Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senator Kolkhorst'

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TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas State Senator Joan Huffman, who chairs the Senate Redistricting Committee...
  • Dillon to testify before the Senate Redistricting Committee.
  • Instead, we took the Texas Senate map.
  • I served in the Texas State Senate.

  • Carol Alvarado in Senate District 6, and state representative.
Summary: The House Select Committee on Congressional Redistricting convened to discuss a revised congressional redistricting plan as part of a special session. The meeting focused on public testimony regarding potential revisions to the redistricting map due to concerns about representation for Congressional Districts 2, 7, 8, and 9. Several witnesses testified against the proposed changes, expressing worries about gerrymandering and the disproportionate impact on minority communities. Notably, Deborah Allen, a former city council member, implored the committee members to heed the concerns of constituents who fear losing representation during this critical redistricting process. The atmosphere was charged as multiple lawmakers and public members voiced their frustrations about the perceived political motives driving the redistricting efforts rather than addressing urgent local needs. The committee faced questions regarding the lack of concrete maps available for public commentary, raising concerns about transparency in the redistricting process. Some members argued that the hearings should prioritize community engagement across the state rather than being limited to a few locations. Various testimonies highlighted fears that the redistricting plan might undermine the gains made in voter representation, particularly among marginalized groups. As the meeting concluded, it became clear that the committee might need to hold further hearings to ensure the public's voice was adequately represented before moving forward with any decisions.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate will come to order.

  • I'm directed by the House to inform the Senate that the

  • Pursuant to a previously adopted motion, the Senate stands
Bills: SB2, SB5, SB10, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB17, HB7, HB7, HB15, HB15, HB27, HB1
Summary: The meeting convened to discuss important legislative matters, particularly focusing on HB7, which involves prohibitions on abortion-inducing drugs, and HB15, addressing law enforcement record-keeping regarding agency employees. The Committee members engaged in significant discussions regarding the implications of these bills, considering legal jurisdictions and potential impacts on public health and safety. Key testimonies were heard, which highlighted varying perspectives surrounding these legislative measures. The meeting concluded with motions to advance the bills for further review by related committees.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 28th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I want to first thank Senator Lambert for all of his efforts to get the balance right.
  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 412.

  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 1008.

  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 2188.
  • Senator Paul, if there's no objection, House Bill 4312 be left pending. Is there objection?
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several pressing legislative issues, with a significant emphasis on immigration-related bills such as HB256 and HB253. Witnesses provided differing perspectives on the implications of these bills, particularly concerning privacy and familial integrity in the context of immigration law. Notably, there were arguments against the invasive DNA testing proposed in HB256, highlighting concerns about accuracy and the potential consequences of errors leading to wrongful separations of families. This discussion revealed a palpable tension between security measures and the preservation of individual rights, prompting the committee to consider the ethical ramifications of such legislation. Additionally, House Bill 4552 was introduced, aimed at ensuring equal treatment in government contracting, which spurred further debate on the balance of meritocracy and social equity in public sectors.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Administration (Part II)Audio only. May 27th, 2025

Senate Administration Committee

Transcript Highlights:
Summary: The Senate Committee on Administration convened to reconsider the local and uncontested calendar for May 28, 2025. During the session, Senator Menendez proposed to reconsider the previously certified local calendar, which included the consideration of HB4202. There were no objections raised during the discussions, leading to a smooth affirmation of the calendar containing HB4202. After confirming the recommended list for the May 28, 2025 calendar with a unanimous vote of seven ayes and no nays, the meeting concluded with no additional business on the agenda. The atmosphere was orderly and efficient, highlighting the committee's commitment to addressing legislative scheduling expeditiously.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • member of the Texas House of Representatives to 12 consecutive years and as a member of the Texas Senate
  • Speaker, I have a messenger from the Senate at the door of the House. Admit the messenger.
  • Senator Raymond, April 10th is going to be the budget.
  • The Senate, if you'll take a look at their base budget, has about $500 million.
  • We have gotten to an agreement with the Senate; we're aligned with the Senate.
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

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence May 7th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate added that.
  • ="2722" data-time="16326">Senate Bill 311 by Senator Hughes,

