Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'transparency in governance'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Jul 31st, 2025 at 09:07 am

House Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • You govern or you look out for the Guadalupe in one county
  • You've heard the Concho Valley Council of Government; they were huge in all this.
  • ...Judge Foley is the only one not in our Council of Governments
  • I'm almost positive it's in the government code as far
  • In, in, in... Yes, Moser.

Summary: This meeting, held in Kerr County, focused on the recent flooding disaster that affected the area. Lieutenant Governor Patrick and Speaker Burroughs spearheaded discussions, emphasizing the need for improved emergency response and flood management. Various testimonies highlighted the community's resilience while revealing critical gaps in communication and the effectiveness of evacuation strategies during the flooding. The commitment from state leaders to address these issues was evident, as they assured the local populace that legislative action would follow to prevent future tragedies. Overall, the meeting served as both a reflection on the recent disaster and a clarion call for enhanced preparedness measures across Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I approached the government talking about this in

  • They are government agencies, and they should not be involved in partisanship.
  • While we believe supplying forms is part of the role of government, I worked in a Senate office.
  • If you do it as a state official in a nonpartisan government role, then you're in violation.
  • We had that argument in the 86th; it passed unanimously in local and in the Senate.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several key legislative bills relating to election integrity and voter registration. Notable discussions were held around HB817, HB1478, and HB1661, which addressed issues such as the termination of majority votes, compliance with voter registration laws, and penalties related to election supplies. Throughout the meeting, various representatives vocalized their opinions, alongside public testimonies that provided diverse perspectives on the bills being considered. The chair led the proceedings efficiently, allowing for a balance of viewpoints while ensuring that legislative business was conducted promptly. Overall, the atmosphere was characterized by active engagement from members of the committee, with many bills being reported favorably to the full House for consideration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Article III Feb 26th, 2025 at 09:02 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Article III

Transcript Highlights:
  • They're exposed to, and in many cases participate in, cutting-edge research, including in the development
  • In the latest national rankings, UT ranked 4th in the country.
  • It's a major powerhouse for industry, not only in the United States and in Texas but in the world.
  • the neck, in the chest, and in the armpits.
  • The School of Nursing is also the number one ranked nursing program in Texas and is in the top 15 in
Summary: The meeting focused on various initiatives related to health, education, and technological advancements. Notably, the Fentanyl Detection Initiative was presented, highlighting the urgency as five Texans die daily from fentanyl poisoning. Researchers at UT Dallas are developing portable detectors to accurately quantify fentanyl, facilitating faster medical responses by first responders. Additionally, funding requests for the Center for Advanced Pain Studies, aimed at developing effective pain therapies without addictive opioids, were discussed, which emphasize the need to address the opioid crisis. The conversation also covered funding allocations to support various health-related programs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 5th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • above sea level in the Texas Hill Country in the northwest.
  • We provided two legislative reports: one in 2022 and one in 2024.
  • in Texas.
  • transparency and accountability in all these projects.
  • in the aquifer.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on water management issues related to the ongoing drought in Texas, particularly concerning the need for new water sources such as seawater desalination. Testimonies highlighted the critical status of local water supplies and the urgency of projects designed to secure future water availability. A noteworthy discussion revolved around the upcoming Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus and desalination plant in Corpus Christi, which is aiming to become Texas's first municipally owned facility of its kind. Various stakeholders emphasized the importance of timely state support and funding in expediting these projects to mitigate water shortages and their potential economic impacts on the region.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations Feb 18th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • rise to $71 per barrel in 2026 and $76 per barrel in 2027.
  • And yes, we pay taxes to the federal government; those funds come back to the state in certain amounts
  • Funding from the federal government in terms of education
  • Department of Health and Human Services, as far away the biggest government agency, not just in America
  • Since our creation in 1977, there is no doubt the face of state government looks different thanks to
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on reviewing the proposed budget for the upcoming biennium, with substantial discussions around House Bill 1 and its implications for public education, healthcare, and border security. The Comptroller presented a revenue overview indicating a total of $194.6 billion available for general purpose spending, which reflects a slight decrease compared to previous years due to fluctuating economic conditions. Members raised questions regarding spending limits and the impact of federal funding on state programs, highlighting concerns about the sustainability of funding in light of potential changes at the federal level.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Agriculture & Livestock May 14th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Agriculture & Livestock Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • in the industry.
  • It goes in this carton. Next egg, that one's a large. It goes in that carton."
  • in a different way?
  • All of our fees are set in rule and not in statute.
  • Oh, there's a small one in here, here's a large one in here.
Bills: SB1864
Summary: This meeting of the committee centered around the discussion of SB1864, which aims to increase access to the graded egg market for small-scale producers. Chairman Wilson introduced the bill, highlighting its potential to lower barriers for entry, allowing smaller producers to sell ungraded eggs to retailers and wholesalers with proper labeling and documentation. The committee heard differing viewpoints, with supporters emphasizing the importance of farming diversity and access to local markets, while opponents raised concerns about food safety and maintaining quality standards. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including farmer representatives, industry experts, and regulatory bodies, were presented, showcasing the tension between market access for small producers and the need for consumer protection through existing food safety regulations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 25th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In government buildings. Yes.
  • this capitol, in these government buildings, and throughout the state mean to me.
  • They deserve to not live in fear of their government for being who they are. All of us do.
  • I enjoy and see value in having woman-only bathrooms, and I'd like to keep government overreach in check
  • , that it's resulted in government actors not knowing what sources to look at in order to follow and
Summary: The committee meeting featured intense discussions surrounding HB5510 and HB229, both of which generated significant public testimony. Various witnesses expressed strong opposition to HB5510, particularly highlighting concerns over its potential to threaten equitable access to healthcare and its implications for women's rights. Testimonies revealed the emotional weight behind these bills, with speakers advocating for compassion towards vulnerable populations rather than punitive measures. The atmosphere was emotionally charged, as proponents and opponents alike provided firsthand accounts and perspectives that underscored the complexities surrounding these legislative issues. In contrast to the discussions on HB5510, commentary on HB229 mainly revolved around defining gender and safeguarding women's spaces. Many witnesses emphasized the bill's potential discriminatory effects on transgender and non-binary individuals, arguing that the legislation could fracture community relations rather than promote safety and dignity for all. Ultimately, despite the passion displayed in rebuttals from both sides, the meeting concluded with some bills left pending, leaving room for further consideration and debate in the future.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V Feb 26th, 2025 at 09:30 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V

