Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senator Hughes'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Environmental Regulation May 19th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Environmental Regulation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 1898.
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 1758.
  • I'm here today in opposition to Senate Bill 1758.
  • I have to say, I don't think I've ever seen a bill quite like Senate Bill 1758.
  • committee on the Senate side.
Summary: The Committee on Environmental Regulation convened to discuss several bills relating to environmental issues and industry regulations. Notable discussions revolved around SB2203, which focuses on the certification of discovery issues related to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and SB1898, which addresses the regulation of PFAS or 'forever chemicals.' The committee heard testimony from various stakeholders, including representatives from the semiconductor industry and environmental advocates, particularly regarding concerns over the impact of aggregate production on local ecosystems and industries. The meeting highlighted the need for careful consideration of regulations that balance industrial growth with environmental protection.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Jun 2nd, 2025 at 11:06 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am directed by the Senate to inform the House that the Senate has taken the following action.
  • Speaker, I have a message from the Senate.
  • the Senate has taken...
  • I am directed by the Senate to inform the House that the Senate has taken the following action.
  • on the Senate conference committee.
Summary: In this meeting, the committee primarily focused on the conference committee report for SB293. Representative Leach highlighted the collaborative efforts of both the House and Senate conferees in crafting a historic legislative package that aims to provide significant pay raises for Texas judges, a move deemed essential for maintaining a strong judiciary in the state. The discussion underscored the importance of bipartisan cooperation in achieving meaningful legislative outcomes. Additionally, there was a recognition of the hard work put in throughout the 89th session, with various members expressing pride in their achievements, particularly in public education reform.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine optimizing longevity from research to action. Feb 12th, 2025 at 02:30 pm

Senate Aging (Special) Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair recognized Senator Gillibrand for opening

  • Next, the chair recognized Senator Scott to speak.

  • Senator Scott shared his perspectives on the proposed

  • In response to Senator Scott, Senator Warren raised

  • Senator Tuberville reiterated the need for reform and

Summary: The committee meeting was marked by discussions surrounding health policies aimed at enhancing the lifespan and quality of life for the community members. The chairperson initiated the session with personal reflections on the importance of extending not just the years of life but also the quality of those years, especially from the perspective of parents and grandparents. Members engaged in thoughtful dialogue regarding potential legislative measures that could address public health in a more holistic manner, emphasizing the need for community outreach and effective health education programs.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Senator, for that question.

  • Senator, I have no records.

  • Senator, I provided advice.
  • Senator, that's likely.

  • Senator, I have to go back.

Summary: During this committee meeting, members engaged in substantial discussions regarding the nominations for key positions at the Environmental Protection Agency. The nominations for David Fatui as Deputy Administrator and another nominee received favorable reviews, with several members expressing support for their qualifications and the importance of their roles in addressing environmental issues. Notable conversations highlighted concerns about the current administration's stance on climate science and regulatory practices, particularly focusing on a controversial statement made by one of the nominees that undermined established climate science. Senator Whitehouse expressed deep frustration over the implications of this viewpoint on future environmental policy and regulation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Delivery of Government Efficiency May 14th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair lays out SB 2610 by Senator Blanco and recognizes

  • What Senate Bill 2610 does is it creates a safe harbor against
  • Senate Bill 1540 addresses this issue by extending confidentiality protections to election employees,
  • The chair lays out SB2373 by Senator Johnson and recognizes
  • And so what this Senate Bill 2373 does is it closes those gaps, so no question.
Bills: SB1540, SB2610, SB2373
Summary: During the meeting, the committee reviewed three significant bills: SB2610, SB1540, and SB2373. SB2610, presented by Chairman Capriglione, provides a legal safe harbor from punitive damages for small and mid-sized businesses implementing documented cybersecurity programs. Testimonies from representatives of the National Federation of Independent Businesses emphasized the importance of this legislation in safeguarding businesses against cyber threats. Similarly, SB1540 aims to enhance the safety of election officials by protecting their personal information from disclosure, addressing increasing threats and harassment faced by these individuals. The committee heard heartfelt testimonies from election officials who highlighted the risks endured due to their roles, reinforcing the need for stronger protections.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • I would like to recognize Senator Durbin for his opening

  • However, last week, my friend Senator Durbin raised a number of issues.
  • If I'm right about what Senator Durbin said, I thank him
  • Senator Durbin: You are right, Mr.

