Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'environmental risks'

Page 36 of 46
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security May 22nd, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • As far as leaving these in here as an act of terrorism, in certain instances, there's equal as much risk
  • My understanding is that's the risk you're trying to mitigate for overreach in that.
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
Transcript Highlights:
  • our governor calls for a special session and legislators file bills, political gerrymandering is at risk
  • Freedom fighters, including Congressman John Lewis, risked their lives because they were advocating to
Summary: The meeting showcased intense discussions centered on not only legislative proposals but also the response to recently experienced devastating floods in Texas. House Democratic Caucus leader Gene Woo highlighted concerns about the political motives driving the current special session, arguing that Governor Abbott is prioritizing partisan redistricting over necessary flood relief efforts. Multiple speakers condemned the use of a natural disaster as a vehicle for advancing a political agenda and emphasized the urgency of addressing disaster preparedness and public safety. Throughout the meeting, representatives stressed the need to hold leadership accountable and to ensure that the voices of affected Texans are heard.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Workforce Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House S/C on Workforce

Transcript Highlights:
  • The TML risk pool lawsuits have provided a lot of uncertainty
  • Just to clarify, it's Robert Graves on behalf of the Texas Association of Counties Risk Management Pool
Summary: The meeting of the committee involved critical discussions surrounding several pieces of legislation aimed at supporting first responders, enhancing worker rights, and improving child care access. Notably, House Bill 4144 was presented, which aims to provide supplemental income benefits to firefighters and police officers diagnosed with critical illnesses post-retirement. Testimony from a representative of the Texas State Association of Firefighters emphasized the importance of extending benefits to those affected by job-related diseases, particularly cancers prevalent among firefighters. The bill stirred affirmative discussions, with a consensus on its necessity in providing comprehensive support to first responders.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 25th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I mentioned that rather than being told the risks, mothers are told that their abortion in some cases
  • She'll be left to experience the short and long-term physical risks of an at-home abortion, in many cases
Summary: The meeting of the committee brought forward several bills, including notable discussions on HB5082 and HB5510. During the meeting, concerns regarding local governments' ability to adopt decriminalization policies were addressed, particularly as these have led to legal actions involving the state. Witness testimonies presented both support and opposition to the bills, with strong sentiments expressed on both sides. Representative Leach advocated for stricter regulations on abortion drug trafficking and the need for better protections for women. An emotional debate ensued addressing the implications of these regulations on women's health and rights. Additionally, the committee debated the repercussions of the bills on local governance and public health outcomes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Veteran Affairs Apr 15th, 2025

Senate Veteran Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • with this is, this is a nationwide problem where we've been putting our service members' assets at risk
  • At the risk of raising the ugly argument of the other

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs focused on multiple bills aimed at improving services and protections for veterans in Texas. Discussion centered on Senate Bill 2926, which transfers the administration of veterans' mental health initiatives to the Texas Veterans Commission to enhance efficiency and service delivery. Public testimony was heard both for and against the bill, but ultimately it will be left pending. Other notable discussions included Senate Bill 2938, addressing the mental health challenges faced by justice-impacted veterans, aiming to better connect them with necessary resources. Additionally, Senate Bill 2543 and Senate Bill 2545 aimed to expand veteran cemetery locations and housing assistance for veterans, respectively, highlighting the increasing demand for support services in these areas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • They're running a significant risk right now.
  • you're, anyone that doesn't, and attorneys that sign off on that, they're taking a huge malpractice risk
  • We cannot risk that the practice continues no matter what.
  • Which puts these jeopardies at risk and jeopardizes the
  • Furthermore, HB530 risks undermining efforts to reduce economic disparities.
Summary: The meeting highlighted significant issues regarding housing funding mechanisms, particularly surrounding the complexities of Housing Finance Corporations (HFCs). Members voiced their concerns about the financial impacts these HFCs have on local government revenues, given that many property tax exemptions are given while maintaining market-rate rents. This discussion was sparked by alarming statistics indicating a rapid increase in tax dollars removed from local jurisdictions due to HFC activities, stressing the need for regulatory reforms to preserve affordable housing without financially jeopardizing municipalities.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Yes, there are risks in outdoor activities, but there

