Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'construction law'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • More law-abiding than even law enforcement officers themselves. A friend of mine's...
  • Grisham, actually influenced some of the law.
  • intent of what the current state law should be.
  • when state law stands as an obstacle.
  • That's still in the law right now.
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened for a detailed examination of SB1065. The session was marked by comprehensive discussions surrounding the potential implications of this legislation. Members engaged in dialogue regarding the bill's objectives, with presentations from the bill's author and various stakeholders, highlighting differing perspectives on its necessity and impact. Public input was also sought, allowing for a range of opinions to be expressed, which enriched the deliberative process. Notably, Senator Haldeman emphasized the importance of the bill for improving community resources and addressing urgent needs in public services.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Mar 19th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • They are shielded by the law, and it's been my experience that law enforcement just looks the other way
  • You think law enforcement looks the other way, so you think law enforcement is chilled by these exemptions
  • If giving pornography to a child is considered acceptable in the law for any circumstance, then the law
  • the Vanderbilt Law Review, in 1962, they wrote, "the law
  • If the law is on our side, why do we still have to pass laws
Summary: The committee meeting covered a wide range of bills with robust discussions centering around House Bill 267, which aims to limit the exhibition of harmful content to minors. Representative Patterson emphasized the importance of narrowing the affirmative defenses allowed for educators regarding such material, advocating for the protection of children from exposure to objectionable content at schools. His testimony sparked considerations about existing legal loopholes and heightened concerns over child sexualization in educational settings. The bill was left pending for further discussion. Additionally, significant support was noted for House Bill 1640, which seeks to improve transparency in the rooftop solar industry by requiring the Public Utility Commission to guide consumers in understanding solar installations better.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Juvenile Justice Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House S/C on Juvenile Justice

Transcript Highlights:
  • Not a single law enforcement agency or association testified in 2023 in the House.
  • Without the curfew law, there would have been no justice.
  • I sat with my law enforcement officer. I say my, that's okay, right? Like, okay.
  • I think that law enforcement is so much more than just punishment and punitive measures.
  • Every now and then I travel up some road to go to some small town to practice law.
Summary: Additionally, House Bill 2147 was discussed, which proposes to expand the use of remote proceedings in juvenile justice, streamlining the process and making it more accessible to families. Supporters highlighted that this efficiency is crucial for ensuring that all parties can participate in hearings, especially as many families struggle with transportation. The meeting concluded with several bills remaining pending, showcasing the ongoing deliberation and consideration of how best to address juvenile crime and justice in the community.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Apr 24th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It's federal law, and it's already state law, and it's in the Constitution.
  • , not an HCR, but a law.
  • We have laws. We have penalties.
  • Because federal law has extra protections that state law will no longer have if we pass this.
  • law only guarantees these two.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on HB5337, which aimed to implement stricter voter identification requirements in Texas. During the session, various stakeholders, including members of the public, expressed their concerns regarding the potential disenfranchisement of eligible voters, particularly among older citizens and tribal populations. Critics of the bill highlighted that many Texan citizens might not possess the necessary documentation to comply with the new requirements, resulting in unintended consequences at the polls. Notably, representatives raised questions about the practicality of enforcing these regulations without negatively impacting voter turnout, especially for vulnerable demographics.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • On the current law, give me an example.
  • We shouldn't have that law anymore.
  • We don't want to break the law. I mean, I don't.
  • I believe this body should pass state law.
  • follow the law, which they do all the time.
Summary: The committee meeting predominantly focused on various pieces of legislation, notably Senate Bill 2299, which aims to redefine municipal immunity. Deep concerns were raised during discussions, particularly by public witnesses who underscored the bill's potential to undermine citizen accountability and local governance. Representative Monty Bennett argued passionately against the bill, citing its conflict with recent local charter amendments passed by Dallas voters, reflecting a significant public sentiment for local governance autonomy. Multiple attendees voiced strong opposition due to fears of increased litigation against municipalities, which could strain local resources and hinder governance effectiveness. In contrast, proponents of the bill, including city representatives, argued that it is essential for preventing frivolous lawsuits and maintaining fiscal responsibility for city budgets.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We're trying to follow the law.
  • But the law...
  • I think that the place for that kind of dispute and interpreting the law is a court of law, actually.
  • If the law isn't clear, we maybe should consider not holding them accountable until the law is clarified
  • The Secretary of State should know the law and should not advise against the law.
Summary: The House Committee on Elections convened to discuss HB3709, a bill focused on reforming the post-election audit process. Representative Dialo presented the bill, emphasizing its bipartisan support and the critical need for modernization to enhance the integrity and transparency of the voting process. The existing auditing method, which relied on random precinct selection, was criticized for being outdated and inefficient. The proposed changes aim to standardize audits across various voting methods, allowing election officials to evaluate results by voting locations instead of individual precincts, and thus improving accuracy and efficiency.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine big fixes for big tech. Apr 1st, 2025 at 01:30 pm