  • ="16326">Senate Bill 1164 by Senator Zaffirini,

    and

  • Senate Bill 1574 by Senator Zaffirini.
  • These Senate bills and possibly other Senate bills could
Bills: HB4806
Summary: The meeting addressed several bills, primarily focusing on HB4806, which aims to reform the legal framework surrounding medical expenses and personal injury claims. The discussions included strong opinions from both advocates and opponents of the bill. Advocates argued that the bill is essential to ensure fairness by allowing juries to see comprehensive evidence regarding medical costs and preventing abuses in the system. Senators and committee members expressed the need for transparency in the medical billing process while addressing concerns that the changes may adversely impact injured plaintiffs seeking justice.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Mar 27th, 2025 at 10:03 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate has passed it two times.
  • In 2021, the legislature enacted Senate Bill 1113,

  • Unfortunately, Senate Bill 1113 does not...
  • Republicans like Senator Cruz and Cornyn have opposed it,
  • Senate Bill 175, earlier this month, passed out of the Senate
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused primarily on various election-related bills, with significant discussions revolving around HB1783, HB1090, and HB1478. Notably, HB1783 faced opposition from representatives of the Texas Civil Rights Project, who argued that the bill would impose undue restrictions on local governments regarding ballot proposition language, potentially hindering timely responses in elections. Another contentious bill, HB1090, proposed prohibitions on certain individuals serving as volunteer deputy registrars, which drew criticism for its implications on accessibility and fairness in the electoral process. Public testimony included voices both in favor and against these bills, highlighting the ongoing debates over election integrity and administrative efficiency.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate.

  • Now, we'll turn to Senator Heinrich for his opening statement
  • As ranking member of the Senate Energy and Natural

  • Resources Committee and also a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, counterintelligence
Summary: The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee convened to address pressing issues related to research security risks at the Department of Energy, focusing specifically on foreign nationals' access to sensitive information. The meeting highlighted the increasing threats posed by espionage from the Chinese Communist Party, which has sought to infiltrate U.S. national laboratories and exploit American research for military purposes. Discussions included the importance of tightening security protocols to safeguard national interests and maintain technological advantages. Witnesses provided insight into historical contexts and current vulnerabilities, emphasizing that without proper measures, the gaps could jeopardize national security.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • If Senator Whitehouse doesn't mind, as soon as we get to the point where we can vote, we'll go ahead
  • span>

    Section 2, Clause 2 of the Constitution provides the Senate

  • By comparison, here are the previous seven Senate-confirmed

  • At this time, I will ask senators to hold their remarks

Summary: The committee meeting focused on the presidential nominations of Brigadier General Brian Nesvick as Director of Fish and Wildlife and Jess Kramer and Sean Donahue as assistant administrators at the EPA. Each nominee presented their qualifications and experiences in their respective fields, with an emphasis on their commitment to uphold the laws passed by Congress. The discussion highlighted the nominees' dedication to addressing environmental issues and their proactive stances on regulatory matters. After deliberation, votes were held to report the nominations favorably, despite some members voicing concerns regarding their qualifications and potential conflicts with environmental interests.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Mar 6th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Paul Betancourt, I mean Senator Paul Betancourt wrote the Senate bills, and the House passed them.
  • We know you ran from the Senate. Go ahead, thank you.
  • Fortunately, we passed two Senate bills.
  • Senator Paul Betancourt wrote the Senate bills, and the House passed them. They became law.
  • We know you ran from the Senate. Go ahead, thank you.

Summary: The House Committee on Elections convened a session to evaluate recent legislative changes and their implications on the electoral process. A key focus was on enhancing election integrity and procedures, including discussions about Senate Bill 924, which aims to address challenges related to polling locations and worker recruitment in Texas counties. Various members acknowledged the crucial role local election officials play in implementing reforms and managing elections amidst growing scrutiny and challenges such as natural disasters and security threats. The session highlighted the resilience and coordination efforts of election officials across the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Delivery of Government Efficiency Apr 23rd, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The act will take effect immediately should it receive two-thirds support in both the House and the Senate
  • Additionally, members, while there is no fiscal note for this bill, the Senate has already put in $21
  • I've been working with the Senate to ensure this would be addressed, so I was unable to address this
  • Senate Bill 21 ensures Texas is not a bystander.
  • Thank you on Senate Bill 21.

