Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Tax Policy'
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TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources Apr 16th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Our water resources are being taxed, and again the population—we
- I think we have about 15,000 homes that currently pay taxes.
- span marker="403" data-time="2412"> this body and the body across the hall, to try and enhance the policy
Keywords:
water rights, Texas Water Trust, water bank, environmental conservation, water quality, instream flows, aquifer, water injection, Edwards Aquifer, environmental regulation, groundwater, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, water conservation, drought, utility regulation, water use restrictions, Public Utility Commission, groundwater, civil penalties, water conservation
Summary:
The meeting of the committee involved extensive discussions on multiple bills related to water management and resources in Texas, particularly emphasizing the importance of legislative measures to enhance the conservation and management of groundwater resources. Representative Romero laid out HB4530, which aims to expand the Texas Water Trust to include groundwater rights, enabling voluntary dedication for conservation and addressing the regulatory gaps that currently exist. The bill received support as it seeks to clarify the processes for groundwater donations, thus promoting effective water management strategies across the state.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- To your government taxes or assessment.
- Senate Bill 2082 is a narrowly-tailored solution to a critical policy gap. It's simple.
- ...of agency requirements, rules, policy, and scientific
- In the interpretation of agency rules, policies, and legal
Keywords:
concrete crushing, hospital proximity, environmental regulation, public health, zoning laws, concrete plants, standard permit, construction regulation, environmental compliance, health and safety code, water rights, property transfer, disclosure requirements, coastal property, Texas legislation, real estate, environmental impact, Gulf of America, coastal resources, Texas sovereignty
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
S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband Apr 16th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband
Transcript Highlights:
- data-time="468"> if the federal government changes its funding policies
- So, good public policy would dictate that those resources be used first for the purposes...
- 397" data-time="2376"> Not a new practice and reflects more than a century of legal precedent and policy
- of the community pay; that is a hidden tax to the consumer
Keywords:
telecommunications, local exchange companies, universal service fund, rate maintenance, business expansion, broadband access, internet service, multiunit residential properties, urban areas, affordability programs, fiber-optic cables, public land, construction permits, environmental impact, notification requirements, telecommunications, municipal projects, infrastructure, facility relocation, public right-of-way
Summary:
The Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Broadband convened to discuss several important bills aimed at improving broadband infrastructure and managing the financial responsibilities associated with utility right-of-way relocation. Notably, Chair Morales advocated for HB3953, focused on assessing broadband availability in multifamily housing, highlighting significant gaps observed during the COVID-19 pandemic where families struggled to access necessary internet services for education. Testimonies were provided by various stakeholders, underlining the critical nature of broadband accessibility for vulnerable populations, including low-income families and students.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- legislative policy recommendations, support public education
- 3276">Yes, the committee substitute clarifies that the recycling fund will not be requiring any fees, taxes
So what we do is we work on policies across the U.S
- We obviously need harmony in our data here because that helps us inform what policies need to be made
- During the interim, our members and our board thought hard on appropriate recycling policies here for
Keywords:
Gulf Coast Protection District, navigation safety, special districts, state governance, Texas legislation, Gulf Coast, flood protection, storm risk management, coastal restoration, natural resources, prescribed burns, self-insurance, fire management, liability protection, rural land management, recycling, environment, sustainability, economic development, Texas Recycling Fund
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
Transcript Highlights:
- Rafael Anchia mentioned the GDP, and I'd like to tell you all that Koreatown also brings in more sales tax
- And they always pay their taxes. Thank you, Mr. Chair.
- To speak right close, it's been the policy of the committee
- aging, deteriorating infrastructure, at a cost that is beyond a county budget, and when we get no sales tax
- Commissioner Bailey, of course, has to be concerned about his taxes, his budget representing his citizens
Bills:
HCR114, HB137, HB283, HB1398, HB1960, HB2153, HB2431, HB2638, HB2699, HB2999, HB3208, HB3389, HB3413, HB3510, HB3642, HB3859, HB3974, HB3986, HB4142, HB4173, HB4174, HB4542, HB4605, HB4663, HB4731, HB5064, HB5216, HB5218, HB5332, HB5453, HB5577
Keywords:
memorial, pedestrian bridge, Houston, Sergio Ivan Rodriguez, city council, oversize vehicles, transportation permits, Hidalgo County, port authority, highway routes, healthcare, insurance, mental health, treatment access, state funding, transportation, axle weight, aggregates, regulations, Texas law
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on discussing multiple bills primarily related to transportation and road safety. Notable discussions included House Bill 5332, proposed by Representative Kerwin, which aimed to limit truck weights to 80,000 pounds on both county roads and interstates, addressing concerns over crumbling infrastructure and accident rates in Johnson County. The bill received support from committee members as they acknowledged the pressing issue of road safety and the need for uniform weight regulations to protect county infrastructure. Additionally, House Bill 4924 and House Bill 4916 were discussed, both of which aimed at improving vehicle titling processes and documentation requirements.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Education K-16 (Part II) May 22nd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Policies addressing sexual abuse.
