Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'cost transparency'
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TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Natural Resources Aug 11th, 2025 at 01:08 pm
House Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
The total project cost is 221 million dollars.
- You know, the interesting fact, the cost of doing business for water is going up, as we know.
- I think that was what the cost was.
- In those regional plans, the estimated cost of implementing all of those solutions.
- $54.5 billion is the total cost.
Keywords:
flood mitigation, water management, Delta Project, infrastructure, community impact, legislative response, flood infrastructure fund, climate adaptation
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 Regular
Local Government (Part II) Apr 24th, 2025
Senate Local Government Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Every month waiting on approval is adding significant costs
- to the overall development, whether it's carrying costs, changes in the insurance markets, or just time
- Several studies have found that long, permanent processes drive up costs, which are exacerbated when
- These costs don't just affect builders.
- the cost and
Bills:
SB208, SB628, SB777, SB1042, SB2354, SB2477, SB2521, SB2523, SB2608, SB2703, SB2778, SB2835, SB2965, SB2367, SB3044
Keywords:
workforce housing, capital investment fund, affordable housing, housing development, Texas housing laws, loan programs, community development, workforce housing, capital investment fund, affordable housing, housing development, Texas housing, zero-interest loans, workforce housing, capital investment fund, low-income housing, housing development, nonprofit organizations, construction, economic stability
Summary:
The meeting of the local government committee covered several important bills, notably Senate Bill 1454, Senate Bill 1237, and Senate Bill 2520. Senator Betancourt presided over the proceedings, guiding the discussion on the multiple committee substitutes proposed for each of these bills. SB1454 focused on tax exemptions for housing authorities, with amendments that included stricter compliance measures for municipalities. The committee unanimously recommended that the bill proceed to the full Senate without objection.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Finance (Part I) Mar 12th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- The Court of Criminal Appeals, we have a cost-out adjustment for the judicial.
- It's item cost-out adjustment for the statewide electronic filing system account 5157 to align with the
- Cost increases at regional offices were $945,000 for lease increases.
- Under item number B, the modernization costs were increased
- Under the cost adjustments for the Board, item number one
Keywords:
budget adjustments, salary increase, public defender, Senate Bill 9, workforce optimization
Summary:
The committee also reviewed workforce optimization projects and critical capital improvements, underscoring the importance of maintaining and enhancing state infrastructure. A work group revision related to Senate Bill 9 was adopted, further demonstrating the committee's proactive approach to addressing fiscal responsibilities and ensuring effective allocation of state resources. The meeting concluded with an overview of adopted items and a commitment to continue enhancing services for the public.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Criminal Justice (Part II) Feb 12th, 2025
Senate Criminal Justice Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- ...costs of detention from the federal government to Texas
- ...ultimately forces Texas taxpayers to cover the costs that
- I urge you to consider the human cost of such legislation within our justice system that SJR 5 would
- SJR 5 will cost counties an enormous amount in money and resources.
- That is an enormous fiscal cost to pay for pre-trial detention, and the human cost alone is staggering
Keywords:
bail reform, defendants, pretrial detention, public safety, criminal justice, charitable bail organizations, bail reform, criminal procedure, public safety report, victim notification, family violence, bail bonds, public funds, political subdivision, injunction, taxpayer rights, bail reform, violent crimes, sexual offenses, community safety
Summary:
The Senate Committee for Criminal Justice convened to discuss several significant pieces of legislation, including SB999, SB1047, SB40, SJR1, and SJR5. Notably, SJR5 sparked a robust debate among committee members and witnesses regarding its potential implications on pre-trial detention practices. Witnesses expressed concerns about the risks of pre-emptive detention outlined in the bill and the associated human costs, particularly for those who are innocent. Testimonies highlighted the disparity in how such legislation could disproportionately affect marginalized communities and lead to increased incarceration rates without addressing the root causes of crime. Overall, the committee displayed a commitment to ensuring public safety while wrestling with the balance of due process rights for individuals.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Appropriations - S/C on Article I, IV, V Mar 5th, 2025 at 02:00 pm
Transcript Highlights:
- the comptroller and the Department of Public Safety (DPS) to ensure that revenues do not exceed the cost
- marker="10" data-time="54">Item 17 is a request to delete rider 36, which addresses crime laboratory cost
- ...performance measures to manage cases and develop cost containment
5C is taser lease cost for the Texas Highway Patrol
- 211" data-time="1260">Item 17 is a request to delete rider 30, which is related to crime laboratory cost
Keywords:
House Committee, Appropriations, HB1, law enforcement stipends, funding proposals, technical adjustments
Summary:
The meeting of the House Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee focused primarily on discussions surrounding the details of HB1, along with recommendations regarding law enforcement stipends. Several members expressed their concerns about updating the stipends to address discrepancies with local law enforcement agencies and enhance competitiveness. The conversation also touched on the technical adjustments and modifications needed for the current funding proposals, affirming a collaborative approach to managing the agency's budget and needs. Members expressed appreciation for each other's hard work and laid out future meeting plans to review riders and finalize recommendations for the chairman.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Trade, Workforce & Economic Development May 21st, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- that into the consideration as part of the business costs.
