Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Texas Free Enterprise'

Page 40 of 58
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • data-time="54"> So, members, our agenda this morning includes more than a dozen bills designed to make Texas
  • House Bill 1666 would require the Texas Department of

  • Senate Bill 2776, which supports the expansion of the Credible Messengers program by allowing the Texas
  • Across Texas, peace officers, parole officers, and emergency personnel put themselves at risk daily while
  • Texas has a duty and a responsibility to strengthen

Summary: During the meeting, several critical bills were discussed with emphasis on public safety and ethical legislation. Notably, SB456 aimed to increase penalties for illegal organ purchases and trafficking was presented and discussed thoroughly, where members raised concerns about the current low-level misdemeanor classification of such offenses. Public testimony was sought, with support and opposition being voiced, highlighting the bill's relevance in addressing urgent ethical issues surrounding organ trade. Furthermore, SB476 focused on legislative measures that enhance officer safety amid rising incidents of violence against law enforcement in Texas, drawing passionate support from various stakeholders, including local police representatives. These topics underscored a broader commitment to reforming policies for public safety and ethical enforcement in the Lone Star State.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 25th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the Executive Director of Texas Alliance for Life.
  • My name is Kristen Linnell, and I am representing the Texas...
  • I am an individual notary and I also run the Texas Notary.
  • So we need Texas to have enough training programs available.
  • Donating the grain is not free for us as brewers. It doesn't.
Summary: The committee meeting included significant discussions surrounding several bills, notably HB220, HB3336, and HB4904. HB220, which addresses access to emergency contraception for survivors of sexual assault, sparked intense debate among committee members and witnesses. Various stakeholders testified for and against the bill, emphasizing the importance of immediate access to such services while also raising ethical concerns regarding contraception. Public testimony was robust, showcasing strong opinions on both sides of the legislation, with many advocating for the rights and protections of survivors.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) May 25th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This bill simply states that if a vaccine manufacturer chooses to advertise in the state of Texas, they
  • caused harm or injury to an individual in Texas.
  • vaccine, but for advertising in the state of Texas and then
  • I'm Tom Glass with Texas Constitutional Enforcement,

  • But this is a fantastic way for the people of Texas to start reclaiming.
Summary: The meeting held by the Committee on State Affairs focused on two significant bills, HB3441 and HB3385. HB3441, aimed at holding vaccine manufacturers liable for harm caused by their advertised products, generated considerable discussion among committee members and witnesses. Senator Hall presented the bill, emphasizing the need for accountability and drawing attention to the lack of liability for vaccine manufacturers under current federal law. The committee heard testimonies from various stakeholders, expressing both support and concern regarding the implications of this bill on public trust and medical practices. Following extended dialogue, HB3441 was reported favorably to the full Senate with a recommendation to pass, gathering a vote of nine ayes to one nay.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health May 12th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • patients, Texas health care, and the Texas economy.
  • in the state of Texas.
  • And in Texas, do you do business in Texas? Or did you up until recently?
  • In Texas. Do you do business in Texas?

  • Texas Medical Board or DL?
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Public Health was centered around discussions on several significant bills, including HB4175 and SB2721. HB4175 seeks to expand mental health leave policies to cover a wider range of qualified employees, including peace officers and parole officers. The motion for HB4175 was approved with a roll call vote showing a majority in favor. Conversely, SB2721 sparked extensive dialogue concerning the regulation of anatomical donations. Testimonies revealed public concerns over unclaimed bodies and the necessity for informed consent in body donation practices. The bill underwent substantial scrutiny, highlighting the balance between supporting medical education and protecting family rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 21st, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Greyhound Lines, a Texas-based company, is part of Flix North America.
  • including over 100 communities in Texas.
  • Trade and movement of goods between Texas and Mexico continues to fuel the U.S. economy.
  • I'm the legislative director for the Texas Automotive Recyclers Association.
  • DMV, Texas DMV, Annette Quintero.

