Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senator Cook'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services May 20th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator lays out Senate Bill 1524 by Senator Middleton.
  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 2311 by Senator Paxton

  • Vice Chair, members of the committee, this is Senate Bill 2311 by Senator Paxton.
  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 2041 by Senator Hancock

  • Senate Bill 2041, it's Senator Hancock's bill.
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around discussions of several key bills, primarily focused on enhancing protective measures and improving the welfare of children under state care. Notably, SB596 was reported favorably for the full House, addressing critical gaps in the reporting of placements of children. Similarly, SB1524 was discussed, presenting a substitute that contained amendments related to confidentiality surrounding firearms in foster homes. The committee also reviewed SB2311, aimed at improving educational planning requirements for residential treatment centers through written agreements with local schools to ensure stable educational environments for children.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part II) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 527. The floor is now open for public testimony.
  • We have no one else that's registered on Senate Bill 527. Senate Bill 527 will be left...
  • The committee substitute for Senate Bill 1283 picks up where last...
  • I appreciate the work by Senator Parker.
  • That is all that we have registered for Senate Bill 1283.
Summary: The meeting of the committee covered critical discussions focused on several key bills aimed at enhancing safety and improving healthcare access for vulnerable populations, particularly seniors and pediatric patients. The members heard testimony in support of SB1283, with Lieutenant Jonathan Blanchard from the Dallas Police Department advocating for the bill as a means to ensure safer environments in senior facilities by instituting criminal history checks for employees. Carmen Tilton from the Texas Assisted Living Association also highlighted the bill's balance between safety and privacy, showing strong support from various stakeholders. Additionally, the committee discussed SB527, which addresses the challenges of obtaining insurance coverage for general anesthesia required for pediatric dental procedures. Experts testified about the urgent need for reform to prevent potential health crises in children and to streamline care access for parents.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part I) Feb 4th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Paxton, I know this is a priority for you as well as Senator Perry.
  • Senator Paxson, this is a priority for you as well as Senator Perry.
  • Thank you, Senator Nichols, for co-authoring with former Senator Nelson.
  • When Senator Dual was still a senator here, we gave him our financials.
  • When Senator Duhl was still a senator here, we gave him our...
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting focused on public testimony regarding key health and human services issues affecting various groups in Texas. Notable discussions included funding requests for recovery housing, maternal health programs, and behavioral health services. Testimonies addressed the urgent need for additional resources to improve recovery housing availability, with advocates pushing for an increase in the number of accredited recovery homes and mentioning that Texas currently ranks low in recovery housing access. Similar testimonies highlighted the rising maternal mortality rates, particularly among minority populations, and the necessity for robust funding for maternal health initiatives. The session also saw voices advocating for better support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, emphasizing the critical need for transformed waiver services and improved provider accountability.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator, I'm not going to get into this.
  • Can I provide some context, Senator?
  • Senator, I'll certainly comply with...
  • Thank you, Senator.
  • Senator Risch, likewise.
Summary: The Senate Intelligence Committee convened for a significant meeting focused on the Annual Worldwide Threats Hearing. Prominent officials from various intelligence agencies presented their insights on emerging national security threats, including concerns over increasing cyber threats, particularly from China and non-state actors. A major discussion point included the balance between national security and civil liberties, as evidenced by conversations surrounding Section 702 of FISA and its implications for privacy protection. The challenges posed by cartels and transnational criminal organizations, especially related to narcotics trafficking, were emphasized as pressing issues necessitating coordinated responses from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. This meeting underscored the necessity of public-private partnerships to tackle these multifaceted threats effectively.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm proud to join you and join Senator Hagerty, Senator Gillibrand, and Senator Alsobrooks in bringing
  • Hagerty, Senator Gillibrand, Senator Toomey, and myself.
  • And Senator Hagerty, thank you.

  • Senator Alsobrooks.