Transcript Highlights:
  • In terms of.
  • accordance with the guidelines in the Texas Government Code.
  • We have a data governance program, and we are currently utilizing FTEs that are in our IT department.
  • I mentioned the data governance program in the beginning, trying to get ahead of the curve.
  • which are represented in their LAR in items 1, 3, and 4.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on comprehensive budget recommendations across various law enforcement and correctional agencies. Notable discussions included funding for the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and the Legislative Budget Board's educational and support initiatives for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. Specific emphasis was placed on addressing staffing shortages and retention of personnel, particularly in parole and correctional officer positions, amid rising concerns regarding jail standards and operational efficiency. The meeting also saw testimonies from agency heads who outlined their needs and challenges, underscoring the importance of legislative support for public safety and corrections reform.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 19th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We are here in support of this legislation.
  • I've been in business for 51 years and have been in this field for even longer, starting as an equipment
  • to sustain those years in the projects.
  • on risk in some places, and in other places the contractor
  • Constituents in my district have brought up concerns that this process can create nuisances in areas
Summary: The committee meeting focused on various legislative proposals, particularly those related to transportation and public safety. A significant point of discussion was Senate Bill 35, which seeks to limit the Texas Department of Transportation's ability to utilize design-build contracts for infrastructure projects. Advocates for the bill expressed concerns over financial implications and the efficiency of project delivery, while opponents emphasized the need for flexibility and innovation in addressing Texas's growing infrastructure needs. Several stakeholders, including the Texas Trucking Association, engaged in debates over the impacts of the proposed limitations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence May 14th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In probate court, there is no plaintiff.
  • Services reported over 83,000 cases of elder abuse in Texas, up from 60,000 cases reported in 2022.
  • and family therapist here in Texas.
  • I have supervision status in Texas.
  • In this particular renewal cycle, in my life, I was required to take a mandatory