- the cost of compliance will be minimal.
- And did that cost money?
- He again said, "I think we can win this, but it's going to cost you $150,000 to $200,000."
- We do have some concerns about the impact that it could have on the cost.
Keywords:
discrimination, trade association, membership rights, professional organizations, freedom of speech, discrimination, professional association, trade association, membership rights, freedom of speech, social media, bot accounts, misinformation, disclosure, civil penalty, Texas legislation, Economic Development, SB315, SB584, SB7105
Summary:
The meeting of the Economic Development Committee was marked by a series of important discussions surrounding a range of bills, including SB315, SB584, and SB7105. SB2670, which aims to protect businesses from misleading solicitations, was highlighted during the session, where its provisions were debated among committee members. Additionally, SB2637 was presented to tackle misinformation disseminated on social media platforms. Witnesses provided insights into the implications of these bills, specifically focusing on consumer protection and the balance between technological advancement and public safety. The chair urged thoughtful consideration of the bills in the context of their impact on both businesses and residents of the state.
The meeting concluded with a call for further analysis of several key bills that were left pending, indicating strong interest in ensuring that legislations align with public interests while addressing modern challenges posed by technology and misleading practices. Attendance was robust, with committee members actively engaging with witnesses and each other to ensure comprehensive discussions were had. Notable commentary emphasized the need for regulations to adapt to the evolving digital landscape and protect citizens from dishonest business practices.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on County & Regional Government Mar 17th, 2025 at 10:00 am
House S/C on County & Regional Government
Transcript Highlights:
- So they would pay 70% of the cost of the patrols, and they would get 70% of the contract deputy's time
- Yeah, so that 100% cost is currently, for fiscal year 25, $124,100.
- All the costs that they've incurred.
- We know how much it costs to have a deputy, so we would not undercut.
- So to argue that that's not fair, I'm getting better service at no cost—it'd be a tough argument.
Keywords:
law enforcement, sheriff, constable, contracts, county governance, videoconference, county park commissioners, government meetings, public access, legislation, unincorporated communities, grant program, public improvement, rural development, Texas counties, law enforcement, sheriffs, constables, contracts, property owners' associations
Summary:
In this meeting, discussions centered around public safety and law enforcement contracts in unincorporated areas of Harris County. Key bills, including HB336, were examined which aim to allow homeowners and municipal utility districts the right to contract for police services directly, ensuring that these communities have reliable law enforcement amid growing populations. Representatives voiced concerns regarding oversight, fiscal responsibility, and the need for adequate policing coverage, especially as the unincorporated areas continue to expand rapidly without corresponding funding for public safety. Witnesses testified both in support and opposition to the proposed legislation, highlighting the need for accountability and clarity in contracting.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Finance May 23rd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- The cost to provide this protection is minimal, with plans estimated at 100 to 200 dollars per year.
- Each session we true up those projections and address unforeseen costs or changes in revenue through
- And there are continuing costs. I believe it's on appeal. It has been for years.
- Lawyers cost money, Senator West, did you know that?
- Senator Bettencourt came in with some of our costs a little bit higher than had expected.
Keywords:
Senate Committee, Supplemental Budget, House Bill 500, Infrastructure, Disaster Recovery, Bipartisan Support, Cybersecurity, Legislation, Public Testimony, Rural Communities
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee featured extensive discussions surrounding several important bills, notably House Bills 500, 4486, and 3010. Chair Huffman presented HB500, a supplemental budget addressing vital state services, in which $2.5 billion was allocated for water infrastructure projects. The committee approved the bill unanimously, showcasing bipartisan support for its critical provisions including enhancements to Texas's cybersecurity and disaster response capabilities. Discussions also revolved around HB4486, which was substituted and subsequently reported back to the full Senate, indicating ongoing legislative refinement and collaboration among members. Additionally, HB3010, aimed at facilitating disaster recovery for rural infrastructure, was brought forward by Senator Nichols, emphasizing the state's commitment to assisting communities impacted by natural calamities.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Further, SB 1494 could enhance efficiency and save taxpayers by reducing the city's costs by an average
- So I don't know what his intent is, but it costs the.
