Video & Transcript DataContr Research : '89th legislative session'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It is our hope this legislation will change that.
  • We have been fortunate to have six shrimp bills offered this legislative session.
  • So this legislation targets deed fraud by requiring all...
  • This is a targeted anti-bot legislation aimed at addressing this issue.
  • Thank you, Representative, for filing this important piece of legislation.
Summary: The Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Employment held a meeting focused on various bills related to workforce development, consumer protection, and business regulations. Notably, HB5317, aimed at establishing a self-insured retention fund to lower insurance costs for state agencies, received significant attention, with discussions on its potential fiscal benefits. The committee also reviewed bills concerning unemployment benefits, regulation of food service surcharges, and property rights for homeowners, particularly in the context of water conservation amid ongoing drought conditions. Public testimony highlighted concerns over transparency in mandatory fees charged by food service establishments, with stakeholders advocating for clearer disclosures to protect consumer trust.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) May 5th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • session.
  • This legislation, thank you for your time.
  • The authority, however, expires on September 1st, 2026, so legislative...
  • The city has adopted a resolution in support of this legislation.
  • The committee substitute is just a legislative council draft.
Summary: The meeting of the committee included vigorous discussions on various bills, particularly Senate Bills aimed at creating municipal management districts and local improvement initiatives. Senate Bill 3048, presented by Senator Birdwell, was notably passed with unanimous support, establishing a management framework for a 448-acre community called Blue Bonnet Hills. Concurrently, attention was drawn to SB2559, which received public testimony related to development moratoriums that have affected local businesses, emphasizing the need for legislative safeguards against prolonged restrictions on development projects. The session concluded with plans to continue deliberating on various local bills aiming to amend district management provisions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Chairman, switches out the non-council draft to a legislative council draft.
  • So, though the legislation enables this transition, moving

  • benefit everyone involved, which is sometimes rare in legislation
  • Members, last session we had this same bill.
  • Members, we do have the floor session starting at 10 o'clock.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Education convened to discuss several important bills, prominently featuring Senate Bill 2361, which proposes the transition of the University of Houston-Victoria into the Texas A&M University System. Testimonies from community leaders such as Mayor Dwayne Crocker highlighted the significant positive implications this shift could have for local education and economic development. The consensus was that the integration would not only elevate educational opportunities but also enhance the region's workforce alignment with industry needs, particularly in fields like engineering and agriculture. Additionally, SB 530 was introduced, focusing on removing restrictions on which accrediting bodies universities can engage for accreditation, a move that aims to modernize Texas educational regulations to align with recent federal changes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Mar 4th, 2025 at 02:30 pm

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Though the Teacher Incentive Allotment Plan gives additional funding under this legislation, per the
  • I don't think I've ever seen legislation that unilaterally grants one person the authority to adopt,
  • I think we all need to remember as legislators that

  • Legislatively, we think you should specifically earmark three things.
  • Chairman, and the staff to get into some of the details and our specific legislative language.
Bills: HB2
Summary: The meeting focused on House Bill 2, which aims to reform funding for special education in Texas. Various stakeholders, including educators and administrators, testified on the importance of the bill, highlighting current funding gaps and the need for increased resources to adequately support students with disabilities. Testimony revealed that many school districts are experiencing a significant funding shortfall, forcing them to seek additional local funding sources to cover the costs of necessary services. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for a new tiered funding system, which was met with cautious support due to the ambiguities surrounding its implementation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part I) Feb 11th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate is in session starting at 11 a.m. this morning

  • Mark Wiles, Legislative Budget Board:

  • The legislative appropriations request includes a fourth
  • That’s from the legislative session, correct?
  • The session, so you're welcome to stay or you can feel free
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting centered around significant budget recommendations for the General Land Office (GLO) and the Gulf Coast Protection District (GCPD). The GLO presented a request for $2.7 billion in funding for the 26-27 biennium, highlighting a 57% reduction from the previous biennium. Critical discussions included necessary funding for the Alamo preservation, with a request for $150 million to address inflation-induced cost increases in renovation measures. The GLO emphasized the importance of these funds to protect the Alamo as a cultural landmark and to manage unexpected surprises in construction, such as the need for a new roof and structural reinforcements. Several members expressed their support for this initiative, citing the importance of preserving Texas history. Further discussions addressed the funding for the GCPD and other critical projects aimed at enhancing disaster preparedness and ensuring environmental protection. The proposals included funds for coastal erosion response efforts and cybersecurity enhancements. A notable consensus emerged around the need for efficient use of taxpayer funds for ongoing environmental initiatives and disaster recovery efforts. With significant public interest and testimony on these issues, overall, the meeting captured a comprehensive perspective on the state’s budgetary priorities, emphasizing a collaborative effort among legislators to protect both cultural and environmental resources.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education Apr 3rd, 2025 at 08:00 am

