Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senate Committee on Business and Commerce'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This is one of my priorities for the session, and we also support the committee substitute.
  • Abortion and Medicaid enable abuse and inflict harm on women.
  • I received only one non-response and one insult against Jesus.
  • keep this pill and others like it safe, and on top of that...
  • Male and female, and what can I rely on?
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

Higher Education May 6th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Education Review Committee and the Faculty Senate.
  • The previous one in the Senate had already reached out, and as we...
  • My name is Laura Martinez, and I'm here on behalf of myself against Senate Bill 37.
  • and I'm happy to continue to provide detailed feedback on the committee substitute, but all the work
  • He laid his bill out in committee and debated it on the floor, and we're going through our processes
Summary: The committee meeting focused on heated discussions surrounding SB37 and HB4848, with numerous testimonies given by concerned citizens, educators, and students. Advocates for SB37 emphasized the need for educational reform, arguing that current higher education standards are overly influenced by political ideologies and do not adequately prepare students for the workforce. Opponents voiced strong concerns about the bill's potential to undermine academic freedom and lead to the removal of essential courses from the curriculum, which would diminish the quality of education in Texas. The meeting highlighted a clear divide on the future of educational policies and governance in universities, reflecting broader social and political tensions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs Aug 15th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I thank the Senate for standing up and taking the initiative on this issue.
  • I was out on Senate Bill 6, and on behalf of Senator Perry
  • Testimony on Senate Bill 8 is now before us, and Senator
  • Schwertner, because in committees like business and commerce, where we have complicated energy and rate
  • us, and so, as a matter of pending business, the chair lays out Senate Bill 11, Senator Parker's bill
Bills: SB6, SB7, SB8, SB11, SB12, SB13, SB15
Summary: This meeting of the committee addressed several significant bills, with strong expressions of support and opposition from various stakeholders. Notably, SB8, a controversial bill concerning gender identity and access to bathrooms, drew extensive public testimony. Many speakers voiced concerns about the implications of such legislation, emphasizing the potential harm to transgender individuals and the necessity for an atmosphere of safety and inclusivity. In contrast, other members supported the bill, arguing for the protection of women's spaces. The committee also discussed SB15 regarding police records, which sparked debates on transparency and accountability in law enforcement. The meeting concluded with the committee members voting favorably on several bills, despite ongoing public dissent and calls for more urgent discussion on flooding relief efforts and community safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 5th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Finance please come to order, and the clerk

  • Wynne Rosser.** Senator, we focus on high-demand fields and high-demand occupations, and so we want to
  • Wynne Rosser.** Senator, we focus on high-demand fields and high-demand occupations, and so we're about
  • Senate Finance Committee for your support and leadership on GME in recent years and in this year's *
  • Senate Finance Committee for your support and leadership on GME.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting focused on the funding recommendations for public health-related institutions and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. During the session, significant discussions were held around the $4.2 billion in total funding recommended for the 2026-27 biennium, which reflects a notable decrease compared to the previous biennium. Key highlights included an increase in funding for various educational support programs like the Graduate Medical Education expansion, and the need for modern data systems in colleges to ensure educational programs meet workforce demands. Testimonies from representatives highlighted both concerns about budget cuts and optimism for enhanced funding initiatives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I know you've worked really hard on it, and so have the families and advocates.
  • was as a business and industry.
  • Hold on, just one second and we'll get this right. Thank you.
  • to work with the representative and the senator who are working on this bill.
  • Come and see one of our campuses.
Summary: The committee meeting featured a comprehensive discussion primarily focused on HB1188, which seeks to establish an early connection for families of children diagnosed with intellectual and developmental disabilities to local IDD authorities. Multiple testimonies highlighted the urgent need for such a system, emphasizing how it could transform the experience of families by providing critical information and resources at the moment of diagnosis rather than at a later age. Representative Emanuel passionately presented the bill, underlining its potential to make a significant positive impact in the lives of families across Texas. Additionally, there were discussions regarding other bills related to education and child services, including HB123 and HB2310, with emphasis on the importance of early intervention and support for young children with disabilities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you for coming all the way to the committee hearing and to testify on this bill, and I just
  • be printed, and it be sent to the Committee on Local and Consent Calendars.
  • and I can send the committee later about apps they can download, so one app...
  • And I just want to tell everybody on this committee, we need to vote for all four of these.
  • No objection, the committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development is now adjourned.
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

