Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'bipartisan legislation'

Page 41 of 57
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • 36">Members of the committee, we do have a committee substitute, and all the substitute is, is a Legislative
  • This legislation simply corrects this minor discrepancy

  • Overweight Corridor Program is an innovative initiative sponsored by Senator Lucille and authorized by legislation
  • Additionally, this legislation will exempt security and cybersecurity discussions from recording requirements
  • Our concerns with the legislation relate primarily to the filed version in Section 6, which I understand
Summary: The committee meeting focused on legislative discussions surrounding multiple Senate bills, with a significant emphasis on Senate Bill 2080, which aims to modernize outdated regulations affecting navigation districts and port authorities in Texas. Senator Alvarado led the discussion on this bill, highlighting its potential to streamline operations and enhance flexibility in Texas ports, aligning them with national best practices. Several members of the committee expressed support for this legislation, citing its economic implications for Texas, particularly in relation to job creation and infrastructure improvement. However, concerns were raised by representatives from the city of Corpus Christi regarding provisions within the bill that might expand the port's authority, potentially impacting local governance and tax revenue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Mar 4th, 2025 at 08:03 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I suspect that before the 90th legislative session, we’re going to be knocking on 100,000, if not have
  • Your legislative prerogative is not constrained by the same things we are.
  • As a result of sunset legislation in 2015, the HHS system.
  • Does that take legislation, or is that something else?
  • And I know we've talked to you about a potential legislative initiative.
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around the presentation of Senate Bill 593, which focuses on reforming licensing requirements for kinship and foster care homes. Significant discussions revolved around the proposed changes to reduce duplicative regulations aimed at helping kinship families qualify for foster care payments. Members emphasized that the reforms would ensure that health and safety standards remain paramount while streamlining processes for providers. Various stakeholders expressed optimism that these changes would eliminate barriers and improve the system for both kinship caregivers and the children they support. Public comment on the new rules is anticipated in May 2025, with the new regulations set to take effect in October 2025. The chair and committee members expressed gratitude towards the agencies involved for their contributions during the review process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Feb 25th, 2025 at 11:00 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We have invited testimony beginning with the Comptroller's Office, followed by the Legislative Budget
  • So we would need to work with Legislative Budget Board staff to do that.
  • The chair calls Kevin Cavanaugh and Erin Hendrickson from the Legislative Budget Board.
  • As mentioned, my name is Aaron Hendrickson, Legislative Budget Board.
  • Legislative Budget Board. Is that correct?
Summary: The House Committee on Ways and Means conducted a productive meeting addressing several key issues related to taxation and budget projections. The meeting opened with invited testimony from representatives of the Comptroller's Office and the Legislative Budget Board, focusing on the biennial revenue estimates and significant funding changes. Members participated actively, posing questions about specific budget allocations and the impact of tax policies on both local governments and residents. A significant discussion revolved around property tax relief, with calls for higher measures of relief to support taxpayers amid growing financial burdens. Furthermore, recommendations for financial reforms were proposed, stressing the importance of sustaining the benefits from previous tax relief efforts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 5th, 2025 at 10:02 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I move to consider H.R. 153, recognizing Midland and Odessa Legislative Day.
  • I move to consider H.R. 153, recognizing Midland and Odessa Legislative Day.
  • ...Odessa Legislative Day. You've heard the motion.
  • of February 4th, 2025, at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium; and whereas friends, family, legislative
  • House freshmen may have much to learn about the ways of the Texas House and the art of passing legislation
Summary: The meeting featured significant discussions on various resolutions presented by members, including the recognition of different communities and contributions. Notably, H.R. 153 was introduced by Mr. Landgraf to recognize Midland and Odessa Days at the State Capitol, which was highlighted as a crucial economic region within Texas. Several members expressed pride in the accomplishments of their communities, emphasizing their contributions to state growth and development. H.R. 160 commemorated Webb County Day, led by Mr. Raymond, who spoke on the county's role as an international trade hub.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Public Education Aug 21st, 2025 at 08:08 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, thank you for being here today to hear testimony and discuss this important piece of legislation
  • As you recall, this committee passed legislation related