  • Senator Orrin, thank you.
Bills: SB875
Summary: This meeting focused on the markup of the Genius Act and the FIRM Act, two significant pieces of legislation addressing stablecoin regulation and the financial industry's regulatory framework. The Chairman noted the importance of providing clarity to the digital asset community and protecting American consumers, while also promoting innovation and competition within the financial sector. Members of both parties expressed varying viewpoints, with some highlighting concerns related to national security and the potential risks associated with stablecoins.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Bob Hall, Senator Angela Paxton, and Senator Mayes Middleton, for recognizing the urgent need for us
  • Bob Hall, Senator Angela Paxton, and Senator Mayes Middleton for recognizing the urgency of this issue
  • I'm here to stand with Senator Blanco, patients, and the over 40 organizations who support Senate Bill
  • Let's pass Senate Bill 911.
  • He's a strong supporter of Senate Bill 911, and we thank Senator
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 Regular

Criminal JusticeAudio only. May 26th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Flores? Present.

  • Senator Parker?

  • Senator Huffman?

  • Senator Miles? Present.

  • Senator King? Here.
Summary: The Committee of Criminal Justice convened to discuss House Bill 3073, known as the Summer Willis Act. The bill aims to clarify the statutory definition of consent in cases of sexual assault and rape, particularly concerning intoxication and impairment. Senator Paxton laid out the bill, explaining that the new committee substitute provides precise language about the actor's awareness of the victim's incapacity to consent due to intoxication. This change was presented as a clarification rather than an alteration of intent. The committee unanimously adopted the committee substitute and recommended that it pass favorably through the Senate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 14th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • allow the Senate...
  • Considering pending business in Senate Bill 30, the chair lays out Senate Bill 30 as a matter of...
  • Senator Schwartner sends up the committee substitute, and Senator Schwartner is recognized to explain
  • Good morning, Senator Schwertner.
  • Senator, any other questions?
Summary: The Senate Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss three critical bills, primarily centered around national security concerns and their implications on civil liberties. Notably, Senate Bill 2514 drew significant scrutiny and opposition from various witnesses who raised alarms about how the bill could infringe upon free speech rights and privacy. The bill aims to establish a framework for identifying and monitoring foreign influence operations against Texas, specifically targeting adversaries like China and Russia. Proponents argued that such measures are necessary to protect the integrity of state governance and prevent malign foreign influence, while opponents warned that it may lead to excessive governmental oversight and potential abuse of power.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs May 5th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 18 is left pending. Chair lays out Senate Bill 75.
  • So, Senate Bill 330 is Senator Huffman's bill, which

  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 1535 and offers up a committee substitute to Senate Bill 1535.
  • Senate Bill 1535 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 34 by Senator Sparks is the wildfire response
Bills: SB34, SB75, SB330, SB1535, SB18
Summary: The committee meeting was focused on several critical pieces of legislation, particularly SB34 aimed at enhancing wildfire response capabilities for volunteer fire departments throughout Texas. This bill introduces a statewide database for firefighting equipment and raises the grant cap for rural volunteer fire departments. Various witnesses, including experts and stakeholders, testified in support of the bill by emphasizing the increasing wildfire threats experienced in recent years. The committee spent considerable time addressing the amendments and concerns surrounding ongoing wildfire risks, ensuring that necessary resources are allocated to combat this urgency effectively. Discussion also revolved around SB75, a bill that seeks to codify security measures for the Texas electric grid in response to potential electromagnetic pulse threats and other vulnerabilities, with multiple testimonies highlighting the considerable risks posed to public safety and infrastructure if inaction persists. In addition to other bills discussed, there were notable debates around SB18 which aims to restrict public funding for libraries hosting certain performances. Critics expressed concerns over the potential limitations on community literacy programs, drawing attention to the overwhelming need for inclusive educational resources to combat literacy issues in Texas. The rigorous dialogue reflected the committee's commitment to not only legislative processes but also the significant impact these decisions hold for the broader Texas community. Overall, the meeting was well-attended, indicating active participation from both members and the public.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • I now recognize the ranking member of this subcommittee, Senator Duckworth, the senator from Illinois
  • The Senator from Washington State, Senator Cantwell.
  • Senator Sullivan, thank you.
  • Thank you, Senator. Thank you.
  • No, Senator, but I...
Summary: The meeting focused on the discussions surrounding the tragic midair collision involving American Airlines Flight 5342 and an Army Black Hawk helicopter, which resulted in the loss of 67 lives. Testimonies were provided by key figures including NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy and FAA Acting Administrator Chris Richelieu. The committee expressed grave concerns regarding the existing safety protocols, questioning why the FAA failed to act on numerous warnings and data indicating potential collision risks. Members emphasized the need for urgent reforms in aviation safety to prevent such tragedies in the future. Specific highlights included the recognition of the importance of ADS-B out technology and concerns about the operational practices of military helicopters in controlled airspaces.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 8th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And thank you, Senator Hall.
  • I now call Senate Bill 835 and recognize its author, Senator Paxton, to explain the measure.
  • Thank you, Senator Parker.
  • My senator is Senator Schwertner. this committee.
  • Senator, are there any other questions? Senator Parker, you're recognized.
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

