Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'privacy law'
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TX
Transcript Highlights:
- This will create uniformity in the law, making it easier...
And we've had this law in place; the original law was
- By passing a uniform law. Law.
- If this law was across the board...
- If HB 3187 becomes law, that access is threatened.
Bills:
HB2065, HB2462, HB2621, HB3187, HB3539, HB3563, HB3726, HB4164, HB4207, HB4368, HB4706, HB4916, HB4950, HB4967, HB5177, HB4429, HB5597
Keywords:
commercial vehicles, parking regulations, residential areas, local governance, land use, traffic safety, high occupancy vehicle lane, pregnant operators, transportation, parental rights, motor vehicle regulations, live video feed, transportation, state agency, transparency, public safety, regional transportation, mobility program, sales tax, public infrastructure
Summary:
The meeting was centered around the discussions of several bills, primarily focusing on HB3187, which proposes to reduce DART's funding by 25%. This bill drew significant opposition from various members and public witnesses who argued it would severely impact public transportation services in North Texas, especially with the upcoming FIFA World Cup in 2026. Many speakers highlighted the economic consequences, job losses, and diminished accessibility for residents that would result from passing this legislation. Members of the committee engaged in heated debates, with some representatives advocating for the preservation of DART's funding and others supporting the proposed cuts based on financial grievances from certain cities. The meeting ended with a resolve to consider future negotiations among local municipalities instead of pursuing state intervention on the funding issue.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Higher Education Mar 4th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Higher Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- The Association of American Law Schools, a key partner in shaping the American Bar Association's law
- Now, the education must be digital because we're sending law students or law graduates, licensed attorneys
- , out to practice law in a world of smart machines.
- So, my vision for the new law school is...
- and rural law enforcement.
Keywords:
HB8, community colleges, higher education, workforce development, dual credit programs, economic growth, student success
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
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and Commerce (Part II) Mar 27th, 2025
Senate Business & Commerce Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Every state has a retaliatory tax law.
- I came back after practicing law for eight years and came to this surprise.
- You went from Flatonia High School to Texas A&M and then to UT Law.
- Benefits that would not exist if SB 819 had been in law during its development.
- 50-foot easement required, but that is under federal law.
Bills:
SB458, SB819, SB1238, SB1642, SB1643, SB1644, SB1791, SB1810, SB1824, SB1825, SB758, SB1455, SB1706
Keywords:
renewable energy, solar power, wind energy, public interest determination, environmental impact, property rights, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, insurance, discrimination, marital status, widowers, spousal death, equitable treatment, Texas Department of Insurance, commission appointments, insurance regulation, oversight, consumer advocacy, insurance rates, property insurance
Summary:
The meeting included discussions primarily focused on energy and insurance-related legislation. Senator Schwartner led the committee in reviewing multiple bills, with a notable emphasis on SB819, which faced opposition from various stakeholders, including energy providers and advocacy groups. Testimonies highlighted concerns about regulatory burdens potentially stifling renewable energy projects, which are crucial to Texas's energy needs. Furthermore, the committee examined SB458, aimed at improving the appraisal process for insurance claims, which garnered support from industry representatives for promoting fairness and transparency.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services May 12th, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- 342"> Texas voters reject bond propositions placed on a ballot by their local governments following law
- These examples illustrate the weakness of current law and
- Under the law, it says, "Hey, you can't issue a certificate of obligation."
- is the letter of the law, and our municipalities have to follow that.
- And sixth is to comply with state or federal law, rule, or regulation.
Keywords:
money transmission, public finance, certificates of obligation, tax anticipation notes, consumer protection, First Amendment, voter will
Summary:
The meeting focused on the discussion of two significant pieces of legislation: SB512 and SB1024. SB512 aims to protect users of money transmission services by preventing penalties imposed by service providers for violating terms of service. Representative Hayes explained that this bill responds to troubling practices observed among money service businesses. Public testimonies were presented both in support and opposition to the bill, highlighting concerns over First Amendment rights and the implications for consumer protection. The committee ultimately left the bill pending for further consideration.
In contrast, SB1024 addresses public finance issues, specifically the misuse of voter-rejected projects through certificates of obligation and tax anticipation notes. Senator Betancourt described instances where municipalities have circumvented voter will by issuing debt for projects previously rejected in elections. The committee heard extensive public testimony critiquing the proposed restrictions in the bill, with arguments centered around the potential unintended consequences for local governments and necessary infrastructure projects. Both bills generated lively discussions among committee members, leading to wider considerations of public finance ethics and the relationship between voters and local governments.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence May 7th, 2025 at 07:05 am
House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- It maintains the integrity of the law.