Bills: SB1015, SB2933
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around several significant pieces of legislation, highlighting bills primarily focused on court proceedings, mental health services, and civil liabilities. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 441, which addressed civil liabilities for the promotion of artificial intimate visual material, and SB1164, concerning emergency detention for individuals with mental health issues. Both bills saw no amendments and garnered unanimous support in votes, showcasing the committee's intent to streamline judicial processes concerning these sensitive areas. Additionally, bills regarding guardianships and decedent estates were included, reflecting a commitment to improve the judicial system's handling of family law matters.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • in Texas.
  • I ended up in a second-chance apartment in...
  • When I'm asked a lot of times in testifying in court, "Why did they maybe wait to come in and wait to
  • And maybe I'm in the minority in that; I don't know.
  • According to the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault, two in five women and one in five men in Texas
Summary: The meeting of the Juvenile Justice Committee on March 26th focused on multiple significant bills aimed at enhancing the juvenile justice system. Noteworthy discussions included House Bill 1831, presented by Vice Chair Johnson, which seeks to expand juvenile eligibility for drug court programs with a goal of increasing access to rehabilitative treatment for youth. The bill received strong support, passing with a vote of 9-2, and was recommended for favorable reporting to the full House. Additionally, House Bill 2147, introduced by Chairman Van Dever, allows for remote juvenile depositions and court proceedings to increase access and efficiency in the legal process, also passing unanimously with a vote of 10-1. The committee members engaged in thorough debates regarding the impact of these bills on families and juveniles, emphasizing the importance of rehabilitation over punishment.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The overreach in this...
  • in the future.
  • And now it's been passed in nine states and it's being considered in seven.
  • My father-in-law was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2007.
  • It went to a 9 in 30 days.
Summary: The meeting of the committee included discussions concerning various bills primarily related to insurance policies, their regulations, and procedures. Notably, HB3812 was introduced to further streamline the prior authorization process in healthcare, enhancing the ease for practitioners to receive approvals for common procedures. The committee also deliberated over HB2213, which focused on the restructuring of the board of directors for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, and there was broad consensus to move it forward. Several other bills, such as HB2518, addressing installment premium payment plans for windstorm insurance, were also discussed and moved to be reported favorably without amendments.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security May 22nd, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • in that.
  • , but certainly have government interest in that.
  • You don't smuggle people in order to threaten the government.
  • Is to actually avoid all government interference in possession
  • I agree with you in that regard. It's not confined just to the government, but this is a slippery...
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

S/C on State-Federal Relations May 1st, 2025 at 08:05 am

House S/C on State-Federal Relations

Transcript Highlights:
  • In fact, even in our... ...airport mirrored ordinances.
  • Border cities can get in line with other cities in the state
  • ...in a different county in Arkansas, but it's still within
  • That is now codified in Section 763 of the Government Code, with respect to...
  • show my passport when I just got mine renewed in November in order for me to get it.
Bills: HB3484, HCR112, HCR125
Summary: During the meeting, the committee addressed significant legislative topics, focusing on HB3484 and HCR112. HB3484 was presented by Chairman Van Dever, who detailed the challenges faced by border cities like Texarkana in accessing funding for facilities located across state lines. The discussion included testimonies from community members highlighting the necessity of operational agreements between neighboring municipalities to streamline resource management and funding eligibility. This bill aims to ensure that infrastructure projects serving both Texarkana, Texas and its Arkansas counterpart are recognized adequately for funding purposes. The testimony emphasized the benefits of cooperative projects such as wastewater treatment plants and how these arrangements have historically contributed to the well-being of residents in both regions. HCR112, presented by Representative Perez, urged Congress to accept state-issued Real ID cards for U.S. citizens reentering the country, streamlining identification processes at border crossings. The resolution sparked dialogue about the practical impacts of federal ID compliance on daily border interactions and the potential economic benefits for border communities.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine the President's 2025 trade policy agenda. Apr 8th, 2025 at 09:00 am

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Tariffs can advance American interests in market access.
  • than ever to do business in America.
  • than ever to do business in America.
  • than ever to do business in America.
  • than ever to do business in America.
Summary: The meeting focused on various significant topics concerning the recent tariff policies and their wide-ranging implications on the American economy. Members expressed their concerns regarding the negative impact of increased tariffs as proposed by the Trump administration, with specific emphasis on how families might suffer from higher costs and market access issues. The discussion was lively, with members questioning the clarity of the tariff plan and raising concerns about its potential effects on small businesses and American exports.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Mar 6th, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I've been in Abilene where we have the stealth bomber housed in an Air Force base in Abilene, and so
  • manner in which our federal government...
  • I want Texas to lead in this, to lead in the digital...
  • the year following the year in which a disaster occurs to local governments.
  • subdivisions formerly located in a municipality's extraterritorial jurisdiction to local government.
Summary: The meeting focused on several significant bills, including SB703, which addresses the criminal and licensing implications for various massage establishments and was aimed at aligning state laws with federal regulations by closing existing loopholes. Senator Zaffirini played a vital role in facilitating discussions on multiple bills, including SB21, which proposes the establishment of the Texas Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, emphasizing the need for Texas to explore forward-thinking financial strategies amidst federal monetary inflation concerns. Additionally, SB790, aimed at streamlining the resolution process for tenant-landlord disputes regarding water and wastewater billing, was also presented, drawing attention to due process concerns but ultimately supported for its efficiency improvements.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine certain pending nominations. Apr 30th, 2025 at 09:15 am

