Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'legislative absence'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 May 1st, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ="49" data-time="288"> Association for Bilingual Education, known as TAVE, where I serve as the legislative
  • Thank you for joint authoring and supporting this legislation.
  • I believe this legislation will put more Texans in the driver's seat of their own lives, and I believe
  • Governor Abbott issued two executive orders that are relevant for this legislation: EO 47 and EO 48,
  • This broad legislation achieves many goals for securing Texas higher education.
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Education K-16 was characterized by a series of discussions on multiple Senate Bills aimed at enhancing educational opportunities across the state. Notably, SB750 was presented by Senator Eckhardt, which seeks to close a loophole that currently excludes standalone EMS employees from receiving tuition exemptions available to firefighters and law enforcement. The testimony from James Monks of the Austin EMS Association highlighted the critical shortage of EMS personnel and the need for incentives to attract workers to this career path. The committee allowed public testimony, which generally supported the bill, leading to positive discussions among members regarding the importance of equal benefits for all first responders. Additionally, SB2430, introduced by Senator Higginbotham, aims to regulate higher education institutions' interactions with foreign adversaries. The bill received support from witnesses such as Michael Lucci, who emphasized the necessity of securing Texas's higher education from potential threats while facilitating collaborations with trusted entities. These discussions emphasized the need for strategies that not only bolster educational funding and accessibility but also protect academic integrity. Overall, the meeting was well-attended, with robust engagement from both committee members and the public.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I think about a month ago, it was from the Louisiana Legislative

  • This legislation is something I worked on in the interim, recognizing that problem, to try to address
  • Our purpose is to monitor and promote legislation pertaining to TWAIA that serves the best interests
  • I don't know, I might ask the legislative budget board why that statement is very confusing.
  • I ask the members of this committee to vote no on this legislation. Thank you for your time.
Summary: The committee meeting addressed several key bills, with significant discussions surrounding HB778, which focuses on insurance coverage for individuals undergoing gender transition and those wishing to detransition. During the presentations, the bill's author, Chairman Leach, emphasized the importance of ensuring coverage for potential adverse effects from gender transition procedures. However, concerns were raised by various witnesses regarding the potential implications of limiting coverage for transgender care, leading to heated debates and a range of testimonies from both supporters and opponents of the bill. HB2517 and HB2213 also received attention, with discussions centered on insurance premiums and board eligibility for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, respectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Mar 31st, 2025 at 10:03 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The legislation permits participating districts.
  • During the 87th legislative session, we passed House Bill 21.
  • I'm proud to carry this legislation, not just as a lawmaker, but also as a first responder.
  • I am the chairman of the legislative committee.
  • Due to this growing issue, legislation is needed to mitigate these vulnerabilities and provide greater
Summary: The Committee on Pensions, Investments, and Financial Services convened to discuss various legislative bills focused on enhancing financial security for public employees and addressing instances of financial fraud. Notably, House Bill 3594 was presented by Representative Lujan, aimed at modernizing the San Antonio Fire and Police Retiree Health Care Fund, with support from key stakeholders, indicating broad consensus on the bill's implications. In addition, House Bill 3109 was addressed, expanding the scope of the Financial Crimes Intelligence Center to include payment fraud, reflecting Texas's proactive approach to tackling criminal financial activities and protecting its citizens.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Mar 31st, 2025 at 04:03 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am a trust and estate litigation attorney here in Austin, and I'm the co-chair of legislative.
  • We report legislative updates in our practice area to the Real Estate, Probate, and Trust Law section
  • There are several sections of this bill that build on legislation from 2023.
  • Last legislative session, there was a big bill talking about how you transfer cases between courts when
  • As the Chairman mentioned, this legislation addresses the
Summary: The meeting of the Family and Judiciary Committee was productive, with in-depth discussions focused on multiple bills that address important aspects of family law. Notable conversations revolved around HB2495, which aims to clarify the rights of parents regarding their children's education amidst existing ambiguities in lower court rulings. Testimony supporting this bill highlighted the necessity for legal clarity to ensure children can be enrolled in school without delays. The committee also discussed HB3181, which seeks to enhance the enforcement of child possession orders by linking repeated contempt findings to custody modifications, reinforcing accountability for parents who violate court orders.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships May 5th, 2025 at 02:05 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • judges are qualified to understand the research this legislation
  • While this may be necessary from an administrative standpoint, the legislation should be amended to ensure
  • Effectively, this legislation would ensure that fathers equitably discharge parental duties to their
  • If you want to draft legislation that is in the best interest of the child...
  • we should work on legislation that reforms child custody,
Summary: The meeting of the Subcommittee on Family and Fiduciary Relationships focused on a range of bills concerning child support, child welfare, and probate law. Notable discussions included HB1980, which aims to require fathers to provide financial support from the moment of conception. This bill was presented by Representative Hicklin, who highlighted the economic challenges faced by single mothers and the importance of ensuring paternal responsibility. Public testimonies were received both in favor and against this bill, including criticisms about the fairness of imposing retroactive child support. The committee members expressed varied opinions, leading to a nuanced debate about the implications of the bill on family dynamics and economic responsibilities . Other bills discussed included SB1923, which allows child support payments to follow the child to non-parent caregivers, thus aiming to better serve children in kinship care situations. This bill was supported by advocates highlighting the financial strain on kinship caregivers without custody. Additionally, HB5642 addressed clouded titles in real estate and the importance of providing clear information to homebuyers regarding estate planning. Overall, the meeting was productive and well-attended, with substantial participation from committee members and the public.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs Mar 3rd, 2025 at 11:03 am