- If we require those policies, we must also create recourse when they are ignored.
- They're not even following their own policy to act immediately.
- Good evening, my name is Mary Lynn Panetta, and I'm the director of education and workforce policy at
- It outlines some substantive policy points.
Keywords:
educational reform, HB4, nationally-normed assessment, STAAR test elimination, transparency in evaluation, public testimony, accountability, legislative session
Summary:
The committee meeting covered significant legislative discussions, focusing largely on educational reform bills, particularly the committee substitute for HB4 which aims to replace the STAAR test with a simpler, nationally-normed assessment model. This proposed shift intends to reduce testing fatigue while providing timely feedback for teachers and parents. Senator Bettencourt presented reinforcing points for HB4, arguing it would create a more equitable education system that aligns classroom assessment with state standards. Feedback from numerous education stakeholders highlighted the urgency for a transparent and reliable evaluation framework. The conversation also included contrasting public testimonies, where some community members voiced concerns about the perceived inadequacies of the reform efforts, citing a need for genuinely transformative changes in education policy. The session concluded without final votes on the bills, leaving several pending for further review and consideration.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Jun 2nd, 2025 at 11:06 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- She joined my team as a director of engagement and as a policy advisor.
- His policy areas focused on state affairs and public policy.
- and every other kind of policy for our office.
- It is the right policy and the right thing to do.
- We receive $600 a month before taxes and before insurance.
Keywords:
SB293, pay raises, Texas judiciary, 89th legislative session, public education reform, bipartisan cooperation
Summary:
In this meeting, the committee primarily focused on the conference committee report for SB293. Representative Leach highlighted the collaborative efforts of both the House and Senate conferees in crafting a historic legislative package that aims to provide significant pay raises for Texas judges, a move deemed essential for maintaining a strong judiciary in the state. The discussion underscored the importance of bipartisan cooperation in achieving meaningful legislative outcomes. Additionally, there was a recognition of the hard work put in throughout the 89th session, with various members expressing pride in their achievements, particularly in public education reform.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence May 7th, 2025 at 10:05 am
House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- In this state, the tort tax is dramatically increasing.
- Seems to me the policy question for us is...
- I think Vice Chair Hayes really hit on my issue on the policy point of us deciding.
- But my concern is a policy that tosses out people.
The policy is for you.
Bills:
HB4806
Keywords:
civil action, damages, health care services, noneconomic damages, negligence, legal standards, HB4806, medical expenses, tort reform, personal injury, jury transparency, legal framework, testimonial evidence, victim rights
Summary:
The meeting addressed several bills, primarily focusing on HB4806, which aims to reform the legal framework surrounding medical expenses and personal injury claims. The discussions included strong opinions from both advocates and opponents of the bill. Advocates argued that the bill is essential to ensure fairness by allowing juries to see comprehensive evidence regarding medical costs and preventing abuses in the system. Senators and committee members expressed the need for transparency in the medical billing process while addressing concerns that the changes may adversely impact injured plaintiffs seeking justice.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Rules in place, and policies in place, and civil penalties
- I think that's a policy question for the legislature.
- Chuck DeVore, representing Texas Public Policy Foundation
- My name is Mary Ibarra, and I'm a policy and advocacy strategist representing the ACLU.
- That's, you know, I think this guy is going to raise your taxes.
Keywords:
voter ID, citizenship proof, provisional ballot, election security, Texas, voting rights, deep fakes, misleading videos, election integrity, criminal offense, digital misinformation, deep fakes, misleading videos, election integrity, criminal offense, digital misinformation, Texas, misleading videos, deep fake, election integrity
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several key legislative bills relating to election integrity and voter registration. Notable discussions were held around HB817, HB1478, and HB1661, which addressed issues such as the termination of majority votes, compliance with voter registration laws, and penalties related to election supplies. Throughout the meeting, various representatives vocalized their opinions, alongside public testimonies that provided diverse perspectives on the bills being considered. The chair led the proceedings efficiently, allowing for a balance of viewpoints while ensuring that legislative business was conducted promptly. Overall, the atmosphere was characterized by active engagement from members of the committee, with many bills being reported favorably to the full House for consideration.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Congressional Redistricting, Select Aug 1st, 2025 at 10:08 am
Transcript Highlights:
- He ran on lowering people's taxes, but in fact, he is giving the biggest tax break in American history
- In the education policy, we have TRS retirees struggling with the cost of living.
