Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'attorney fees'

Page 38 of 47
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation (Part I) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Lucio, you're an attorney and a former state representative, correct?
  • I'm not an attorney; I've said this before in other hearings from a layman's perspective, and I don't
  • at Law Injury Attorneys.
  • I am a defense attorney, and I operate primarily in trucking accidents, and I am in support of Senate
  • I am an attorney and have been for 27 years. I practice 18-wheeler litigation. That's what I do.
Summary: During the committee meeting, significant discussions revolved around three main bills: SB39, HB19, and SB2246. Senator Bettencourt laid out SB39, aimed at revising the admission rule related to commercial vehicle collision cases. The intention behind this bill is to standardize trial procedures by limiting the evidence admissible in the first phase, ensuring that unnecessary complexity does not cloud the issue of fault. Various stakeholders, including trial lawyers and business representatives, provided insights into the impact of these changes, highlighting concerns over insurance costs and practical implications on litigations. Public testimony reflected a mix of support and opposition, showcasing the contentious nature of the bill's modifications. Additionally, the committee addressed SB2246 regarding salvage auto dealers and the process of obtaining titles for vehicles that will not return to the road, which was met with relatively little challenge as stakeholders recognized the necessity for clarity and efficiency in this process. The meeting concluded with promises from members to continue discussions on these important legislative measures, indicating an ongoing commitment to addressing the complex issues at hand.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part II) May 7th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm an attorney in Galveston and I'm also the president of the Texas Association of Family Defense Attorneys
  • 436" data-time="2610">Madam Chair and members, during the time we worked with the local adoption attorney
  • If you're looking at me, I'm not an attorney, so I'm

  • in Galveston and President of the Texas Association of Family Defense Attorneys, and we are strongly
  • And I am a board-certified attorney, licensed in the state of Texas since 1986.
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on various significant bills impacting health, family welfare, and vaccinations. Discussion around SB1887 generated notable interest, as it proposed a ten-year prohibition on administering mRNA vaccines, allowing exceptions for cancer treatment and genetic disorders. Senator Sparks, the bill's author, highlighted safety concerns regarding the mRNA technology, stating that further evaluations were necessary. Public testimonies included both support and opposition, with advocates arguing for informed consent and safety, while others expressed concern about restricting scientific advancements in healthcare. Additionally, the conversation addressed HB2216, which aimed at reforming parental rights in child welfare cases, ensuring that parental drug use alone would not warrant automatic termination of rights unless there was a direct, substantial risk to the child. Public testimony for this bill emphasized the need for additional resources to effectively implement its provisions. The committee also discussed HB2809 regarding tracking suicide attempts by children and SB1590 which proposed adopting an electronic process for paternity verification in adoption cases. Overall, the meeting was marked by lively discussions and significant public involvement, indicating the community's vested interest in the legislative outcomes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education May 6th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It gives the Attorney General prosecutorial authority