House S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs

Transcript Highlights:
  • We are excited to kick off this legislative session with

  • You know, I had the honor and the privilege of serving on this committee at the last legislative session
  • He is joining us this legislative session as an intern, and he is continuing his undergraduate degree
  • He spent about two weeks putting that piece of legislation together, and it was eventually passed by
  • ...my fourth legislative session, four special sessions,
Summary: The meeting of the Defense and Veterans Affairs Committee served as the inaugural session for the legislative year, focusing on various significant veteran issues and programs. Chairman Cortez led discussions around the upcoming legislative workload, with an estimated 75 bills anticipated for review. Members acknowledged the importance of addressing recruitment and retention challenges within the defense forces, with insights on necessary facility upgrades and the impacts on local communities. Collaborative efforts, such as home loan programs and the Veteran Entrepreneur Program, were highlighted to demonstrate the support provided to veterans in transitioning to civilian life. The committee emphasized the vital role of outreach initiatives to ensure veterans are aware of available services.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • TAWC has been working with the PUC and the OPUC, as well as legislative staff, on revisions to HB2500
  • Lastly, I believe House Bill 29 is legislation that will
  • We do have a legislative committee that monitors legislation and evaluates whether a bill warrants action
  • It's then taken up by a vote by the legislative committee
  • I urge your support for this legislation.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on addressing several important water-related bills, including HB391, HB420, and HB2626 among others. Representative Bell presented updates on HB391 related to accountability for rural water districts, achieving a consensus for statewide applicability and allowing for virtual meetings. Multiple testimonies were heard, showcasing both support for and concerns regarding the bills, specifically emphasizing the significance of maintaining water resources and addressing community needs amid Texas's growth. Representative Buckley advocated for HB2626 aimed at establishing the Central Texas Water Alliance to ensure sustainable water management across the region, which involves collaboration among various public, private, and state entities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 2nd, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In the legislative session, the legislature moved to make the commission more fee-based.
  • We have to have legislative approval.
  • Mark Wiles with the Legislative Budget Board, and with

  • James O'Connor, Legislative Budget Board. Thank you. Could you answer Senator...
  • As the gentleman from the Legislative Budget Board said,
Bills: SB2122, SB2050
Summary: The Senate Committee on Natural Resources convened to discuss developments regarding SB1150, related to the plugging of inactive wells. Senator Middleton presented the committee substitute for the bill, detailing key adjustments, including extending the effective date by two years to September 2027 to provide operators and the Railroad Commission adequate time for implementation. The discussions sought to address concerns regarding compliance complexity, particularly for wells inactive for more than 15 years. The relaxed timeline was intended to mitigate an initial rush before escalating requirements were imposed on stakeholders. In addition to the new timeline, revisions were made to enhance the clarity of reporting standards for operators regarding inactive wells.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 12th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • To receive a committee substitute from Legislative Council,
  • stakeholder feedback, but approaching my office just days before the hearing to subsequently oppose legislation
  • When was the first time you found out about this legislation?
  • I found out about this legislation at the beginning

