Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'policy improvement'

Page 38 of 53
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span marker="25" data-time="144">We have one witness registered, John Banura from the Texas Public Policy
  • I'm a policy analyst with the Texas Public Policy Foundation
  • span> resulting in outcomes that no longer reflect the original policy
  • with what you've already heard this morning, but my name is Sally Bocco, and I'm the director of policy
  • I'm Amanda Possen, a senior policy analyst at Every Texan.
Summary: The meeting was marked by an extensive discussion of several bills aimed at enhancing Texas' economic landscape and infrastructure. Notably, SB2925 focused on modernizing the state's manufacturing sector by promoting automation and digital technology, which received strong support from industry representatives, emphasizing its potential job growth impact. Public testimonies reflected a consensus on the need for Texas to lead in innovation to remain competitive in the manufacturing arena. Furthermore, SB1520, which seeks to create the Texas Bicentennial Trail, also garnered significant support, particularly for its vision of connecting historical sites across Texas without resorting to private property condemnation. The committee faced a good turnout of stakeholders, which added depth to the discussions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism May 1st, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
Summary: The committee meeting extensively discussed SB1350, which aims to establish a commission for the Bicentennial Anniversary of Texas Independence in 2036. Several witnesses, including Lacey Finley and Russell Molina, testified in support of the bill, emphasizing the importance of extensive planning and community engagement for this significant celebration. They argued that the bicentennial should encompass the diverse history and culture of Texas and encouraged the committee to include a non-profit structure to facilitate fund-raising and coordination efforts. Furthermore, HB738 was debated, focusing on the preservation of Rosenwald schools and their potential use as community learning centers, with members advocating for support to maintain this integral part of Texas's educational heritage.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education Apr 24th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education

Transcript Highlights:
  • My name is Gabe Grantham, Education Policy Advisor at Texas 2036, and I'm here to express our support
  • Local leaders need time to plan and improve while holding

Bills: HB1209, HB4746
Summary: The committee meeting focused on various educational bills, prominently House Bill 1209, which aims to address concerns surrounding the implementation of four-day school weeks in Texas. Key discussions highlighted the potential negative impacts on student performance, particularly after a report indicated that students in four-day districts scored lower in reading and math compared to their peers in traditional five-day school weeks. Representative Cunningham raised significant points regarding the importance of maintaining instructional time and the need for accountability for school districts opting for shorter weeks.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Opening Ceremonies of the 89th Legislature Jan 14th, 2025 at 12:01 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • We, as members, vote on policy that impacts every Texan, but we rarely know what it's like to choose
  • The thing is, these are policy choices, and it doesn't

  • But policies that allow only a few to rise to the top prevent the rest of us from having a fair shot
  • the lives of other people or improves the system they live under."
  • span>

