Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senator Johnson'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 8th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And thank you, Senator Hall.
  • I now call Senate Bill 835 and recognize its author, Senator Paxton, to explain the measure.
  • Thank you, Senator Parker.
  • My senator is Senator Schwertner. this committee.
  • Senator, are there any other questions? Senator Parker, you're recognized.
Summary: The meeting held by the committee covered multiple critical bills focusing chiefly on the implications of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) related to child sexual abuse and the prohibition of state investments in companies tied to nations deemed as threats, such as China and Russia. Debate around HB34 emphasized the necessity of protecting Texas taxpayers and maintaining national security by avoiding investments in these adversarial nations. Additionally, House Bill 748 spurred poignant reflections and testimonies from abuse survivors aiming to combat the silencing effect of NDAs on victims. The legislators expressed a consensus on the urgency of these issues, particularly the need for Trey's Law, which aims to empower survivors and diminish the influence of NDAs that shield abusers from accountability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part II) Feb 11th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Nichols and Senator Perry.
  • Yes, Senator.
  • That's correct, Senator.
  • I'm sorry, Senator.
  • Thank you, Senator Severini. Senator Perry.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting included a comprehensive discussion on various upcoming budget recommendations impacting the Railroad Commission and water funding allocations. Significant dialogue focused on Senate Bill 30, which addresses water funding appropriations crucial for developing and maintaining the state's water infrastructure amidst growing demand. Testimonies from various stakeholders emphasized the urgency of addressing water resource issues in Texas, given the state's increasing population and the forthcoming infrastructure needs. Additionally, climate change impacts and funding challenges were heavily underscored by the participants, showcasing a collective concern over future water supply and management. The committee also reviewed the implications of Senate Bill 8 and Senate Joint Resolution 75 regarding the creation of new funds and programs for water management and development. Importantly, the potential for a dedicated revenue stream was raised, echoing the sentiment that a historic investment in water infrastructure is critical. The meeting adjourned with plans for a follow-up to further evaluate and confirm budget appropriations, reflecting a strong commitment to tackle Texas's pressing water challenges.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security May 22nd, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And on behalf of Senator Creighton, Senator Flores is recognized
  • Senator Eckhardt?
  • Senator Eckhardt.
  • Senator Birdwell. Aye. Senator Flores. Aye. Senator Hinojosa. Aye. Senator Eckhardt. Aye.
  • Senator Hinojosa of Nueces.
Bills: HCR40, HB214
Summary: The committee convened to discuss two significant bills: HCR40, regarding reimbursement for border security costs, and HB214, which addresses the prosecution of firearm and ammunition-related offenses. Senator Flores represented HCR40, urging Congress to reimburse Texas for expenses incurred under Operation Lone Star, citing ongoing issues with illegal crossings and drug trafficking. Though there was a commendable attempt at public testimony, none was received, and the bill was left pending with intentions for further discussions. Much emphasis was placed on the state's security responsibilities and federal inaction that led to a substantial financial burden on Texas taxpayers. In discussing HB214 introduced by Chairman Birdwell, key points included the need for refinement in identifying which offenses classify as terroristic. The members engaged in a comprehensive debate surrounding the expansion of offenses related to firearms smuggling and terrorism. Members expressed concern over including overly broad definitions that could lead to misuse of power and mislabeling of offenses. The committee's focus shifted towards creating a more precise framework that separates economic offenses from true acts of terrorism. The meeting emphasized collaboration and careful consideration in drafting legislation aimed at enhancing public safety without infringing on rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Veteran Affairs Apr 29th, 2025

Senate Veteran Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Bill 102 recognizes the Senate sponsor, Senator Hancock

  • Senator Sparks to explain the bill.
  • But Senator, we would love to find other efforts as well.
  • Senator Sparks, thank you for introducing this bill.
  • Senator Hancock, you said it well a couple of years ago.
Bills: HB102, HB300, SB2255
Summary: The meeting centered around various legislative bills, notably focusing on HB102, HB300, and SB2255. Senator Sparks presented SB2255, aimed at easing occupational licensing for military spouses and veterans, eliminating bureaucratic delays that hinder their employment opportunities after relocation. Key testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted the importance of this bill, emphasizing how it could alleviate the economic burden faced by military families when transitioning to new roles. The updates on HB300 aimed at revitalizing the Texas Armed Services Scholarship Program underscored efforts to modernize assistance for military students.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Senator.
  • I know where Senator Marshall is coming from; he is the original milkman in the Senate Ag Committee and
  • Senator Justice, Senator Lujan is next.
  • Senator Klobuchar, thank you very much. Senator Boozman, thank you, and thank you to all of you.
  • And thank you, Senator Boozman. Senator Marshall.