Summary: The meeting of the committee was marked by discussions surrounding multiple bills, including HB3719, which concerns the public disclosure of dates of birth, and HB5196, aimed at allowing state agencies to approve telework plans for employees. The chair moved for HB3719 to be reported favorably to the full house, which passed with a vote of 10 in favor and one against. Similarly, HB5196 was favorably reported without objections. A significant focus was placed on increasing digital modernization for state agencies, as illustrated by HB5195, which aims to improve the digital accessibility and functionality of agency websites to enhance small business interactions with the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Delivery of Government Efficiency Mar 5th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • , currently Senator Nichols.
  • And then on the Senate side, it's the Chairman of Senate Finance, so currently, Senator Huffman is in
  • , currently Senator Nichols.
  • There was a Senate committee. Oh, the Senate.
  • There was a Senate committee. Oh, the Senate. The Senate actually...
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Delivery of Government Efficiency marked the beginning of a new era focused on holding government agencies accountable and eliminating inefficiencies. Chairman Capriglione emphasized the committee's role in modernizing state government, implementing rigorous oversight, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used effectively. The committee plans to address waste, mismanagement, and corruption, aiming for an ambitious agenda over the next 22 months. Discussions included the establishment of public hearings to foster transparency and the development of legislative proposals to drive reform. Several state agencies provided insights into their operations, with a particular focus on how they can better serve the public through increased efficiency and enhanced cybersecurity measures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 17th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The committee's substitute uses language from the Senate companion, Senate Bill 1234, that included feedback
  • ...calendar in the Senate.
  • It passed the Health and Human Services Committee and the entire Senate unanimously.
  • side, so I appreciate Representative Hefner laying out the Senate bill.
  • It passed out of the Senate 30-0 with Senator King being
Summary: The meeting was characterized by detailed discussions surrounding several key bills, including HB1464, HB4012, and SB916. Representative Tallarico provided an overview of HB1464, which establishes a state drug purchasing pool aimed at reducing prescription costs for Texas consumers. Multiple stakeholders offered testimony, emphasizing the potential savings and expressing support for the bill. On the other hand, the discussion around HB4012 elicited differing opinions, particularly related to its implications for fraud enforcement in private insurance, with opponents warning against government overreach in private business dealings. Senator Spillers presented SB916, focusing on consumer protections against surprise billing from emergency medical services, indicating collaborative efforts with various health plans to strengthen patient protections without imposing financial burdens on them. Throughout the meeting, representatives and witnesses engaged in constructive dialogue about healthcare costs, insurance reforms, and consumer protection measures. The committee concluded with several bills left pending for future consideration, indicating ongoing concerns and a commitment to further deliberation on these important legislative matters.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Apr 14th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • has a companion bill in the Senate, followed by Senate Flores
  • It also has a companion bill filed by Senator Perry, SB1087.
  • Senator Kevin L.

  • What led to you and Senator Middleton filing? What was just kind of breaking it down?
  • Middleton on compromise language as we get this bill over into the Senate.
Summary: The committee meeting involved a range of discussions focused on local economic development through various House Bills primarily related to hotel occupancy taxes. Noteworthy was the presentation of House Bill 2370, which aims to allow municipalities like Harlingen to use hotel occupancy tax revenue retroactively for convention center expenses, facilitating fiscal responsibility and community involvement via voter approval. Representative Lopez encouraged support for the bill, highlighting its potential benefits for the city's budget and operational flexibility. Testimonies from local leaders, including Harlingen's Mayor, reinforced the need for this legislative change to support vital city projects.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 4th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Speaker, I have a message from the Senate at the door of the House.
  • I am directed by the Senate to inform the House that the Senate has taken the following action.
  • and Senator Molly Cook.
  • We have brother Senator.
  • Jesse Robo, and we have Alpha Phi Alpha Co-Chairman, Senator Kendrick Jones.
Summary: The committee meeting predominantly focused on a multitude of bills concerning various legislative amendments. Key discussions included the pros and cons of constitutional amendments, such as one by Schofield proposing year-round daylight savings time, and issues around taxation reforms highlighted by various members. The committee engaged in vibrant discussions, inviting public testimonies from both supporters and opponents of several bills, emphasizing the importance of community input in legislative processes. Notably, there were extensive debates on HB720, which pertains to the Ketamine Treatment Grant Program for veterans and first responders, underscoring the significance of mental health legislation. Members expressed their concerns about implementing the program effectively while ensuring adequate funding and oversight.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair lays out SB72 by Senator Zaffirini relating to...
  • This is the Senate companion to HB1395 by Chairman Lujan that we have already heard and voted out.
  • This is a Senate companion...
  • The chair lays out SB920 by Senator Johnson relating to certain deadlines and...
  • This is the Senate companion to HB4984 by Chairman Lujan that we just...
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several significant bills, with notable discussions revolving around HB2343. This bill, presented by Representative Leo Wilson, aims to enhance transparency in the shrimping industry by requiring restaurants to disclose the origin of shrimp served. The bill was met with mixed reactions, especially from the Texas Restaurant Association, which raised concerns regarding the burdensome requirements for menu updates and potential liability issues if inaccuracies were reported. Meanwhile, the committee passed other bills, including HB4204 aimed at protecting older homeowners from unfair contracts, which received support from AARP Texas and sparked discussions about the implications on consumers' rights. In addition to presentation and testimony on bills, the committee also examined HCR76, which urges the federal government to regulate imports of foreign shrimp, reflecting a proactive stance on protecting local industries from unregulated competition. Overall, the meeting demonstrated a commitment to addressing economic concerns, consumer protection, and the sustainability of local businesses. The chamber was well attended, and many stakeholders provided public testimony for and against the various proposals.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Natural Resources Aug 11th, 2025 at 01:08 pm