  • And again, the consequences is that the Attorney General would pursue a criminal penalty?
  • The Attorney General can file a suit against the district and take it from there.
  • The only enforcement is the Attorney General being able to bring an action against the school district
  • and then being referred to the attorney general if they
Summary: The committee meeting focused on the controversial HB1655, which aims to prohibit public school employees from facilitating or promoting the social transitioning of students. Testimonies for the bill emphasized parental rights and concerns about the mental wellbeing of children undergoing social transition without parental knowledge. Witnesses highlighted alarming cases, invoking examples of children being socially transitioned in schools that negate parental involvement, framing it as dangerous and deceptive. Conversely, opposition testimony raised concerns that the bill infringes upon the rights of transgender students to express their identities in supportive environments, highlighting the mental health implications for LGBTQ+ youth.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations Mar 31st, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...And I sit down with my daughter, who's an attorney at
  • She is an attorney and a former state representative of House District 146.
  • I have been a licensed attorney for 29 years, and my career has centered on using the law as a compass
  • He currently is a practicing CPA and an attorney, both skilled sets invaluable to the board.
  • For example, an attorney from El Paso. We're in there doing the rulemakings, right? We're all...
Summary: The meeting of the committee predominantly focused on discussions surrounding juvenile justice reform and nomination confirmations. A notable point of contention was the nomination of Officer Justin Barry to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, which was met with dissent from Senator Eckhardt due to previous allegations of excessive force against protesters. The committee also engaged in discussions about the state of juvenile facilities and the Department of Juvenile Justice's current capacity and staffing, with various members emphasizing the importance of rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. There's a collective effort observed among committee members to adopt new strategies that encompass better training and improvements in facilities to ensure the proper care of youth within the system. Towards the end of the meeting, members reflected on past legislative efforts to increase funding and resources aimed at enhancing the juvenile justice system's effectiveness. The committee adjourned with decisions to continue refining their approaches to juvenile rehabilitation and to reconnect with community stakeholders to improve outcomes. Public contribution to these matters was apparent, highlighting a commitment to collaborate with various entities for better juvenile justice practices in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • work for them, and in fact, they were being investigated in five to six different states by the attorney
  • >First, when handling a case against a defendant, a district attorney
  • In these cases, TWC is represented by the Office of the Attorney General.
  • If and when these cases are filed in JP courts, the Office of the Attorney General often files a plea
  • J.P. keeps the case and rules against the state, the Workforce Commission asks the Office of the Attorney
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several significant bills, with notable discussions revolving around HB2343. This bill, presented by Representative Leo Wilson, aims to enhance transparency in the shrimping industry by requiring restaurants to disclose the origin of shrimp served. The bill was met with mixed reactions, especially from the Texas Restaurant Association, which raised concerns regarding the burdensome requirements for menu updates and potential liability issues if inaccuracies were reported. Meanwhile, the committee passed other bills, including HB4204 aimed at protecting older homeowners from unfair contracts, which received support from AARP Texas and sparked discussions about the implications on consumers' rights. In addition to presentation and testimony on bills, the committee also examined HCR76, which urges the federal government to regulate imports of foreign shrimp, reflecting a proactive stance on protecting local industries from unregulated competition. Overall, the meeting demonstrated a commitment to addressing economic concerns, consumer protection, and the sustainability of local businesses. The chamber was well attended, and many stakeholders provided public testimony for and against the various proposals.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • This is a key tool that our judges and district attorneys need to have, so people do not think they can
  • of the Tarrant County District Attorney, Phil Sorrell's office
  • 277" data-time="1656"> Sir, we show you registered as William Vassar, Assistant Criminal District Attorney
  • I think it's Criminal District Attorney. Yes, sir.

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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Sunset Advisory Commission Jan 15th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • date and penalty of each violation, four, which penalties have been referred to the Office of the Attorney
  • the date and penalty of each violation, 4. which penalties have been referred to the Office of the Attorney
  • General for collections, 5. whether the Office of the Attorney General accepted the referral if known
Bills: SR1, SR2
Summary: The final Sunset Commission meeting of this biennium was marked by a series of votes on modifications and new recommendations affecting multiple agencies, including the Texas Ethics Commission and the Trinity River Authority. Notable discussions included a modification proposed by Senator Middleton, aimed at alleviating concerns regarding the accumulation of late filing penalties, particularly for post-election reports. The modifications addressed public feedback on the need for clearer guidance and support from the Ethics Commission for filers navigating the complexities of compliance. The committee successfully passed all recommended changes without objection.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Producer fees also fund that, that's correct.
  • I don't know what those fees look like.

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs was marked by critical discussions surrounding several agricultural bills aimed at addressing the challenges faced by the farming community in Texas. Notably, House Bill 43 was presented, which seeks to update the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority to improve financial support for farmers experiencing crisis due to extensive agricultural losses, exacerbated by drought and supply chain issues. The committee heard testimonies from stakeholders emphasizing the urgent need for these reforms to help secure the agricultural industry’s future and ensure support for farmers during these trying times. Another significant topic was House Bill 4163, which aims to relieve agricultural operations from excessive municipal regulations concerning land management along public roadways, highlighting the burdens placed on farmers by local governments.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Veteran Affairs Apr 29th, 2025