  • marker="355" data-time="2124"> We are profoundly grateful to the rescuers and recovery teams who have risked
  • And this risk is obviously not theoretical, as Senator Perry mentioned.
  • Why were our children sleeping in a known high-risk flood
  • It is to accept a risk that has already been paid by the
Summary: The meeting focused on discussion around SB1, addressing safety reforms in youth camps in light of a tragic flooding incident that resulted in multiple fatalities. The committee heard testimony from various stakeholders, including family members of the victims, who shared heartfelt stories and the urgent need for reforms to ensure that such a tragedy would not happen again. The testimonies highlighted the importance of establishing better safety measures, including evacuation plans and compliance with new safety regulations. Senator Perry emphasized that the bill aims to create objective standards that protect children attending camps, prompting a strong emotional response from attendees as they reflected on the lives lost during the flash floods.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice (Part I) Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • statutory criteria, unless the panel finds by clear and convincing evidence that the individual poses a risk
  • Projectiles against a target are designed to temporarily incapacitate the target while minimizing the risk
  • using non-lethal force instead of having to go straight to using a firearm and putting someone at risk
  • marker="997" data-time="5976"> ...We want to do that, and anytime we do that, we are taking personal risk
  • ...even knowing that it's going to place our lives at risk
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice covered several significant legislative proposals aimed at improving the efficiency and safety of the Texas criminal justice system. Lead discussions focused on SB2405, which received attention for its comprehensive approach towards modernizing the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) and addressing recommendations made by the Sunset Advisory Commission. The bill includes provisions for enhanced staff planning and updated rehabilitation programs that are expected to yield substantial cost savings while promoting public safety. Senators engaged actively, expressing their support and raising questions about the implications of the proposed changes, especially concerning parole processes and facility management.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Mar 12th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • data-time="810"> Best practices are consistently applied across the state, focusing not only on high-risk
  • Practices Accreditation Program, which includes 173 standards that help agencies address the high-risk
  • 727" data-time="4356"> This situation has enforced turning evasion from law enforcement into a low-risk
  • report of a missing child is treated with the urgency and seriousness that it deserves, without the risk
Summary: The committee convened to discuss several major legislative bills, focusing particularly on enhancing law enforcement's ability to respond to missing children and addressing increasing border security concerns. One significant bill discussed was HB908, which mandates that law enforcement agencies report missing children to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children within a strict time frame. Testimonies primarily supported the urgency and need for swift action regarding missing children, with members underscoring the imperative to streamline procedures to ensure every case is handled urgently. Additionally, discussions on HB674 centered around adjusting the penalty structure for criminal trespass incidents related to avoiding law enforcement checkpoints, seen as a crucial measure to deter illegal crossings and enhance border security.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • bringing bodies into the state, we have no jurisdiction to ensure that those bodies don't pose a health risk
  • argue that these human bodies can be utilized for research and teaching and can save lives with no risk
  • mitigate the risk of undermining the ability of Texas medical
  • These measures address the disproportionate harm to the indigent, unhoused, and other at-risk individuals
Summary: The Senate meeting featured extensive discussions on significant legislative proposals, primarily focusing on the ethical treatment and regulation of unclaimed bodies in Texas. The committee addressed concerns raised by Senator Parker regarding the alarming misuse of unclaimed remains, urging the necessity for stricter guidelines and accountability for organizations involved in anatomical donations. Public testimonies illustrated harrowing experiences of families affected by these practices, prompting legislators to consider more robust regulatory measures, including possible criminal penalties for bad actors in the industry. The committee exhibited a unified stance in advocating for enhanced protections that would ensure the dignity of deceased individuals is respected.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • By codifying enforcement procedures, we're reducing the risk of selective enforcement while creating
  • Additionally, being outed will put all trans people at increased risk
  • biological reality, testing which they are, which they need to be able to rely on as they examine potential risk
