Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Texas Senate Committee'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 16th, 2025 at 10:04 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Speaker, I have a message from the Senate.
  • Texas, a dedicated staff from the Texas Juvenile Justice Department
  • Republican of the Texas Senate at the time.
  • It's housed at the Texas Animal Health Commission.
  • supporting our small Texas businesses to move faster.
Summary: The meeting focused heavily on educational funding and the establishment of educational savings accounts as outlined in SB2. Proponents of the bill presented arguments emphasizing the need for flexible education options for families, especially for children with disabilities. The bill proposes a universal program that allows Texas families to utilize state funds for various educational expenses beyond traditional public schooling. However, discussions also surfaced concerning potential drawbacks, with several members raising concerns about the implications for public education funding and accountability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education Mar 27th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Chairman Ashby and committee members for the opportunity to lay out the committee substitute
  • The data is clear: 90% of Texas high school students graduate, and 62% of Texas jobs require some sort
  • Our analysis found that 44% of Texas school systems, mostly in rural Texas, offer little or no AP or
  • Chairman, Chairman Ashby, distinguished members of the Senate Committee on Academic and Career-Oriented
  • Members, the committee substitute to House Bill 2689 establishes a pilot program under the Texas Education
Bills: HB117, HB2196, HB2689, HCR64
Summary: The committee meeting focused on the discussion of several educational bills, notably HB2196, which aims to create a comprehensive framework for virtual and hybrid learning in Texas public schools. Chairman Bell and other committee members emphasized the significance of this bill, stating that it aligns with bipartisan recommendations for enhancing access to education. Testimonies from educators and parents were heard, echoing admiration for the potential of virtual learning to provide flexibility to students, especially those with specific educational needs. There were also concerns voiced regarding provisions within the bill that could affect traditional educational frameworks, sparking vigorous discussions among committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Hancock sends up the committee substitute.
  • I do have a committee... Oh, I'm sorry. Senator Hancock has a committee substitute.
  • I'd like to thank Chairman Birdwell, Senator Hancock, and committee members.
  • Thank you again, Chairman Birdwell and Senator Johnson, committee members.
  • Is there any other business to come before the Senate committee?
Summary: The committee meeting focused primarily on several significant legislative proposals, particularly detailing the plans for the Gulf Coast Protection District and various recycling initiatives. Notable discussions were led by Senator Alvarado regarding SB795, which is aimed at establishing a dedicated Gulf Coast Protection Account to secure funding for coastal infrastructure projects critical for flood protection. Stakeholders expressed gratitude for ongoing legislative support, emphasizing the potential for this project to become the largest civil works project in U.S. history. Additionally, testimony was heard on recycling bills including SB2689, which seeks to improve Texas's recycling infrastructure without imposing fees, and SB410 which manages the Gulf Coast Protection District’s operations to ensure safety and navigability within Houston's waterways. Public and expert witnesses contributed insights that highlighted the economic implications and community benefits of these initiatives, demonstrating the state's commitment to sustainable development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Transportation Committee will come to order.

  • Hearing none, Senator King sends up a committee substitute for Senate Bill 39 and recognizes Senator
  • Thank you, members of the committee. Senate Bill 682 honors the memory of...
  • Senate Bill 309 by Senator Burwell and his proposed committee
  • Committee substitute for Senate Bill 2080 and ask Senator

Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several bills aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of Texas transportation and port authorities. Key discussions included the implications of SB2080, which seeks to streamline operations for navigation districts by raising procurement authority, exempting security discussions from recording requirements, and aligning Texas ports with national standards to foster economic growth. Senator Alvarado advocated fervently for the bill, emphasizing its positive impact on competitiveness with ports in states like Virginia and New Jersey. Public testimony reflected mixed responses, with strong support from industry representatives but opposition from some municipal authorities concerned about the potential overreach of port authorities into local development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair recognizes Senator Alvarado, who sends up the committee substitute.
  • This accompanies Senate Bill 410 that we heard last week in this committee.
  • There is a committee substitute, Senator Birdwell.
  • Committee substitute for Senate Bill 410 by Senator Middleton
  • Once I get the committee substitute on SB2082 with Senator Miles, if it's...
Summary: The meeting of the committee convened to discuss multiple bills including SCR48, SB2351, SB2550, SB2203, SB410, and SB2082. Notably, Senator Miles presented SB2082, which aims to prevent concrete crushing facilities from operating near hospitals, following community outcry over health concerns linked to air pollution. The committee heard public testimony from various stakeholders, highlighting the community's significant opposition to such facilities in close proximity to critical healthcare services. Senator Alvarado's SB2351, addressing concrete plant regulations, was supported with favorable votes but faced concerns over the environmental implications of expansion requests. The meeting concluded with a recommendation for several bills to move forward to the full Senate for consideration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Apr 28th, 2025 at 09:04 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If there's a business in the state of Texas and it's...
  • As mentioned, my name is David Bristol, and I'm the mayor of Prosper, Texas, a growing North Texas community
  • House Bill 1508 repeals the Texas franchise tax.
  • Texas has a proven model...
  • Chairman, members of the committee.
Summary: The meeting was focused on various legislative discussions, particularly centered around environmental initiatives and tax incentives. Notable discussions occurred regarding HB3746, which aims to grant sales tax exemptions for power generation equipment, a proposal that sparked significant engagement among members. Representative Darby, who championed the bill, emphasized its limited scope and potential benefits to Texas businesses. The session was lively, with members exchanging views on the implications of the bill on the local economy and the environment. Public testimony was invited to weigh in on this matter, further enriching the dialogue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Take UTEMCO, which manages endowments for the University of Texas and Texas A&M.
  • in Texas, stay in Texas, and scale in Texas.
  • Texas is only 10%...
  • To the citizens of Texas.
  • Texas. Texas. OK. A prohibition of the...
Summary: During this meeting, the committee engaged in detailed discussions surrounding various legislative proposals, notably focusing on HB2054 and HB4601. HB2054 was discussed in the context of addressing financial support for victims' families during declared emergencies, removing existing procedural barriers. Representative Manuel presented HB4601, which aims to assist Texas veterans in purchasing affordable housing by creating a down payment assistance program financed through a dedicated tax fund. This program is essential to simplify homeownership for veterans facing financial challenges in the current housing market.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Juvenile Justice Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Juvenile Justice

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 1171, I'm sorry, Senate Bill 1171.
  • Good morning, committee.
  • I'm working with Senator Perry on this.
  • Shame on Texas for doing this.
  • for consideration by the full committee.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on discussions surrounding juvenile justice reform. Chairman Cook opened the session by introducing various bills, including HB1966, which aims to improve conditions for youth in detention facilities by ensuring access to restrooms and sanitation. The bill was met with strong support as members shared their views on the importance of treating youth with dignity and respect within the justice system. Witness testimonies highlighted the dire situations some minors face in current facilities, drawing attention to the need for immediate legislative action. Other bills discussed included HB3442, aimed at updating the Texas Alcohol Awareness Program for minors, among others.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 8th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members of the committee, are there any questions for the author on Senate Bill 835 or the sponsor?
  • Thank you, Senator Parker.
  • My senator is Senator Schwertner. this committee.
  • Senator, are there any other questions? Senator Parker, you're recognized.
  • With great thanks to our committee team and the Senate team
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

Local Government May 19th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Middleton sends up the committee substitute for Senate Bill 3065.
  • the committee substitute to Senate Bill 3065?
  • Bill 3029, which has already passed out of this committee in the Senate.
  • Bill 3069 by Senator Creighton, which was heard in committee and left pending.
  • Senate Bill 3069 by Senator Creighton was heard in committee and left pending.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on a range of bills covering various legislative matters. Notably, bills concerning property rights, environmental sustainability, and public safety were debated prominently. HB2011 was presented and discussed in detail, with supporters highlighting its importance for ensuring property owners can repurchase their land if it has been acquired through eminent domain without due payments of property taxes. Furthermore, Senator Cook emphasized the need for accountability in the process while several senators expressed concerns regarding potential unintended consequences of new laws affecting local jurisdictions and public safety standards. Public testimony was also received from stakeholders both in support and against various bills, reflecting a diverse range of views on the proposed legislation. In addition to HB2011, several other bills, including HB4809 and HB2421, moved forward with recommendations for passage and were set for future calendars.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Chair and committee. My name is Sheila Hemphill with Texas Right to Know. The document.
  • Members of the committee, I have passed out a Texas State
  • Committee members, as you heard, there's a committee substitute.
  • recognized the basic rule is that projects constructed in Texas will be decided in Texas under Texas
  • disputes on Texas projects with Texas parties in Texas.
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

