Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'legislative absence'

Page 36 of 56
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice May 6th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This legislation was filed in response to the heartbreaking loss of 11-year-old Audrey Cunningham, a
  • real world, law enforcement isn't going to abide by these legislative measures.
  • This legislation in Texas is actually based off of national legislation that our National Association
  • I believe Jovan's mom is here with us today, for working on this important legislation.
  • We look forward to working with you on this legislation. Thank you.
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
Transcript Highlights:
  • and Senator Mayes Middleton, for recognizing the urgent need for us to take action and get this legislation
  • I wholeheartedly support this legislation.
  • I wholeheartedly support this legislation that would remove
  • Bill 911, the Heal Texans Act, and to thank Senator Blanco for his leadership on this important legislation
  • I wholeheartedly support this legislation that would remove unnecessary barriers to APRNs like nurse
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
Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the secretary of the Texas Legislative Black Caucus.
  • T.H.C. legislation to no longer hurt and harm young children.
  • After Reconstruction, Black representation was legislated out of existence.
  • I worked during the 83rd legislative session with the Honorable Sylvester Turner through the legislative
  • This past legislative session caused real harm. Muslim and Palestinian voices...
Summary: The House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting convened to discuss a revised congressional redistricting plan as part of a special session. The meeting focused on public testimony regarding potential revisions to the redistricting map due to concerns about representation for Congressional Districts 2, 7, 8, and 9. Several witnesses testified against the proposed changes, expressing worries about gerrymandering and the disproportionate impact on minority communities. Notably, Deborah Allen, a former city council member, implored the committee members to heed the concerns of constituents who fear losing representation during this critical redistricting process. The atmosphere was charged as multiple lawmakers and public members voiced their frustrations about the perceived political motives driving the redistricting efforts rather than addressing urgent local needs. The committee faced questions regarding the lack of concrete maps available for public commentary, raising concerns about transparency in the redistricting process. Some members argued that the hearings should prioritize community engagement across the state rather than being limited to a few locations. Various testimonies highlighted fears that the redistricting plan might undermine the gains made in voter representation, particularly among marginalized groups. As the meeting concluded, it became clear that the committee might need to hold further hearings to ensure the public's voice was adequately represented before moving forward with any decisions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Intergovernmental Affairs Aug 22nd, 2025 at 10:08 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And then on top of that, we passed legislation, which I do think is important and needed.
  • ...to be impacted by this legislation.
  • I think that when the legislative session...
  • So can you at least see why there is legislation and why people want to bring legislation?
  • We have a very lengthy process to develop our legislative agenda.
Bills: HB26, HB73, SB14, HB46
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding fiscal responsibility in local governments, particularly the implications of House Bills 46 and 73. Proponents argued that these bills would help limit unnecessary spending and ensure that expenditures are tied to inflation and population growth, addressing taxpayer concerns about rising local budgets. However, numerous city officials and representatives from various organizations voiced strong opposition, claiming that these measures would hinder essential services and infrastructure improvements, particularly in rapidly growing areas. Current spending practices were deemed inadequate for meeting the demands of public safety and community services, especially in light of increased costs in areas like public water systems and emergency response. The meeting was characterized by passionate debate, as stakeholders lined up to express their views both for and against the proposed legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Jan 30th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am KJ Curtis with the Legislative Budget Board, and at first, we'll talk about the...
  • Last legislative session, you gave us just over $200 million all in on this.
  • I don't remember in the legislation; I can look in the enabling.
  • My name is **Charlie Smith**, and I am with the Legislative Budget Board.
  • Yeah, I'm not aware of any legislation either.