- ...as a statistic to pass this law.
- I quote, "the benefits are more limited than the actual damages recoverable at common law."
- My husband and father-in-law built our company from the ground up in 1990.
- Presently, our laws allow the few to obtain unimaginable wealth at the expense of the many.
Bills:
HB4806
Keywords:
civil action, damages, health care services, noneconomic damages, negligence, legal standards, Judiciary Committee, HB4806, civil justice reform, public testimony, personal injury legislation
Summary:
The Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence Committee meeting convened early to discuss several critical pieces of legislation, notably HB4806, which aims to reform aspects of civil justice, particularly surrounding personal injury claims. The committee faced strong public testimony both supporting and opposing the bill. Advocates argued that the bill would help mitigate excessive costs in litigation and enhance access to care for injured individuals, while opponents expressed deep concerns that it would drastically limit the ability of victims to receive fair compensation for their suffering. The testimony from families affected by injuries painted a poignant picture of the human impact of the legislation, highlighting the potential devaluation of their pain and trauma in court.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Education K-16 (Part II) May 22nd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Law currently upholds sovereign immunity for school districts and limits liability primarily.
- This law already affirms this duty of care.
- , because the law at this time...
- I wanted to also ask, were you relying on outside law enforcement or campus police?
- You already are, under the current law.
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
Transcript Highlights:
- on facts or law, there is no lawsuit here, right?
- Because with this law being in effect...
- It's a reversible error as a matter of law, and that's what the body is being asked to affirm into law
- In criminal law, we have sentencing guidelines.
- This is not a carbon copy of the Florida law.
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.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine certain pending nominations. May 1st, 2025 at 08:30 am
Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel
Transcript Highlights:
- Defense for Intelligence and Security, overseeing the intelligence, counterintelligence, security, and law
The Undersecretary of the Air Force is, by law, the
- Lohmeier, are you aware that in the FY 25 NDAA, which was passed by the Congress and signed into law
- And if confirmed, will you commit to upholding this law?
Yes, Senator, I am committed to upholding the law in
Keywords:
Department of Defense, nominations, Matthew Lohmeyer, Justin Overbaugh, global security, military readiness, NATO, Russia, China, defense infrastructure
Summary:
The meeting was primarily focused on discussing nominations for key positions within the Department of Defense, specifically for roles such as the Undersecretary of the Air Force and the Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Intelligence and Security. Senators expressed urgent concerns about global security threats, the need for robust military readiness, and the emphasis on effective collaboration with NATO allies amidst rising tensions with adversaries such as Russia and China. Several senators highlighted the challenges facing military infrastructure and defense capabilities, suggesting a critical need for improvements and investment in these areas to ensure national security.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and Commerce (Part I) May 1st, 2025
Senate Business & Commerce Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- I'm the current chair of the Austin Bar Association's Animal Law Section.
- They will lose all consumer protection provided by Texas law.
- It really kind of positions 99% of the law.
- I'm an attorney with the law firm Hudson Cook.
- I have a national law practice where I advise providers of commercial.
Bills:
HB12, HB149, SB229, SB1361, SB1749, SB1897, SB2113, SB2566, SB2677, SB1652, SB2327, SB2344, SB2696
Keywords:
artificial intelligence, regulation, biometric data, ethical AI, consumer protection, AI governance, automobile sales, consumer protection, finance, retail seller, motor vehicle purchase, motor vehicle sales, consumer protection, pricing restrictions, retail seller, third-party financing, education, funding, student assessment, accountability
Summary:
In the recent meeting of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce, multiple significant bills were discussed, with House Bill 912 and Senate Bill 1003 receiving favorable recommendations for further consideration. Senator Zaffirini played a pivotal role in moving several bills through the committee process, including Senate Bill 748, which also received support with a unanimous vote. Public testimonies were taken for various bills, notably SB 2113, which focuses on improving legislative access to information, fostering a more transparent government. The committee's discussions were marked by an emphasis on good governance and the importance of legislative oversight.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Remind them that no one is above the law and that true justice must be equal for all.