  • of that legislative mandate.
  • We don't change it unless it's consistent with legislative action.
  • Legislative staff work...
Bills: HB8
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on House Bill 8, which seeks to reform the public school accountability and assessment system in Texas. Key discussions included the repeal of the STAAR test and its replacement with a series of shorter assessments throughout the school year, aimed at reducing the high-stakes nature of a single day test. Educators and advocates provided testimony on the need for assessments that better reflect student progress while ensuring accountability measures are fair and based on diverse community needs. Members raised concerns about the implementation timeline and the necessity of teacher involvement in the development of assessment items to enhance trust in the system. Overall, the atmosphere was collaborative, with many participants eager to improve educational outcomes for Texas students.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health Mar 17th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We have considered this legislation in the past.
  • But unfortunately, we can't legislate parenting.
  • Or, I guess, any drawbacks that you've seen from similar legislation in different states?
  • Have other states passed legislation like this, and what have their experiences been like?
  • Effectively, this legislation has the potential to prevent tragedies and ensure safety.
Summary: The committee meeting welcomed discussions centered on maternal health, particularly relating to the delays in the Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee's report. The Commissioner noted significant delays due to a backlog in the review process for maternal death cases and staff shortages, essentially making it difficult to meet statutory deadlines. A proposed bill, HB713, aims to allow nurses to access unredacted materials during the review to expedite the Committee's reporting process and address the increasing maternal mortality rates in Texas. The urgency surrounding this legislation indicates the committee's commitment to improving maternal outcomes in the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I have a committee substitute that makes HB 4308 an official legislative council version.
  • Commissioner's Court in support of this legislation.
  • I hate to say it, but you can't legislate stupid.
  • It's always interesting when I read the legislative history and see legislators saying, "We took this
  • This is about us passing good legislation for our parents and for our kids. Thank you so much.
Summary: The meeting held by the Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development involved a variety of discussions centered around multiple bills aimed at improving workforce development and addressing contemporary challenges in digital spaces, particularly concerning youth and technology. A notable point in the meeting was the presentation of HB 4196, which aims to modernize Texas's manufacturing sector through digital integration and automation, enhancing job creation and addressing barriers to innovation. Committee members engaged in extensive dialogue with witnesses advocating for and against various bills, with many emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with the protection of consumer rights, particularly in the realm of children's safety online. Committee Chairwoman Button guided the discussions and maintained an efficient pace to cover a considerable number of bills. Several bills passed with bipartisan support, showcasing a collective interest in fostering economic growth through strategic legislative measures. Public testimonies were incorporated into the proceedings, with representatives from various sectors, including education and technology, providing their insights, which enriched the discussions and highlighted community concerns.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I have a committee substitute that makes HB 4308 an official legislative council version which changes
  • The Commissioner's Court supports this legislation.
  • This legislation will also greatly help achieve Governor Abbott's and the state legislature's goals to
  • It's always interesting when I read the legislative history and see legislators saying, "We took this
  • This is about us passing good legislation for our parents and for our kids. Thank you so much.
Summary: The committee meeting covered a wide array of bills focusing primarily on workforce development, manufacturing improvements, and online safety for children. Notably, provisions were discussed under HB4196, aimed at modernizing the manufacturing sector through increased digital integration and automation strategies. Witnesses from various sectors, including manufacturing companies and educational representatives, offered their perspectives on the importance of creating a skilled workforce able to adapt to new technologies. Additional discussion highlighted the pressing need for legislation that protects minors in the digital landscape, with testimonies emphasizing the adverse effects of unfiltered online content on children’s mental health, as encapsulated in HB4901.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 24th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It enhances legislative oversight by streamlining and

  • I serve as Vice President for Legislative Affairs for

  • committee substitute really do take a big step forward to build off the successes from the 2023 legislative
  • I'll end with this: it is a top priority this legislative session. We know we get one shot at this.
  • That said, the legislative oversight and performance and accountability standards in SB 7 are essential
Bills: SB7
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on Senate Bill 7, which aims to enhance Texas's water infrastructure amid growing population and environmental challenges. Various stakeholders, including representatives from engineering firms, environmental organizations, and water associations, testified in support of the bill, emphasizing its potential to address pressing water supply issues and improve infrastructure reliability. Key topics of discussion included water reuse, flood infrastructure funding, and the need for legislative oversight to ensure effective management of financial resources. The testimony underscored the importance of adapting to aging water systems while promoting innovative solutions for sustainability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education May 13th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • All public comments submitted through the portal will be posted on the electronic legislative system.
  • The Board will then create a comprehensive report with legislative recommendations.
  • This bill codifies the legislative intent so that future
  • So, as a legislative body, we've been making some headway

  • and facilities as was intended in the original legislation
Summary: The Committee on Higher Education convened to discuss several significant pieces of legislation aimed at enhancing educational outcomes and access in Texas. A notable discussion was around SB2431, which seeks to improve access to foreign language courses through study abroad programs, as demand for such skills continues to grow in various industries. Additionally, SB2786 was presented, aimed at exempting certain public officers from assessment requirements under the Texas Success Initiative, to better accommodate their professional training and development needs. The meeting showcased a range of witnesses and testimonies in support of these initiatives, reflecting the committee's commitment to addressing educational barriers for students and professionals alike.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband May 2nd, 2025 at 08:05 am

House S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband

Transcript Highlights:
  • Legislation, are we changing speeds for broadband service?
  • This is us making a legislative decision on it.