Bills: SB1
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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Mar 17th, 2025 at 01:00 pm

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Chairman, and I would like to thank Chairman Van Deaver for sponsoring this piece of legislation.
  • We also have a mirror image of this legislation.
  • or not this is legislation to settle an ongoing inquiry with the Comptroller's Office.
  • But keep in mind that we're talking about the Comptroller rule and not this legislation, okay?
  • This is at a time when legislators have made lower property taxes their primary objective.
Summary: The meeting of the committee was dominated by discussions surrounding House Bill 134, which proposes a shift from origin-based sales tax sourcing to destination-based sourcing in Texas. This bill generated significant debate among committee members and witnesses, with several city representatives expressing strong opposition due to the potential financial impact on their municipalities. Concerns were raised that the bill could lead to the loss of millions in sales tax revenue, which is crucial for funding essential services like public safety, infrastructure, and local development initiatives. As the discussion progressed, the chairman emphasized the need for a comprehensive understanding of the bill's implications on all economic stakeholders, while supporters of the bill argued for its potential to streamline tax regulations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Apr 14th, 2025 at 11:04 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And so we're trying to work with the author and members of the legislative committee.
  • And then also this fund can be through legislative appropriations, additional funds.
  • This legislation for that?
  • There's nothing freshman about a significant piece of legislation like this.
  • ...opposition to this piece of legislation.
Summary: The meeting focused on a series of bills primarily related to oil and gas infrastructure, safety, regulatory issues, and the burgeoning hydrogen industry in Texas. Several bills were discussed and voted on, including HB3911 concerning voluntary plugging of orphan wells, HB3021 related to oil and gas emergencies, and HB5600 aimed at establishing Texas as a leader in the clean hydrogen market. The Chair and members debated the provisions of these bills, considering environmental implications and economic impacts, particularly in light of recent natural disasters like the winter storm Uri.
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:
  • So, I think, long-term, that's going to be up to the legislative body to determine how to continue to
  • Agencies across the state are employing a number of different methods, and we, as a legislative body,
  • Did you say that there was legislation in a previous session that addressed this?
  • There's inconsistency with fiscal notes in this entire legislative process, and this one specifically
  • With y'all as our legislators, for us Texas citizens, we
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

State Affairs (Part II) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I don't know yet of any other state that has legislation they're contemplating this way.
  • If the state of Texas, have you seen the legislation? Yes, we have.
  • Chairman, for your support of this legislation.
  • You're considering legislation that takes away my parental rights and I cannot...
  • We want to legislate over you because we don't think you'll curate the books properly.
Summary: The meeting saw significant discussions centered around several Senate bills, notably SB2487, SB1698, and SB2101. Senator Parker introduced and advocated for SB2487, which aims to enhance crisis service models for mental health interventions, receiving feedback from various stakeholders during formal testimony. The committee adopted the substitute version of this bill, which emphasizes local governance, expands service options, and tightens clinical timelines, responding to concerns from communities about service accessibility. Furthermore, the bill successfully passed from the committee with unanimous support, moving forward to the full Senate for consideration. In addition to SB2487, the committee reviewed SB1698, focusing on regulatory changes surrounding e-cigarette products. The committee recognized the importance of aligning state law with federal guidelines while ensuring strong consumer protections. Public testimonies included insights from enforcement officials and industry participants, highlighting the newly proposed measures aimed at preventing youth access to e-cigarettes. Lastly, SB2101, which addresses the regulation of sexually explicit materials in public libraries to ensure safe environments for minors, generated mix responses, with testimonies reflecting concerns over censorship and parental rights. The meeting concluded with the passage of SB2819 as well, which addresses political activities of county election administrators.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The committee substitute, just to make sure, is a legislative
  • The committee substitute is a legislative council draft

  • There's probably very similar legislation throughout the
  • of not always agreeing with the federal government and making sure that when we draft legislation for
  • This legislation creates a dangerous and unconstitutional two-tier system that is
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 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Sep 3rd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Representative Darby and the House put this piece of legislation together.
  • This actually is a cleanup legislation.