  • Our loss is the gain of UC Berkeley Law School, Senator Padilla.
Summary: This meeting focused primarily on the nomination of Patrick Davis to serve as Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Legislative Affairs. Members discussed Mr. Davis's qualifications and experience, emphasizing his commitment to effectively serving the American public and working collaboratively with Congress. The committee also briefly revisited the nominations of John Eisenberg and Brett Shumate but decided to hold them over until the next meeting. Additionally, concerns regarding the nomination of Ed Martin as U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia were raised, particularly regarding his past statements and conduct related to the January 6th insurrection and its aftermath. The discussion highlighted the importance of reviewing Mr. Martin's responses to various questions before proceeding with a vote on his nomination.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Great hearing so far in Senate Bill 7.

  • Today we heard Senate Bill 7, the Texas Women's Privacy Act
  • I'll turn it over to Senator Mayes Middleton.

  • I am here to say that Senate Bill 7 must pass.

  • Senate Bill 7 provides legal protections for women's single-sex spaces.
Bills: SB15, SB9, SB4, SB8, SB60, SB4, SB8, SB60
Summary: The committee meeting focused on Senate Bill 7, known as the Texas Women's Privacy Act, which aims to reinforce the separation of men's and women's private spaces such as restrooms, locker rooms, and shelters based on biological sex. The discussions highlighted personal testimonies from women advocating for this bill, emphasizing the importance of privacy and safety. Several supporters, including a representative of Texas Values, expressed strong sentiments regarding the necessity of this legislation to protect women's rights against what they perceive as encroaching ideological views that deny biological realities. The testimonies were powerful and emotional, advocating for a return to maintaining distinct gender-specific spaces, especially in vulnerable settings like prisons and schools.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part I) Feb 13th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Finance will come to order.

  • to this committee and to the Senate.
  • , before moving to Senator Bettencourt's Committee on Property Tax.
  • Thank you, Senator Shortner.

  • I think Senator Cole, of course, can claim a chunk of your past as well, but importantly...
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Finance focused on reviewing budget recommendations from various agencies, particularly the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Significant discussions included the authorization of an additional $5 billion for the Texas Energy Fund, which was noted as a critical component for managing the state's energy needs. Chairman Thomas Gleason highlighted the importance of funding for regulatory and oversight roles, ensuring that the PUC continues to effectively manage Texas's growing electricity and water demands. Additionally, representatives from various agencies presented their specific funding requests, emphasizing the need for increased staff to handle rising workloads and maintain efficiency.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means May 5th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This bill passed the Senate unanimously.
  • Is there anyone who wishes to testify for or against Senate Joint Resolution 2?
  • Senate Joint Resolution 2 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 23 is left pending. Thank you.
  • Senate Joint Resolution 85 is left pending.
Summary: The meeting covered several key legislative proposals aimed at enhancing property tax relief and supporting community development initiatives. House Bill 2032, which addresses tax exemptions for disabled veterans, was discussed; the bill proposes a proportional property tax deduction based on disability ratings, helping veterans secure housing stability amidst rising property costs. House Bill 4270 was also introduced to revitalize declining neighborhoods by offering property tax exemptions for young families moving into these areas—an initiative prompted by demographic shifts in urban areas such as El Paso. The discussions emphasized the critical need for fostering sustainable communities and supporting vulnerable populations.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation

  • Here in the Senate, she served as Legislative Counsel to former Senator and Committee Member Roy Blunt
  • The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation

  • Here in the Senate, she served as Legislative Counsel to former Senator and Committee Member Roy Blunt
  • And here in the Senate is Legislative Counsel to former Senator
Summary: During the committee meeting, various issues surrounding state policy and governance were deliberated. Although the specifics of bills under discussion were not highlighted, comments from several committee members indicated a focus on improving legislative processes and addressing public concerns. The chairman facilitated discussions that included several points of critique as well as suggestions for enhancement of existing laws. The atmosphere remained constructive despite the complexity of the topics at hand.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 26th, 2025 at 09:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Senators and Representatives, for being here.
  • will now return to the Senate chamber for consideration of further business.
  • The Senate will please come to order.
  • The House and Senate are meeting in joint session today pursuant to HCR5.
  • will now return to the Senate chamber for consideration of further business.
Summary: The meeting featured a address by Chief Justice Jimmy Blacklock, who emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the legal system and ensuring fair access to justice for all Texans. He addressed the challenges facing the judiciary, notably the need for increased funding for district judges, which has not seen a raise since 2013. The Chief Justice highlighted how inadequate compensation has affected the ability to attract and retain qualified judges. He urged the legislature to consider a substantial increase in judicial salaries as a matter of public interest and necessary for the state's judicial system.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Aug 22nd, 2025 at 10:08 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • All right, the chair lays out Senate Bill 15 by Senator King
  • Senate Bill 17 codified.