  • This is codifying legislative intent, sir.
  • Chairman Metcalf, I remember this legislation from last session.
  • But what makes Texas different is that when this legislation was passed in 2005, it's the first time
Summary: The committee meeting focused on two primary bills: HB2838 and SB924. House Bill 2838 aimed to modernize broadband speed standards in line with FCC definitions, aiming to enhance access and reduce tax burdens on Internet services. Chairman Ashby explained the bill's intent to clarify requirements for the Broadband Development Office and included provisions for tax relief to support broadband expansion. Public testimonies presented both neutral and supportive views, emphasizing the importance of aligning state regulations with federal standards, especially for underserved areas. Senators questioned the bill's implications for service equity and federal funding eligibility.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources (Part I) May 14th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And so I do think the first part of this legislation is very
  • I think this legislation takes the right step. I believe it'll help a lot.
  • Ryan: The impact on rates, your cost of money with this legislation or with this legislation?
  • This is credit positive legislation, which is helpful in the scenario that we're in and that we're blessed
  • data-time="2340"> The more debt I take on, the worse my credit rating becomes, so credit positive legislation
Summary: The meeting included a robust discussion on several bills aimed at addressing regulatory issues in the state. Key among these was House Bill 4384, presented by Representative Darby, which focuses on alleviating financial burdens caused by regulatory lag for natural gas utilities. The bill seeks to allow temporary deferral of costs related to new infrastructure, and public testimonies highlighted a significant division in opinion, with some stakeholders arguing it would increase costs for consumers without adequate oversight. The committee members engaged actively with the testimonies, indicating a comprehensive review of the implications of the bill. House Bill 2663 was also introduced, aimed at preventing wildfires through better oversight of outdated electrical infrastructure at inactive oil and gas well sites, emphasizing the need for removed or de-energized equipment to avoid future incidents. Additionally, several other bills like HB1237 and HB3071 were discussed, with the latter addressing the cancellation of inactive landfill permits to reflect current land use and community development. The overall tone of the meeting was collaborative, with members expressing gratitude for professionalism despite some disagreements on policy details. The meeting concluded with several bills left pending for further discussion before moving to votes in subsequent sessions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Prior legislation requires planning groups to.
  • They wanted this piece of legislation; they wanted to get
  • We had to get moving on this piece of legislation.
  • The committee substitute is just a legislative council

  • The legislation is supported by local stakeholders.
Summary: In this meeting, the committee engaged in extensive discussions surrounding House Bill 1523, which addresses the City of Austin's Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) project. Representative Gerdes laid out substantial concerns regarding the potential risks posed to local aquifers, as he emphasized the lack of transparency and community engagement by the City of Austin. Testimonies from members of the Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District supported the bill, citing worries about adverse chemical reactions and the implications for groundwater as crucial reasons for opposing the project. Conversely, representatives from the City of Austin expressed the necessity of the ASR project for regional water supply planning and addressed the purported benefits it would provide.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I believe this legislation is a sound, science-based approach that will benefit both the economy and
  • All right, we're going to show Cyrus Reed with the legislative
  • Thank you very much, Representative Vasut, for filing this legislation
  • Chris Reid, Legislative and Conservation Director for the
  • We had legislation, well, we're supposed to talk about other legislation.
Summary: The meeting focused on the discussion of several bills, with members engaging in detailed commentary on the implications of each legislative proposal. Notably, House Bill 3724, aimed at supporting oyster mariculture along the Texas coast, was highlighted by Representative Villalobos, who provided insights into its potential ecological benefits. Public testimony was sought, and Representative de Villalobos garnered support from environment advocates who emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy oyster populations for ecological balance. The discussion around this bill reflected a collaborative approach to environmental legislation, indicating a consensus on the need for sound management practices. In addition, House Bill 3556 was introduced, which mandates notification to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department for the construction of tall structures that may pose risks to migratory birds. Representative Flores expressed concerns over potential exemptions for spaceflight structures, indicating the complexities of balancing development with environmental protection. The meeting concluded with several bills left pending, emphasizing a commitment to careful scrutiny and consideration of the legislative impacts before final decisions are made.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 2nd, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the legislative chairman of the Sheriff's Association
  • And then we gave it to Legislative Council, and we got it
  • On rare occasions, Legislative Council makes a mistake, but
  • That's a pretty good forecast for a legislative body. I just wanted to compliment you on that.
  • We do recognize that the legislation is complex as a result of many months of stakeholder engagement.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on two primary bills, SB1598 and SB1493. SB1598, introduced by Senator Hagen Booth, addresses the clarity of collision report information access for law enforcement, aiming to enhance the tools available to police agencies across Texas for solving crimes. The meeting featured strong support from police representatives, including Sheriff Brian Hawthorne of Chambers County, who emphasized the significance of the CARFAX program for police in facilitating access to vital vehicle information, free of charge. Public testimony reflected a consensus on the necessity of the bill for improved investigatory processes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 14th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...lawsuit that's halted almost identical legislation in
  • This legislation will make Texas a global outlier.
  • This legislation will have far-reaching implications.
  • As a lifelong Texan, I implore the legislators not to follow this path.
  • The truth is this bill is a doppelganger for Illinois legislation that's been advocated by their governor
Summary: The meeting exhibited a heated discussion on the implications of House Bills 4124, 4061, and 40. Chairman Darby emphasized the importance of reducing credit card swipe fees that adversely affect small businesses in Texas, presenting HB 4124, which aims to exempt sales tax and gratuities from being subject to these fees. Various witnesses, including representatives from the Texas Retailers Association and the National Restaurant Association, supported HB 4124, arguing that it would alleviate financial burdens on local businesses and promote economic fairness. However, several opposing voices raised concerns regarding potential complications and regulatory hurdles that could complicate the business landscape further.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In 2015 and 2017, Texas enacted legislation to expand who can receive an order of nondisclosure.
  • The goal of this legislation is to keep public safety intact while also providing a second chance to
  • Legislative instruction, and for that we ask for your support
  • This is the second time that I've filed this piece of legislation, and I do think that it's an important
  • Indeed, he listed her as his emergency contact to the Legislative Monitoring Agency.
Summary: The meeting of the committee involved extensive discussions on various legislative bills pertaining to corrections and transparency in Texas' penal system. Notable among these was House Bill 4764, which seeks to enhance data availability regarding individuals in restrictive housing, addressing transparency issues related to mental health and recidivism rates. An extensive public testimony period allowed for voices from advocacy groups and individuals affected by these issues, illuminating the psychological toll of solitary confinement as expressed by proponents of the bill during the discussions. There was also considerable debate around Senate Bill 1610 regarding civil commitment and its implications for public safety, with concerns raised about the potential for punitive consequences over rehabilitative efforts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Committee on Criminal Justice Mar 25th, 2025 at 08:00 am