    The rules exist to guarantee open and respectful policy

Summary: The meeting of the Texas House of Representatives marked a significant start to the 89th Legislature, highlighted by the election of the new Speaker, Dustin Burroughs. The session began with heartfelt speeches from various members, emphasizing unity and the importance of collaboration in tackling Texas's pressing issues such as property tax relief, educational support, and water infrastructure investment. Members voiced their support for Burroughs, noting his ability to foster an inclusive environment for all representatives. The elected speaker's commitment to transparency and cooperation was a recurring theme throughout the discussions, which set an optimistic tone for the upcoming legislative session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Feb 18th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • The city and improve the lives of people across the nation
  • a champion for women and children and was admired for her bipartisan and no-nonsense approach to policy-making
  • It was a great moment for Eddie Bernice Johnson because that was the policy that she had started, left
  • the charge on that by assembling people from all different backgrounds in order to put together a policy
  • in the House, policies that she started that I was able to
Bills: SJR1, SB9, SB40, SJR36, SJR1, SJR5, SB9, SB40
Summary: During the latest committee meeting, a range of resolutions and bills were introduced and discussed, including significant recognitions for various organizations and communities. Notably, several resolutions were adopted to honor Alabama Coushatta Tribe of Texas Day and to recognize key contributions from the manufacturing sector in Texas. Senators shared personal anecdotes and expressed gratitude towards the tireless efforts of Texas game wardens who play a critical role in community safety and environmental conservation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) May 15th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm a policy analyst for the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • already, so I just wanted to reiterate my thanks and appreciation for all of your dedication to improving
  • We can talk more in detail, but I just want to go forward on the public policy, okay?
  • Because we're really trying to get the public policy right
  • I'm trying to get this public policy right, right, and I...
Summary: The meeting of the committee covered significant legislative matters, emphasizing the discussion around several bills such as HB2025, which aims to streamline the process of filing plats with tax receipts to prevent rejections. Representative Tepper and Senator Hughes led extensive discussions to clarify the implications of this bill, which resulted in public testimony that was ultimately closed with no opposition. Additional discussions included SB3065 regarding the creation of specific municipal management districts, where the committee expected to reconcile drafting errors in a forthcoming committee substitute. Besides, the committee reviewed HB4506, which proposes electronic delivery of zoning notices to enhance communication efficiency in municipalities. Overall, the meeting demonstrated a focused approach towards improving housing and governance-related processes within the community.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Apr 14th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • It's to provide greater clarity, improve efficiency, and address ambiguity.
  • We believe the change will significantly improve Texas adoption procedures and ultimately serve the best
  • It says here you're the director of policy and advocacy for Texas Protects and you're testifying for
  • My name is Carrie Giudice, and I'm the Director of Policy and Advocacy at Texas Protects, where we focus
  • caregivers from across the state who help inform our policy
Summary: The committee meeting covered a range of legislative bills centered around child welfare and family rights. Notably, House Bill 4870, presented by Representative Aisha Davis, aimed at supporting kinship caregivers by creating a grant program to alleviate the high legal fees for obtaining custody authority. The bill received strong support from testimony highlighting the importance of kinship care in keeping families together and reducing the costs associated with foster care. The witnesses included representatives from various legal aid organizations, all emphasizing the significant financial savings and emotional benefits of formalizing kinship arrangements. Additionally, discussions surrounding HB3758 focused on ensuring due process for parents in child protective services cases, stressing the need for legal protections during therapy and treatment. Observers noted the passionate debates around parental rights and child welfare, underscoring the delicate balance legislators seek to maintain.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 21st, 2025 at 10:08 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Speaker, members, this is a common-sense amendment that utilizes policies we already have in place in
  • just wanted to bring to the body's attention the importance of thinking through this from a public policy
  • I think there's certainly room for improvement.
  • is perfectly aligned with the goals of Senate Bill 2, which is to create and implement statewide policies
  • required to receive proper training on the equipment, not only to better understand the tools but to improve
Bills: HB1, HB2, HB3, HB5, HB20, HB22
Summary: The committee meeting conducted a thorough review of multiple bills aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and response in Texas. Key discussions focused on HB1, the Resident Youth Camp Emergency Plans, presented by Mr. Darby, which emphasizes creating emergency plans for youth camps following tragic incidents. The bill received broad support and passed mostly unanimously, highlighting a collective commitment to improving safety for vulnerable populations. Another significant piece of legislation, SB2 by Mr. King, aimed at disaster recovery and preparedness, also saw robust discussions, resulting in a passing vote that underscored the necessity of establishing clear emergency management protocols at local levels.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Public Health Aug 13th, 2025 at 09:08 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We did pass HB46; it was a modest improvement of the medical cannabis program in Texas.
  • I've been working on this for 14 years, guiding policy.
  • Her story changed policy about cannabis.
  • I'm still kind of wonky in terms of the policy. It's really confusing. But yeah, I guess so.
  • Hemp is not just a drug; it's a medicine for many, a tool for people to improve their lives.
Bills: HB5
Summary: The meeting of the Public Health Committee focused primarily on discussions surrounding HB5, which seeks to regulate THC consumables in Texas. Numerous witnesses provided testimony, both in favor and against the bill, highlighting concerns regarding public health and safety as well as the economic implications of regulation versus prohibition. Chairman Van Dever and other committee members actively engaged with witnesses to clarify the potential impact of the proposed legislation. The testimonies brought to light intense disagreements over how best to approach the management of hemp and cannabis products, demonstrating a division between those advocating for strict regulations versus those calling for responsible oversight without outright bans on THC.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice May 22nd, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • This includes policy recommendations, including the

  • The task force has crafted these policy recommendations

  • I do that with reservation, and I respect, appreciate, and understand the idea of improving the system
  • ...I've seen some good improvements in grand jury practices
  • Hopefully, we can come to an agreement that's good policy and still maintains the integrity of our legal
Summary: The meeting of the committee was marked by extensive discussions on various bills, focusing primarily on enhancing legal measures and protections in criminal cases. Notable among the discussions was HB3073, known as the Summer Willis Act, which aims to provide a clearer statutory definition of consent regarding sexual violence. The bill received overwhelming support as it seeks to close existing gaps in Texas law to better protect survivors. Additionally, HB1871, which increases penalties for attempted capital murder of a peace officer, was presented by Senator Schwartner, emphasizing the need for stronger deterrents against attacks on law enforcement officials. The committee moved several bills to the full Senate with favorable recommendations, showcasing a unified effort towards legislative progress in public safety and survivor protections.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Mar 11th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • On short-term stays, we're also improving.