Senate Competition Policy, Antitrust, and Consumer Rights Subcommittee

Transcript Highlights:
  • and recovering damages, including treble damages under current law.
  • and recovering damages, including treble damages under current law.
  • I am a law professor at Boston University.
  • We especially need such laws.
  • and recovering damages, including treble damages under current law.
Summary: The meeting, titled 'Big Fixes, Big Tech', marked the first hearing of the Senate antitrust competition policy and consumer rights subcommittee in the 119th Congress. Chairman Lee opened the session focusing on the urgent need for effective solutions regarding anti-competitive behavior among major tech firms like Google and Facebook, highlighting several ongoing court cases regarding monopolistic practices in the digital advertising and search markets. Key discussions included the limitations imposed on small businesses and innovation due to the dominance of these tech giants, with many testimonies advocating for stronger legislative measures, including the America Act. The act aims to disrupt the monopolistic capabilities of these firms and restore competitive integrity in the marketplace, which has suffered under their oppressive market control.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs May 13th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Process, just follow the laws.
  • Vague broad field preemption laws.
  • There is nothing in the law that states otherwise.
  • I know a few of us practice law who are on here today, but I do know as well.
  • Our law enforcement, fire, and rescue, I mean, they earned their pay.
Summary: The committee convened to discuss Senate Bill 2858, which aims to provide stronger enforcement mechanisms for compliance with state laws by local governments. The bill was met with significant opposition from various stakeholders including city council members and representatives from urban counties. They raised concerns that the provisions threaten local autonomy and could lead to severe financial penalties without due process. Specific testimonies highlighted the potential disruption to local budgets and public safety services due to immediate withholding of funds pending litigation outcomes. As such, the supporting and opposing views were thoroughly debated, reflecting the tension between state authority and local governance.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security (Part II) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Current state law includes an offense to knowingly receive...
  • ...and law enforcement to combat cartel crime at the border
  • My intention here is that in having a law...
  • And how often have you had, prior to this law, a circumstance that would allow this law to be operative
  • I'm sure that law enforcement, especially DPS, does a great job of collecting evidence in cases.
Bills: SB36, SB2202
Summary: The Senate Committee on Border Security convened to discuss critical issues surrounding border security and violent crime, particularly in relation to SB36 and SB2202. Senator Birdwell opened the discussion emphasizing the rising dangers at the southern border, citing a significant increase in transnational criminal activity, including drugs and weapon smuggling. The committee heard contrasting views on SB2202, which aims to penalize the illegal transfer of firearms to foreign terrorist organizations. Witness testimonies highlighted the challenges law enforcement faces in proving knowledge of such transfers, with several members expressing concerns over the practical application of the legislation. Senator Hinojosa of Nueces moved for the adoption of committee substitutes for SB36, which passed favorably without opposition, moving forward with recommendations to the full Senate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 5th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I do Second Amendment law for a living, so.
  • So it's time to support this bill and abolish the law. Thank you very much.
  • we are in agreement with the law.
  • But the agency didn't follow the law. The agency specifically made rule changes.
  • I am representing the Texas Family Law Foundation in support of this bill.