  • Senator King accepted an amendment on the Senate floor

  • I mean, the amendment that was added in the Senate says "as required by law".
  • ...on for or against Senate Bill 15.
Bills: SB15
Summary: The committee meeting centered around the discussion of SB15, which aims to standardize record-keeping protocols for law enforcement agencies across the state. It received a mixed reception from committee members and witnesses, with significant concern raised regarding its potential to obscure misconduct and limit public transparency. Public testimony included strong dissent from individuals and organizations advocating for greater accountability in policing, who argued that the bill could enable law enforcement agencies to suppress critical information under the guise of confidentiality. Significant dialogue pertained to the implications of the bill in light of recent events that highlighted the need for transparency in police conduct, particularly in controversial cases such as the Uvalde school shooting. Ultimately, the bill was passed out of committee with minimal opposition.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services May 19th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 2395 and recognizes.

  • We have another bill, SB414, the Senate bill that deals with bond proposition language.
  • Ladies and gentlemen, I would like to call Senate Bill 414 and recognize Chairman Bonin to explain the
  • Is there anyone else who wishes to testify for or against Senate Bill 414?
  • Senator Koukos.
Bills: SB414, SB621, SB2395
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several key bills impacting public funds, particularly regarding the use of unspent bond proceeds and mandated transparency during bond elections. Notably, Senate Bill 621 was discussed, which seeks to prohibit political subdivisions from establishing public banks, emphasizing core governmental functions and preventing taxpayer exposure to financial risks. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted concerns about the appropriateness of using public funds for non-essential projects, which led to vigorous debate amongst committee members. Additionally, Senate Bill 414 was addressed, which requires clear disclosures about estimated interest costs in bond proposals, aiming to enhance voter awareness and accountability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on County & Regional Government May 12th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House S/C on County & Regional Government

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 1370 and recognizes.
  • I'm working with Senator Parker on the House version of Senate Bill 13.
  • The great thing in Chairman Anchia's and Senator Parker's bill is that it's a may.
  • The chair moves to leave Senate Bill. 1370 pending.
  • Hearing none, Senate Bill 1370 is left pending.
Bills: SB1370
Summary: The meeting of the House Permanent Standing Subcommittee on County and Regional Government focused primarily on SB1370, a crucial piece of legislation aimed at modernizing the state's death investigation system. Chairman Anchia highlighted the shortcomings of the current system, where only 14 out of 254 counties have established medical examiner offices, leading to an overwhelming burden on existing resources. Testimonies revealed the strain on justices of the peace and existing medical examiners, underscoring a pressing need to expand services to accommodate the growing population across counties. Several members engaged in thoughtful discussions around the bill's potential impact and ways to incentivize the recruitment of qualified forensic pathologists to alleviate the shortage in this critical field. The meeting concluded without further objections, with SB1370 left pending. Chairman Anchia thanked all participants for their contributions and emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges posed by population growth. This meeting provided a platform for local representatives to share their concerns and potential solutions, highlighting the collaborative efforts needed to enhance the medical examiner system throughout the state.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • We've got it over to the Senate, and obviously it meets its demise over there.
  • So this all builds on work that Senator Huffman and I did together in 2021 with the passage of Senate
  • Senate Bill 23 was very wisely seen by Governor Abbott to implement that in certain...
  • That is, since Senate Bill 23 was...
  • The question was asked, are those deputies protected under Senate Bill 23?
Summary: The meeting focused on various bills concerning law enforcement and budgetary practices in the state. Discussions highlighted the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies, particularly in Harris County, regarding staffing shortages and funding gaps. Representatives presented bills such as HB2413 and HB2014, which aim to address pay parity and improve law enforcement capabilities within the local jurisdiction. Witness testimonies underscored the urgency of ensuring that law enforcement agencies have the necessary resources to meet the demands of their communities, especially in light of rising crime rates and public safety concerns.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session Jul 24th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate will come to order.