S/C on County & Regional Government Apr 21st, 2025 at 01:04 pm

House S/C on County & Regional Government

Transcript Highlights:
  • Chairman, members of the committee, for allowing me to appear here before you today and to speak on this
  • the committee decide to accept this bill and pass it out.
  • Administrative and Rules Advisory Committee.
  • And I apologize if I mispronounce one or both of those.
  • He has his own business and travels throughout the country.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on the discussion of various bills addressing public safety, administrative efficiency, and regulatory frameworks affecting counties in Texas. Notably, Representative Kerwin introduced HB3087 aimed at establishing child safety zones and was met with mixed reactions, including strong opposition from advocates who argued it would unfairly restrict residents' rights. Additionally, bills like HB3234 were discussed, which seeks to reduce bureaucratic hurdles for county construction projects, aiming to streamline processes and save costs for rapidly growing counties like Bexar and Travis. Public testimony played a crucial role in the debates, with numerous witnesses voicing their support or concerns over the proposed legislation, showcasing the vibrant community interest in these measures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • and to testify on this bill, and I just...
  • on Texas business owners.
  • be printed, and it be sent to the committee on local and consent calendars.
  • And to the committee on Local and Consent, the clerk will
  • , and trade partners, and on their stability.
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 2nd C.S.

Agriculture & Livestock Aug 19th, 2025 at 02:08 pm

House Agriculture & Livestock Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Committee on Agriculture and Livestock will come to order
  • so on and so forth.
  • if they die on the ground and so on and so forth.
  • committee, and thank you for the invitation and opportunity to speak today on the next steps in the New
  • I serve on the board of directors and I also serve as the chair of the Cattle Health and Well-Being Committee
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Agriculture and Livestock addressed the ongoing threat of the New World Screw Worm, which poses significant risks to both livestock and wildlife in Texas. Chairman Kitzman emphasized the importance of a coordinated response among state and federal agencies, including the recent $750 million investment for a new sterile fly facility in south Texas, crucial for combating this threat. Several invited witnesses provided insights on current research, management strategies, and the collaboration needed to effectively handle potential infestations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • As I mentioned, when we left here on Saturday, both Senator Miles and I drove back to Houston, and we
  • And I could go on and on.
  • Everybody on this committee has been respectful. And with that...
  • I'm actually a constituent of Senator Miles, so I want to recognize him and his work on this committee
  • Senator Hinojosa was on that committee, and there were regional hearings from September the 1st to November
Summary: The committee meeting addressed the contentious issue of congressional redistricting, following concerns about the legality and fairness of past maps that allegedly disenfranchised minority voters. The testimony predominantly rejected the notion of conducting mid-decade redistricting, with multiple witnesses arguing against the initiative citing lack of legal justification and the risk of exacerbating racial gerrymandering. Prominent discussions included calls for more transparency in the redistricting process, with several members expressing the need for public engagement through field hearings and meaningful opportunities to review and comment on proposed maps. Senator King and other members led discussions emphasizing the significance of community involvement in shaping equitable congressional districts that reflect Texas' demographics.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Committee, it goes to all representatives and all senators.
  • And then on the Senate side, it's the Chairman of Senate Finance, so currently, Senator Huffman is in
  • The Senate actually heard testimony for a good part of a day in the Interim Committee on Business and
  • on Business and Commerce in May of 2022 on this very issue.
  • Now, me as a business person and one who understands...
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Delivery of Government Efficiency marked the beginning of a new era focused on holding government agencies accountable and eliminating inefficiencies. Chairman Capriglione emphasized the committee's role in modernizing state government, implementing rigorous oversight, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used effectively. The committee plans to address waste, mismanagement, and corruption, aiming for an ambitious agenda over the next 22 months. Discussions included the establishment of public hearings to foster transparency and the development of legislative proposals to drive reform. Several state agencies provided insights into their operations, with a particular focus on how they can better serve the public through increased efficiency and enhanced cybersecurity measures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 10th, 2025 at 09:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • the grounds that the amendment does not comply with the Committee on Calendar's rule for Senate Bill