For local government, may collaboration thrive and laws
- H.J.R. 4 by Meyer, proposing a constitutional amendment prohibiting the enactment of a law imposing an
- The law enforcement community needs this bill.
- to the application of the professional prosecutor's law
Keywords:
occupation tax, securities, financial regulation, tax exemption, legislative amendment, school district, ad valorem tax, local revenue, tax collection, education funding, emergency communication, infrastructure, first responders, grant program, interoperability, Texas Interoperability Council, local governments, sales tax exemption, exotic animals, game animals
Summary:
The meeting focused primarily on H.J.R. 4, a proposed constitutional amendment that aims to prohibit taxes on securities transactions and occupation taxes on securities market operators. Representative Meyer introduced the resolution, explaining its intention to prevent the state legislature from imposing such taxes indefinitely. The proposal received unanimous support from the Ways and Means Committee but faced scrutiny from other members concerned about its implications for equity and taxation in Texas. Key discussions highlighted the potential long-term consequences of locking in tax breaks for wealthier entities, particularly amid rising living costs for ordinary Texans.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management Mar 27th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
Current law gives a person two.
- Or there was a law passed that you couldn't be so close to a school or that kind of nature.
- One is, can the city currently weaponize the current law to push businesses out of an area?
- Law.
- We're talking about access for the fire apparatus, access for law enforcement, fire, and EMS.
Keywords:
zoning, public notice, local government, residential development, protests, water conservation, municipal utility districts, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, environmental regulation, groundwater management, nonconforming uses, zoning regulations, land use, property rights, municipal authority, recreational vehicle parks, campgrounds, construction standards, safety regulations, fire protection
Summary:
The meeting addressed significant bills with a focus on housing and property rights, specifically discussing HB2149 and HB2559. Representative Tepper introduced HB2149, which aims to amend amortization and non-conforming land-use procedures to better protect private property rights. The bill received testimony supporting its intent to maintain a balance between property development and municipal zoning regulations. Furthermore, Representative Patterson discussed HB2559, emphasizing the need for establishing reasonable protections against development moratoriums that affect homeowners and builders, highlighting the necessity for adequate notice and a higher threshold for moratorium approvals. Both discussions prompted vigorous dialogue and engagement among committee members as well as the public, illustrating the complexities involved in balancing growth and regulation in real estate development.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Transportation Funding Mar 10th, 2025 at 10:03 am
House S/C on Transportation Funding
Transcript Highlights:
- Federal law allocates funding to the districts and also to
- And there's also state law that governs that as well.
- under current statutory state law.
- You know, what's required by federal law that we have to go through this?
- Those are put in place by federal law. They're largely not...
Keywords:
transportation funding, Proposition 1, Proposition 7, TXDOT, Cameron County, transportation infrastructure, public testimony, funding shortfall, state transportation
Summary:
The meeting of the Standing Subcommittee on Transportation addressed crucial issues relating to state transportation funding, focusing primarily on Propositions 1 and 7. The discussions, led by Chairman Canales, highlighted the significant contribution these propositions make to Texas's transportation budget and the impending challenges tied to a projected funding shortfall of $15 billion. Mark Williams, Executive Director of TxDOT, along with Stephen Stewart, CFO, emphasized the importance of sustained funding to support Texas’s growing infrastructure needs amidst rising costs and diminishing revenue sources, notably due to changes in vehicle fuel efficiency and increased reliance on electric vehicles. Notable public testimony from Pete Sepulveda from the Cameron County Regional Mobility Authority provided insights into local funding mechanisms and their role in enhancing the regional transportation networks.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources (Part I) Mar 12th, 2025
Senate Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- This is a problem that we're seeking to solve, as wells can be inactive forever with the current law
- You know, this is a state law, so there's no more...
- ...to every state law that we have right now as a method
- They've been following the law, following the current process. Do we have enough time to...
- Currently, state law does not require the TCEQ to conduct periodic protectiveness reviews.
