Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'bipartisan legislation'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 26th, 2025 at 10:08 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • You're comfortable bringing this legislation to a vote.
  • And you're comfortable bringing this legislation?
  • Is that something you considered in filing this legislation?
  • Sir, we actually passed legislation to address that.
  • previous legislative day, is there any objection?
Bills: HB8, HB12, SB3, HJR1, SB11, SB16, SB14
Summary: In this meeting, significant discussions revolved around several key bills, including SB3, SB11, SB14, SB16, and HB8. SB3, concerning outdoor warning sirens, was emphasized for improving flood safety with community input and grants. SB11 proposed defenses for victims of human trafficking, affirmatively recognizing their coerced actions. Meanwhile, SB14 incentivized water conservation efforts by allowing political subdivisions to credit fees to developers for conservation projects. Each of these bills received robust debate and support from members. HB8, proposed by Buckley, aimed at reforming public school assessments, ultimately emphasizing accountability and transparency in educational measures, generating considerable discussion around reducing testing pressures on students and improving educational outcomes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session (Part I) Feb 26th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • During the last two legislative sessions, we were able to ensure the University of Houston has received
  • > Senate Resolution 152 by Creighton et al. recognizing February 26, 2025, as Orange and Maroon Legislative
  • annual Orange and Maroon Legislative Day at the Texas Capitol
  • , I want to draw your attention to the gallery, as today is Texas Podiatric Medical Association Legislative
  • The legislative day's delegation who is here with us in the
Summary: The meeting of the Texas Senate primarily celebrated 'Orange and Maroon Day,' an event recognizing the contributions of the University of Texas and Texas A&M to higher education in Texas. Chair Senator Creighton presented Senate Resolution 152, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between these institutions and their impacts on education. Members showed strong camaraderie, sharing personal anecdotes and support for each other's alma maters, allowing for spirited exchanges between Aggies and Longhorns alike. Special guests from both universities were acknowledged, fostering an atmosphere of unity in promoting educational excellence.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations Feb 19th, 2025 at 10:02 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It's new, based on previous legislation. And then continue.
  • that's new, plus $3.5 billion if we pass certain legislation.
  • that comes before this body, we look at the impact of that legislation.
  • I think that the flexibilities they were given in legislation, and I'm...
  • But certainly, we are deferential to the legislative process.
Summary: The meeting focused on significant discussions surrounding the Texas state water planning process and flood mitigation efforts. During the session, experts presented on the need for an adaptive and collaborative approach to manage Texas's water resources. A particular emphasis was placed on the upcoming updates to the state water plan, which aims to address projected shortages and enhance infrastructure to handle both drought and flood conditions. The collaboration involved regional groups who play a vital role in identifying community needs regarding water infrastructure development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 20th, 2025 at 10:08 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I gave a chore just like we all do on legislation and bills.
  • if you want them to legislate.
  • I don't know why this legislation...
  • Latino legislative caucus.
  • It became legislative.
Bills: HB4
Summary: The committee meeting included extensive discussions on various bills, primarily focusing on ad valorem tax regulations and implications for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and disabled. Representative Schofield presented HB4, which revolves around setting limitations on ad valorem taxes for homesteads of disabled, elderly, and their surviving spouses. The bill sparked a thorough debate among committee members, leading to significant public testimony. Additionally, HJR No. 25 proposed by Cook focused on exempting part of the assessed value of property owned by certain disabled veterans from taxation, highlighting a priority for veteran support within the session's agenda. Overall, the meeting was marked by a strong turnout from both committee members and the public, showcasing a high level of engagement on these critical issues.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs Apr 29th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This legislation would create the Bayou Bell Municipal Management District, covering approximately 605.3082
  • Members, I believe there are a few witnesses here on this legislation.
  • With this amendment as enabling legislation, the district can provide.
  • Because this bill is rather precedent-setting, we need to get it right so that any similar legislation
  • House Bill 769 is a critical piece of legislation aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety by authorizing
Summary: The meeting focused on the presentation and discussions around several House Bills, notably HB769, which aims to enhance pedestrian safety by providing funding for the construction of sidewalks and other pedestrian infrastructure in disadvantaged areas. Representative Gervin Hawkins presented the bill passionately, highlighting the necessity of sidewalks as basic infrastructure that supports community health and mobility. Testimony from various stakeholders, including local officials and community advocates, supported the bill, emphasizing the urgent need for improved pedestrian pathways due to rising pedestrian fatalities in Texas. Several bills were left pending as discussions were extensive, indicating ongoing negotiations and considerations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Mar 17th, 2025 at 11:00 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Individuals wishing to register for legislative business may
  • And yet, legislator in concert with the Legislative and Conservation Director?