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs held a comprehensive meeting focused on several noteworthy bills, particularly those related to the Texas Lottery Commission and foreign adversaries. Discussions were led by various members, including Senator Hall, who expressed serious concerns regarding the legality and integrity of practices within the Lottery Commission, alleging that it has enabled a series of fraudulent activities. Testimonies were heard from stakeholders advocating for House Bill 130, aimed at protecting Texans' genetic information from foreign access. The committee also reviewed House Bills 119 and 581, which tackle transparency in dealings with lobbyists connected to foreign adversaries and address child safety against evolving technological threats, including deepfake technology, respectively. The atmosphere was engaging, with active participation from both committee members and witnesses from various organizations arguing for or against the proposed legislation. The meeting concluded with gratitude expressed towards the committee staff for their efforts in facilitating a productive session, acknowledging both the importance of the issues at hand and the various testimonies provided. The members agreed on the significance of regulating the Lottery Commission more effectively and ensuring the protection of Texans from potentially harmful external influences. All bills were left pending for further discussion and refinement in future meetings.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • I expect them to follow the rules, follow the laws, and to do their job.
  • They want CBP officers to actually enforce the laws that are on the books.
  • This is no different in the trade environment than in the law enforcement world.
  • Attorney's Office so that there are consequences to violating laws in the United States.
  • enforcement officers to not enforce the law that's in front of them.
Summary: The meeting centered on the nomination of Rodney Scott to serve as the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Throughout the session, various senators expressed concerns regarding CBP's recent practices, including issues related to border security and the treatment of migrants. Questions were raised about Scott's involvement in previous incidents, particularly surrounding the controversial death of Mr. Hernandez Rojas while in custody, which sparked a heated discussion about accountability and transparency in current border policies. Senators emphasized the importance of balancing efficient border security with humane treatment of individuals seeking asylum.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Law enforcement needs every available tool.
  • Committee, I was taught in law school that if you...
  • This will give our local law enforcement and prosecutors.
  • It doesn't uphold the law; it undermines it.
  • I've been practicing law for eight years, primarily in civil litigation as well as family law.
Summary: The meeting focused on a range of significant legislative proposals, notably addressing pressing issues such as fentanyl trafficking, animal cruelty, and road rage incidents. Representative Manchia presented HB2695 and conveyed the tragic context surrounding its inception, driven by the loss of young lives due to fentanyl-laced pills distributed via social media. The testimony of community members and law enforcement reinforced the urgency for enhanced penalties against digital facilitators of drug trafficking targeting the youth. This led to a robust discussion, highlighting the alarming prevalence of such drugs disguised as everyday items like candy, intended to be sold to minors. Public testimonies included heartfelt statements from bereaved families who shared their stories of loss and urged committee members to take decisive action against this growing issue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This, what the law.
  • I think what we're doing is complying with federal law. Federal law preempts state law.
  • And executive orders are not law.
  • The law is what we have right now in Texas.
  • Not like that, but that's the law of the land.
Summary: The House Committee on Elections convened to deliberate on several legislative measures, focusing significantly on the accessibility and integrity of the voting process. Key discussions included the presentation of HB5430, which addresses the declaration of a candidate’s ineligibility based on their filing status. The committee also reviewed Senate Bill SB901, a companion bill that echoes the intentions of HB5430. Other bills such as HB2253 aimed to introduce flexibility for local governments in case of disaster declarations, allowing them to cancel elections in a specified timeframe, emphasizing the need for local leaders to act decisively during crises. Additionally, Senate Bill SB760 was introduced to protect vulnerable populations, ensuring that legal guardians are notified when mail-in ballots are requested by individuals in long-term care facilities. Testimonies both supported and challenged the measures, revealing deep concerns regarding potential implications of these bills on voter rights, particularly for disabled stakeholders and elderly populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security Feb 27th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Shelby's a licensed attorney and a graduate of the A&M Law School.
  • For us, it's pretty easy because you guys passed the laws.
  • So, for us, it's... we're either going to enforce the law or not.
  • And under whose law enforcement command are the law