House S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas Association for Bilingual Education, where I serve as its legislative chair.
  • ...session.
  • What happened along in the 87th session in 2021?
  • Legislation like HB 1405 and SB 1445 can contribute to this understanding.
  • This legislation is...
Summary: The meeting focused on several significant bills, notably House Bill 2189, which aims to address healthcare workforce challenges in Texas. Representative Howard presented the bill, emphasizing its components that seek to align educational programs and reduce duplication of efforts for students entering the healthcare field. The discussion included concerns regarding the costs associated with advancements in technology for training programs, with suggestions to share laboratory resources between schools and higher education institutions. Public testimony supported the need for a cohesive strategy to prepare Texas students for careers in healthcare while addressing the shortage of qualified professionals in the state. Another important bill discussed was House Bill 295, aimed at expanding the definition of bullying in school policies to include anti-Semitic actions. Chairman Shaheen highlighted the increase in anti-Semitic incidents and reiterated the importance of creating a safe learning environment. The bill garnered bipartisan support, with testimonies reflecting a deep concern over rising hate incidents. The meeting concluded with a commitment to address the urgency of these legislative issues and ensure quality education and safety for all Texas students.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce May 8th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In the House, this legislation is in direct response to alarming practices by certain state contractors
  • ...legislators, and specific Medicaid beneficiaries, as well
  • Legislation should take this session regarding nuclear.
  • Are you seeing other states do the same type of legislation
  • Bridge to Nuclear is proposing that the legislation...
Summary: The meeting was a thorough exploration of multiple bills, most notably focused on innovative energy solutions and public safety enhancements. Key discussions centered around HB14, which aims to bolster the state's nuclear energy capabilities through the establishment of a Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office. Senators and expert witnesses discussed the potential of nuclear power as a clean energy source and a strategic necessity for Texas's growth. There was strong support for the bill, with various stakeholders highlighting its importance for the future energy landscape. Additionally, other bills like HB132 addressed the need for enhanced confidentiality protections regarding sensitive information, while HB1584 sought improvements in power restoration procedures during emergencies. Overall, the committee engaged with multiple viewpoints, balancing innovation with safety and ethical considerations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This requirement would not apply to a work session or a special
  • To receive a committee substitute from Legislative Council,
  • The state is poised to allocate another 2.5 billion dollars this session.
  • When was the first time you found out about this legislation?
  • I found out about this legislation at the beginning

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

Economic Development May 19th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm an Associate Legislative Director for the Texas Farm