  • Senate Bill 15 by.

  • President, I move that the Senate recess until 2 o'clock p.m.
  • Motion by Senator Zaffirini. Any objection?

  • Chair: Senate stands in recess until 2 p.m. on Monday,

Bills: SB7, SB13, SB14, SB15, SB7, SB13, SB14, SB15
Summary: The meeting discussed two main bills, SB7 and SB15, focusing on various legislative matters including the designation of spaces according to biological sex and the recording requirements for real property documents. Notable discussions included the implications of SB7 regarding gender-specific facilities which sparked interest among members of the committee. The presentation of both bills prompted questions regarding their impacts on state affairs and real estate processes. The session featured a motion to recess until a later date, indicating the committee's intention to revisit these topics for further deliberation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 24th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, with that, the chair lays out Senate Bill 7.

  • support of the committee's substitute to Senate Bill 7.
  • Point and Senate Bill 7 and the committee substitute really
  • Jeremy with Texas 2036, here today in support of the committee substitute for Senate Bill 7.
  • Thank you for Senator Perry's leadership on this as well.
Bills: SB7
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on Senate Bill 7, which aims to enhance Texas's water infrastructure amid growing population and environmental challenges. Various stakeholders, including representatives from engineering firms, environmental organizations, and water associations, testified in support of the bill, emphasizing its potential to address pressing water supply issues and improve infrastructure reliability. Key topics of discussion included water reuse, flood infrastructure funding, and the need for legislative oversight to ensure effective management of financial resources. The testimony underscored the importance of adapting to aging water systems while promoting innovative solutions for sustainability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Agriculture & Livestock Apr 22nd, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House Agriculture & Livestock Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Bill 1035.

  • Members, this is Senator Sparks' bill.
  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 2155.

  • Members, this is Senator Perry's bill. Senate Bill 2155.
  • Representative Lopez moves that Senate Bill 5155, without

Bills: HB5085
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several agricultural bills, including HB5085, SB1035, and SB2155. Representative Hawkins opened the discussion regarding HB5085, emphasizing the importance of seed banks and preservation efforts for maintaining food security and biodiversity in light of environmental challenges. The bill was passed favorably with a vote of six to three after discussion on its potential impact on local agricultural practices. The meeting proceeded with SB1035, which aims to provide a legal pathway for agricultural operators to contest unlawful local regulations, where a committee substitute was successfully adopted. This bill received unanimous support in voting before moving on to SB2155, which seeks to modernize the structure of the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, also passed with unanimous support.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs May 13th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, members, for the opportunity to lay out Senate Bill 2858.
  • Senate Bill 2858 would unnecessarily expand the field preemptions.
  • I would ask that you not penalize us by passing Senate Bill 2858.
  • At this time, Senate Bill...
  • The chair moves that Senate Bill 2858 be left pending at this time.
Summary: The committee convened to discuss Senate Bill 2858, which aims to provide stronger enforcement mechanisms for compliance with state laws by local governments. The bill was met with significant opposition from various stakeholders including city council members and representatives from urban counties. They raised concerns that the provisions threaten local autonomy and could lead to severe financial penalties without due process. Specific testimonies highlighted the potential disruption to local budgets and public safety services due to immediate withholding of funds pending litigation outcomes. As such, the supporting and opposing views were thoroughly debated, reflecting the tension between state authority and local governance.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services May 6th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span> The chair lays out Senate
  • Members, this is Senator Creighton's bill.

  • I love Senator Creighton. He's my senator. I do. I love him.
  • Of Senator Creighton.
  • That lays out Senate Bill 1952.
Summary: In this meeting of the Committee on Human Services, key discussions centered on Senate Bills 1183 and 1952. The committee examined SB 1183, which proposes requiring the Lone Star card used for financial assistance programs to feature the recipient's name and photo. This bill faced significant opposition with members arguing that implementing the changes would lead to wasteful spending of taxpayer funds without effectively reducing fraud. Representatives highlighted that the majority of fraud involves retailers rather than recipients, raising questions about the bill's actual impact. The discussions also emphasized the potential challenges faced by caretakers and families in accessing benefits during emergencies due to new identification requirements imposed by the bill.

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