Bills: SB222
Summary: This meeting of the committee focused primarily on the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, S222, which aims to permit schools to offer a fuller range of milk options, including whole, reduced, and low-fat varieties, that have garnered bipartisan support. Chairman Bozeman opened the session by highlighting concerns over children's nutrition and the obesity epidemic, emphasizing the significance of nutritious school meals in addressing these issues. Experts from various organizations were invited to discuss the implications of this bill as well as the current challenges facing school meal programs, including budget constraints and food supply issues. The meeting included passionate testimonies about the direct impacts of current dietary guidelines and federal funding reductions affecting schools' abilities to provide healthy meal options.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education May 15th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 226 by Senator West, relating

  • So, Senate Bill 226 is Senator West's bill relating to

  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 2920 by Senator Campbell

  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 571 by Senator Betancourt,
  • Senate Bill 2398 is a bill by Senator Campbell.

Summary: The meeting of the committee revolved around several significant bills aimed at enhancing educational policies within the state. Among these, SB413 sought to improve transparency in school board decisions, allowing voters easier access to meeting minutes and votes. There was considerable discussion about the challenges parents face in acquiring information, emphasizing the need for timely publication of school board actions online. Meanwhile, SB571 aimed to address educator misconduct and enhance protections for students by expanding the do-not-hire registry. Committee members voiced strong support, highlighting the bill's importance in safeguarding children against potential abuses within educational settings. Public testimony reflected both excitement and concern regarding the proposed measures, leading to an engaged dialogue among the representatives present.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services May 13th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Yes, yes, and we're on Senate Bill 1589 by Senator Hancock

  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 1266 as Senator Alvarado and recognizes myself to lay out the bill.
  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 1522 by Senator Parker and recognizes.
  • It was Senator Perry's bill; I said Senator Parker, but it's Senator Perry.
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 1137 by Senator Miles and recognizes Representative Rose to explain the
Summary: The Committee on Human Services meeting was marked by meaningful discussions on multiple bills affecting the welfare of children and senior citizens in Texas. Notably, SB500 was presented to establish clearer timelines for adoption processes, aiming to decrease the wait times significantly from several months to within a few weeks for critical health and personal history reports. This bill was met with positive feedback from committee members and stakeholders, highlighting the importance of expediting adoption to ensure permanency for children in foster care. Additionally, the committee discussed SB1522, which modernizes regulations for continuing care retirement communities to enhance consumer protections and clarify definitions that have long created confusion in the marketplace. Stakeholders emphasized the need for greater transparency in advertising and regulations, underscoring the bill's potential to better safeguard seniors.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm a senator for Senate District 30. I'm also the owner of Titus Transport, a trucking company.
  • Senator Parker.
  • Hello, I'm Senator for Senate District 30.
  • I want to thank Senator Parker, Senator Hagenbue, State Representative Ben Baumgartner, and the Texas
  • Another issue that Senator Parker, Senator Hagenbue, and State Representative Baumgartner are trying
Bills: SJR36, SB2, SR9, SR10, SR16
Summary: The meeting focused on the critical issue of human trafficking in Texas, particularly highlighting the trafficking of boys and young men. Several legislators, including Senator Parker, emphasized the necessity of raising awareness about the misconception that trafficking predominantly affects women and girls. The introduction of the first-ever safe house for young male victims was a significant point of discussion, with various stakeholders, including the Texas Trucking Association, collaborating to promote awareness campaigns. Senator Parker and Representative Baumgartner expressed their commitment to eradicate this issue and highlighted the urgency due to its prevalence within communities across Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Property Tax Appraisals May 1st, 2025 at 10:05 am

House S/C on Property Tax Appraisals

Transcript Highlights:
  • the Senate bill engrossed in front of us.
  • Senate Bill 2068 will be left pending.
  • It's now passed out of the Senate and it's here now.
  • Senate Bill 2073 is left pending.
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 1951 by Senator Paxton as the companion to House Bill 3256 by Chairwoman
Summary: The meeting of the Permanent Standing Subcommittee on Property Tax Appraisals focused on several important bills aimed at improving the efficiency and transparency of property appraisal processes. Notably, Senate Bill 2073 was discussed, which seeks to provide appraisal districts with more flexibility in managing facility improvements while streamlining the approval process. The bill was noted to enhance operational efficiency, allowing Appraisal Districts greater financial tools to manage long-term capital projects. Witness Leona Mann testified in support, highlighting the need to reduce bureaucratic barriers that currently hinder timely decisions on property acquisitions.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Huffman? Here.