  • This legislation would only apply to a public or private airport depicted in any current aeronautical
  • to the few other major events reimbursement fund programs that we've heard in this committee this session
  • These efforts resulted in a report with robust legislative recommendations.
  • I'm also here on behalf of the Nursing Legislative Agenda Coalition, which is a coalition...
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Economic Development Committee focused on several key bills aimed at enhancing economic development and addressing infrastructure needs in Texas. Notably, House Bill 5195 was discussed to modernize state agency websites, making them accessible and user-friendly for small businesses. Senator Alvarado emphasized the importance of this legislation in providing a better online experience for Texas residents and businesses alike, noting that outdated websites pose significant barriers. The bill received strong support from both committee members and public witnesses, highlighting its potential to spur economic growth. Furthermore, House Bills 2760 and 2765 were also favorably reported, aimed at refining the unemployment benefit appeal process and expanding resources for rural economic development, respectively.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • I call this committee to order and move to executive session
  • we've had comes from a bipartisan coalition that includes Senator Banks as a co-sponsor of the legislation
  • marker="175" data-time="2088">This committee will also be considering the Firm Act during today's session
  • Chairman, that we could have worked together on meaningful legislation to do that.
  • Wyoming pioneered digital asset legislation in 2018, and I'm proud to say this bill builds upon my state's
Bills: SB875
Summary: This meeting focused on the markup of the Genius Act and the FIRM Act, two significant pieces of legislation addressing stablecoin regulation and the financial industry's regulatory framework. The Chairman noted the importance of providing clarity to the digital asset community and protecting American consumers, while also promoting innovation and competition within the financial sector. Members of both parties expressed varying viewpoints, with some highlighting concerns related to national security and the potential risks associated with stablecoins.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health Apr 14th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Chair recognizes Representative Sessions to explain the bill.
  • Yes, ma'am, seems like I remember something like this came up last session.
  • We just got a little further off from the policy discussion last session.
  • What are we really going to legislate?
  • This is my sixth legislative session to come and participate
Summary: The meeting convened to discuss various health-related bills, with significant emphasis placed on addressing substance abuse and the associated healthcare challenges in Texas. Notable discussions revolved around HB5342, which aims to sustain 988 operations to aid individuals in crisis, while HB4454 focuses on updating laws to combat unethical patient brokering within substance use treatment programs. Various witnesses, including healthcare professionals, provided testimony supporting these initiatives, highlighting the impact of substance abuse on public health and the necessity for legislative backing in these areas. The committee heard from several members who articulated the urgency of implementing effective measures to address substance abuse, especially with the rising concerns around opioid-related deaths and treatment accessibility in underserved areas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) Apr 24th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...session, the 85th legislature passed Senate Bill 6, which
  • In fact, the committee substitute just changes it to a legislative council draft.
  • Members, last session the legislature passed Bill 14, which
  • We think if this legislation moves forward, it will address the challenges we face in the permitting
  • By passing legislation like SB2354, we can ensure that developers feel supported and empowered to bring
Summary: The meeting of the local government committee covered several important bills, notably Senate Bill 1454, Senate Bill 1237, and Senate Bill 2520. Senator Betancourt presided over the proceedings, guiding the discussion on the multiple committee substitutes proposed for each of these bills. SB1454 focused on tax exemptions for housing authorities, with amendments that included stricter compliance measures for municipalities. The committee unanimously recommended that the bill proceed to the full Senate without objection.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part II) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • our 3,700 members across the state, I want to thank Senator Schwertner for filing this important legislation
  • sessions, negotiations, and stakeholder conversations ended
  • And we are grateful to Senator Parker and his team for filing the bill this session, and for maintaining
  • Legislative Council is doing a really good job, but they have a lot going on, so late substitutes and
Summary: The meeting of the committee covered critical discussions focused on several key bills aimed at enhancing safety and improving healthcare access for vulnerable populations, particularly seniors and pediatric patients. The members heard testimony in support of SB1283, with Lieutenant Jonathan Blanchard from the Dallas Police Department advocating for the bill as a means to ensure safer environments in senior facilities by instituting criminal history checks for employees. Carmen Tilton from the Texas Assisted Living Association also highlighted the bill's balance between safety and privacy, showing strong support from various stakeholders. Additionally, the committee discussed SB527, which addresses the challenges of obtaining insurance coverage for general anesthesia required for pediatric dental procedures. Experts testified about the urgent need for reform to prevent potential health crises in children and to streamline care access for parents.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • homework to get it there, and it's not resonating quite where it needs to be at this point in the session
  • In the 88th legislative session, the legislature passed

  • This legislation was a crucial step...

  • Chairman and members, I carried the legislation to create
  • My name is Charlie Leal, and I serve as State Legislative Director for Texas Farm Bureau.
Summary: The meeting of the committee addressed significant issues surrounding groundwater conservation, with a focus on several proposed bills aimed to enhance the management and sustainability of water resources in the region. House Bill 1633 was discussed, which seeks to strengthen criteria used by groundwater conservation districts (GCDs) when permitting, ensuring that they factor in potential impacts on neighboring exempt wells. Positive sentiments were expressed regarding the need for more stringent evaluations of groundwater permits to preserve resources effectively. This bill aims to reinforce accountability among GCDs, emphasizing the criticality of groundwater, especially in rural areas where access is essential for agricultural and domestic use. In addition, House Bill 1689 and Senate Bill 3058 were presented, both aimed at improving how GCDs utilize export fees and manage water conservation measures. Public testimony highlighted the concerns of landowners about excessive pipeline construction fees and a lack of adequate authority to collaborate with counties on water projects. The committee adopted several amendments to these bills to better align the interests of landowners with water conservation goals. The meeting concluded with an acknowledgment of the pressing need to balance development and conservation, signaling a collective intent to move forward with actionable legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband May 2nd, 2025 at 09:05 am