- The majority of voters are ready for conservative policy.
- Voices and policies directly affect Texans, all Texans.
- You taxed, still governed, and still silenced.
Keywords:
redistricting, HB4, congressional maps, public testimony, demographics, transparency, representation
Summary:
The meeting focused heavily on congressional redistricting, centering around the discussion of HB4, a bill that aims to revise the congressional map based on population shifts and other demographic factors. Notable was Vice Chair Rosenthal's critique of the process and the lack of transparency regarding the bill's plans which he characterized as a 'rigged matter'. Multiple public hearings were conducted prior to this meeting, allowing citizens to register opinions about the congressional lines, and numerous testimonies were presented both for and against the proposed changes in the districts. The testimony revealed significant concern over how the redistricting could impact various communities and representations moving forward.
Discussions included the implications of changing demographics, and members addressed how the modifications aimed to promote fair representation while considering historical voting patterns. As the committee adjourned, there were hints of continued deliberation on the matter with members expressing intention to finalize the bill in a subsequent session. The meeting demonstrated the committee's commitment to addressing public sentiment and legislative responsibility regarding district boundaries.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Members, my name is Chuck DeVore, I'm with the Texas Public Policy Foundation, here to testify in support
- Texas Values Action is the largest Christian nonprofit law and policy organization in Texas, dedicated
- Back when I used to work for tax collector-assessor Paul Bettencourt.
- ...policies in Texas that are distinct and different from
- what the federal policies are with respect to federal certification.
Keywords:
voter registration, interstate notification, election code, voter registrar, data sharing, election security, voting system, equipment maintenance, storage, election integrity, ballot propositions, election procedures, city charters, transparency, public voting, ectopic pregnancy, continuing education, medical emergencies, healthcare, physician training
Summary:
The meeting involved several key discussions surrounding new legislation, notably SB801, which addresses barriers faced by unhoused young adults in obtaining necessary documentation like birth certificates. Witnesses, including Maria Benavides from SA Youth, testified on how these hurdles impact access to jobs and housing, emphasizing the importance of removing financial barriers to obtaining identification. Additionally, the committee examined SB1200, aimed at increasing transparency in lawsuits against defense contractors connected to foreign adversaries, highlighting national security concerns. Senator Cole Corse articulated the bill's aim to disclose relationships between plaintiffs and adversarial nations, promoting accountability in litigation funding.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- We're updating our policy procedures and implementing a review process for those.
- So we're in that stage right now where it's a policy decision.
- It's a policy decision out of the governor's office.
- That is kind of a policy, Senator, at the end of the day.
- My name is **Mitra Avini**, and I am a policy advisor at Texas 2036.
Bills:
SB1
Keywords:
appropriations, budget, state funding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, budget recommendations, Texas Facilities Commission, border security, cybersecurity, Governor Abbott, operational efficiency
Summary:
The meeting focused on several critical budget recommendations for various state agencies, including the Texas Facilities Commission, which proposed significant funding changes. Chair George Purcell highlighted a reduction in appropriations, along with the introduction of new funds aimed at refurbishing the Rudder Building and supporting facilities operations. Discussions also touched on border security, where it was reported that Governor Abbott formally requested congressional support to reclaim $11 billion in funding for Texas operations. The ongoing dialogue regarding the maintenance and responsibilities relating to border wall constructions was emphasized, noting the complexity and the need for clear allocation of responsibilities as discussions with federal authorities develop.
Throughout the meeting, there were notable conversations about operational efficiencies, particularly in the context of expanding cyber threats and the need for improved cybersecurity measures at state agencies. Members engaged in deliberating the future hiring of staff and resources necessary for maintaining effective service delivery amidst increasing demand. The discussions concluded with a commitment to keeping an open line with constituents regarding the implications of these funding decisions and the overall strategic direction of the agencies involved.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- with the policies that we've been handed.
- So, I know that our authority ultimately comes from the Constitution and the policy decisions made by
- the legislature, which in turn translate into policies for the Brazos River Authority to implement.
- Their policies and procedures are very well evolved, and I couldn't be more proud of the people that
- What are the policies of the state law at this point?