  • Canales and Mr. Hernandez because of important business, on the motion of Mr. Martinez.
  • committee substitute for Senate Bill 1, under Rule 8, Section 4 of the House Rules on the grounds that
  • and particularly on Article Two with Chair Hinojosa and how she worked with us on this.
  • read on three several days and to place HB 500 on its third reading and final passage.
Summary: The committee meeting opened with a recognition of 'Donna Day', celebrating the contributions of the City of Donna to the state, led by various representatives. Significant discussions then shifted towards the budget matters, including the consideration of HB3794 about licensing and regulations concerning Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. Members expressed their support and acknowledged the importance of addressing healthcare provisions within the community. The discussion brought forth various motions aimed at suspending the rules to facilitate the timely deliberation of proposed bills and recommendations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • We ask for 22 copies: one for the record and 21 for the members of the committee.
  • and so on.
  • and staffed the Committee on Education.
  • And committee members on this registering committee, my
  • I was elected to our student government and served two years as a senator and one as a committee chair
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on public testimonies regarding the revised congressional redistricting plan. Numerous witnesses presented their concerns about how the proposed changes could potentially dilute representation for minority communities. A consistent theme throughout the testimonies was the fear that the redistricting effort was not aimed at serving constituents but rather at securing power for political parties. Several participants expressed a strong opposition to what they perceived as gerrymandering tactics, claiming they would negatively impact African-American and Hispanic communities in Texas. The meeting revealed a clear public sentiment against the redistricting proposals, with nearly all witnesses speaking out against the changes. The Chair noted an overwhelming number of testimonies opposing the redistricting, indicating a strong community response to the proposed changes and their implications on fair representation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am here on behalf of myself to support House Bill 2507. I'm a business owner and a family man.
  • I serve on the board and the executive committee for the Texas Association of Business, and we've helped
  • ...and I'm happy to work with the committee on that because
  • one committee, so happy to work with everybody and anybody on making sure that the language reads the
  • completely cleared by three senators, one from Travis County and two from Harris County.
Summary: The meeting was primarily focused on discussions surrounding several bills aimed at reforming aspects of criminal justice in Texas. Representative Little laid out HB413, detailing its provisions which aim to prevent pretrial detention from exceeding the maximum time a person could be sentenced if convicted. The bill generated significant discussion, emphasizing the importance of due process and the financial burden of detaining individuals unnecessarily. Public testimonies were presented, with varied opinions on the efficacy and implementation of this bill. Additionally, discussions on HB2507 and HB1418 highlighted the ongoing efforts to improve transparency and reliability in the judicial process, specifically addressing issues related to grand jury proceedings and in-custody informants, respectively. Witnesses from both supporting and opposing sides provided comprehensive insights, showcasing the depth of concern regarding wrongful convictions and the need for reform in testimony verification practices. The committee concluded the meeting with plans for a follow-up session to continue these crucial discussions and potentially advance the bills further.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part II) Feb 4th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Committee on Finance will come to order.

  • Senator Flores and then Senator Zaffirini.
  • Good afternoon, Senators, and thank you for allowing me to testify on SB 1.
  • Thank you, Chair Hoffman, Vice Chair Hinojosa, and members of the Senate Finance Committee.
  • Madam Chair and committee members, my name is Cynthia Humphrey, and I'm testifying today on behalf of
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting focused on several critical issues, primarily surrounding funding for mental health services in Texas. Various stakeholders, including representatives from mental health organizations and community service providers, provided testimonies advocating for increased investments in mental health resources, particularly for children's mental health initiatives and support systems. One prominent discussion was around the need for family preservation funding to maintain support for families in crisis. The evidence presented highlighted an alarming rise in food insecurity, which underscored the necessity of legislative action to protect vulnerable populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Jul 15th, 2025 at 01:07 pm