Senate Veteran Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • 300 modernizes the program, raises the scholarship amount to cover a substantial cost of tuition and fees
Bills: HB102, HB300, SB2255
Summary: The meeting centered around various legislative bills, notably focusing on HB102, HB300, and SB2255. Senator Sparks presented SB2255, aimed at easing occupational licensing for military spouses and veterans, eliminating bureaucratic delays that hinder their employment opportunities after relocation. Key testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted the importance of this bill, emphasizing how it could alleviate the economic burden faced by military families when transitioning to new roles. The updates on HB300 aimed at revitalizing the Texas Armed Services Scholarship Program underscored efforts to modernize assistance for military students.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government Apr 29th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It clarifies that rent does not include fees or charges for optional requirements.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Local Government focused on evaluating a series of bills crucial to local governance and housing development. A notable highlight was the advancement of various bills, including SB2250 and SB375, both of which received unanimous support from committee members. Additionally, SB867 was passed with the introduction of a committee substitute, demonstrating the committee's willingness to adapt and negotiate terms to ensure suitable legislation. The members voiced their opinions on the importance of these bills in addressing housing and community development needs while ensuring efficient use of resources.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • We've seen Senator Sullivan— a former attorney general, I'm a former attorney general, I'm a former U.S
  • Attorney— when you're firing career staff who disagree with you, when you're proceeding with only political
  • Attorney.
  • span> in the House know, he was not just a successful district attorney
  • ...or an attorney, that's one less construction worker, engineer
Summary: The committee meeting focused on the development of the next surface transportation reauthorization bill. Discussions centered around key principles aimed at improving the safety and reliability of the transportation network, reforming federal programs for efficiency, and addressing the diverse transportation needs across various states. Members emphasized the importance of bipartisan collaboration to streamline processes, eliminate bureaucratic delays, and ensure timely funding for critical infrastructure projects. There were also notable conversations about specific projects and funding challenges, reflecting the urgency for action and commitment to modernizing America's infrastructure.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate SessionOpening Day of the 89th Legislature Jan 14th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • ="900">Now when a phrase like that is uttered, oftentimes people will think of somebody like the Attorney
  • Constitution and laws of the United States and of this state, and it's not just up to the judiciary and the Attorney
  • I see our Attorney General **Ken Paxton**.

  • briefly across the other border, that would be the Red River to Oklahoma, where he worked for the Attorney
Bills: SCR7
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee was marked by a robust discussion focused on Senate Bill 1760, which centered around crucial tax relief measures. Senator Creighton, the sponsor of the bill, passionately shared his experiences and the importance of tax cuts for the constituents of Texas, emphasizing the need for fiscal responsibility and community support. The Senate also witnessed nominations for key leadership positions, setting forth a collaborative tone for the upcoming session. Governor Abbott's address highlighted the importance of unity and effective governance amidst the challenges ahead, including managing the state's substantial budget surplus.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • And were you one of the attorneys on the pleadings?
  • In December 2024, Attorney General Paxton sued Dr.
  • As a result of the lawsuit, Attorney General Paxton

  • In the DOJ letter to the governor and the Attorney General, it refers to race.
  • I mean, most of the attorneys that have read that DOJ memo said that it looked like it was driven by
Summary: The committee meeting addressed the contentious issue of congressional redistricting, following concerns about the legality and fairness of past maps that allegedly disenfranchised minority voters. The testimony predominantly rejected the notion of conducting mid-decade redistricting, with multiple witnesses arguing against the initiative citing lack of legal justification and the risk of exacerbating racial gerrymandering. Prominent discussions included calls for more transparency in the redistricting process, with several members expressing the need for public engagement through field hearings and meaningful opportunities to review and comment on proposed maps. Senator King and other members led discussions emphasizing the significance of community involvement in shaping equitable congressional districts that reflect Texas' demographics.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 29th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Our school board has sought guidance, but our county commissioners have asked our district attorneys,
  • and our district attorneys have asked Ken Paxton.
  • I mean, we've met with legal attorneys, TASB, the TEA, trying to find out.
  • I believe that Assistant District Attorney Mark Cradiville

  • But I also just want to mention that I did a legal analysis of this as much as I can, not being an attorney
Summary: The committee meeting focused on House Bill 5089, concerning the creation of new school districts through detachment of existing territories. During the discussions, multiple committee members expressed significant concerns about the implications of the bill, emphasizing the need for community involvement and public voting whenever major district changes are proposed. Witnesses from the Keller Independent School District testified against the bill, highlighting the potential for confusion and the erosion of local control if school boards could make such determinations without voter approval. The testimonies painted a picture of a heated community reaction regarding the handling of the detachment process and underscored a general agreement that any significant changes should require a public vote to ensure accountability and transparency.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Mar 12th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We are not affiliated with TDCJ, and we're often confused with the Attorney General's office.
  • We are not the Attorney General's office either.
  • Moving to the next page, you'll see that we are actually governed by a board of elected district attorneys
  • evaluated and found to have a behavioral abnormality, the case is then sent back to the district attorney
  • The district attorney then decides whether to pursue civil
Summary: The House Committee on Corrections convened to discuss various operational issues and concerns surrounding the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Notably, Executive Director Brian Collier highlighted ongoing initiatives to enhance inmate rehabilitation services, including job training programs aimed at reducing recidivism rates. While the session was not dedicated to voting on bills, the committee reviewed the budget cuts impacting correctional facilities, which raised questions regarding the potential effects on facility operations and inmate management. Concerns were also aired about maintaining standards for educational programs within the correctional framework.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 14th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • House Bill 45 would give the Attorney General the ability