  • Along the way, he has spearheaded several major reforms in higher education, choice legislation, and
  • From the beginning of his legislative career, Brandon Creighton has built a legacy grounded in public
  • People with legislative experience, people who have been accountable to the people.
Bills: SB8, SB1, SB2, SB5, SB10, HB27, HB7, HB17, HB1, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB20, HB18
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several significant legislative actions, particularly in relation to youth camp safety reforms. Senator Perry presented the committee substitute for HB1, emphasizing the collaborative effort with the House to enhance youth camp emergency preparedness following tragic events in the community. The bill, which maintains essential safety provisions, was received positively and passed without opposition. Additionally, discussions highlighted the importance of funding for flood management and the need for ongoing dialogue around public safety enhancements, including interoperability among emergency services. Overall, the meeting reflected a strong commitment to community safety and legislative integrity.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development May 5th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Legislation coming at some point in time that might make
  • I was part of the effort to pass the legislation in the last session.
  • Troub, and I serve as the Managing Director of Legislative
  • This legislation is designed to close that loophole and strengthen
  • They'll also include legislative reporting requirements and protections for TWC employees who, in good
Summary: The meeting of the Economic Development Committee focused on various bills aimed at enhancing workforce development and economic incentives in Texas. One of the key discussions centered around Senate Bill 2603, which proposed a collaboration between businesses receiving state and local economic development incentives and local workforce development boards to improve job placement outcomes for participants. Public testimony highlighted the importance of connecting job seekers, especially those receiving public assistance, with potential employers to reduce reliance on state support systems. Additionally, Senate Bill 2607 emphasized interagency cooperation to better serve individuals engaged in workforce reentry programs, ensuring streamlined access to vital services.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The legislation strengthens the criminal penalty for rigging a sporting event, elevating the offense
  • This legislation ensures that those who manipulate public

  • Without this legislation, we restrict our judges and decision-makers.
  • This legislation aims to create a new offense for offenders
  • The need for this legislation stems from the limitations

Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on discussing various bills addressing public safety and criminal penalties within Texas. Notable discussions included the introduction of HB544, which aims to expand consecutive sentencing for crimes against children and vulnerable adults. Representative Gervin Hawkins highlighted the urgent need for this legislation by referencing a shocking case in Bexar County involving severe abuse, illustrating the limitations of current law in imposing adequate penalties. The bill received public support and raised awareness of the ongoing issues surrounding the safety of vulnerable populations.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Our agenda includes one legislative matter and two nominations

  • The legislation does not increase the mandatory minimums or throw barriers to research.
  • This legislation is a bipartisan solution to the fentanyl

  • There's been a continuous delay of this piece of legislation that could be saving thousands of lives.
Bills: SB331
Summary: In this committee meeting, the focus was primarily on S-331, the Halt All Lethal Trafficking and Fentanyl Act, aimed at addressing the fentanyl crisis. The bill's key components include making permanent the class scheduling of fentanyl-related substances, confirming existing sentencing penalties, and easing registration requirements for scientific research on Schedule I substances. Numerous parents shared heartbreaking testimonies about their losses due to fentanyl, which fueled an urgent call to pass the legislation without alterations. The committee members engaged in passionate discussions highlighting the urgency of the situation as overdoses continue to claim American lives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part II) Jan 28th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • My name is Annie Fine with the Legislative Budget Board.
  • My name is Annie Fine with the Legislative Budget Board.
  • Haley Ewing with the Legislative Budget Board.
  • Haley Ewing with the Legislative Budget Board.
  • Haley Ewing with the Legislative Budget Board.
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around discussions on the budgets for the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. Significant recommendations included a proposed budget of $3.7 billion for the Department of Public Safety, which reflects a decrease of $199.6 million from the previous cycle. Key topics included customer service enhancements and the increase of staff to improve operations and reduce wait times. Additionally, the Juvenile Justice Department's funding was discussed, including adjustments related to staff salary increases and facility needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice (Part II) Feb 12th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Yet as Texans, we cannot support legislation that treats