  • Senator Creighton?

  • Senator Kohlkorst? Here.
  • The conferees on the Senate side will be Senator Schwartner

  • Senator Schwartner; Senator Kolkhorst will handle Article

Summary: The meeting of the conference committee on SB1 focused on reconciling differences between the House and Senate versions of the General Appropriations Bill. Chairman Bonin and his Senate counterparts outlined the critical articles and engaged in discussions to ensure that the final budget aligns with constitutional and statutory spending limits while also addressing the needs of the growing state. The environment in the meeting was collaborative, with both sides utilizing their experienced members in the budget crafting process. The urgency of finalizing the budget was a recurring theme, as it is a primary duty of the legislature.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security May 15th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Flores? Present.

  • Senator Eckhardt?

  • Senator Hinojosa of Nueces.
  • Senator Hinojosa moves that HCR98 be reported to the full Senate with a recommendation that it do pass
  • Before we close out, Senator Hinojosa of Nueces.
Bills: HCR98, HB180
Summary: The Senate Committee on Border Security convened to discuss key resolutions aimed at enhancing border security measures. Notable discussions centered around HCR98, which urges Congress to bolster intergovernmental cooperation in deploying counter-unmanned aircraft systems to address unauthorized drone activities at the border. Committee members expressed the urgency of establishing operational protocols for detecting and neutralizing drones that threaten national security. Additionally, HB180 was presented, focusing on elevating state-level cooperation with Mexican authorities to better manage cross-border challenges like drug and human trafficking. There were no public testimonies for either bill; however, HCR98 was reported favorably to the full Senate following a brief voting process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 10th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Kolkhorst.
  • Senate Bill 568 by Senator Betancourt, co-authored by a number of us in the Senate, proposes a ...
  • And Senate.
  • Thank you, Senators.
  • Hello, Senators.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting covered a wide range of topics, focusing primarily on pending legislation and various policy issues facing the committee. Discussions were notably animated surrounding several bills, with members expressing both support and concern over their implications. Witness testimonies were heard, shedding light on different perspectives regarding the legislation in question, indicating a robust public interest and engagement in the topics discussed. Members collaborated to address constituents' concerns while seeking solutions that align with the committee's objectives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ="0">Senator Huffman,

    Senator Miles,

  • ="1" data-time="0">Senator King,

    Senator Higginbotham.

  • Are there witnesses, Senator, today?
  • Thank you, Senator Hall. Good seeing you.
  • The Chair recognizes Senator Middleton to explain the bill.
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.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Dale Bumpers and Senator Blanche Lincoln of Arkansas.
  • I've been on this committee my entire time in the Senate.
  • Thank you, Senator McConnell. Senator Hoeven.