Keywords:
Senate Committee on Nominations, Brazos River Authority, higher education, environmental management, agricultural runoff, stewardship, legislation, collaboration
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Nominations convened to address various nominee confirmations, highlighting the significance of higher education and environmental management. Discussions centered around the responsibilities of the Brazos River Authority and the need for effective cooperation with the legislature and other state authorities. Several senators raised concerns regarding the agricultural runoff affecting impaired streams leading into the Brazos River. The committee emphasized the importance of stewardship, collaboration, and facilitating a balance between resource utilization and environmental protection.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- With tax dollars, we want you to eat healthy.
- With tax dollars, and you know, due to health issues that I've had for a long time, I don't have now.
- So I am limited to only capturing costs for true depreciation, mortgage interest, and property tax.
- Tax with zero markup.
- As part of your reallocation process, I'm assuming you would go pull a property tax record.
Keywords:
special education, funding, individualized education program, visual impairments, accessibility, support services, state education code, special education, funding, emergency preparedness, SB568, SB57, student safety, service intensity model, early intervention, public testimony
Summary:
The committee meeting centered around special education funding and safety provisions for children with disabilities. Key discussions were led by Senator Bettencourt regarding the transformative potential of SB568, which proposes a transition to an eight-tier service intensity funding model. This model is designed to better accommodate the needs of special education students, ensuring they receive the necessary services tailored to their unique requirements. The bill received strong support from stakeholders and included testimony from educators and advocates highlighting the importance of early intervention and the need for ongoing funding support.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
But also, I believe in policy.
- Several incidents with minor bumper damage have led to policy limit...
- ...These are limited liability policies, very small policies
- ...Taxes have no insurance.
- It's just like taxes. There's one payer.
Keywords:
gambling, criminal offenses, penalties, defense, electronic devices, tobacco advertising, youth protection, public health, criminal offense, retailer regulation, e-cigarettes, nicotine products, health, public safety, regulation, e-cigarettes, advertising restrictions, public health, youth protection, health and safety
Summary:
The Senate Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss several critical pieces of legislation including SB30 and SB38. Senator Betancourt introduced a committee substitute for SB38 which underwent a smooth adoption process, moving it favorably toward the Senate. The meeting featured a mix of invited testimonies where both proponents and opponents took the floor. One notable highlight included a testimony from Melissa Casey, who criticized the current legal state as prone to fraud and detrimental to both insurers and the public at large, contending that it inflated insurance costs across the board. The discussions delved deeply into the implications of the bills on judicial processes and potential insurance ramifications, with spirited debates surrounding issues of non-economic damages and jury rights.
The atmosphere remained engaged as committee members heard varied perspectives on the bills, showcasing a robust democratic process. The meeting underscored the importance of public testimony in shaping legislation, ensuring that multiple voices were considered as the committee pressed on towards making decisions that affect the legal landscape of Texas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- 2024, the State Fair of Texas denied citizens their right to self-defense by implementing a no-gun policy
- Part of the policy change allowed Licensed to Carry (LTC)
- This policy change really only bans the people that follow the law.
- So this policy promoted by the State Fair is directly contributing to that issue.
- Nor is it clear what an adopted policy or practice means.
Keywords:
election procedures, voting systems, ballot counting, voter registration, electronic voting, electioneering, public funds, political advertising, civil penalties, school district, election offenses, prosecution, criminal procedure, district attorney, disqualification, voting by mail, election process, ballot correction, voter notification, electoral integrity
Summary:
The Committee on State Affairs convened for a detailed examination of SB1065. The session was marked by comprehensive discussions surrounding the potential implications of this legislation. Members engaged in dialogue regarding the bill's objectives, with presentations from the bill's author and various stakeholders, highlighting differing perspectives on its necessity and impact. Public input was also sought, allowing for a range of opinions to be expressed, which enriched the deliberative process. Notably, Senator Haldeman emphasized the importance of the bill for improving community resources and addressing urgent needs in public services.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- money, and that's okay, but you know that this is just part of the responsibility that we have as policy
- Different insurers have different policies of when they update it.