- It costs, and we had a runoff that the state had to pay for due to him.
- And It cost the candidates a huge amount of money.
- The provision will cause delayed litigation and increased costs for both sides.
Bills:
SB38, SB287, SB291, SB292, SB508, SB618, SB901, SB1436, SB1494, SB1626, SB1719, SB1999, SB1333
Keywords:
evictions, property law, tenant rights, landlord responsibilities, justice court, court rules, eminent domain, property acquisition, landowner's rights, public use, condemnation procedure, election procedures, civil penalty, public officials, voter rights, election integrity, elections, local governance, political subdivisions, general elections
Summary:
The meeting addressed several key pieces of legislation, including SB1626, which proposes to enhance Texans' ability to pursue legal action against social media platforms for censorship. The bill aims to provide statutory damages, making it easier for individuals to protect their free speech rights. Testimonies were heard from various public representatives expressing support for the bill, emphasizing its importance in maintaining free speech in the digital age. Other bills discussed included SB1719 and SB1494, each receiving varying levels of scrutiny and support.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- We'll be happy to discuss the cost structure of the bill, and we'll be happy to discuss the cost structure
- Those are the costs.
And this comes, Mr.
This is the cost structure that the...
- It shows the cost of...
You got a copy?
- That was the cost of a total of $115 million.
Keywords:
memorial highway, Captain Kevin Williams, Firefighter Austin Cheek, Smith County, transportation, memorial highway, transportation, Texas, veterans, commemoration, memorial designation, transportation, local honors, public awareness, community recognition, railroad, short line railroad, transportation, economic development, grant program
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on several bills aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of Texas transportation and port authorities. Key discussions included the implications of SB2080, which seeks to streamline operations for navigation districts by raising procurement authority, exempting security discussions from recording requirements, and aligning Texas ports with national standards to foster economic growth. Senator Alvarado advocated fervently for the bill, emphasizing its positive impact on competitiveness with ports in states like Virginia and New Jersey. Public testimony reflected mixed responses, with strong support from industry representatives but opposition from some municipal authorities concerned about the potential overreach of port authorities into local development.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on County & Regional Government Mar 24th, 2025 at 10:03 am
House S/C on County & Regional Government
Transcript Highlights:
- And so, during my time on city council, before my time here at the state, we found a cost-effective way
- often cost far more than two thousand dollars.
- Second, it also addresses inflation and rising costs.
- With rising costs of equipment, supplies, and repairs, this bill is necessary.
- This is a piece of equipment that costs several hundred thousand dollars, upward of $500,000.
Keywords:
family leave, leave pool, county employee, sick leave, vacation leave, family care, pandemic, guardianship, fencing, reservoirs, local government, regulation, land use, conservation capacity, fencing, reservoirs, local government, land use, conservation capacity, property regulation
Summary:
During this meeting, significant discussions revolved around essential bills, including HB1646, HB605, HB2379, and HB2115. HB1646, aimed at amending the Health and Safety Code, was presented as a means to enhance the operational efficiency of emergency service districts by raising the expenditure threshold for board approval from $2,000 to $50,000. Testimonies from emergency service officials were notably in favor of the bill, highlighting the improved response times and operational flexibility it would provide. On the other hand, HB605 sought to grant the Harris County Hospital District the authority to employ and commission its peace officers, tackling the increasing concerns of workplace violence in healthcare settings, which was addressed with urgency as it aimed at improving safety for both staff and patients. The bill was left pending to allow further considerations.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Mar 17th, 2025 at 10:00 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- And so I wanted to also ask, how much does IVF cost?
- The cost is variable, depending on the reason you're having it.
- Can you explain to the members on this committee who might not have a full understanding of the costs
- of public universities, or teachers or retired teachers, simply because of concerns over what the cost
- How are those costs normally handled? The funeral home would handle that if it's within...
Keywords:
financial crime, card fraud, motor fuel theft, law enforcement, criminal activity, skimmers, prevention, training, credit card fraud, debit card fraud, prosecution, illegal possession, state law, transportation protection agreement, funeral services, insurance exemption, regulation, deceased transportation, mental health, substance use disorders
Summary:
The meeting of the Committee on Pensions, Investments, and Financial Services convened to discuss various bills aimed at enhancing financial governance and protections in Texas. Notably, Representative Perez laid out House Bill 201, which proposes expanding the scope of the Financial Crimes Intelligence Center to combat organized financial crimes, such as motor fuel theft. This bill garnered significant support from witnesses, including Captain Jeff Headley from the Financial Crimes Intelligence Center, who highlighted the urgent need for legislative measures to address increasing thefts that impact both consumers and state revenue. Subsequently, testimony from several members elucidated the impact of these crimes, emphasizing their detrimental effects on Texas' economic stability. The committee members expressed their interest in the advancements in tackling such issues through the proposed legislation.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- The Economic Policy Institute found that one of the greatest costs for a family at what is in this building an absolute minimal cost.