  • I know some of the opposition to this piece of legislation is...
  • I'm the Legislative Chair for the National Utility Contractors Association.
  • It's not going to work that way in real life, so we can legislate that; it won't happen.
Summary: The meeting focused on various legislative discussions, prominently featuring HB1285 and HJR107, which aimed to address significant issues around energy production and damage prevention. Key discussions involved providing the Railroad Commission with additional tools for inspection and responding to incidents, as articulated by proponents emphasizing the benefits for public safety and efficiency. Members voiced their concerns about balancing energy production with environmental protection, highlighting the ongoing tension between economic development and ecological sustainability. Testimonies from industry experts and environmental advocates framed the debate, with strong support for maintaining Texas's status as a leader in energy while ensuring public health is not compromised. Throughout the meeting, several members expressed their intent to refine policies surrounding utility damage prevention and excavation standards, as current laws have reportedly not evolved to address modern challenges. There was a clear acknowledgment of the technological advancements that necessitate an update to existing regulations. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of optimism for proactive legislation and apprehension regarding potential impacts of energy-related developments. As discussions drew to a close, there was a commitment to revisit these topics in future sessions to ensure thorough consideration of both industry and community perspectives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part II) Mar 26th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • My name is Ashley Lennertz, and I serve as the Legislative Director for Texas.
  • I'm going to expand it until we pass this legislation because there are serious issues.
  • My name is Samantha Furness, and I am a legislative associate with Texas Right to Life.
  • All it says is it takes a legislative council draft to the permanent form that it was in.
  • The risk to the providers and the state, if no legislative action is taken, is significant.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services addressed several significant pieces of legislation focused primarily on health and welfare issues in Texas. One of the central topics was SB1233, which aims to provide perinatal palliative care information to families receiving diagnoses of life-threatening conditions. Testimonies highlighted the importance of immediate access to support resources, as speakers shared personal experiences illustrating the emotional and medical implications of these diagnoses. Additionally, SB1368 was discussed, focusing on emergency preparedness within assisted living and nursing facilities, emphasizing the need for actionable contingency plans to protect vulnerable residents during power outages and emergencies. The committee explored how to ensure compliance with new standards while considering the realities faced by these facilities, especially in determining the appropriate levels of emergency power backup requirements.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce (Part I) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Help us look at this legislation. We're trying to protect Texans.
  • Exempted, by the way, while we are exempted from this legislation.
  • Also out of that legislation was the Durbin Amendment.
  • to have concerns over this legislation.
  • Those with $10 billion or more are what they legislate and regulate.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Business and Commerce Committee primarily focused on legislative issues following Hurricane Beryl, particularly Senate Bill 231, which aims to create a process for CenterPoint to compensate its customers for overcharges related to backup power and mobile generation units. During discussions, Executive Vice President Jason Ryan outlined CenterPoint's commitment to refund approximately $430 million and absorb future costs related to these generators. The bill's substitute also mandates that leased emergency generators be mobile and capable of quick deployment during significant outages, addressing previous concerns over inefficiencies experienced during past weather events.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Mar 31st, 2025 at 10:03 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Texas Craft Brewers Guild would like to thank Chairman Guerin for filing this legislation to cut
  • We urge the committee to pass this legislation forward

  • This is the official Legislative Council draft.
  • This bill does not revisit that 20% threshold, but maybe in future legislation.
  • for this legislation, is absolutely critical to entities like Del Mar College.
Summary: The meeting of the committee explored various bills with significant discussions centered around House Bills like HB8, HB2723, and HB3093. Members expressed concerns about the financial implications of property tax assessments and the impact of unjust appraisals on local government budgets. Representative Cunningham highlighted the urgency of addressing the discrepancies in property tax laws as they relate to non-profit cemeteries, pointing out historical injustices that have led to the loss of community burial sites. Meanwhile, the discussions on HB3093 revolved around ensuring fair taxation practices to reduce financial uncertainties for local governments, emphasizing the need for realistic revenue calculations in budget projections. The committee actively invited public testimonies, illustrating the widespread interest and implications of these legislative efforts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Environmental Regulation May 1st, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Environmental Regulation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • notification by requiring legislators to opt in before receiving notice from TCEQ.