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That was Senate Bill 7 from 2019. This was followed by...
  • Senate Bill 7 created the Flood Infrastructure Fund that's used to fund projects and studies.
  • Then Senate Bill 8, which created the regional and

  • Prior to the passage of Senate Bill 7, again in 2019, and
  • Senate Bill 8, three counties in Texas did not have any flood hazard information whatsoever.
Summary: The meeting of the committee emphasized the urgent need for effective flood mitigation strategies in response to recent severe flooding events in South Texas. Local officials, including Commissioner David Fuentes and General Manager Raul Sassin, presented the devastating impacts of heavy rainfall that inundated homes, destroyed infrastructure, and led to significant loss of life. They discussed the importance of projects like the Delta Region Water Management initiative, which aims to manage stormwater effectively while also addressing future water supply challenges. The legislators reiterated the legislature's ongoing commitment to funding and implementing robust flood management policies, underscoring the significance of community involvement in these efforts. The discussions also highlighted innovative approaches to capturing floodwaters for potable use as part of a broader water management strategy.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Elections Aug 25th, 2025 at 11:08 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In 1870, in Texas history, when 13 senators walked out to block
  • We reference 1870, the 1970 famous killer bees, and in 2003, Senate Democrats broke quorum on a redistricting
  • p>

    And so I hope, as we saw from Paul Bedencore yesterday and Senator

  • disrupting the legislative process that they can bring that to the attention of the president of the Senate
  • That would be a determination by the President, the Senator, the Speaker of the House, and the member
Bills: HB18
Summary: In the meeting, the primary focus was on HB18, which aims to prohibit legislators from fundraising while breaking quorum without an excused absence. The bill sparked a lively discussion among committee members, highlighting concerns regarding the financial benefits that legislators may receive while hindering the legislative process. Members debated the implications of enacting such a law, with some arguing that it could unfairly penalize minority parties exercising their constitutional rights. Notably, testimony was heard from constituents who expressed their discontent with fundraising efforts that coincided with quorum breaks, presenting a strong case for the necessity of the bill. The committee ultimately chose to leave the bill pending for further discussion.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs Apr 22nd, 2025 at 11:04 am

House S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair recognized Senator Philip Cortez to discuss the proposed

  • Senator Cortez noted the importance of collaboration among

  • Next, Senator Mark Dorazio raised concerns regarding the

  • Senator Hillary Hickland contributed to the conversation

Summary: The meeting featured a range of discussions primarily centered around HB3815, which was examined in detail. Key concerns were raised regarding the implications of the bill on local communities, with representatives deliberating its potential impacts on public services and funding allocations. The committee was notably attentive to testimony provided by various organizations, each presenting contrasting viewpoints on the bill. As debate progressed, members expressed their positions, with some in support of the bill citing its benefits for infrastructure improvements, while others raised objections regarding cost implications and the adequacy of provisions within the legislation. The meeting concluded with a call for further review of the bill before any final decisions could be made.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine stemming the tide of antisemitism in America. Mar 5th, 2025 at 09:15 am

Senate Judiciary Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • One Democratic senator put it quite simply: quote, "There
  • Continuing to quote that senator, "I don't hear a lot of people on our side really focused on..."
  • here today—to expose and condemn the recent forms of anti-Semitism that went unaddressed in the last Senate
  • Senator Durbin: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Summary: The committee meeting focused on addressing the rising tide of anti-Semitism across the nation. Among the discussions, members expressed concerns about the disturbing acts of hate witnessed on college campuses, with instances of harassment and intimidation targeting Jewish students being highlighted. High-profile incidents, including vandalism and the display of extremist symbols, prompted urgent calls for investigations and measures to protect civil rights. The importance of moral clarity in confronting such hate crimes was emphasized as well, outlining the responsibilities of leaders to ensure safety and uphold justice.

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