received various public testimonies expressing support and concerns about the proposed bills. The meeting highlighted the committee's dedication to addressing housing and economic development challenges within Texas, closing with an invitation for further committee discussions and public input.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 25th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The thing that I want to keep this quick is that I'm mainly worried about the two counties that would
  • I believe it is Randall County. It was Potter County.
  • into another county, if that annexation transcends a county line, then the portion of what's being annexed
  • depending upon the preference of the city if it crosses, transcends a county line.
  • and Randall County for how they're wet or dry or partially wet.
Summary: The committee meeting included significant discussions surrounding several bills, notably HB220, HB3336, and HB4904. HB220, which addresses access to emergency contraception for survivors of sexual assault, sparked intense debate among committee members and witnesses. Various stakeholders testified for and against the bill, emphasizing the importance of immediate access to such services while also raising ethical concerns regarding contraception. Public testimony was robust, showcasing strong opinions on both sides of the legislation, with many advocating for the rights and protections of survivors.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part III) Sep 2nd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • County, and there is a county next door called Houston County
  • and in Burleson County.
  • Senator Schwertner, Milam County, Robertson County, and even Brazos County are all drawing from the same
  • Two of the three counties have a groundwater conservation district, but Houston County does not have
  • In Henderson County, and excuse me, Anderson County and
Bills: SB2, SB5, SB10, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB17, HB7, HB7, HB15, HB15, HB27, HB1
Summary: The meeting centered around significant discussions concerning groundwater management, specifically focusing on House Bill 27, which relates to a groundwater study affecting the Neches and Trinity Valleys. Senators debated the necessity of a two-year moratorium on new groundwater permitting, highlighting concerns about potential over-extraction and the ecological impact. Senator Perry expressed urgency for a study to understand the interconnectedness of aquifers, emphasizing the importance of scientific data in guiding legislative decisions, which prompted a detailed examination of current water resources in Texas. The bill was passed with amendments after extensive debate and consideration of various regional impacts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Matagorda County, San Bernard in my county, and the Brazoria
  • National Wildlife Refuge in, of course, Brazoria County.
  • The bill limits its application to only counties with a...
  • This would cover Cameron, Hidalgo, and Willacy counties in South Texas.
  • If you're in that county doing that kind of work...
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

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm gonna share with you a story of Norm Adams Wade from Dallas County.
  • The DA's involved, the county clerk's involved, and they're trying to remove the cloud on the title.
  • When this happened, the DA got involved, the county clerk
  • , Rockwall County, and others.
  • I am the clerk for Dallas County.
Summary: The Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Employment held a meeting focused on various bills related to workforce development, consumer protection, and business regulations. Notably, HB5317, aimed at establishing a self-insured retention fund to lower insurance costs for state agencies, received significant attention, with discussions on its potential fiscal benefits. The committee also reviewed bills concerning unemployment benefits, regulation of food service surcharges, and property rights for homeowners, particularly in the context of water conservation amid ongoing drought conditions. Public testimony highlighted concerns over transparency in mandatory fees charged by food service establishments, with stakeholders advocating for clearer disclosures to protect consumer trust.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Mar 10th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The bill mandates that all county tax assessor-collectors

  • We have worked with a county tax assessor and with urban

  • county administrators to incorporate their feedback.
  • It only applies to counties along the Texas-Mexico border.
  • I am founder of Native Texas, a wholesale nursery operation based here in Travis County.
Summary: The meeting of the committee on ways and means centered on several significant bills aimed at addressing property tax issues, particularly regarding agricultural and border security infrastructure. A committee substitute for HB247 was discussed, emphasizing a voluntary approach with private landowners in light of enhanced border security measures, which reassured many stakeholders previously hesitant about such initiatives. Notably, the bill provides tax exemptions for landowners who allow construction of border security infrastructure, effectively alleviating concerns about increased property values leading to higher taxes. Committee members expressed support for transparency and fairness in how these laws impact stakeholders, especially those along the Texas-Mexico border.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V

Transcript Highlights:
  • cybersecurity and three for county election training.
  • And so, on the team side, that's the two cybersecurity for the three counties.
  • There are currently 22 FTEs providing team oversight to the counties.
  • The agency is requesting general revenue to expand to an additional five counties.
  • You can write about the counties that exist.
Summary: The meeting of the appropriations committee focused on a range of topics including budget adjustments for various state departments and agencies. Key points of discussion included the Texas Department of Criminal Justice budget, which saw considerations for funding adjustments to support both community supervision and correction programs. The committee members exhibited keen interest in mental health resources, with some discussions revolving around a proposed additional funding for staff and programs aimed at improving support for vulnerable populations in the justice system. Additionally, there were discussions regarding the adequacy of existing resources for elderly inmates, and the potential need for policy changes around this issue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Mar 19th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • in a county the size of Harris County.
  • Whether it's a big county or a small county, there's not a county that's too big to receive assistance
  • So we're there to fill the gap in these counties, whatever it may be.
  • What do you do if there's not a printed paper in a county or a city?
  • run in that county.
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety involved a range of discussions surrounding significant bills aimed at enhancing public safety measures, particularly in response to issues highlighted by past events. Notable was the discussion on HB33, proposed by Representative McLaughlin, which sought to overhaul school safety and establish a statewide emergency response protocol for active shooter situations. This bill emphasizes the importance of coordinated training among law enforcement and school officials to ensure a swift and effective response in emergencies, aiming to prevent delays seen in past incidents. The discussions also included input from law enforcement officials who acknowledged the necessity of improving communication and coordination between agencies, which was a highlighted failure in previous responses to crises.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Rick Thompson, legislative director for the County Judges and Commissioners Association.
  • And you're dealing with counties with minimal tax base and limited resources.
  • But I just want to tell you that it would really help the small counties.
  • I am here from Dallas County in full support of this.
  • So in rural counties, the counties aren't the ones

Summary: The meeting of the Committee covered various bills with a notable focus on HB3426, which aims to modernize how Texans access and present their driver's license by introducing a digital option. Testimonies from proponents highlighted the convenience and necessity of making identification more accessible in a digital age, while security and privacy concerns around the potential for data mishandling were also addressed. Additional discussions included HB3033, which proposes a donation mechanism for non-profits supporting Department of Public Safety employees, reinforcing community support for those in service.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • and a former Harris County employee under the Tax Collector-Assessor.
  • Counties, which would be 102 or more counties, two-thirds
  • of the counties, and three or more trauma service regions.
  • The local counties, the local sheriffs, and so forth.
  • It was only one county along the border, and that was Hidalgo County.
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

Insurance Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • the county district attorneys.
  • I can see that we are because of Harris County and our proximity to the coast.
  • Today, we have more than 272,000 policyholders in our coastal counties.
  • County alone.
  • Matagorda County on July 7th of 2024.
Summary: The meeting involved extensive discussions on various topics, although specific bills or motions were not highlighted. The members engaged in a dialogue surrounding the financial aspects of policies under review, particularly referencing rate components and reserves. Questions were raised regarding the allocation of premiums and the implications for future budgets, but no concrete resolutions were made. The Chair, after guiding the discussion, indicated the conclusion of the agenda and called for any additional business before moving to adjourn.

Research Filters

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