  • As you know, law enforcement must report to law enforcement.
Summary: The meeting of the Border Security Committee was marked by intensive discussions surrounding the ongoing initiatives related to Operation Lone Star. Members shared updates on border security measures, underscoring the significant operational changes resulting from shifts in federal policies. General Salter provided extensive insights into the deployment of state resources, highlighting the 5,000 active personnel engaged in various border control operations. The various strategies employed for enhancing surveillance and interdicting drug smuggling were also covered, emphasizing the importance of strong collaboration between state and federal agencies.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 Feb 27th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It ensures that our schools follow federal law and state law.
  • If they're in the law, it's just the application of the law and making sure we're following the law.
  • Okay, that's what's in state law. Right around 72,000.
  • Even though the law expired in August,...
  • Districts treat these laws like they're suggestions.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on various bills primarily aimed at enhancing parental rights within the educational system. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 204, which mandates the creation of a user-friendly handbook for parents detailing their rights regarding their children's education, and Senate Bill 609, designed to hold school districts accountable to parents and ensure transparency in educational practices. A significant amount of public testimony was offered both for and against these measures, reflecting the contentious nature of the subject matter. Senators emphasized the importance of parental involvement and education reform, fostering a robust dialogue among committee members and constituents alike. The meeting concluded with a commitment to address all bills thoroughly and attentively.
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:
  • Does this law codify current law?
  • So if this law were enacted, it would settle the law.
  • It is not a clarification; it is a wholesale change in the law.
  • is unlike the laws in other states.
  • The law is not that you have to own, operate, or control old facilities. That's not Texas law.
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

State Affairs May 7th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • and the spirit of the law.
  • To do so would render the original law moot.
  • Wade was the law of the land, abortion remained against Texas law.
  • ...law.
  • Current federal law and state law under the Kennedy case,
Bills: SB6, SB11, SB33
Summary: The committee meeting was centered around the discussion of two key bills: SB33 and SB11. SB33 received significant attention as it aimed to close loopholes related to local government funding for abortion travel, which several representatives argued was an overreach of governmental power. Testimonies from supporters highlighted the need for this bill to clarify taxpayer protections, while opponents raised concerns about infringing on local autonomy and access to healthcare. The discussion featured passionate inputs from various stakeholders, emphasizing the societal implications of legislations regarding reproductive rights and healthcare services. At the conclusion of deliberations, both bills were left pending, indicating that further consideration is required before moving forward.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Smith wasn't breaking any laws.
  • If the guy doesn't go, they call law enforcement. Law enforcement comes and makes them go.
  • That's what the current law is.
  • For continuous, right now, that's the law.
  • Law enforcement officers are for very good reasons.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on the discussion surrounding HB1414, presented by Representative Bowers on behalf of Representative Dr. Alma Allen. The bill aims to eliminate the Class B misdemeanor penalty for driving with a suspended license (DWLI) for those with prior convictions, allowing county courts to dedicate resources to more serious offenses and potentially preventing many Texans from facing excessive debt and jail time. Representatives and witnesses provided insights into the bill's implications for individuals unable to afford civil surcharges that lead to license suspensions, highlighting the financial burdens placed on lower-income families.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security (Part I) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It authorizes law enforcement.

  • It's not doing anything to the existing law of those overweights where...
  • If the law says, if you're at 80,000 pounds.
  • I'm just trying to tighten the law so that they're not finding a loophole to say, "Hey..."
  • We'll go modify the truck to avoid the law.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Border Security convened to discuss SB2949, focusing on the regulation of transportation for motor fuels and hazardous materials. Chairman Birdwell highlighted the urgent need for oversight due to recent increases in fuel-related crimes along the Texas-Mexico border, including theft, illegal documentation, and the operation of unregulated fuel depots. The committee received testimony from several experts, including representatives from the Comptroller's office and law enforcement, who elaborated on the environmental and safety risks posed by the current unregulated fuel transport practices. The discussion centered around how SB2949 aims to tighten regulations and enhance penalties for illegal hauling activities to safeguard public safety and compliance with state laws.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine the censorship industrial complex. Mar 25th, 2025 at 01:00 pm

Senate Constitution Subcommittee

Transcript Highlights:
  • of Public Interest Law at George Washington University Law
  • to legal theory to tort law.
  • on First Amendment law, law and technology, criminal law,
  • and family law.
  • I'm a constitutional law scholar.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on the implications of government involvement in censorship, particularly regarding social media platforms and compliance with misinformation standards. senators and witnesses discussed growing concerns over the influence of large tech companies, like Facebook and Google, in shaping public discourse and suppressing dissenting views. A significant part of the meeting included testimonies from various experts emphasizing the dangers of the 'censorship industrial complex'—a term used to describe the collaborative efforts between government entities and private organizations to control information flow. This collaboration is viewed as a violation of First Amendment rights, with calls for urgent legislative action to restore free speech protections.

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