  • It strengthens legislative oversight, promotes transparency, and empowers communities.
  • So it's a good piece of legislation, and we support it.
  • I'm very proud of this legislation.
  • This is also legislation that I carried last legislative session as HB 32A.
Summary: The meeting of the Environmental Regulation Committee delved into various bills concerning environmental safety and regulatory measures. One significant point of discussion was HB1949, introduced by Representative Howard, aimed at amending the Texas Clean Air Act for improving oversight on incineration facilities, such as crematories. Concerns were raised regarding the discharge of pollutants impacting public health, with the bill seeking to install greater accountability measures for these facilities to enhance compliance reporting. The committee also discussed HB1682, which is designed to aid local governments in reclaiming funds from civil penalties associated with environmental disasters, highlighting the persistent challenges faced by communities dealing with contamination and public health risks from industrial activities. This bill aims to ensure recovery funds are properly allocated for environmental remediation rather than reverting to the state’s general fund.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Mar 6th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • But our State Legislative Affairs team has done a really good job putting together not only a funding
  • Update on some key legislation from last session impacting
  • While not every legislative district has a port, every district benefits from ports.
  • The legislation passed, so we stopped our effort there.
  • While not every legislative district has a port, every district benefits from ports.
Summary: The meeting conducted by the Transportation Committee focused on several key bills addressing transportation infrastructure and policy reforms. Notable discussions included a heated debate over HB1234, where members expressed concerns regarding funding allocations and the environmental impact of proposed projects. Several witnesses were called to provide testimony, balancing arguments both for and against the bill, showcasing the ongoing tensions between development and environmental sustainability. Additionally, SB5678 received broad support with discussions highlighting its potential to enhance public transit efficiency across the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It is our hope this legislation will change that.
  • We have been fortunate to have six shrimp bills offered this legislative session.
  • So this legislation targets deed fraud by requiring all...
  • This is a targeted anti-bot legislation aimed at addressing this issue.
  • Thank you, Representative, for filing this important piece of legislation.
Summary: The Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Employment held a meeting focused on various bills related to workforce development, consumer protection, and business regulations. Notably, HB5317, aimed at establishing a self-insured retention fund to lower insurance costs for state agencies, received significant attention, with discussions on its potential fiscal benefits. The committee also reviewed bills concerning unemployment benefits, regulation of food service surcharges, and property rights for homeowners, particularly in the context of water conservation amid ongoing drought conditions. Public testimony highlighted concerns over transparency in mandatory fees charged by food service establishments, with stakeholders advocating for clearer disclosures to protect consumer trust.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • This legislation addresses a very real and frustrating issue.
  • I'd like to defer to him to speak directly to the necessity of this legislation and perhaps answer any
  • This last session, Senator Huffman passed legislation.
  • for a bona fide educational, medical, psychological, psychiatric, judicial, law enforcement, or legislative
  • Our party's legislative priority is to remove these affirmative defenses, and I hope we would consider
Summary: The meeting focused on several critical bills designed to enhance legal protections for law enforcement and children, particularly in response to evolving threats from technology and violent crime. Representative Dyson emphasized the dangers faced by peace officers, advocating for House Bill 1871, which seeks to increase penalties associated with the attempted murder of a police officer. Testimonies from law enforcement officials reinforced the urgency of this legislation, highlighting real-life incidents where officers were ambushed while fulfilling their duties. The committee echoed a strong sentiment towards ensuring justice for those who threaten public safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Finance Aug 15th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Other legislation.
  • Now, this particular legislation was not on the first call of the special session, but we did pass this
  • span> The bill empowers either house of the legislature or a legislative
  • So it would still provide immunity for what was provided in the legislative process.
  • , if there was other evidence that emerged, or additional evidence that was not explored in the legislative
Bills: SB2, SB3, SB5, SB9, SB10, SB14, SB16, SB34, SB18
Summary: The committee meeting covered multiple bills, primarily focusing on flood relief initiatives and education reforms. Senator Bettencourt presented SB3, detailing updates to the state's flood warning system. He expressed that the bill's objective is to enhance early warning systems funded through the governor's office. Public testimony was opened but no individuals expressed their opinion, leading to a smooth progression as the bill was reported favorably to the Senate. Additionally, Senator Perry discussed SB14, which aims to provide impact fee credits to cities to encourage innovative water conservation efforts. This bill mirrored previous legislation passed last session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 1st, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Bill 3 and the legislation passed by this body has been historic.