Higher Education Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And fellow committee members, I'm honored to present Senate
  • Senate Bill 1401 directs the Texas Higher Education Coordinating
  • We are opposed to HB232 as introduced and the committee substitute because it would exclude Texas high
  • Texas can do better than this, and I urge you to reject Committee Substitute HB 232.
  • from Kingsville, Texas, who chaired the committee.
Summary: The meeting revolved around discussions on House Bill 232, which seeks to amend the Texas Dream Act regarding in-state tuition for undocumented students. Key testimonies were presented, with numerous advocates opposing the bill, arguing it would harm talented Texas youths by denying them affordable education opportunities. Speakers included community leaders and affected students who shared personal stories illustrating the bill's potential drawbacks, emphasizing the negative economic impact that could result from limiting access to education for Dreamers and the associated societal benefits. The committee also explored House Bill 5154, which updates the Joint Admission Medical Program to improve access for economically disadvantaged students, receiving positive feedback and support from committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Corrections Committee

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

  • Do any of y'all need a resource witness on the committee?
  • I do have a committee substitute for a House bill. You've got to lay out my committee substitute.
  • The committee substitute for House Bill 4937 recognizes the essential role of victims in Texas criminal
  • It's my understanding it passed the Senate committee yesterday.
Summary: The Committee on Corrections convened to discuss various proposed bills aimed at enhancing the criminal justice system in Texas. Noteworthy among them was HB1760, presented by Chairman Leach, which seeks to increase the minimum imprisonment term for individuals convicted of intoxicated manslaughter. The committee voted favorably on several bills, including HB1772, which addresses the eligibility for community supervision. Public testimony highlighted community concerns around parole decisions, especially regarding violent offenders, which added emotional weight to discussions on HB2306 concerning children’s parole eligibility. Several members expressed strong sentiments advocating for stricter regulations for repeat offenders, underlining the impact of violent crime on victims' families. The meeting wrapped up with additional bills pending further discussions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Three of us sit on an advisory committee to the Texas Commission on Mental Health, and we have looked
  • Senate members of the esteemed committee,

  • Texas Cemetery.
  • The committee substitute, which you do not have before you, and I'm not testifying on the committee substitute
  • I'm also a trainer for the Texas.
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 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part III) Aug 27th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Hughes moves final passage of Senate Bill 54.
  • Senator Hall, is there an outbreak in Texas of acidic

  • What your bill does, Senator, is allow that utilization by the people of Texas like we've already done
  • This is a Texas test. It's based upon Texas TEKS, Texas law. There is...
  • Averitt before Senator Bettencourt and Senator Alvarado...
Bills: SB3, SB16, SB2, SB5, SB10, HB17, SB54, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB8, HB25, HB26, HB192
Summary: The meeting featured extensive discussions centered on several legislative bills, particularly focusing on House Bill 8, which aims to reform public school accountability and testing methods in Texas. The bill's sponsor passionately argued for its transformative potential, highlighting the replacement of the STAAR test with shorter, more frequent assessments to better measure student performance. Amendments were proposed to restore social studies testing, emphasizing the importance of history in Texas education. The bill ultimately passed with a vote of 21 ayes and 5 nays, showcasing strong support among the members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Committee on Corrections will now come to order.