Summary: During this meeting of the Senate Committee on State Affairs, significant discussions revolved around Senate Bill 618, which seeks to establish civil penalties for election officials who fail to adhere to the Texas election laws. Proponents, including Dr. Laura Pesce from True Texas Elections, passionately advocated for the bill, emphasizing the need for accountability and integrity in the electoral process. The committee heard testimonies underscoring the importance of consistent application of election laws and the necessity to deter violations that undermine public trust in the elections. Many witnesses detailed personal experiences with administrative overreach and violations of election law that directly affect voters and candidates alike. In addition to SB 618, the committee also reviewed Senate Bill 1999. This bill was met with considerable opposition, particularly from advocates arguing that it would promote discrimination against transgender students and exacerbate bullying within schools. Testimonies portrayed stark contrasts between supporters who claimed it would uphold religious freedom and critics who argued it would harm vulnerable youth by legitimizing discrimination based on gender identity. Ultimately, the meeting evidenced the varied views on legislative intent and societal implications surrounding these bills.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We're going to do things that might put young people who don't know any better at risk of getting caught
  • in the future and that if they ever spoke up, they would put their family and themselves at great risk
  • In a time when anti-Semitism is on the rise, this educational gap poses a serious risk.
Summary: During the committee meeting, key issues surrounding higher education legislation were discussed, focusing on several significant bills. Notably, discussions revolved around SB2233, which mandates public institutions in Texas to prohibit non-immigrant visa holders from supporting terrorist activities. This bill raised concerns regarding free speech and potential overreach in monitoring students and faculty, with various testimonies highlighting its implications for academic freedom. The bill faced opposition from various civil rights organizations and law students who emphasized that such measures could create a chilling effect on political expression and disproportionately affect marginalized communities. In contrast, SB735 on Holocaust education received strong support, aiming to improve educational resources and awareness amid rising anti-Semitism, with calls for comprehensive training for educators. Other bills discussed included SB2683, which restricts institutional benefits from foreign entities considered to pose a national security risk, further emphasizing the tension between security concerns and academic freedom.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance May 7th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • necessary for him to have all of his dental treatment completed before the surgery to mitigate the risk
  • a medication that, when taken daily, is highly effective at preventing HIV infection, reducing the risk
  • Department of Insurance (TDI) attesting that any algorithms used for utilization reviews minimize the risk
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance centered around numerous healthcare-related bills, focusing heavily on issues such as artificial intelligence (AI) in medical determinations, autism insurance coverage, and HIV prevention. Representative Garcia Hernandez presented HB4635, aiming to ensure transparency in the use of AI in medical claim denials, which has become increasingly prevalent. The bill introduces mandates for disclosures on AI algorithms used in decisions, enhancing patient rights and keeping the Texas Department of Insurance informed of potential denials. Public testimony supported the bill as essential for safeguarding Texans from unintended biases in AI applications. Additionally, HB813, presented by Representative Goodwin, garnered attention for its effort to update autism-related insurance mandates, removing outdated age restrictions for therapy coverage. This legislation is seen as a crucial step in accommodating the needs of all individuals on the autism spectrum, regardless of the timing of their diagnosis.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • changes, most of this is protective technical change to ensure that the state's credit is not put at risk
  • The bill also allows for both casualty and liability coverage incidental to property risks.
  • ...deliver tailored insurance and risk advisory solutions
Summary: The meeting was characterized by a thorough examination of various bills, with particular focus on House Bill 5247, which dealt with capital cost recovery mechanisms for utilities and featured discussions on its implications for consumers. Senator Campbell presented the bill, emphasizing its balanced approach and necessity for clarity in existing utility provisions. Multiple members expressed support, leading to a unanimous vote for its approval, showcasing a collaborative atmosphere within the committee. Additionally, HCR 102 was highlighted, which sought to call attention to the importance of federal tax credits for sustaining and expanding nuclear energy in Texas. The testimony from industry experts reinforced the bill's significance as Texas seeks to maintain its leadership in energy production amidst rising demands and competitive pressures from international markets.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice Apr 15th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • considerations for the person's lack of capacity to recognize their mental health symptoms or to appreciate the risks
  • Maintained that persons must be at immediate risk to