  • span marker="22" data-time="126">In a case in 2021, the Court of Criminal Appeals ruled that the Attorney
  • That powers of attorney...
  • Such an interpretation would exempt the Attorney General from explicit separation of powers limitations
  • I'm an attorney, a parent, and the chair of the Travis County GOP. I'm in favor of HB3225.
Summary: The committee meeting was characterized by extensive discussions on several bills concerning public libraries, energy utilities, and health care. Notably, HB3225 aimed to protect minors from accessing sexually explicit material in public libraries, which sparked significant public testimony both in favor and against the bill. Proponents argued for the necessity of safeguarding children, while opponents raised concerns about censorship and the implications for freedom of information. Similarly, HB4503 addressed patient privacy and health care information but faced scrutiny regarding its potential impact on medical records access for minors. The session concluded with multiple bills left pending for further review.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • And I think you said that you have not received any response from the Assistant Attorney.
  • Attorney General's office.
  • Would you be willing to ask the Attorney General's

  • I can tell you that I've called the Attorney General's office and asked them to come and...
  • I also read the Attorney General's response to the DOJ letter, the issue, and the court's response to
Summary: The Senate special committee convened to address issues related to congressional redistricting, particularly focusing on the implications of a recent DOJ letter concerning majority-minority districts. Various senators expressed strong concerns about the motivations behind the proposed redistricting efforts, asserting that they may infringe on the rights of black and brown communities across Texas. Numerous members of the public provided passionate testimony, voicing their fears over potential voter suppression and gerrymandering, while others pushed for greater representation of underrepresented communities in the redistricting process. The committee aims to gather this public input as part of its overall redistricting considerations during the special session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security (Part II) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Allswede, our district attorney.
  • I'm the district attorney in the 452nd Judicial District and I'm the chair of the Border Prosecution
  • drafting of This bill, we've consulted with our TAG attorneys
  • I'm a policy attorney with the Texas Civil Rights Project, and I'm here in opposition to the bill.
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around several significant legislative proposals, notably focusing on SB2201, which aims to enhance intelligence databases to tackle organized crime, including street gangs and terrorist organizations. Senator Birdwell led the discussions by emphasizing the need for strong measures to adapt to the evolving landscape of criminal activity in Texas and proposed key amendments designed to strengthen accountability for law enforcement. Members engaged in detailed conversations with testimonies supporting the bill's intention to safeguard civil liberties while bolstering law enforcement's ability to manage public safety concerns effectively. Additionally, SB2200 and SB2199 were discussed and subsequently passed favorably to the full Senate following committee substitutions that addressed minor drafting corrections and compliance with federal standards.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice Apr 1st, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am the district attorney for the 106th Judicial District in West Texas.
  • Members, I had the district attorney from Washington

  • He's not with us today, but I do think that the District Attorneys Association and the County Attorneys
  • I'm an assistant district attorney in Chambers County.
  • I'm the criminal district attorney for Comal County.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to address pressing issues surrounding oil field crime and safety on Texas highways. The meeting was initiated by Chair Flores, who emphasized the need for improved tools to combat repeat offenders having committed intoxicated driving, alongside tackling oil field theft that has escalated due to organized criminal activities. The committee heard public testimonies and engaged with various stakeholders, including law enforcement and industry representatives, who highlighted the complexities and dangers associated with these crimes. Notably, a significant focus was placed on Senate Bill 1320, which aims to establish a dedicated unit within the Department of Public Safety to investigate and address thefts specific to the oil and gas industry. This initiative seeks to strengthen coordination among various law enforcement agencies and improve training for local officers to combat these sophisticated theft operations more effectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 19th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In planning and consultant fees and whatnot, and then it all
  • The district would not have the authority to impose taxes, charge fees, lease, or exercise eminent domain
Summary: The recent committee meeting addressed various critical bills, focusing primarily on water management and flood control across Texas. Notable discussions included House Bill 1177, which proposes introducing stricter penalties for floodplain violations, aiming to deliver swift accountability for ongoing offenses. Representative Cunningham highlighted the urgency of this issue, emphasizing that current enforcement mechanisms lead to prolonged legal challenges, which can heighten flood risks for vulnerable communities. This bill sparked numerous inquiries from members, showcasing the committee's commitment to improving flood management legislation.

Research Filters

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