I think this is sound policy and urge the committee
- I think this calls for clear policies to ensure that those who are widowed are not disproportionately
- The goal should be to create policies that account for the unique circumstances faced by those who have
Bills:
HB712, HB722, HB946, HB1687, HB1809, HB1899, HB2528, HB2583, HB2741, HB2750, HB3021, HB3150, HB3265, HB3658, HB3812, HB3960, HB4392, HB4432
Keywords:
prostate cancer, health benefit plans, insurance coverage, cost sharing, preventive health care, auto insurance, total loss evaluation, disclosure, insurance materials, vehicle appraisal, health benefits, out-of-pocket expenses, government employees, deductibles, medical services, fireworks, public safety, age requirement, permits, occupational licenses
Summary:
The meeting of the committee included discussions concerning various bills primarily related to insurance policies, their regulations, and procedures. Notably, HB3812 was introduced to further streamline the prior authorization process in healthcare, enhancing the ease for practitioners to receive approvals for common procedures. The committee also deliberated over HB2213, which focused on the restructuring of the board of directors for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, and there was broad consensus to move it forward. Several other bills, such as HB2518, addressing installment premium payment plans for windstorm insurance, were also discussed and moved to be reported favorably without amendments.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- The bill does not create a new taxing authority, new powers of eminent domain, or any other expansion
- Our industrial partners make up roughly 65% of our Ad Valorem tax base, which proves advantageous for
- We have seen tangible benefits in the form of a reduction in our tax rate of over 10 cents in the last
It's very taxing on us, and we basically can't keep
- span marker="1612" data-time="9666">Outside of that, it's really the people's right-of-way that our tax
Bills:
HB341, HB791, HB1564, HB1695, HB1722, HB1729, HB1772, HB2003, HB2954, HB2989, HB3084, HB3134, HB3135, HB3309, HB3611, HB3679, HB3727, HB3832
Keywords:
affordable housing, zoning, development, community support, local regulations, bicycle lanes, traffic collisions, Texas Department of Transportation, study, public safety, traffic collisions, bicycles, electric bicycles, scooters, road safety, bicycle lanes, transportation study, Texas Department of Transportation, healthcare, funding
Summary:
The committee meeting included significant discussions surrounding several bills, particularly focusing on infrastructure projects and their implications for the community. House Bill 2989 initiated a dialogue around modernizing the legal framework for Cedarport National Park, which is vital for enhancing maritime transport and reducing truck traffic. Supporters emphasized the economic benefits and the project's potential to create a more efficient and sustainable transport network, highlighting testimonies from local officials who noted the bill's importance for regional growth and safety. Representative Metcalfe and others advocated strongly for the bill, underscoring its necessity in addressing the increasing container demand due to recent shifts in shipping patterns.
The meeting was well-attended and included various testimonies for and against bills, showcasing the passionate involvement of community members and stakeholders. One key point mentioned was the need for grade separations to improve safety around railway crossings. In particular, concerns were raised about the impact of long trains blocking intersections in residential areas, prompting discussions about potential solutions. Overall, the meeting highlighted the ongoing collaboration between legislators, industry representatives, and community leaders to enhance infrastructure and ensure public safety.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources (Part I) Mar 26th, 2025
Senate Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Tax credits could be up to...
- The Texas economy is one of the greatest in the world thanks to the pro-business policies supported by
- /span> Well, I mean, a tariff by nature is always potentially a tax
- span marker="790" data-time="4734"> How long would it take TCEQ without creating some exception to policy
Keywords:
rock crushing, permits, air quality, environmental monitoring, aggregate production, seismicity, public meeting, land use, oil emergency, gas emergency, liability protection, Railroad Commission, emergency assistance, civil liability, natural resources, LNG export, semiconductor, permitting process, aggregate production, energy infrastructure
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Natural Resources Committee centered around several key pieces of legislation, particularly focusing on the energy and infrastructure sectors. Discussion highlighted Senate Bill SB2037, aimed at expediting the LNG export terminal permitting process, receiving strong support from industry representatives. Notably, SB1758 and SB1759 were also discussed, addressing the contentious interactions between aggregate production operations and semiconductor wafer manufacturing, with testimonies from stakeholders emphasizing the need for careful regulatory oversight to cater to all parties involved. Concern was voiced regarding the vibrations caused by mining operations, potentially impacting manufacturing processes, particularly in Grayson County.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs Mar 10th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- My name is David Dunmore with the Texas Public Policy Foundation, here in support of SCR 13.
- organizations pay little to nothing for water, whereas those who aren't allied are assessed an extra tax
- And I do think that should be clear for purposes of this state's water policy to recognize that even
Keywords:
water crisis, 1944 Water Treaty, Senate Bill 744, Senate Bill 1248, SCR 13, water management, agriculture, Hidalgo County
Summary:
During this committee meeting, significant discussions focused on water resource management and legislative measures required to address the ongoing water crisis in Texas, particularly the implications of non-compliance with the 1944 Water Treaty by Mexico. Chair Senator Perry highlighted the urgent need to enforce water allocation agreements as they have direct impacts on Texas agriculture and local economies. Notably, Senate Bill 744 and Senate Bill 1248 were passed, addressing the pressing needs for improved water management practices and data protection for wildlife information gathering, respectively. There was overwhelming support expressed for SCR 13, emphasizing the necessity for action to ensure Mexico meets its water obligations, which are critical for sustaining Texas's agricultural sectors and economic stability.