Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'regents authority'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

State Affairs Aug 26th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 19 and recognizes its author,
  • marker="214" data-time="1278"> But it does beg the question, as we deal with the THC issue, what authorities
  • be interested in interpreting calls as broadly as possible because it increases the legislature's authority
  • Members, questions of the author? Thank you, Mr.

Bills: SB53, SB54, HB16, SB19
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss several significant bills, including SB19, SB54, HB16, and SB2217. A major focus was the potential changes to fundraising rules during special legislative sessions, aimed at aligning policies for regular and special sessions. Senator Bettencourt presented SB19, which prohibits political contributions during special sessions, raising questions about the implications for ongoing fundraising activities. Additionally, the committee reviewed SB54, which seeks to amend recent changes around voting procedures to prevent misunderstandings related to voter registration within counties. The session featured robust discussions, particularly surrounding the balance of regulations and the need for clear public policy. The meeting concluded with several bills moving forward positively, highlighting the collaborative effort among members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 4th, 2025 at 02:02 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • The resolution authorizes the House or Senate to adjourn from this Wednesday until next Tuesday.
  • Members, this is the resolution for the week that authorizes adjournment for more than three days.
  • The resolution authorizes the House or Senate to adjourn from this Wednesday until next Tuesday.
  • Also, a shameless plug, please join us in supporting or co-authoring one of our bills, HB 932.
  • And also, shameless plug, please join us in supporting or co-authoring one of our bills, H.B. 932.
Summary: The committee meeting highlighted several key resolutions, including the recognition of various days to celebrate regions and groups within Texas. Notably, H.R. 127 was passed, recognizing February 4th, 2025, as Texas Energy Day, underscoring the significance of the oil and gas industry in Texas' economy. During discussions, Representative Harrison voiced strong opposition to SCR 11, expressing concerns over legislative inaction and advocating for tackling pressing issues like property taxes and educational reform. His remarks underscored frustrations with the current leadership’s handling of significant legislation, suggesting a pattern of strategic inaction to avoid accountability.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • span>

    The chair lays out Senate Bill 457 and recognizes its author

  • It's authored by Senator West. Thank you, Madam Chair.
  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 921 and recognizes its author, Senator Sparks, to explain the bill.
  • I was blessed to author the first cottage food bill.
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 1084 and recognizes its author, Senator Campbell, to explain the bill.
Summary: The meeting of the committee primarily focused on several significant bills aimed at enhancing accountability and transparency within Texas's Medicaid and long-term care systems. Notably, SB457 seeks to ensure that a substantial portion of Medicaid funds is allocated directly to patient care in nursing facilities, addressing concerns about the misuse of taxpayer dollars. Various testimonies were provided from key stakeholders, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by nursing homes and the pressing need for reform. Notably, AARP Texas endorsed SB457, emphasizing the critical need for improvements in care quality, especially in light of staffing shortages and neglect issues prevalent in some facilities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Mar 11th, 2025 at 02:30 pm

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The record shows I'm the author of two studies that show positive results for vouchers; they're just
  • It was an Annenberg working paper that you co-authored.
  • I've co-authored a lot of papers, ma'am.