Finance (Part II) Feb 11th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Nichols and Senator Perry.
  • Yes, Senator.
  • That's correct, Senator.
  • I'm sorry, Senator.
  • Thank you, Senator Severini. Senator Perry.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting included a comprehensive discussion on various upcoming budget recommendations impacting the Railroad Commission and water funding allocations. Significant dialogue focused on Senate Bill 30, which addresses water funding appropriations crucial for developing and maintaining the state's water infrastructure amidst growing demand. Testimonies from various stakeholders emphasized the urgency of addressing water resource issues in Texas, given the state's increasing population and the forthcoming infrastructure needs. Additionally, climate change impacts and funding challenges were heavily underscored by the participants, showcasing a collective concern over future water supply and management. The committee also reviewed the implications of Senate Bill 8 and Senate Joint Resolution 75 regarding the creation of new funds and programs for water management and development. Importantly, the potential for a dedicated revenue stream was raised, echoing the sentiment that a historic investment in water infrastructure is critical. The meeting adjourned with plans for a follow-up to further evaluate and confirm budget appropriations, reflecting a strong commitment to tackle Texas's pressing water challenges.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

JurisprudenceAudio only. Apr 29th, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 2878.

  • committee substitute, but Senator Hughes, you're recognized to explain the difference.
  • Thank you, Senator Hughes.

  • The amendment has been explained by Senator Hughes.
  • reported favorably to the whole Senate.
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Jurisprudence addressed Senate Bill 2878, which focuses on various judicial matters and incorporates amendments from other members. Senator Hughes presented the committee substitute for the bill, explaining the key differences from the original language and emphasizing the incorporation of local requests. Following a productive discussion, the committee unanimously passed the committee substitute with an amendment by Senator Hinojosa, demonstrating bipartisan support for the revisions. The bill was reported favorably to the entire Senate, indicating its priority for further consideration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security May 22nd, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And on behalf of Senator Creighton, Senator Flores is recognized
  • Senator Eckhardt?
  • Senator Eckhardt.
  • Senator Birdwell. Aye. Senator Flores. Aye. Senator Hinojosa. Aye. Senator Eckhardt. Aye.
  • Senator Hinojosa of Nueces.
Bills: HCR40, HB214
Summary: The committee convened to discuss two significant bills: HCR40, regarding reimbursement for border security costs, and HB214, which addresses the prosecution of firearm and ammunition-related offenses. Senator Flores represented HCR40, urging Congress to reimburse Texas for expenses incurred under Operation Lone Star, citing ongoing issues with illegal crossings and drug trafficking. Though there was a commendable attempt at public testimony, none was received, and the bill was left pending with intentions for further discussions. Much emphasis was placed on the state's security responsibilities and federal inaction that led to a substantial financial burden on Texas taxpayers. In discussing HB214 introduced by Chairman Birdwell, key points included the need for refinement in identifying which offenses classify as terroristic. The members engaged in a comprehensive debate surrounding the expansion of offenses related to firearms smuggling and terrorism. Members expressed concern over including overly broad definitions that could lead to misuse of power and mislabeling of offenses. The committee's focus shifted towards creating a more precise framework that separates economic offenses from true acts of terrorism. The meeting emphasized collaboration and careful consideration in drafting legislation aimed at enhancing public safety without infringing on rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism May 1st, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Is there anyone else who wishes to testify for or against Senate Bill 519?
  • If there's no objection, Senate Bill 519 will be left pending.
  • Senate Bill 519 will be left pending.
  • Members, this is for Senate.
  • Senate Bill 1247 will remain pending.
Summary: The meeting of the Culture, Recreation, and Tourism Committee centered on several important bills primarily aimed at enhancing Texas's wildlife management and cultural initiatives. One of the standout discussions was around HB5259, which advocates for the development of a wildlife corridor action plan by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The bill aims to address the high number of animal-vehicle collisions in Texas, proposing to set up designated areas to connect wildlife populations and habitats. Witnesses, including wildlife conservationists, testified in support of this bill, stressing its potential to significantly reduce accidents and protect endangered species like ocelots. The committee also deliberated on multiple Senate Bills aimed at streamlining hunting licenses and supporting state historical initiatives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Veteran Affairs Apr 29th, 2025