  • marker="133" data-time="792"> Personally as well, you know, a lot of times we work hard on this legislation
Summary: The meeting conducted by the committee included detailed discussions on two main bills: HB279 and HB638. Representative Harris opened the session by moving that HB279 be reported favorably, a motion that passed unanimously with ten votes in favor and none opposed. Following this, Representative Tepper presented HB638, which requires most water districts to record their meetings and post them online. The purpose of this bill is to ensure transparency and accessibility, especially in light of the substantial investments in water infrastructure projected for the state. Various stakeholders, including those in favor and against the bill, provided testimony highlighting both the benefits of transparency and concerns over implementation costs and logistical challenges for smaller districts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 28th, 2025 at 09:04 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • with legislative council drafting standards and ensures these
  • This legislation will support that option for our state and school employees, aiding in our effort to
  • has limited impact on the long-term funded ratio, with safeguards put in place during the 2017 legislative
  • ...30 years from 2017 with the legislative reform.
  • other constitutional amendments, once it becomes a part of the Constitution, the ability for future legislators
Summary: The committee meeting was centered on the discussion of various bills, notably focusing on House Bill 3521, which aims to enhance retention incentives for police officers in Houston. Chairman Harless opened discussions highlighting the urgency of the bill due to staffing challenges within the Houston Police Department. Testimonies were given by several members of the police department and pension fund representatives, stipulating the need for actionable changes to prevent a significant exodus of experienced officers. The bill was met with supportive testimony that underscored the precarious staffing situation and the necessity for improved retention strategies. Following deliberations, the bill remained pending for further review.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Juvenile Justice Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House S/C on Juvenile Justice

Transcript Highlights:
  • we know about adolescent brain science, and the fact that despite a few states rolling back some legislation
  • In the 85th session, the Legislative Budget Board said $63.8 million might be the cost.
  • Up until the last legislative session, it seemed that every year...
  • So, coming into the next legislative session, there's

  • And yet, when I look at it and when I've examined it, despite what the Legislative Budget Board has said
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding HB2234, which aims to raise the age of criminal responsibility in Texas. There was a strong consensus among witnesses advocating for the change, citing the psychological and social implications of prosecuting 17-year-olds as adults. Several testimonies highlighted the damages inflicted by adult incarceration on youth, recommending a shift towards juvenile systems that provide rehabilitative support tailored for younger individuals. Chairman Dutton acknowledged the historical significance of this session's discussion, emphasizing the need for legislative change to align Texas with national trends and prioritize youth rehabilitation over punishment. The committee remains engaged in discussions on how to effectively implement this legislation, considering fiscal impacts and community needs. The meeting concluded with the bill left pending due to ongoing concerns regarding the financial implications for counties and the judicial system. A diverse panel of advocates, including youth service organizations and legal professionals, reinforced the argument that raising the age is not merely a matter of policy but an essential aspect of ensuring fair treatment and rehabilitation for young individuals in the justice system.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part I) Mar 26th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • /span>

    In talking with some of my colleagues, the Texas Legislative

  • That legislation does not apply to hospitals with existing
  • I think that the legislation addresses these concerns.
  • I'm the state legislative director for Gun Owners of America, and I'm here to testify for this bill.
  • You might remember back on House Bill 658 from the 85th legislative session that attempted to address
Summary: The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services convened to discuss various pieces of legislation, addressing critical issues affecting healthcare and social services in Texas. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 481, which mandates backup power provisions for nursing homes and assisted living facilities to ensure the safety of vulnerable residents during outages, and Senate Bill 596, aimed at improving reporting requirements related to child welfare, enhancing the oversight of removals and placements. The committee also reviewed several other bills aimed at supporting healthcare access and enhancing protections for children under various circumstances.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 15th, 2025 at 12:08 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • data-time="378"> For the Second Called Special Session, I have reserved 35 bill numbers for priority legislation
  • data-time="396"> Some remain open for the entire First Called Special Session working on their legislation
  • While she was here, she did her legislative duties and was able to get over 76 co-authors on this bill
Bills: HB4, HB1, HB2, HB18, HB19, HB20
Summary: The meeting of the Texas House of Representatives focused on ensuring quorum for the ongoing special session and addressing pressing legislative matters. Speaker called attention to the absence of certain members who had not returned, leading to discussions on maintaining attendance and possibly issuing civil arrest warrants if necessary. The discussions also included emphasis on pro-life legislation and property tax protections, as well as addressing safety concerns highlighted by tragic incidents such as those at Camp Mystic. Notably, House Bill 1 focusing on camp safety and House Bill 25 for over-the-counter ivermectin were among the priorities mentioned for upcoming sessions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We did not receive it from legislative council until about 10 p.m. last night.
  • We are considering thousands of pieces of legislation