Keywords:
concrete plants, environmental regulation, permit process, air quality, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, orphaned wells, plugging, replugging, Railroad Commission, liability, oil and gas, spaceports, critical infrastructure, criminal liability, civil liability, aerospace industry, SB1150, inactive wells, oil and gas, Railroad Commission
Summary:
The meeting centered around the discussion of SB1150, which is designed to address the issue of inactive wells in Texas. Senator Middleton presented the bill, highlighting the concerns surrounding the current regulations that allow wells to remain inactive indefinitely, which poses various risks to health, safety, and the environment. The proposed legislation includes requirements for owners to plug or return inactive wells to production after certain timelines, with a compliance plan to be evaluated by the Railroad Commission. Several stakeholders participated in the discussion, expressing their support and emphasizing the importance of addressing the rising costs associated with orphaned wells and the financial burden on taxpayers. The bill is seen as a critical step toward sustainable oil and gas management in Texas.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education Apr 3rd, 2025 at 08:00 am
House S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education
Transcript Highlights:
- Well, so, TEA, as you know, we're charged with implementing the state law, and the state law says all
And this law describes bullying.
- You know, our laws, we have lots of laws that are based
- It is not acceptable for your description for bullying to occur for any person under the law.
- The action for misconduct and these other laws have already occurred.
Keywords:
bullying, antisemitism, school policies, school discipline, education, antisemitism, bullying, education policy, school discipline, Texas Education Code, bullying, antisemitism, education policy, school discipline, hate speech, antisemitism, bullying, school discipline, education policy, hate speech
Summary:
The meeting focused on several significant bills, notably House Bill 2189, which aims to address healthcare workforce challenges in Texas. Representative Howard presented the bill, emphasizing its components that seek to align educational programs and reduce duplication of efforts for students entering the healthcare field. The discussion included concerns regarding the costs associated with advancements in technology for training programs, with suggestions to share laboratory resources between schools and higher education institutions. Public testimony supported the need for a cohesive strategy to prepare Texas students for careers in healthcare while addressing the shortage of qualified professionals in the state.
Another important bill discussed was House Bill 295, aimed at expanding the definition of bullying in school policies to include anti-Semitic actions. Chairman Shaheen highlighted the increase in anti-Semitic incidents and reiterated the importance of creating a safe learning environment. The bill garnered bipartisan support, with testimonies reflecting a deep concern over rising hate incidents. The meeting concluded with a commitment to address the urgency of these legislative issues and ensure quality education and safety for all Texas students.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
A majority of law-abiding Texans want violent criminals
- We've heard from some judges who wanted to implement these measures but felt like the law tied their
- ...law enforcement.
- non-law enforcement personnel.
- Every city that's under state civil service, it's a matter of law with them already.
Keywords:
bail reform, criminal justice, felony offenses, constitutional amendment, public safety, bail reform, SJR87, SB3073, public safety, due process, judicial discretion, criminal justice, violent offenders, legislation
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to discuss important legislative amendments regarding bail reform in Texas. The meeting centered around two key bills: SJR87 and SB3073. SJR87 is a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at imposing stricter bail conditions for repeat violent offenders, requiring judges to deny bail without individual assessments of risk in certain cases. This sparked contentious debate, highlighting the concerns among committee members and public witnesses about potential infringements on due process and judicial discretion. Proponents argued that the amendment would help safeguard the community against repeat offenders by ensuring that those with serious crimes on their record could not be released on bail under questionable circumstances.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local Government (Part II) Apr 28th, 2025
Senate Local Government Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- But as things stand, only one development can compete in the round under current law.
- It would not be a legislative session if we didn't have a bill about law screening.
- They've been violating the law for years with no consequences.
- What we have is very minimal, and that's what the state law allows. Now, Mr.
- Compliance with state law.
Bills:
SB250, SB375, SB536, SB845, SB1633, SB1944, SB1957, SB2081, SB2137, SB2262, SB2299, SB2419, SB2452, SB2522, SB2549, SB2594, SB2605, SB2631, SB2639, SB2675, SB3029, SJR60, HB22, HB1392, HB2525
Keywords:
municipal annexation, railroad, adjacent areas, local government, property rights, healthcare provider, Harris County Hospital District, hospital funding, healthcare services, public health program, home loans, nurses, veterans, public servants, Texas Heroes program, low-interest loans, social workers, home loans, housing assistance, veterans
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
Health and Human Services May 23rd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Currently, under the law, that legal expense comes out of their pocket, as I understand it.
- Under current law in CPS cases, there is a requirement that courts hold hearings to consider whether
- Oddly enough, House Bill 632 is labeled Kevin's Law.
- In 2021, the legislature passed House Bill 632, known as Kevin's Law.
- Currently, the way the bill is laid out and the way the law is, we wouldn't...