  • Apply the direct care ratio to capital improvements.
  • This is how we improve health outcomes for Texans.
  • ' diets and improve their long-term health outcomes.
  • by this committee's focus on the links between nutrition and health while improving.
Bills: SB568, SCR5, SB57, SB1447, SB27, SB24
Summary: The committee meeting centered around special education funding and safety provisions for children with disabilities. Key discussions were led by Senator Bettencourt regarding the transformative potential of SB568, which proposes a transition to an eight-tier service intensity funding model. This model is designed to better accommodate the needs of special education students, ensuring they receive the necessary services tailored to their unique requirements. The bill received strong support from stakeholders and included testimony from educators and advocates highlighting the importance of early intervention and the need for ongoing funding support.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • So as DNI, you're responsible for security clearance policies across the government.
  • You're formally responsible for security clearance policies.
  • Director Patel, during the last administration, the very open border policy that they had...
  • Are both of you aware of that DOD policy?
  • I haven't read that policy.

Summary: The Senate Intelligence Committee convened for a significant meeting focused on the Annual Worldwide Threats Hearing. Prominent officials from various intelligence agencies presented their insights on emerging national security threats, including concerns over increasing cyber threats, particularly from China and non-state actors. A major discussion point included the balance between national security and civil liberties, as evidenced by conversations surrounding Section 702 of FISA and its implications for privacy protection. The challenges posed by cartels and transnational criminal organizations, especially related to narcotics trafficking, were emphasized as pressing issues necessitating coordinated responses from federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. This meeting underscored the necessity of public-private partnerships to tackle these multifaceted threats effectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs Mar 17th, 2025 at 11:00 am

House S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs

Transcript Highlights:
  • We have made significant strides towards improving the way veterans are treated when reintegrating into
  • /span> Under this amendment, an evaluation of the findings and policy
  • The Republican Party of Texas has long supported the policy that has not been declared by the United
  • Texas Public Policy Foundation, and I am in support of House
  • is not going to be the case, especially since we, ever since the 70s, have adopted a total force policy
Bills: HB39, HB227, HB930, HB1078
Summary: During the meeting, the committee deliberated on several bills primarily focused on veteran welfare and transition issues. One of the main highlights was the discussion of HB39, which proposes to improve data collection on veteran suicide rates, addressing the alarming statistics that reveal veterans are dying by suicide at a rate significantly higher than the general population. The bill seeks to mandate the Texas Department of Health and Human Services to submit aggregate data regarding deceased veterans to the Texas Veterans Commission, ensuring proper analysis and reporting on this critical issue. Witnesses, including mental health professionals and veterans, provided their insights, emphasizing the importance of having accurate data to inform better policies for preventing veteran suicides.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 23rd, 2025 at 10:04 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Additionally, changes in commission policies and federal regulations can lead to significant revenue
  • To the policy, correct. Yeah. And so whether your bill sort of thinks about...
  • I am Brian Lloyd, Vice President of Regulatory Policy for Encore Electric Delivery, and I am in strong
  • First, that we believe that this bill has good underlying policy.
  • We think it's the right time to have this discussion on this policy
Summary: The committee meeting was marked by discussions on several key legislative measures, particularly focusing on amendments to emergency powers and local food vendor regulations. A highlight was the presentation of SJR 40 by Representative Slauson, aimed at redefining how the state handles emergency declarations and asserting legislative authority beyond the traditional session times. This proposal elicited significant interest and debate among committee members, emphasizing the need for a more responsive governance framework to better handle future crises like COVID-19. In regards to food regulations, House Bill 2844 was discussed, seeking to streamline licensing requirements for food trucks operating across multiple jurisdictions. Testimony included perspectives from both supporters advocating for fewer regulatory hurdles and critics warning about potential public health risks.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Sep 3rd, 2025 at 06:09 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • We develop sound policy that protects our districts from unknown implications.
  • The middle of the year tells you if they grew and if they're improving. And the end of the year...
  • But they are much improved.