Summary: The committee meeting featured a number of bills focused on local issues, particularly in relation to transportation and public safety. Notably, Senator Alvarado presented HB3966 regarding the relocation of a Greyhound bus terminal to a residential area, which has raised community safety concerns due to increased crime. The bill aims to require commercial bus companies to notify residents before opening new locations, fostering accountability and transparency. The meeting highlighted testimonies from both supporters and opponents regarding the implications of such legislative changes on community dynamics.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session Aug 11th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Bills: SB8, SB4, SB43, SB1, SB2, SB13, SB6, SB10, SB16
Summary: The meeting convened with discussions predominantly focused on legislative motions and updates. There were significant discussions led by various senators, including proceedings on the agenda items with motions for adjournment and future considerations. Notably, two motions were read into the record, and no objections were raised during the adjourning process. Members expressed a willingness to reconvene, emphasizing the importance of receiving committee reports before the next session. The presence of all members and their engagement reflects a strong commitment to legislative responsibilities. The meeting concluded with a unanimous decision to adjourn until August 12th. This highlights the procedural nature of Senate meetings and the emphasis on maintaining order and structure through established parliamentary procedures. The atmosphere was professional, with all members present and contributing to a constructive environment for decision-making.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health May 12th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I practice at the Texas Nurses Association and am a registered nurse here in Texas.
  • Valerie Smith, testifying on behalf of the Texas Pediatric Society, Texas Medical Association, and Texas
  • I'm a pediatrician from Tyler, Texas, representing the Texas Pediatric Society, Texas Medical Association
  • Texas does have a postdoc.
  • Texas psychologists do not. Texas currently does not allow psychologists to prescribe.
Summary: The meeting featured vigorous discussions around several significant bills, including SB2024 concerning youth vaping and its potential consequences. Witnesses presented compelling testimonies highlighting the dangers of e-cigarette use among teenagers, emphasizing how marketing tactics cleverly target this demographic. The bill faced no opposition during discussions but was left pending for further review and amendments. Additionally, HB5537 aimed to empower psychologists to prescribe medication, spurred different viewpoints from committee members about mental health measures and prescription regulations. Amidst these discussions, there was a focus on ensuring access to care while maintaining safety and quality standards.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • this with wisdom and courage as we go about your work on behalf of the people of the great state of Texas
Summary: The committee meeting opened with an invocation led by Senator Sparks, emphasizing compassion, kindness, and wisdom in legislative work. Several resolutions were read and adopted unanimously through a voice vote, showing a collaborative spirit among the members. However, details on specific bills discussed were not present in the transcript, indicating that key legislative topics may not have been covered or recorded during the session. Overall, the atmosphere was professional and focused on procedural matters rather than in-depth discussions of individual legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce (Part I) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • solution to a Texas problem.
  • Did you say Texas Municipal League? That's right.
  • So we're leaving you free to decide.
  • That's always been my biggest fear about Texas, Mr.
  • Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Business and Commerce Committee primarily focused on legislative issues following Hurricane Beryl, particularly Senate Bill 231, which aims to create a process for CenterPoint to compensate its customers for overcharges related to backup power and mobile generation units. During discussions, Executive Vice President Jason Ryan outlined CenterPoint's commitment to refund approximately $430 million and absorb future costs related to these generators. The bill's substitute also mandates that leased emergency generators be mobile and capable of quick deployment during significant outages, addressing previous concerns over inefficiencies experienced during past weather events.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 1st, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This is from the Texas Medical Board.
  • , yet we're making it harder on Texas doctors.
  • here in Texas?
  • Madison Drug in Marshall, Texas is closed.
  • I'm a pharmacist from Longview, Texas.
Summary: The meeting centered on multiple significant legislative proposals aimed at healthcare reforms, notably focused on the operations of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and their impact on local pharmacies. Senator Hughes led the discussion on SB1236, which aims to regulate PBMs to prevent anti-competitive practices that have led to the closure of numerous community pharmacies. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including pharmacists, highlighted the challenges posed by current PBM practices, such as aggressive audit tactics and contract terms that disadvantage small pharmacies. The bill was generally supported in the committee due to its potential to restore balance and fairness in pharmacy operations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas must do this.
  • Texas should be next.
  • Texas should be next.
  • Texas should be next.
  • And Texas is Texas.
Summary: The meeting highlighted significant issues regarding housing funding mechanisms, particularly surrounding the complexities of Housing Finance Corporations (HFCs). Members voiced their concerns about the financial impacts these HFCs have on local government revenues, given that many property tax exemptions are given while maintaining market-rate rents. This discussion was sparked by alarming statistics indicating a rapid increase in tax dollars removed from local jurisdictions due to HFC activities, stressing the need for regulatory reforms to preserve affordable housing without financially jeopardizing municipalities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Jurisprudence (Part I) May 21st, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • to 3% in Texas.
  • I'm the judge of the Family Court of Hayes County, Texas.
  • They don't really know, and nor do they know how it affects Texas. Texas has its own data.
  • Texas has its own data. Let's study that.
  • You know, let's see what Texas shows and let's see if...
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs meeting was predominantly focused on several pivotal bills, including HB3783, HB4213, and HB1916. Notably, the chair initiated discussions on HB3783, which aims to regulate court-ordered counseling practices, particularly targeting what is known as 'reunification therapy.' The bill generated significant attention due to allegations surrounding its misuse, with multiple witnesses providing testimonies both for and against the measure. Concerns were raised about the practices involved, particularly regarding forced separations from custodial parents which many argue could lead to further trauma for children involved in high-conflict situations. The meeting also saw robust discussions regarding HB4213, aimed at revising child support interest rates and improving compliance levels for non-custodial parents, highlighting the financial burdens these families face. Each bill was left pending for further consideration at future meetings, reflecting the complex nature of the topics discussed and the need for deeper examination of possible implications.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So if Texas had been a state that a future convention

  • This has been a very common practice among states, including Texas.
  • Okay, hi, Cindy Castillo, Texas Eagle Forum.