  • Opportunity Scholarship paper published by the Annenberg Institute, ma'am, that you co-authored it on
  • But you don't remember co-authoring it, so I just haven't.
Bills: HB3
Summary: The meeting centered around critical discussions regarding HB3, particularly focusing on public school funding and educational mandates. There were passionate exchanges among committee members as they debated the implications of the bill on equity in education and funding transparency. Expert testimonies were heard, including an education policy expert who underscored previous findings that highlighted the potential negative impacts of voucher systems on students, especially those from marginalized backgrounds. The discussion raised vital questions regarding how similar programs in other states had fared, emphasizing lessons learned from their experiences.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security Feb 27th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span marker="247" data-time="1476"> Legal border crossings by 90% to ensure we have every tool and authority
  • ...depend on forces, but on those authorities.
  • So when Title 10 is fully implemented on the border, we must consider what authorities they have, and
  • data-time="1962"> ...that the law enforcement elements of our office can coordinate with federal authorities
  • agents because they were one of the federal law enforcement agencies that did not have felony arrest authority
Summary: The meeting of the Border Security Committee was marked by intensive discussions surrounding the ongoing initiatives related to Operation Lone Star. Members shared updates on border security measures, underscoring the significant operational changes resulting from shifts in federal policies. General Salter provided extensive insights into the deployment of state resources, highlighting the 5,000 active personnel engaged in various border control operations. The various strategies employed for enhancing surveillance and interdicting drug smuggling were also covered, emphasizing the importance of strong collaboration between state and federal agencies.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Agriculture & Livestock Apr 8th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House Agriculture & Livestock Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • 1926">The nonprofit is selected based on demonstrated experience working with border inspection authorities
  • hours of commerce, the grant recipient provides additional agriculture inspectors to help border authorities
  • property owner from keeping chickens if a POA is located in a municipality that has an ordinance that authorizes
  • documents prohibit a private property owner from keeping chickens even if that is in an area where it's authorized
  • data-time="2772"> ...the power away from these HOA authorities
Bills: HB2013, HB4163, HB4810
Summary: The meeting of the Agriculture and Livestock Committee mainly centered around discussions regarding three bills: HB4810, HB2013, and HB4163. Notable emphasis was placed on HB4810, which seeks to renew the Trade Agriculture Inspection Grant Program due to its critical role in ensuring the efficient flow of agricultural goods between Texas and Mexico. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted the importance of cross-border trade and the economic impact of agricultural imports, which supports thousands of jobs and ensures a reliable food supply. The committee members engaged in thoughtful deliberations about the necessity of maintaining and expanding the program to accommodate rising trade volumes and local agricultural needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations May 8th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Questions to either the bill author, or you, or the Comptroller
  • best attempt at a description of what the ESF is for, but maybe the question is best for the bill author
  • I mean, how would you as a bill author describe the

  • Which is, why would we— and maybe this is for the bill author—why instead of the $7 billion, I'm looking
  • And last session, you voted and authorized it.
Bills: SJR4
Summary: The meeting focused on Senate Joint Resolution 4, which proposes to raise the constitutional cap of the Economic Stabilization Fund from 10% to 15%. Members engaged in a comprehensive discussion regarding the potential implications of this increase, especially in relation to Texas's long-term financial liabilities. Concerns were raised about maintaining adequate reserves while simultaneously addressing the need for taxpayer relief, especially considering factors such as property tax compression and future economic downturns. Various members voiced their opinions on the balance between saving for potential future needs and returning money to taxpayers, fostering a vigorous debate on the state's fiscal strategy and priorities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Please wait until the rest of the bill authors are here. Thank you for your patience.
  • First off, have you worked with the author of the bill?
  • And I'm not speaking for the author, but if in section
  • I guess my question is, have you met with the author about your concerns on this bill?
  • I'm going to defer to my colleagues and the author to take this any further. Thank you.
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

Transportation (Part I) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Byrd is the author, so he had something he's been waving at me. Go ahead, sir.
  • So we would offer language to the author, it sounds like it's acceptable to the people who brought you
  • I and TLR, Senator Burwell, is the author of this bill.
  • Several investigative reports have highlighted waste at the Harris County Toll Road Authority.
  • I have a Texas engineering background and have worked with the Toll Road Authority for those years.
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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections May 5th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • marker="241" data-time="1440"> ...and there's the executive branch, taking away the judicial branch's authority
  • Taking away budgetary approval authority is akin to telling House Appropriations or Senate Finance that
  • " data-time="1602"> Representative Meza, I just wanted to say you could leave it alone, or if the author
  • Most of them were in trial, but they asked me to share this letter with you because they are the authority
Bills: SB663, SB958
Summary: During this committee meeting, significant discussions surrounded various bills including HB1969, SB958, and SB663. Representative Allen moved that HB1969 be reported favorably without amendments, which was adopted amidst a few dissenting votes concerning amendments on fees. The most notable conversation revolved around SB958, where Representative Thompson and other advocates passionately presented the case for trafficking survivors and the need to expand the list of sealable misdemeanors for these individuals. Witness testimonies reflected real-world implications, with survivors sharing their experiences to underscore the urgent need for legislative action.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband Mar 31st, 2025 at 10:03 am