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The legislation on our agenda this morning seeks to protect

  • The legislative council version...

  • Members, one of the most critical issues in this legislative session is preventing deed fraud.
  • The committee substitute is simply a legislative council version of the bill, and they have it.
  • The committee substitute simply removes the retroactive portion of this legislation.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to deliberate several bills aimed at enhancing the protection of victims in cases of sexual assault and human trafficking. The meeting featured discussions on Senate Bills SB781, SB836, and SB1610, which introduced measures to improve the criminal justice processes related to these serious offenses. Senator King and other members emphasized the necessity of providing law enforcement with the tools needed to combat these crimes while simultaneously safeguarding victims' rights and privacy during trials. Notably, SB836 proposed significant changes that would prevent live streaming of sexual assault trials without consent to protect the dignity of victims, while SB781 sought to standardize the confidentiality of peace officers' personal information to enhance their safety.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The district's enabling legislation includes the powers of Chapters 49, 50, and 56 of the Water Code.
  • This bill builds upon the success of previous legislation.
  • This bill seeks to amend legislation passed in 2011 known as the streamlined expedited release of a water
  • I'm here on the bill, showing my age, but I worked on that legislation.
  • We have a legislative committee that monitors pending legislation and a formal...
Summary: The committee meeting was centered around critical discussions on various bills aimed at improving water management and mitigating losses in municipal water systems. Notably, Senate Bill 1190 sparked significant conversation regarding the high water loss rates among large utilities, with stakeholders emphasizing the need for stringent, consistent validation measures and penalties. The chair expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts to enhance groundwater management through Bill 1855, which aims to clarify the certification process for groundwater availability, addressing concerns on the ambiguities in the previous legislation. Public testimonies were heard, with supportive sentiments towards improving water conservation strategies and accountability measures within water utilities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 23rd, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Recently, OPIC made a legislative recommendation to preserve consumer rights to...
  • Chairman, for bringing this legislation forward into the House.
  • Appraisal legislation got so close last session.
  • And you heard our study referenced in the last legislative

Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding SB458 and its companion bill HB4570, which address appraisal provisions in insurance policies. Chairman Dean emphasized the importance of preserving consumer rights regarding appraisals in dispute resolution and thanked stakeholders for their involvement. Testimonies were presented by various experts who supported the bill, highlighting how it could help consumers by providing a more efficient alternative to litigation in settling claims and potentially leading to higher awards for policyholders. The bill aims to streamline the appraisal process and ensure timely resolutions for insurance claims related to both personal and auto insurance.

Research Filters

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