  • You expressed concern about the faithfulness of Texas delegates.
  • Oglesby both traveled here from northeast Texas.
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss several significant legislative measures, notably focusing on the SJR54, which is an application for a Convention of States under Article V of the Constitution. The resolution seeks to impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, limit federal jurisdiction, and restrict terms of Congress members. The discussion included historical perspectives and current motivations behind the push for such a convention, highlighting its urgency in light of perceived federal overreach. Members engaged in a thorough debate regarding the implications of a permanent application for a convention, and several witnesses from various interest groups provided testimony both for and against the resolution.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Honor the Texas flag.

  • As you know, in Texas, we have a balanced budget.
  • Welcome, and thank you for being here at your Texas Capitol.
  • HB13 by King relates to creating the Texas interoperable.
  • of Texas as we should.
Summary: The committee meeting highlighted significant discussions surrounding several key bills, including HB908, which aims to establish a required reporting protocol for missing children cases. The bill received robust support, with members emphasizing its potential to enhance child safety and streamline law enforcement responses. Another notable piece of legislation discussed was HB1392, which addresses delays in property tax payment due to unforeseen circumstances like natural disasters and other emergencies, ensuring Texans are not penalized for situations beyond their control. The meeting concluded with enthusiastic participation from both committee members and the public, showcasing the community's engagement in the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • These include the Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Texas...
  • Emily Dove with Texas 2036. We are testifying on the bill.
  • Doug Curran, representing the Texas Medical Association and also the Texas Academy of Family Physicians
  • , the Texas Academy of Family Physicians, and yourself.
  • Federally qualified health centers are anchors for rural Texas.
Summary: The meeting brought forward significant discussions centered on various bills related to child welfare and mental health support, particularly focusing on the well-being of children in the custody of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). Notable bills such as HB2789 and HB2809 were thoroughly reviewed, where stakeholders highlighted the critical need for improved data collection on suicide attempts among youth in foster care. The interventions proposed aim to enhance early identification and support for these vulnerable populations. The committee members engaged with professionals and advocates who emphasized the urgency of addressing these mental health challenges.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the VP of Public Policy for the Texas Assisted Living Association, known as TLA.
  • There are three other bills in the Texas House.

  • You can imagine what this means for Texas as a whole.
  • I am supportive of a law that provides clear enforcement of the Texas Patient Solicitation Act.
  • Our services are free to find.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on several key bills pertaining to the accountability and operational continuity of single-source continuum contractors within the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). Representative Davis presented three related bills: HB4129, HB4130, and HB4131, which were designed to strengthen DFPS's enforcement mechanisms, clarify contract termination timelines, and enable swift action in cases of non-compliance by services providers. Each bill was discussed in detail, highlighting their importance for ensuring services for children and families remain uninterrupted and meet quality standards. Witnesses from various stakeholders provided testimony both in support and in critique of the proposed legislation, indicating the significant impact these bills could have on service delivery across the state. A notable moment during the meeting was when the discussion surrounding HB4130 revealed concerns regarding current 60-day notice requirements for contract terminations, which were deemed insufficient. The proposed extension to 180 days is aimed at ensuring a seamless transition without service disruption. The meeting concluded with the decision to leave the bills pending further consideration, demonstrating a commitment to address the pressing issues raised by the lawmakers and community members involved.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development Apr 14th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...speech in Texas. Thank you all.
  • ...the entire Central Texas region.
  • ...partnership with a Texas-based university.
  • I live in Austin, Texas, and I wish to speak in opposition to the bill.
  • Holding hotel occupancy tax revenue is in contradiction of Texas statute.
Summary: The committee meeting featured a comprehensive discussion surrounding several bills, notably SB1756, SB2297, and SB1483, which are aimed at restructuring hotel occupancy tax revenues and convention center funding in various municipalities. Senators expressed strong opinions about SB1756, with Senator Birdwell highlighting that limiting project financing zone revenues could severely impact cities like Fort Worth and hinder ongoing tourism development efforts. Meanwhile, local leaders from Pflugerville and Anna spoke in favor of bills supporting regional economic growth and infrastructure investment, emphasizing the increasing need for enhanced convention facilities to accommodate rising populations and attract events.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm with the Driver License Division at Texas DPS.
  • Let Texas be one of the states that allows it.
  • I'm the lead counsel for Texas Gun Rights.
  • So you're registered as Cullen Grissom, Texas Commission, or CLEET, Texas Commission.
  • , Texas peace officers were ordered to hold...
Summary: The meeting of the Committee covered various bills with a notable focus on HB3426, which aims to modernize how Texans access and present their driver's license by introducing a digital option. Testimonies from proponents highlighted the convenience and necessity of making identification more accessible in a digital age, while security and privacy concerns around the potential for data mishandling were also addressed. Additional discussions included HB3033, which proposes a donation mechanism for non-profits supporting Department of Public Safety employees, reinforcing community support for those in service.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Apr 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened to address significant issues surrounding the state's public pension investments and the involvement of major financial services firms. Notably, Senator Bettencourt proposed a motion to issue subpoenas to compel testimony from BlackRock and State Street Corporation regarding their investment practices that impact Texas's public pension funds. This motion sparked discussions about accountability and transparency in investment practices, leading to a unanimous vote in favor of the motion. The committee emphasized the importance of testimony from these companies, recognizing that the subpoena power is a rare but necessary tool in legislative oversight.

Research Filters

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