House S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband

Transcript Highlights:
  • of taxpayer dollars have been allocated to broadband infrastructure, including over 1.5 billion authorized
  • The Tennessee Valley Authority, which has...
  • has authority over portions of Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi
  • We are willing and committed to working with the bill author on alternatives.
  • And then finally, you and the bill author also have

Bills: HB3445, HB3448
Summary: The meeting of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Broadband centered around significant issues regarding broadband deployment in rural Texas. Notably, discussion focused on HB3448, which aims to address barriers related to pole attachment rates charged by electric cooperatives, which have historically operated under different regulatory standards compared to other utilities. Chairman Darby emphasized the need for consistency and transparency in pricing to accelerate broadband deployment, especially given the state’s substantial investments in infrastructure. Several stakeholders, including representatives from electric cooperatives and broadband providers, expressed varied opinions on the proposed bill, with some highlighting concerns about the existing disparities in pole attachment costs and others advocating for cooperative protections against undue financial burdens from legislative changes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice (Part II) Apr 29th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In 2015, the legislature passed Senate Bill 1743, which authorized the commission to refer cases to the
  • clear guardrails around referral authority and reducing ambiguity
  • Senate Bill 1602 provides law enforcement clear authority to
  • Our current law doesn't even give our school authorities or police the right to ask him to move further
  • With the author on any changes that are needed to those data
Summary: The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to discuss several key legislative bills, focusing significantly on public safety and law enforcement. Among the prominent bills discussed was SB1858, which aims to amend the eligibility criteria for a law enforcement body armor grant program to include independent school districts (ISDs). This bill addresses safety concerns surrounding school resource officers by allowing them access to necessary protective gear. The committee also reviewed SB1723, which received a favorable recommendation for local non-contested status without any opposition. In total, a number of bills were passed with unanimous votes demonstrating bipartisan support for enhancing community security measures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Authorizing the overlap of American Legion Memorial Highway.
  • The bill does not impact law enforcement authority regarding
  • Generally then, Senate Bill 2589 would authorize county

  • What's more, the bill would authorize the land to be

  • to exempt government entities from fees and sureties for oversized overweight vehicle permits or authority
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee focused extensively on several bills, including discussions surrounding public safety and road management in Texas. A notable bill discussed was SB1351, which aims to designate a section of U.S. Highway 281 in honor of a fallen Border Patrol agent. Hearing emotional testimonies from family members highlighted the community's support for this tribute. Additionally, the committee progressed through multiple bills including SB2589 and SB2707, both addressing local governance issues and emergency response improvements, with discussions on operational practices and compliance with safety standards involving transportation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance May 7th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • They don't have the authority to walk out and contract on the state's behalf with that.
  • In 16 years, I anticipate, based on conversations with regional river authorities and other water provider
  • If we only have $200 million in discretionary authority,
  • ...So, you know, if you've got, I can't speak for the author
  • I'm John Barham II, River Authority Executive Director.
Bills: HB3077, HJR2, HJR7
Summary: The meeting focused on HJR7, with substantial discussions surrounding Texas' dire water infrastructure needs and proposed funding allocations. The committee, led by Chairman Perry, emphasized the necessity for a dedicated funding source to address an estimated $154 billion required for both water supply projects and repairing aging infrastructure. Witnesses, including executives from various engineering and environmental organizations, testified about the critical state of Texas' water systems and the anticipated shortfall of 6.8 million acre-feet of water annually by 2070. Testimony highlighted the urgency of implementing strategies such as desalination and flood mitigation to secure Texas' future water resources.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Representative Paul, for authoring this

  • We understand we may have a difference of opinion with the bill author on that point.
  • Prior authorization denials are a huge problem for our hospitals.
  • Surprise billing protections, even prior authorization
  • And we talked about prior authorization...
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