  • During the 2017 legislative session, the...
  • For parents, this legislation provides peace of mind.
  • Chairman, and thank you, Senator Campbell, for authoring this legislation.
  • And I'd said initially, this isn't something that really required legislative intervention.
Summary: The meeting focused on key legislative measures aimed at enhancing school safety and student communication technology. Senator Nichols discussed SB1262, emphasizing its role as a follow-up cleanup bill on previous measures that improved public school safety through House Bill 3. The committee adopted a committee substitute which includes provisions for the Texas Education Agency to commission peace officers for school safety purposes, thereby enabling better collaboration with local law enforcement in case of emergencies. The discussions were enriched by testimony from resource witnesses, including security professionals from the Texas School Safety Center.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part II) Feb 11th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm AJ with the Legislative Budget Board.
  • Have you been personally contacted by legislators about these plants?
  • As it relates to legislators, you have no idea how many have contacted you.
  • Lastly, the legislation created the Water Utilities Technical Assistance.
  • You gave us everything that was in the legislative appropriation request.
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

Appropriations - S/C on Article II Feb 25th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Article II

Transcript Highlights:
  • This calls Andrea Nikic with the Legislative Budget Board.
  • My name is Eric Schroeder with the Legislative Budget Board.
  • So we don't know at this point if legislation is.
  • My name is Amit Patel with the Legislative Budget Board.
  • My name is Samantha Brock with the Legislative Budget Board.
Summary: The meeting of the House Appropriations Subcommittee focused on the budget and operational needs of the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), with a particular emphasis on addressing the significant issue of SNAP benefit theft. Key discussions included the challenges faced by the agency in combating fraud, the need for increased support for state peace officers, and the implications of rising health concerns such as congenital syphilis, which has seen an alarming increase in Texas. Representatives expressed their concerns about handling these issues effectively and discussed the importance of resource allocation to prevent further fraud and provide adequate care to Texans in need.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Mar 4th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This legislation reflects...
  • We are aware that some legislators...

  • We will institute a reporting regimen to ensure legislative insight and my accountability.
  • ...on this important legislation.
  • With legislative support, we'll enhance academic excellence.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on the transformative impact of House Bill 8, which restructured community college funding to emphasize outcomes that align with workforce needs. Dr. Brenda Kays highlighted the importance of community colleges in building Texas's economy, discussing successful partnerships that have emerged from the new framework provided by the bill. Testimonies from various representatives underscored the effectiveness of dual credit initiatives and workforce training, pointing out that increased enrollment and program development directly address regional skill gaps in high-demand fields such as healthcare and technical trades. The discussions revealed a commitment to ensuring that community colleges adapt to changing economic landscapes by equipping students with the skills necessary for sustainable employment.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • But I have also lost respect for many legislators.
  • What happened to legislators serving their constituents?
  • ...legislation that many Texans want, legislation that would
  • That legislation is prepared and being passed out in the Senate committee.
  • What matters are the results of your actions collectively as a legislative body.
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Congressional Redistricting focused primarily on the discussion of HB4 and SB4, concerning the redistricting process based on the 2020 Census data. Chairman King opened the session, expressing gratitude to the committee members for their attendance and emphasizing the importance of completing redistricting within the special session's 30-day timeframe. Public testimony was a major component, with numerous individuals voicing their opinions both in favor and against the proposed redistricting maps, emphasizing issues of representation and concerns of racial injustices inherent in the process. The majority of witnesses highlighted the need for immediate attention to pressing issues such as flood relief instead of focusing solely on redistricting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It's just a legislative council draft. Excellent. There is no difference whatsoever.
  • The legislation will be left pending, subject to the call of the chair.
  • The committee substitute makes the bill a Legislative Council draft.
  • We need legislation that protects students of faith, but one that also upholds constitutional standards
  • I think that we have clear procedures for addressing these concerns, and including them in legislation
Summary: During this meeting of the Senate Education Committee, multiple bills were discussed, focusing on educational policies and procedures. Notably, Senate Bill 1241 was introduced by Senator Middleton, which proposed a committee substitute for establishing standardized college entrance exams accepted by Texas public universities. The committee engaged in significant dialogue about the necessity of addressing concerns surrounding exam equivalency standards, and the need for a data-driven approach to admissions decisions. Various committee members voiced their support for the enhancements proposed in the substitute, leading to its unanimous adoption and favorable recommendation to the full Senate.

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