  • Thank you for the question, Senator.
  • Both Senator Booker and I were there. There's just a few things.
Summary: The meeting of the agricultural committee focused on significant concerns regarding the current state of America's rural economy, highlighting the need for a strong five-year farm bill to address the challenges faced by farmers, particularly young and beginning farmers. Key testimony was given by multiple stakeholders including agricultural leaders and young farmers, emphasizing issues related to crop insurance, access to credit, and the adverse impact of recent USDA funding freezes. Various members discussed the necessity of risk management tools that farmers rely on to secure financing, which is crucial for sustaining agricultural operations and supporting rural communities. The importance of timely legislative action was underscored, as many farmers reported struggles in the current economic climate, raising urgency for reforms within the Farm Bill framework.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part I) Mar 31st, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Hinojosa.
  • And now, I'll go back to Senator.
  • Well done, Senator Campbell.
  • Senator Bettencourt.
  • Senator Campbell, just a comment.
Bills: SB22
Summary: The meeting centered around the discussion of SB22, the Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program, which aims to provide reimbursement grants for projects produced in Texas. Senator Huffman presented the bill highlighting its potential to create jobs and grow the state's economy. Several members discussed the advantages of keeping film production within Texas, emphasizing that for every dollar spent in grants, an estimated $4.69 is returned to the state's economy. Additionally, a portion of the discussion focused on the need for careful oversight of taxpayer money utilized in the reimbursement process, ensuring grants are awarded only to those projects that align with the state's values.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs May 9th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I thank Senator Eckhardt and Safidinis for passing this.
  • If there's no objection, Senate Bill 1664 will be left pending.
  • Senate Bill 1664 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 1036 is left pending.
  • Senate Bill 1566 is left pending. Thank you.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several Senate Concurrent Resolutions and Senate Bills. Notably, SCR8 was introduced to express Texas' strong opposition to the creation of a central bank digital currency, raising concerns about cybersecurity and privacy implications. There was no public testimony for or against, but committee members engaged in dialogue on its potential impact. Another highlight was SCR5, which proposed naming a gymnasium at the Texas School for the Deaf after Robert Rivas, recognizing his significant contributions. This sentiment garnered unanimous support from committee members, highlighting the importance of honoring legacies within the state educational system. In addition, various bills concerning utilities were discussed, particularly SB1566, which clarifies utility connection requirements, and SB1036, aiming to regulate the solar panel sales industry to protect consumers. The discussions reflected a commitment to enhance transparency in utility rate changes and impose stricter regulations on the solar market to prevent consumer fraud. Overall, the meeting showcased a collaborative approach to addressing pressing legislative matters, with an emphasis on consumer protection and legacy recognition.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

An oversight hearing to examine Meta's foreign relations and representations to the United States Congress. Apr 9th, 2025 at 01:30 pm

Senate Criminal Justice and Counterterrorism Subcommittee

Transcript Highlights:
  • span> The chair recognized Senator
  • Senator Durbin: Thank you, Mr. Chair.

  • Senator Hawley: I believe HR1025 addresses critical issues

  • Senator Graham: I agree with Senator Hawley.

  • And so I'm going to turn to Senator Grassley for an opening statement. Thank you, Senator.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime and Counterterrorism focused on oversight of Meta's foreign relations and representations to Congress. An essential witness, Sarah Wynne-Williams, a former executive at Facebook, provided testimony outlining significant concerns about the company's practices and its complicity in aiding oppressive regimes. The atmosphere was charged, with ongoing debates about the regulation of big tech companies and the ethical implications of their policies. The committee explored topics such as user data management, whistleblower retaliation, and the need for legislative measures to protect users and enhance accountability in the tech sector. A notable point of contention was Facebook's alleged cooperation with the Chinese government regarding the dissemination of user data and AI tools, leading to serious ethical implications.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Cassidy, you're up next.
  • Chairman, thank you, Senator from Murkowski.
  • Senator Daines.

  • Senator King. Did you have an additional question?
  • One, Senator Branstad, and one more on gas.
Summary: The committee meeting was dominated by discussions on a variety of legislative bills including major topics such as nuclear energy advancement, the effects of regulatory hurdles on energy production, and proposals to improve national park staffing and maintenance. Members expressed concerns over the federal government's handling of uranium imports and the necessity for maintaining a robust domestic nuclear supply chain. Efforts to streamline permitting processes to facilitate more efficient energy project development were also a focal point, alongside public testimony from stakeholders in the energy and environmental sectors. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for infrastructure development to meet rising energy demands while addressing climate change impacts.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • sponsorship from Senator King.
  • sponsorship from Senator Higginbotham.
  • The chair recognizes Senator Higginbotham to explain the bill.
  • Blanco as the Senate sponsor.
  • The chair recognizes Senator Eckhardt to explain the bill.
Summary: During the meeting of the Veteran Affairs Committee, legislators discussed several significant bills aimed at providing support to the veterans community. House Bill 2193 was introduced by Representative Guillen, focusing on creating a comprehensive study to improve veterans' access to benefits statewide. Senator Eckhardt emphasized the growing population of veterans living far from military bases and the need for a geographically responsive support system to ensure that veterans receive the assistance they deserve. Public testimony was opened, but no witnesses registered to speak, leading the committee to leave the bill pending for further consideration.

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