Business and Commerce May 8th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span> Chair lays out as a matter of pending business HB 132, authored
  • Tennessee Valley Authority was $5.4 billion before being canceled, projected $18 million per megawatt
  • While there is $750 million for these grants, we keep hearing that the author wants $2 billion or even
  • The legislature previously authorized loans for dispatchable energy projects, which must be repaid.
  • I'm the lead co-author on the bill.
Summary: The meeting was a thorough exploration of multiple bills, most notably focused on innovative energy solutions and public safety enhancements. Key discussions centered around HB14, which aims to bolster the state's nuclear energy capabilities through the establishment of a Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office. Senators and expert witnesses discussed the potential of nuclear power as a clean energy source and a strategic necessity for Texas's growth. There was strong support for the bill, with various stakeholders highlighting its importance for the future energy landscape. Additionally, other bills like HB132 addressed the need for enhanced confidentiality protections regarding sensitive information, while HB1584 sought improvements in power restoration procedures during emergencies. Overall, the committee engaged with multiple viewpoints, balancing innovation with safety and ethical considerations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs May 7th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span> whether or not the PUC had the ability, had the existing authority
  • I think what Senate Bill 6 does is it clarifies and focuses and makes specific our authority and ability
  • or provide you all with specific, with very clear authority
  • The bill grants authority for the PUC to approve, deny, or
  • One of the areas Chairman AnchĂ­a, you mentioned, is where does the PUC have authority and where does
Bills: SB6, SB11, SB33
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on Senate Bill 6, which aims to address the needs for increased reliability and transparency in Texas's energy infrastructure. There were multiple testimonies from stakeholders representing various sectors, including data centers and electric cooperatives, discussing their support and concerns regarding the bill's impact on interconnection and load management. Key issues raised included improving load forecasts, the adequacy of existing methodologies for cost allocation, and ensuring the reliability of the grid amidst the growing demand from large energy consumers like data centers. The discussion emphasized the need for a balance between fostering economic growth and maintaining grid reliability, amidst concerns about potential uncertainty for businesses due to some provisions in the bill. The committee concluded the meeting while keeping the bill pending for future deliberation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 8th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Last session, we authorized TJJD to designate certified
  • They have rules that require the authorization letter from the medical examiner, and...
  • The M.E. charges that for the authorization letter. So the medical examiner would...
  • And after reading this bill, we met with the author.
  • But if they're not on parole, TDCJ has no authority.
Summary: The committee meeting covered various issues, including bills aimed at mental health reforms and criminal justice. A significant discussion centered around HB2777, which proposes to exempt individuals with severe mental illness, particularly schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, from the death penalty. Testimonies from multiple stakeholders expressed support for the bill, emphasizing that individuals with severe mental illness may lack the capacity to understand the consequences of their actions, and executing them contradicts moral principles and contemporary neuroscience. The committee heard from advocates who argued for compassionate treatment in the justice system, while also maintaining accountability for offenders.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education May 6th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, any questions for the bill author?
  • Members, any questions for the bill author?
  • Members, any more questions for the bill author?
  • I am a traditionally published children's book author.
  • As an author and a parent, I am always fighting against...
Summary: The committee meeting convened to discuss various proposed legislation, most notably Senate Bill 13, which addresses the management of library materials in school districts and parental rights regarding access to library catalogs. Senator Paxton introduced the bill, emphasizing the need for transparency and appropriate content in school libraries to protect children from sexually explicit materials. Discussions included testimonies from community members and stakeholders, highlighting both support and opposition based on concerns over censorship and parental authority. The committee left the bill pending for further review and discussions.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • , rigorously review the facts, learn as much as you can about the situation, apply the relevant authorities
  • It covers Palestinian Authority incitement of violence against Israel.
  • A month after the attack, a top Abbas advisor even bragged that the Palestinian Authority had not uttered
  • So, for example, under the Constitution, the treaty power, the authorities case, I believe that Senator
  • Congress has its view of, for example, its authority to terminate treaties, and Mr.
Summary: The committee meeting was focused on various key issues, including the implications of recent violence in the Middle East and U.S. foreign policy in relation to Israel and Panama. Members discussed the need for diplomatic efforts between the U.S. and Israeli officials following the recent attack by Hamas. Governor Huckabee emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong U.S.-Israel relationship and reiterated the need for accountability for terrorist organizations involved in violent acts against civilians. Senators shared their concerns regarding the ramifications of U.S. actions in Panama and the presence of Chinese influence, highlighting the significance of the Panama Canal in terms of trade and security.

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