  • We have a much improved military readiness indicator.
  • This will improve that ability to forecast by collecting more data.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding several bills, including HB8, which faced significant scrutiny for its approach to educational assessments and accountability. Representative Garcia Hernandez voiced strong opposition, emphasizing the bill's reliance on high-stakes testing and the lack of meaningful stakeholder engagement, particularly from educators and parents. She urged the committee to pause the bill for further consideration, advocating for a more inclusive reform process. The discussion highlighted a growing concern over the implications of school testing standards and the balance of state versus local control in education. Chairman Bonin presented a conference committee report for SB5 related to disaster funding, underscoring its significance for future preparedness and local government support following recent flooding events. The bill was adopted without significant contention, reflecting bipartisan agreement on its importance.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education Mar 5th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education

Transcript Highlights:
  • So getting that kind of funding would be a great improvement.
  • a nonpartisan network of business leaders advancing policies
  • I'm the director of education workforce policy at Texas 2036, and I'm here today to testify.
  • They can earn up to a $5,000 bonus for every certificate that's issued, which improves their A through
Bills: HB20, HB120
Summary: The meeting focused on significant discussions surrounding career and technical education, particularly in relation to House Bills 120 and 112. Various representatives and experts testified on the importance of enhancing CTE accessibility for students, especially those in economically disadvantaged and rural areas. Notably, there was strong advocacy for integrating current job market needs into curriculum offerings, including emerging fields like artificial intelligence. The committee heard passionate arguments about the need for better funding for guidance counselors and CTE programs to prepare students for high-demand jobs, while ensuring they can earn post-secondary credits.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This isn't just about improving policy; it's about

  • Ensuring officers have proper equipment to safely do their jobs is just as important as any policy change
  • Our policy is that the camera remains on the entire time.
  • The bill itself, basically the statute supports our policies
  • We enacted a mental health policy leave for our peace officers across the state of Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several significant bills addressing public safety and reform within the correctional system. Notably, HB2103 was discussed, which aims to provide mental health leave for correctional officers, amid growing concerns about their wellbeing due to the psychological stress associated with their duties. Support was voiced by various stakeholders, highlighting the need for better support systems for officers facing trauma related to their jobs. This bill was aimed at recognizing the critical role that mental health plays in maintaining a safe working environment for those in the corrections field. In another part of the meeting, HB2017 sparked heated debates, as it sought to instate stricter penalties for intoxication manslaughter committed by undocumented individuals. The discussion brought forth views on fairness and the implications of distinguishing sentences based on immigration status. Several witnesses offered testimony, both for and against the bill, leading to a contentious atmosphere that reflected the broader societal debates about immigration and public safety. Overall, the meeting highlighted the challenges of reforming laws while considering the variables of mental health and immigration status in the context of public safety.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Adam, we have you registered as Adam Haynes, Policy Director for the Conference of Urban Counties, and
  • Noise exposure affects your hearing, and according to the University of Texas Institute for Health Policy
  • Is Adam Haynes, policy director for the Conference of Urban
  • Again, for the record, registered is Adam Haynes, Policy
  • to testify, and let me go ahead and clarify for the record that you are registered as Adam Haynes, Policy
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 Regular

Environmental Regulation Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Environmental Regulation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Our office has worked diligently with the industry, organizations, and TCEQ to come up with a policy
  • As a matter of policy, we do encourage...

  • Before you close on the last one, I commend you for working with the stakeholders to make the bills improved
  • , and I'm very appreciative of you working to bring good public policy.
  • So I think it's a good bill, and I do think it's really good public policy.
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on several key bills aimed at addressing environmental concerns and regulatory frameworks affecting communities across Texas. A significant portion of the discussion revolved around House Bill 573, which aims to enhance the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's (TCEQ) ability to respond to concrete batch plant inspection requests, effectively prioritizing community health concerns. Concerns regarding dust and air pollution from these plants were raised frequently, highlighting the challenges faced by constituents living nearby. Additionally, House Bill 1499 introduced a grant program to help small concrete batch plants improve their environmental impact, reflecting the committee’s commitment to sustainable development while balancing economic growth.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the Director of Policy for Texas Realtors.
  • One of those policies is the Code of Ethics; that's probably the code of...
  • So, I do believe that could be an improvement on this bill.
  • ...development policies.
  • It was good policy.
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.

Research Filters

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