  • The Texas Department of Transportation shows that over 25% of all alcohol-related crashes in Texas are
  • Well, the issue with that is the way the law works in Texas.
  • Chairman and committee members.
  • I believe it was Senator Sylvester Turner who just recently passed.
Summary: The recent meeting of the committee primarily focused on two bills, HB1482 and HB2341, aimed at addressing public safety and rehabilitation in the context of repeat offenders, particularly in relation to intoxicated driving offenses. The discussions highlighted personal testimonies from victims' families and experts advocating for stricter accountability measures against repeat offenders. Representative Leo Wilson emphasized the necessity of such laws to prevent future tragedies stemming from intoxicated driving, citing heart-wrenching cases that have affected the community. The committee also heard contrasting views regarding the effectiveness of increased incarceration versus rehabilitation efforts for offenders, with calls for a balanced approach to ensure public safety without neglecting rehabilitation needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I mean, Correctional Committee. My name is Edward Motley.
  • I'm the deputy director of Texas.
  • Vice Chairman, distinguished members of this committee.
  • Good morning again, Chairman Harless and committee members.
  • The committee stands in recess. Thank you.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several significant bills addressing public safety and reform within the correctional system. Notably, HB2103 was discussed, which aims to provide mental health leave for correctional officers, amid growing concerns about their wellbeing due to the psychological stress associated with their duties. Support was voiced by various stakeholders, highlighting the need for better support systems for officers facing trauma related to their jobs. This bill was aimed at recognizing the critical role that mental health plays in maintaining a safe working environment for those in the corrections field. In another part of the meeting, HB2017 sparked heated debates, as it sought to instate stricter penalties for intoxication manslaughter committed by undocumented individuals. The discussion brought forth views on fairness and the implications of distinguishing sentences based on immigration status. Several witnesses offered testimony, both for and against the bill, leading to a contentious atmosphere that reflected the broader societal debates about immigration and public safety. Overall, the meeting highlighted the challenges of reforming laws while considering the variables of mental health and immigration status in the context of public safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Good afternoon, the Senate Committee on State Affairs will come to

  • It actually—Senator Hall sends up the committee substitute.
  • Thank you, Senator Hughes, Chair Hughes, and members of the Senate State Affairs Committee. I'm Dr.
  • Laura Pesce, and I'm testifying on behalf of True Texas Elections in support of Senate Bill 618.
  • The committee will recall we previously heard Senate

Summary: During this meeting of the Senate Committee on State Affairs, significant discussions revolved around Senate Bill 618, which seeks to establish civil penalties for election officials who fail to adhere to the Texas election laws. Proponents, including Dr. Laura Pesce from True Texas Elections, passionately advocated for the bill, emphasizing the need for accountability and integrity in the electoral process. The committee heard testimonies underscoring the importance of consistent application of election laws and the necessity to deter violations that undermine public trust in the elections. Many witnesses detailed personal experiences with administrative overreach and violations of election law that directly affect voters and candidates alike. In addition to SB 618, the committee also reviewed Senate Bill 1999. This bill was met with considerable opposition, particularly from advocates arguing that it would promote discrimination against transgender students and exacerbate bullying within schools. Testimonies portrayed stark contrasts between supporters who claimed it would uphold religious freedom and critics who argued it would harm vulnerable youth by legitimizing discrimination based on gender identity. Ultimately, the meeting evidenced the varied views on legislative intent and societal implications surrounding these bills.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We urge this committee to support promoting Texas-grown
  • This sounds like a good bill for Texas and Texas wineries.
  • If we can support Texas local agriculture and promote Texans drinking Texas wine, we can keep more Texas
  • I make 100% Texas wine, and I grow 100% Texas grapes.
  • Texas wine.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused primarily on several key bills, including HB2286, HB1562, and HB1732, which were reported favorably to the full House with the recommendation that they do pass and be printed. Representative Hernandez notably contributed to the discussions on HB1562 and HB1732, both concerning massage therapy regulations. Furthermore, the committee heard discussions on HB491 regarding civil penalties for massage therapy violations and HB11 relating to occupation licensing reciprocity agreements. Most bills passed with unanimous support, indicating a strong consensus among committee members on these legislative issues.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Mar 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

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

  • Senator Hughes sends up a committee substitute.

  • Chairman, I do have a committee substitute. Thank you, Senator.
  • Senator Hall sends up the committee substitute and the chair recognizes Senator Kolkhorst to explain
  • Senator Paxton sends up a committee substitute, and Senator
Summary: The meeting addressed several key pieces of legislation, including SB1626, which proposes to enhance Texans' ability to pursue legal action against social media platforms for censorship. The bill aims to provide statutory damages, making it easier for individuals to protect their free speech rights. Testimonies were heard from various public representatives expressing support for the bill, emphasizing its importance in maintaining free speech in the digital age. Other bills discussed included SB1719 and SB1494, each receiving varying levels of scrutiny and support.

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