- The cost ranges between $2,000 and $3,000.
- My question is, approximately how much do these helmets cost? $2,000 to $3,000.
- That silence cost children.
Bills:
HB2646, HB3941, HB5153, HB5155, HB5394, HB1106, HB426, HB4529, HB3984, HB4273, HB1097, HB3940, HB1941, HB4377, HB3153
Keywords:
child care, task force, high-quality care, affordability, prekindergarten partnerships, foster care, transitional living, Medicaid reform, youth assistance, independent living, services for youth, employment training, educational support, mental health services, health care, public health, child health program, reimbursement, local health entities, maternal health
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on several key bills related to health care and adoption services, with a significant emphasis on fostering care systems. Vice Chair Emanuel presented bills that aimed to streamline reporting requirements for the HHSC, while Representative Slauson's bill on voluntary adoption registries prompted a discussion on improving access and procedures within the child welfare system. Each bill was generally met with favorable votes, indicating strong bipartisan support for these initiatives. The committee heard testimonies from various stakeholders who voiced the importance of these legislative efforts in enhancing the quality of life for children and families involved in the welfare system. Notably, the committee also tackled the issue of Medicaid services and accessibility for children needing medical equipment like baby helmets, which have been a burden for many low-income families.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- ...cover the startup costs associated with the development
- associated with providing 24-7 technical support and the cost of facilitating the booking.
- Those costs are internalized into the cost of the hotel.
- So it may cover things like hotel Wi-Fi, the cost associated with baggage fees, those sort of things,
- We know that Senate Bill 1265 is a no-cost, common-sense, employer-driven solution.
Keywords:
child care, workforce resources, Texas Workforce Commission, employer support, parental assistance, Senate Bill 529, Midland, economic development, sales tax incentives, job creation, committee certification, public testimony, stakeholder support
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Economic Development Committee featured substantial discussions around several key bills aimed at advancing various sectors in Texas. Notably, Senate Bill 529 was supported by multiple stakeholders, including the Mayor of Midland, emphasizing its importance in allowing the city to access sales tax incentives that could bolster economic growth. The committee unanimously recommended several bills for certification, indicating a strong consensus among members on the proposed legislation's benefits. The focus on job creation and supporting local economies was prevalent throughout the meeting.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Fear of reprisal, cost barriers, and legal hurdles have shown that this method is simply not enough to
- dollars in carrying costs.
- But if you live in an HOA, they're charging you 40% of the cost to repair your road.
- Unscrupulous employers regularly exploit illegal alien labor to cut costs and increase profits.
- Texas must bring its state codes up to par with federal immigration law to cut these costs.
Keywords:
E-verify, employment verification, state contracts, immigration, labor compliance, Sunset Review, government accountability, Texas Lottery Commission, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Texas Ethics Commission, government agencies, regulatory review, regulatory consistency, enforcement, local government compliance, cybersecurity, business protections, public testimony
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce centered around critical legislation including SB2858, SB324, and several others pertaining to regulatory consistency and enforcement in local governments. Notably, SB2858 was introduced to address the apparent noncompliance of some cities with state laws by empowering the Attorney General to enforce regulations more effectively. The members deliberated on the implications of this bill, with public testimony highlighting the need for stronger measures against local governments that ignore state mandates. Aside from regulatory discussions, SB2610 was well-received as it aimed to provide cybersecurity protections for small to medium-sized businesses, encouraging compliance with industry standards while simultaneously minimizing potential legal repercussions for companies against data breaches. The committee aimed to strike a balance between ensuring business security and avoiding undue burden on smaller enterprises.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- and authorize recovery of actual damages,
including costs
- span marker="28" data-time="162"> In civil actions, individuals may recover attorney fees and court costs
- Spent grain can be used as a low-cost, high-quality feed
- is feed expenses, and those costs are on the rise.
- of goods, rising costs of real estate, and other disasters.