  • presenting a risk of substantial harm to self or others or
  • there is a risk for bias and assumptions influencing decisions
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice covered a range of legislative measures focusing primarily on the improvement of mental health services and clarifying procedural aspects of emergency detention for individuals experiencing mental illness. Key bills, such as SB1164, which aims to enhance emergency detention procedures, were discussed. Testimonies from both supporters and critics highlighted the need for clear standards in mental health emergencies to ensure that due process is maintained while providing necessary care. The committee also addressed concerns around legislation impacting community supervision and administration, exemplified by SB663, and how it could streamline budget processes for local agencies. Overall, the discussions emphasized balancing public safety with mental health needs and ensuring fair representation in the judicial process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice May 6th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...risks they were bringing into their own home.
  • I'm here representing myself and other therapists who work on what we call in these cases high-risk custody
  • routinely violate court orders and possession schedules, fully aware that there's going to be little real risk
  • schools and daycares, as well as provide law enforcement clear authority to act when individuals pose a risk
Summary: The committee meeting predominantly revolved around several significant bills aimed at enhancing public safety and enforcing stricter laws regarding child custody interference and animal control. Key discussions included Senate Bill 2794, which proposes a three strikes law for parents interfering with court-ordered custody, thereby establishing more rigorous consequences for repeated offenders. Public testimonies highlighted the emotional and legal hardships faced by families navigating these situations, emphasizing the widespread support for the urgency of such legislation. Additionally, the Ramon Najera Act was discussed, focusing on stricter regulations for dangerous dogs following a tragic incident, reinforcing the need for community safety measures against violent animal attacks.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice May 22nd, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • enhancing these penalties would give law enforcement and prosecutors better tools to respond to these high-risk
  • Current Texas law already reflects that children, the elderly, and disabled individuals are at a higher risk
  • data-time="738"> Injuries or artificially enhanced performance put the animals and their handlers at risk
  • I oversee what she does, and I rule out the risk for its participants.
Summary: The meeting of the committee was marked by extensive discussions on various bills, focusing primarily on enhancing legal measures and protections in criminal cases. Notable among the discussions was HB3073, known as the Summer Willis Act, which aims to provide a clearer statutory definition of consent regarding sexual violence. The bill received overwhelming support as it seeks to close existing gaps in Texas law to better protect survivors. Additionally, HB1871, which increases penalties for attempted capital murder of a peace officer, was presented by Senator Schwartner, emphasizing the need for stronger deterrents against attacks on law enforcement officials. The committee moved several bills to the full Senate with favorable recommendations, showcasing a unified effort towards legislative progress in public safety and survivor protections.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • "106" data-time="630">As community-based care expands statewide, our community and our kids are at risk
  • I can't argue that this is a risk of preemption because the
Summary: The meeting of the committee witnessed significant discussions surrounding several Senate Bills aimed at healthcare and child welfare. Notably, Senate Bill 916, presented by multiple representatives, garnered positive testimonials from various stakeholders including emergency medical service leaders who emphasized the bill's potential to promote transparent billing practices, thereby reducing the financial burden on patients. The committee also heard extensive testimony supporting Senate Bill 1122, which aims to regulate pharmacy benefit managers to ensure that cancer patients are not forced into medication access issues. Stakeholders argued for and against the bill, suggesting that it may raise healthcare costs for Texas businesses in the long run, eliciting a vigorous debate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Apr 7th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • data-time="3618">This lack of thorough inquiry can prevent judges from fully understanding the potential risks
  • I also want to share some reflections from our own client work with survivors and with children at risk
Summary: The committee meeting covered various legislative issues and allowed members to discuss key topics affecting their constituents. Noteworthy discussions included the implications of recent legislative changes, and several members vocalized their positions on proposed bills. The atmosphere was collaborative, with members sharing insights and engaging in debates about the best course of action for the upcoming legislative session. Various stakeholders, including experts and citizens, were invited to testify, contributing to the richness of the dialogue. Overall, the meeting represented a comprehensive effort to address pressing matters within the legislative framework, reflecting a commitment to transparency and public involvement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce (Part II) May 1st, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ability to reshape how we live and interact with the world, if left unchecked, it can bring serious risks
  • Often, credit unions are willing to take a risk on a consumer at a lower rate when others won't because
Summary: The committee meeting focused heavily on the discussion surrounding HB149, an act aimed at establishing a comprehensive framework for the regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) in Texas. The bill seeks to ensure that AI technologies are developed and deployed in a manner that is both innovative and responsible, addressing potential harms while protecting individual rights and privacy. Chairman Schwartner led the conversations, emphasizing the importance of balancing regulatory measures with the need for technological advancement. Several stakeholders, including legal experts and industry representatives, provided testimony in support of the bill, praising its potential to position Texas as a leader in AI governance. Public testimony reflected a mixture of support and caution, with some witnesses advocating for greater accountability and regulatory oversight to mitigate risks associated with AI systems.

Research Filters

States
Terms / Sessions
Date Range
Chamber Records
Meetings / Events / Calendars