House S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband

Transcript Highlights:
  • The legislation would allow existing cable providers to reposition
  • One way that I got involved with the broadband legislation that we've considered over the last couple
  • of sessions was kind of done with this Monahans project in mind, and so it was to our...
  • Greg, you and I have had extensive conversations throughout the session about, you know, boot criteria
  • data-time="1638"> We're working with the author as well to make sure that the bill itself addresses the legislative
Summary: The meeting of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Broadband included significant discussions surrounding Senate Bill 924, which addresses cable service providers and their financial obligations related to franchise fees. Council Member Julian Ramirez opposed the bill, emphasizing its potential fiscal impact on cities like Houston and Austin by restricting franchise fee collections, thus threatening vital public services funded by these fees. Public testimony supported his stance, highlighting the financial realities these cities face, particularly in maintaining public safety and infrastructure.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The legislation will save time and resources for our oyster industry.
  • Chairman and members, I think we had a similar bill last session.
  • Last session, he fought for that million again on that piece, and you know, it was just brilliant.
  • I look to your leadership as we go into the next session on how we create something that's effective.
  • Right now, they're looking at federal legislation.
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

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 7th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We've talked a lot this session about homelessness

  • span marker="259" data-time="1548"> build off Senate Bill 2054 that we passed in the 87th regular session
  • But I'm super excited about it because it's one of my favorite bills of the session.
  • We oppose this legislation for...
  • We can't allow this session to go by without fixing it. We've known about it too long.
Summary: The meeting involved several key discussions surrounding new legislation, notably SB801, which addresses barriers faced by unhoused young adults in obtaining necessary documentation like birth certificates. Witnesses, including Maria Benavides from SA Youth, testified on how these hurdles impact access to jobs and housing, emphasizing the importance of removing financial barriers to obtaining identification. Additionally, the committee examined SB1200, aimed at increasing transparency in lawsuits against defense contractors connected to foreign adversaries, highlighting national security concerns. Senator Cole Corse articulated the bill's aim to disclose relationships between plaintiffs and adversarial nations, promoting accountability in litigation funding.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) May 1st, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This bill is modeled after the federal legislation.
  • Thanks to all of you for passing this very important legislation.
  • I'm also chair of the TMA's Council on Legislation, which is the body that informs legislative policy
  • Session after session, we have chipped away and educated on why APRNs should have the ability to...
  • This specific verbiage and legislative piece...
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs meeting featured in-depth discussions primarily centered around Senate Bills 2459 and 3055. SB 2459, presented by Senator Birdwell, aims to protect the personal information of judicial officials to reduce security risks associated with data brokers. This bill brought significant public testimony, with supporters highlighting the need for enhanced safety for judges and court personnel, given the increasing threats and incidents reported. The committee also considered amendments to further refine the bill's implementation process, ensuring the effective removal of personal data upon request. Senate Bill 3055 addressed the scope of practice for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in rural Texas, promoting greater healthcare access amidst ongoing shortages of providers. Advocates for the bill, including several nurse practitioners, voiced the necessity for legislative changes that would empower APRNs to practice more independently. Opposing testimony raised concerns regarding patient safety and the need for physician oversight. The meeting concluded with a commitment to review these bills further, reflecting the broader challenges of healthcare access and safety regulations in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 11th, 2025 at 02:02 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • HCR number 5 by Leach, inviting the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Texas to address a joint session
  • this resolution, HCR 5, invites the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Texas to address a joint session
  • The joint session is scheduled for

  • of Houston opened the doors to us and to people like you that are here today, advocating for the legislative
  • the Quero Chamber has brought several of their members to the Capitol to meet with their state legislators
Summary: The meeting commenced with a series of resolutions presented by various members, including HR214 honoring Bastrop County on February 11, 2025, and HR206 congratulating Annette Adiobo on her selection as Miss Texas 2024. The members engaged in highlighting local entities and achievements during these resolutions, fostering a sense of community and pride. Additionally, individuals from Tarrant County were acknowledged, and resolutions were adopted without objection.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources May 12th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members of the public who wish to testify on legislative

  • Session.
  • Texas has seen a rise in motor fuel-related crimes, as we have observed throughout this committee session
  • I'm here on behalf of the city of Pharr to provide input on the proposed legislation.
  • So I am familiar with a number of legislations that my other colleagues are trying to propose.
Bills: SB290, SB2949
Summary: The meeting featured robust discussions surrounding several bills, particularly focusing on HB2 and SB2949, which aim to establish better regulations for gas facilities and address concerns over fuel transportation. Representative Rosenthal introduced HB2, explaining its intent to improve protocols for gas installations, and shared a personal account of safety concerns that arose from similar incidents in his area. SB2949 was discussed with emphasis on curbing illegal fuel operations while protecting legitimate trade across the Texas-Mexico border. The bill drew attention due to a rise in fuel-related crimes and the need for effective tracking of fuel movements. Both bills left pending, highlighting the committee's commitment to revisiting and refining the proposed measures.

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