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Charles Perry of Lubbock, who chairs the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs.
  • We're going to focus on brackish and other options, and that is what is eligible under Senate Bill 7
  • You and I and Senator Nichols and this entire committee worked very hard to make sure that that was,
  • Chairman, Senators, and members of the committee.
  • I think Senator Nichols touched on that earlier, and maybe some of the other members.
Summary: The meeting of the Texas House Natural Resources Committee was focused on issues surrounding groundwater management and recent legislative developments, specifically addressing concerns over high-capacity groundwater wells. Various experts and community members provided testimony emphasizing the need for thoughtful regulation to balance conservation and property rights. The discussions highlighted the necessity for legislative action to strengthen regulations, manage groundwater sustainably, and clarify the criteria for issuing export permits. Notably, the overwhelming participation from local residents showcased the community's commitment to addressing these critical water issues, which will have long-term implications for the region's land and resources. The meeting concluded with calls for further review of groundwater regulations with the intent to come up with effective solutions that prioritize the needs of local communities while ensuring sustainable water practices.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The Texas House Select Committee on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding will come to order.
  • and House Select Committees on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding.
  • We'll try to alternate between Senate and House members as they are on the board.
  • You talked about it, and Senator Flores hinted on this, and doing after-action reports.
  • It was one of 20 people, and we were able to compare, doing a one-to-one with each one of those, and
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on discussions around the recent floods in Texas, specifically addressing emergency preparedness, response coordination, and recovery efforts. Officials from various agencies provided testimonies on the challenges faced during the emergency, including issues with communication systems among first responders. Notably, the need for improved inter-agency communication and technology integration was emphasized, with recommendations for establishing regional communications units for better coordination during disasters. The audience included local government representatives and emergency management partners, who shared insights and experiences from the recent flooding events.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development May 19th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • They'll be here shortly, and then another senator is walking away from their committee now and coming
  • One theme emerged loud and clear: that way too many businesses interact with state government.
  • Number one was reducing the inventory tax on small businesses, for which I want to commend the Senate
  • Senator Johnson sends up a committee substitute for House Bill 4341 and moves it to the floor.
  • I know it's hard to get here on Monday morning on time with everybody else, and other committee hearings
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Economic Development Committee focused on several key bills aimed at enhancing economic development and addressing infrastructure needs in Texas. Notably, House Bill 5195 was discussed to modernize state agency websites, making them accessible and user-friendly for small businesses. Senator Alvarado emphasized the importance of this legislation in providing a better online experience for Texas residents and businesses alike, noting that outdated websites pose significant barriers. The bill received strong support from both committee members and public witnesses, highlighting its potential to spur economic growth. Furthermore, House Bills 2760 and 2765 were also favorably reported, aimed at refining the unemployment benefit appeal process and expanding resources for rural economic development, respectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human ServicesAudio only. May 5th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services will come to order

  • 26 and recognizes the Senate sponsor.
  • last week in the Committee on Health and Human Services.
  • Senator Sparks sends up the committee substitute and

  • Senator Perry moves that Senate Bill 1986 do pass and be printed.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services meeting featured extensive discussions surrounding several bills pertaining to health services and child protection. Notably, House Bill 109, aimed at establishing therapeutic residential treatment placements for children, was presented along with a committee substitute that included a provision for pass-through grants to build mental health facilities. The bill passed unanimously and was recommended for the local and contested calendar without any objections. Furthermore, House Bill 140 saw significant amendments to sharpen its focus on child protective services, receiving unanimous support as well.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations Feb 24th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm happy to be back on this committee. I've been on it since I arrived in the Senate.
  • I'm returning again for my second time and I'm glad to be back on this committee.
  • , and I welcome Vice Chair Hagenbuch and also Senator Birdwell to the committee.
  • I'm returning again for my second time, and I'm glad to be back on this committee.
  • Since 2015, he's served on the Pattern Jury Charge Committee covering business, consumer insurance, and
Summary: The meeting focused on several crucial issues, including the Texas Water Fund and its implications for development in the state. Various members highlighted the critical need for effective management of water resources, discussing the role of the Water Development Board and their strategies for outreach to local governments. The committee engaged in a thorough examination of funding projects and the sustainable financing necessary for communities facing challenges in meeting their infrastructure needs. Additionally, there was notable discussion regarding promoting workforce development and the alignment of educational programs with the demands of the job market as indicated by recent trends in community colleges.

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