Senate Veteran Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Bill 102 recognizes the Senate sponsor, Senator Hancock

  • Senator Sparks to explain the bill.
  • But Senator, we would love to find other efforts as well.
  • Senator Sparks, thank you for introducing this bill.
  • Senator Hancock, you said it well a couple of years ago.
Bills: HB102, HB300, SB2255
Summary: The meeting centered around various legislative bills, notably focusing on HB102, HB300, and SB2255. Senator Sparks presented SB2255, aimed at easing occupational licensing for military spouses and veterans, eliminating bureaucratic delays that hinder their employment opportunities after relocation. Key testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted the importance of this bill, emphasizing how it could alleviate the economic burden faced by military families when transitioning to new roles. The updates on HB300 aimed at revitalizing the Texas Armed Services Scholarship Program underscored efforts to modernize assistance for military students.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 904 is left.
  • Senate Bill 905 is left pending.
  • I support Senate Bill 125.
  • That's when Senate Bill 1584 was formed and passed straight through the Senate, sailing through the public
  • I support Senate Bill 125.
Summary: The meeting of the Public Health Committee focused on several significant bills concerning blood donation practices and patient care. Notably, Senate Bill 125 faced opposition from multiple testimonies that raised concerns about the potential risks associated with directed donations. Testimony from representatives of the blood centers highlighted alarming statistics about the increased incidence of infectious diseases among directed donors, urging the committee to reconsider the bill's implications. Supporters of the bill argued for the necessity of such provisions to protect patients with rare blood types, stressing the importance of ensuring their access to appropriate care. As discussions unfolded, the challenges of maintaining a balanced blood supply while accommodating specific patient needs became a central theme.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Senator.
  • I know where Senator Marshall is coming from; he is the original milkman in the Senate Ag Committee and
  • Senator Justice, Senator Lujan is next.
  • Senator Klobuchar, thank you very much. Senator Boozman, thank you, and thank you to all of you.
  • And thank you, Senator Boozman. Senator Marshall.

Bills: SB222
Summary: This meeting of the committee focused primarily on the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, S222, which aims to permit schools to offer a fuller range of milk options, including whole, reduced, and low-fat varieties, that have garnered bipartisan support. Chairman Bozeman opened the session by highlighting concerns over children's nutrition and the obesity epidemic, emphasizing the significance of nutritious school meals in addressing these issues. Experts from various organizations were invited to discuss the implications of this bill as well as the current challenges facing school meal programs, including budget constraints and food supply issues. The meeting included passionate testimonies about the direct impacts of current dietary guidelines and federal funding reductions affecting schools' abilities to provide healthy meal options.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism May 15th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 3059.

  • Senate Bill 3059 will be left pending. Is there any objection?
  • Senate Bill 3059 is left pending.
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 3059 by Senator Campbell as
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 2031 by Senator Kolkhorst

Bills: SB3059
Summary: The meeting of the committee began with Chairman Metcalfe introducing the members present, which included Vice Chair Flores and Representatives Cole, Ayala, Kerwin, and others. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to discussing SB3059, which focuses on the establishment of the Alamo Commission tasked with the preservation and protection of the Alamo. Members engaged in passionate discussions regarding the responsibility of maintaining such an iconic landmark, with acknowledgment of the need for transparency in the management of public funds allocated for this purpose. Ultimately, the bill was reported favorably to the full house without amendments after thorough deliberation.

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