  • I'm the chief of legislative affairs for Every Texan.
  • I'm looking forward to working on this legislation in the House as well.
  • I urge you to consider the human cost of such legislation within our justice system that SJR 5 would
  • Instead of legislation like this that threatens to erode the basic principles of liberty in this country
Summary: The Senate Committee for Criminal Justice convened to discuss several significant pieces of legislation, including SB999, SB1047, SB40, SJR1, and SJR5. Notably, SJR5 sparked a robust debate among committee members and witnesses regarding its potential implications on pre-trial detention practices. Witnesses expressed concerns about the risks of pre-emptive detention outlined in the bill and the associated human costs, particularly for those who are innocent. Testimonies highlighted the disparity in how such legislation could disproportionately affect marginalized communities and lead to increased incarceration rates without addressing the root causes of crime. Overall, the committee displayed a commitment to ensuring public safety while wrestling with the balance of due process rights for individuals.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • the most legislatively prescriptive QAPs in the nation?
  • It's a legislative QAP.
  • This legislation is a bold step towards revitalizing our urban cores.
  • I would think that this legislative...
  • It would not be a legislative session if we didn't have a bill about law screening.
Summary: The meeting of the committee effectively reviewed and voted on multiple bills pertaining to public safety, affordable housing, and local governance. Notably, Senator Cook introduced SB2262, which grants municipalities authority to regulate automated defibrillators, aiming to enhance public health responses in urban areas. Public testimony was heard on several bills, illustrating community support and concerns, particularly around affordable housing issues raised by Senator Menendez's SB2137, which seeks to improve access to low-income housing by altering existing criteria used by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Additionally, the discussions also touched on the impact of various bills on local governance and property rights, highlighting the committee's aim to address essential services within communities effectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • HB 3195 is good legislation.

  • This legislation is a step forward in our ongoing efforts to ensure that our child welfare...
  • To refine and advance this legislation for the betterment
  • As a physician legislator, I take pride in taking care of ailing patients and now ailing policies, and
  • Approximately 730 senior independent living communities will benefit from this legislation.
Summary: During the committee meeting, several bills focused on enhancing safety and welfare legislation were discussed. Notably, House Bill 3195 received poignant commentary, as it aims to improve communication and safety measures in senior living communities following tragic incidents. Representative Garcia-Hernandez highlighted the need for mandatory background checks for employees at these facilities, emphasizing the bill’s importance in preventing avoidable tragedies. The bill garnered strong support from witnesses, including family members of victims who shared their personal stories of loss and the importance of safeguarding seniors. Additionally, House Bill 5223 was discussed, aiming to implement standardized emergency response protocols in daycare facilities, ensuring that children are adequately protected during emergencies. This bill also received testimonies underscoring the critical need for regular safety audits in these establishments.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 14th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I reviewed your legislative priorities, and I agree

  • I'm very glad that you are participating in the legislative process, and I actually expect...
  • ...come here every legislative session because you always
  • What would be the effect if we fail to pass this legislation in terms of our competitiveness amongst
  • And I ask that you support this legislation.

Summary: The committee meeting was marked by significant discussions surrounding several House Bills, particularly focusing on topics such as the payment for college athletes and the commemoration of veterans. HB290 was passed with a vote of 115 to 29, while HB300, aimed at updating the Texas Armed Services Scholarship Program, garnered unanimous support with 147 votes in favor. A notable moment came during the discussion of HB2143, which proposed to dedicate a segment of a farm-to-market road in honor of Army Specialist Joey Lenz, eliciting heartfelt responses from members as they recognized his sacrifice and service to the country. Overall, the meeting included both procedural motions and passionate debates on the implications of the proposed legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 19th, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Grant them your wisdom as they establish legislation and govern your people.
  • Schor, who is the recipient of Outstanding Texan from the Texas Legislative Black Caucus. Mr.
  • to transplant legislation that we are carrying in the House
  • This legislation is so important.
  • by the Legislative Budget Board on the reliance by this
Summary: The meeting involved robust discussions among committee members about various bills, notably those concerning criminal justice reforms and public health matters. Significant focus was placed on speaker bills such as HB2792, which addressed a proposed moratorium on capital punishment, and HB2813, aiming to enhance notifications to victims regarding scheduled court proceedings. Additionally, notable debates unfolded around bills aimed at improving access to health care services and environmental regulations.

Research Filters

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