Senate Judiciary Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • in Mexico, I saw the cartels' coercion of government institutions, intimidation of law enforcement,
  • Is where the cartels and the government work hand-in-hand
  • In effect, you're saying that the government of Mexico is complicit, even more, aids and abets the cartels
  • Who in the Mexican government, specifically, is working

  • the current government in Mexico.
Summary: The committee meeting centered on the urgent crisis of fentanyl abuse and the government’s response to the drug trafficking epidemic. Key discussions revolved around the nomination of Terrence Cole as the Administrator of the DEA and Judea Serrata as Director of the U.S. Marshals Service. Cole emphasized his commitment to combating the fentanyl crisis, highlighting the rising number of overdose deaths and the necessity of bipartisan efforts to dismantle drug cartels. Members engaged in dialogue on the effectiveness of various strategies and the importance of education aimed at preventing drug-related deaths among youth. Additionally, the challenges of social media in drug trafficking were highlighted, indicating a need for greater accountability in how platforms handle such issues. Senators voiced concerns about the impact of administration policies on judicial security and the resources available for marshals to perform their critical roles.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 7th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • referred to the Subcommittee on County and Regional Government.
  • certain counties is referred to the Subcommittee on County and Regional Government.
  • to assist low-income residential tenants in eviction cases and in cases involving discrimination based
  • fishing in public waters, is referred to the Committee on Recreation and Tourism.
  • human sexuality education in public schools, is referred to the Committee on Public Education.
Summary: The committee meeting was robust, focusing on a wide array of bills that addressed various issues including education, public safety, and economic development. Members took turns presenting and questioning several proposed laws, with active participation from both committee members and invited witnesses. Notably, HB1193 received critical attention as it aimed to reinforce the confidentiality of certain information on marriage licenses, drawing significant debate about privacy and transparency. Witnesses presented their supports and concerns, leading to a rich dialogue about the balance between public knowledge and personal rights.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • We all know these are family affairs, whether it's us or people that serve in other aspects of government
  • a massive program to overthrow the Israeli government in the middle of a multi-front war.
  • I worked in my last stint in government, and the way that I work here is to, as I said, rigorously review
  • I participated in that, getting the Japanese government to stop buying Iranian crude oil.
  • World leaders, people in government positions, all said, "Don't do it." You did it. Why?
Summary: The committee meeting was focused on various key issues, including the implications of recent violence in the Middle East and U.S. foreign policy in relation to Israel and Panama. Members discussed the need for diplomatic efforts between the U.S. and Israeli officials following the recent attack by Hamas. Governor Huckabee emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong U.S.-Israel relationship and reiterated the need for accountability for terrorist organizations involved in violent acts against civilians. Senators shared their concerns regarding the ramifications of U.S. actions in Panama and the presence of Chinese influence, highlighting the significance of the Panama Canal in terms of trade and security.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 3rd, 2025 at 02:03 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Rules by state agencies in current judicial proceedings refer to the Committee on Delivery and Government
  • and economics for high school students in public schools, referred to the Committee on Public Education
  • certain counties, referred to the Subcommittee on Regional Government.
  • the Committee on Delivery of Government Efficiency.
  • Tuesday in memory of James S.
Summary: The committee meeting included extensive discussions on numerous proposed constitutional amendments, focusing particularly on issues related to property taxation and environmental rights. Various members, including Representative Metcalfe and Representative Goodwin, brought forward bills addressing the appraised value of residential and commercial properties for ad valorem tax purposes, as well as amendments guaranteeing citizens the right to a clean environment. The conversation was vibrant, with a mix of supportive and opposing views presented by committee members and public witnesses who joined the discussions.

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