Keywords:
sexual assault, healthcare facilities, forensic examination, survivor support, emergency contraceptive, online impersonation, civil liability, social media, identity theft, defamation, counseling damages, injunctive relief, public health, safety regulations, community health, state standards, healthcare access, identification, real estate, proof of identity
Summary:
The committee meeting included significant discussions surrounding several bills, notably HB220, HB3336, and HB4904. HB220, which addresses access to emergency contraception for survivors of sexual assault, sparked intense debate among committee members and witnesses. Various stakeholders testified for and against the bill, emphasizing the importance of immediate access to such services while also raising ethical concerns regarding contraception. Public testimony was robust, showcasing strong opinions on both sides of the legislation, with many advocating for the rights and protections of survivors.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Appropriations - S/C on Article III Feb 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Appropriations - S/C on Article III
Transcript Highlights:
Administrative costs as a percentage of the operating
- By the way, we're keeping a four-year degree affordable at Texas State, decreasing the average net cost
This aligns costs with other medical schools in Texas
- These funds are critical to ensure quality while keeping our costs affordable.
- Maintenance supports needs in a cost environment that is
Keywords:
higher education funding, workforce development, nursing shortage, STEM programs, institutional enhancement, technical programs, healthcare funding
Summary:
The meeting primarily revolved around discussions on higher education funding, workforce development, and new program initiatives addressing critical shortages in Texas. Various university representatives presented requests for funds to support expansion in nursing, engineering, and technical programs aimed at meeting the demands of a changing job market. A strong emphasis was placed on the importance of combatting healthcare and workforce shortages, particularly in nursing and STEM fields, with calls for increased funding for institutional enhancements and support for significant projects like new education centers and degree programs.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
It's more than enough to offset the cost of the bill
- So by extending it, you are adding costs.
- So we've now corrected that, and that reduces just the cost of the bill. By how much?
- of labor and the cost of materials breakdown is about 50-50.
- ...of California and Florida to capture the cost savings
Keywords:
HVAC, tax exemption, energy efficiency, residential heating, installation services, Energy Star, sales tax, HVAC, tax exemption, energy efficiency, residential, installation, Energy Star, sales tax, HVAC, sales tax exemption, residential, energy efficiency, Environmental Protection Agency, HVAC
Summary:
The meeting focused on several key pieces of legislation, including Senate Bills 2018, 2206, and 1901. SB2018 aims to establish a tax credit for businesses contributing to non-profits that promote family stability, while SB2206 proposes a transition in Texas' R&D tax structure to support innovation and small businesses. Each bill drew significant attention and public testimony, highlighting their potential economic impacts and the importance of supporting local communities. Notably, public testimony revealed strong support and concerns regarding SB2206, particularly in relation to new job creation and economic growth versus the need for fiscal responsibility.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- So this seems like a cost saver to me, not a three million dollar
- cost addition.
- But they're saying it gives the cost of money; I think that's for their programming.
- Construction plans, cost projections, funding sources, and
- It reminds us all of the true cost of freedom.
Keywords:
driver's license, vision correction, medical verification, Texas Department of Public Safety, renewal fees, Senate Transportation Committee, House Bill 647, public safety, high-speed rail, public testimony, license renewal, DPS, transportation legislation
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Transportation Committee included crucial discussions surrounding various bills pertaining to transportation and public safety. Notably, House Bill 647 was presented to streamline the process for individuals who have undergone corrective eye surgery, allowing them to update their driver's licenses without needing to visit the Department of Public Safety in person. This bill was celebrated for potentially decreasing traffic at DMV offices and optimizing resources, with members expressing general support and a positive sentiment surrounding its passage. Additionally, public testimony was gathered for House Bill 2003, concerning high-speed rail projects, where witnesses voiced differing opinions, emphasizing the bill's relevance to current transit challenges and community impacts.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education Mar 27th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education
Transcript Highlights:
- These districts cost more.
- The cost of the bill would be much larger than you want it
- The current disjointed system costs Texas businesses over $10 billion annually in lost productivity.
- With the increased costs of childcare and all of the other burdens that it entails, it is impossible
- It is actually much more cost-efficient for families to go to a childcare center and receive services
Keywords:
early childhood education, task force, governance, Texas Education Agency, child care, education policy, virtual education, hybrid learning, school funding, average daily attendance, education technology, remote learning, education legislation, workforce development, adult education, high school diploma, industry certification, pilot program, gifted education, education support
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on the discussion of several educational bills, notably HB2196, which aims to create a comprehensive framework for virtual and hybrid learning in Texas public schools. Chairman Bell and other committee members emphasized the significance of this bill, stating that it aligns with bipartisan recommendations for enhancing access to education. Testimonies from educators and parents were heard, echoing admiration for the potential of virtual learning to provide flexibility to students, especially those with specific educational needs. There were also concerns voiced regarding provisions within the bill that could affect traditional educational frameworks, sparking vigorous discussions among committee members.