  • is any indication, we'll pass and probably the governor will sign into law over 1,000 pieces of legislation
  • We were even in some conversations as late as last night with legislative
  • to support the great legislation that you've put forth, but
Summary: The meeting focused on discussions surrounding judicial reform, specifically addressing issues such as judicial accountability, compensation, and the backlog of cases. Members expressed concerns over the lack of sufficient compensation for judges, which has hindered their ability to attract qualified candidates to the bench. Witness testimonies highlighted the significant workload judges face and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on court operations. There was a concerted effort among committee members to ensure judges are held accountable while also providing them with fair compensation and resources to effectively manage their caseloads. The gathering concluded with commitments to further discuss proposed legislation and its potential effects on the judicial system in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Jurisprudence (Part I) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • the House in 2023, except that we exempted and took out the sections that were passed in other legislation
  • It is consensus language from the workgroup that has been collaborating on this legislation.
  • Well, in the 87th legislative session, it gave clerks the
  • However, that language in the 87th legislative session said if the person refused to show their ID, we
Summary: In this meeting of the committee, significant discussions were held regarding various bills, particularly focusing on the issue of deed fraud, as highlighted by Senate Bill 1734. Senator Hughes advocated for this legislation as a self-help solution for property owners affected by fraudulent deeds, underscoring its timely relevance given the recent uptick in such incidents. Public testimony included supportive statements from a Texas title industry representative, explaining how the bill would streamline the process for victims to clear their titles in a cost-effective manner. The meeting also addressed Senate Bill 1975, which seeks to protect Texas contractors from unfavorable litigation practices imposed by out-of-state general contractors; however, no public testimony was provided on this bill.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Next, we will hear from the witnesses regarding the new proposed legislation
  • I want to emphasize the importance of this legislation...
  • span marker="3" data-time="24">Next, we will hear from the witnesses regarding the new proposed legislation
  • I want to emphasize the importance of this legislation...
Summary: The meeting featured a thorough examination of various bills, including substantial discussions on HB22 and SB4. Key points included amendments proposed by committee members, particularly from Senator Flinstone, who emphasized the need for clarifications on certain provisions. The committee actively engaged with several witnesses providing public testimony, some in favor of the proposed legislation while others highlighted concerns and potential implications. The discussions were vibrant, showcasing different perspectives, especially on the environmental and economic impacts of the bills in question. The meeting concluded with a consensus to reconvene after a recess to further address the outstanding issues related to the bills.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 7th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • With the Legislative Budget Board.
  • Again, I'm Chloe Powers with the Legislative Budget Board.
  • In the post-9/11 world, legislation and Project 25, or P25,...
  • Legislative session.
  • During the 87th and 88th legislative sessions...
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting of the committee was marked by an in-depth discussion on various funding requests and program expansions across agencies. Notably, the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) presented its plans to enhance disaster readiness and response capability, emphasizing an increase in funding to support initiatives under the Keeping Texas Prepared program. The discussion also involved the significance of leveraging federal funds for disaster recovery and the importance of precise tracking of these funds. Key stakeholders, including representatives from various state agencies, were called upon to detail their funding requirements and the anticipated impact of their requests on public safety and community resilience.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • As this legislation evolves at a very high level, I'd like
  • Thank you, Chairman, for the legislation you've passed.
  • You mentioned putting it in legislation regarding how to reform 4CP.
  • So, back to us just legislatively enacting a replacement for 4CP.
  • I stumped him with a question, and that's when good legislation comes out, is when you keep—you don't
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on SB6, which is aimed at facilitating greater liability and addressing the challenges associated with load interconnection. The chair reopened discussions on the bill, engaging with several public testimonies. Among the 27 registered witnesses, many expressed support for the bill, emphasizing its significance in ensuring accurate load visibility and addressing issues in the energy sector. Notably, Lee Bratcher from the Texas Blockchain Council commended the committee's efforts while highlighting concerns related to transmission costs and their potential impact.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Environmental Regulation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • " data-time="324">Airports have also been transitioning away from these foams thanks to federal legislation
  • Since y'all are direct, super-duper direct stakeholders in this legislation, the time limit won't apply
  • This legislation is the antithesis of conservative

  • 1422">Finally, if private sector success hinges or fails on the whims of selective and targeted legislation
  • To amend legislation that changes the zoning in that.
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.

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