Keywords:
health care, HIV testing, STD screenings, children's safety, intellectual disabilities, employee protections, legislative measures
Summary:
The meeting of the Health and Human Services Committee covered a variety of bills primarily focused on health care service enhancements and legal protections for employees. A notable discussion surrounded HB50, which aims to integrate HIV testing into routine STD screenings, a topic that received unanimous backing due to its potential to reduce the transmission of the virus. There was also significant dialogue around HB2399, which requires courts to provide detailed findings when making safety determinations regarding children's placements, further ensuring transparency and clarity in decision-making processes. The committee deliberated on various aspects of health care accessibility, particularly regarding individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as legislative measures to protect family services workers from damages caused in the line of duty. The session was characterized by thoughtful engagement from committee members and testimonies from various stakeholders.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs Feb 24th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- the assistant commander works on staff as a bridge and is a regularly hired game warden through the law
- marker="328" data-time="1962"> At the Animal Health Commission, ensuring they remain accessible to law
- I'm a rancher and landowner, as well as the Executive Director of Law Enforcement Brand and Inspection
Second, existing law authorizes the PUC to expedite
- Back in 2015, Senator Perry passed a law that was...
Keywords:
Senate Committee, Water and Agriculture, SB384, Operation Game Thief, poaching, legislative measures, public support, funding
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Water and Agriculture and Rural Affairs convened under the leadership of Chairman Kelly Hancock, who opened the meeting with a prayer in remembrance of Chairman Perry, who was absent due to a personal loss. The session focused on the discussions surrounding SB384, which aims to support the longstanding initiative known as Operation Game Thief. Senator Flores presented the bill, emphasizing its essential role in the fight against poaching through public support. The operation has a successful track record of convictions but is currently dependent on donations and merchandise sales for funding. The committee aimed to vote on multiple bills during this session, contingent on achieving a quorum. Notably, discussions also revolved around fiscal notes on two bills that were set aside for later consideration, indicating the committee's intention to carefully manage their legislative decisions. The meeting showcased a productive atmosphere, with committee members actively engaged in the review and potential advancement of key legislative measures.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs (Part II) Apr 14th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Under current law, the statute reads that a district can assess a penalty of $10,000 per violation, and
- At the end of 30 days, under current law, you will have a penalty
- of $300,000 if a water district wants to use the current law of $10,000 per violation.
- all due respect, the consumer is not going to pay it because it can't be passed through under current law
- All they have the right to do is go to a court of law and ask the court to impose a reasonable penalty
Keywords:
groundwater, water utilities, Senate Bill 2661, penalties, public testimony, aquifer depletion, water conservation, Senate Bill 2662, drought resources
Summary:
During this meeting, the committee had a thorough discussion centered around various Senate Bills primarily related to groundwater management and water utility regulations. Notably, Senate Bill 2661, introduced amendments to enhance penalties for over-pumping water, highlighting the growing concern over depleting aquifers and ensuring compliance with existing water use regulations. Multiple senators voiced their opinions regarding the necessity of tougher penalties and the implications for both water users and conservation methods. Public testimony was heard, with some arguing against the proposed penalties, stating they could unfairly burden farmers and landowners.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband Mar 31st, 2025 at 10:03 am
House S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband
Transcript Highlights:
- Russell Parrish of Parrish and Wright Law School.
- My name is Russell Parrish from the Parrish and Wright Law Firm.
- Current law says the parties should all mediate, and they haven't done that.
- I urge you to vote down new laws on this front. Thank you. Happy to take questions.
- If you read the law the way it should be read.
Keywords:
telecommunications, electric cooperative, rights-of-way, infrastructure, provider access, telecommunications, electric cooperative, right-of-way, pole attachment, regulatory access, broadband, pole attachment, electric cooperatives, legislation, HB3448, telecommunications, rural Texas, infrastructure investment, Chairman Darby
Summary:
The meeting of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Broadband centered around significant issues regarding broadband deployment in rural Texas. Notably, discussion focused on HB3448, which aims to address barriers related to pole attachment rates charged by electric cooperatives, which have historically operated under different regulatory standards compared to other utilities. Chairman Darby emphasized the need for consistency and transparency in pricing to accelerate broadband deployment, especially given the state’s substantial investments in infrastructure. Several stakeholders, including representatives from electric cooperatives and broadband providers, expressed varied opinions on the proposed bill, with some highlighting concerns about the existing disparities in pole attachment costs and others advocating for cooperative protections against undue financial burdens from legislative changes.