Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'West Texas arts'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce Apr 24th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • West local, Mr. Chairman.

  • Small dollar credit has not kept pace with the needs of Texans, consumers in Texas.
  • I'm a senior policy analyst at Texas Appleseed, and I am respectfully...
  • My name is Stephanie Mason, and I'm representing AARP Texas and its 2.5 million members.
  • Texas, I think, is about ninth out of 44 states.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Business and Commerce Committee was marked by discussions on several significant bills, with a keen emphasis on legislative updates and committee substitutes. Notably, Senator Blanco presented a new committee substitute for SB2610, which modifies the employee cap from 100 to 250 and extends the update timeline for cyber security programs for small businesses. This substitute was adopted unanimously, reflecting a collaborative agreement among the committee members. Additionally, there were discussions surrounding SB1856 as Senator Crayton provided insights into how stakeholder feedback influenced the bill's committee substitute. The committee ultimately voted in favor, pushing it towards the local and contested calendar, indicating the bill's progression through legislative channels.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management Apr 3rd, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I encourage you to support HB 2225 to keep Texas, Texas

  • The Texas Association, the Texas A&M Research Center

  • development in Texas.
  • APA Texas suggests modifying the bill to clarify.
  • In Texas, we had Bandera, Bastrop, and Austin.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several pressing bills concerning housing and municipal regulations. Notably, House Bill 2225, presented by Representative Buckley, aimed to improve transparency regarding impact fees, which have been increasingly burdening homebuyers in Texas. The bill proposes that political subdivisions must present land use plans at least 60 days prior to hearings, giving stakeholders ample time to review. The discussion highlighted the significant effects of rising impact fees on housing affordability, with testimonies from various stakeholders emphasizing the need for accountability and clearer processes. The bill stirred a lively debate, with proponents arguing for increased transparency and opponents expressing concerns about the ramifications of the proposed changes on local governance and infrastructure funding. House Bill 2304 was another crucial point of discussion, seeking to streamline the approval process for residential backup power systems. The bill faced support from numerous witnesses, including energy industry representatives, who touted its potential to enhance energy resilience and efficiency. The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency for revisiting these issues in future sessions, as committee members and advocates for both bills anticipated more rigorous discussions ahead in light of the housing market challenges in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • that's the Texas Venture Alliance, which I happen to chair.
  • universities, Texas State and UH.
  • Texas is thousands of units short, and we need more.
  • When I moved to South Lake, Texas, I was 37. Today I'm 67.
  • These results are not driven only by voters in Texas cities.
Summary: The meeting featured public testimonies from various stakeholders, including mayors from small cities who described the difficulties of rapid development with limited staff and resources. They highlighted the importance of balancing property rights and groundwater management while planning for sustainable growth. The discussions were robust, addressing the challenges of infrastructure demands stemming from growth and the necessary partnerships between local governments and developers. Overall, the meeting showcased the committee's engagement with community concerns regarding local governance and sustainable development practices.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • We had the East Texas hearing on July 28th, and the West Texas hearing, which included the El Paso area
  • particularly when you get into West Texas, where so many
  • I just wanted to respond to what you said about District 11 and going from west Texas, from Midland.
  • So it's the same thing, and then it balloons out into West Texas.
  • But you understand in West Texas, for you to be able to get 766 thousand people together, you've got.
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Congressional Redistricting focused primarily on the discussion of HB4 and SB4, concerning the redistricting process based on the 2020 Census data. Chairman King opened the session, expressing gratitude to the committee members for their attendance and emphasizing the importance of completing redistricting within the special session's 30-day timeframe. Public testimony was a major component, with numerous individuals voicing their opinions both in favor and against the proposed redistricting maps, emphasizing issues of representation and concerns of racial injustices inherent in the process. The majority of witnesses highlighted the need for immediate attention to pressing issues such as flood relief instead of focusing solely on redistricting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 May 26th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • West, here.

  • West, aye.

  • West, no.

  • West. Aye.

  • West. Aye.

Summary: The Senate Committee on Education K-16 convened to address several legislative proposals, primarily focusing on bills related to education and public safety. Among the notable discussions was House Bill 121 concerning public school safety measures. Advocates highlighted the need for enhanced security protocols and the commissioning of peace officers, while the committee unanimously passed the bill for further review by the full Senate. Additionally, House Bill 1105, which provides tuition exemptions for certain parent paramedics, sparked an engaging debate about educational incentives and support for emergency responders, resulting in a favorable recommendation from the committee. The session also witnessed an intensive discussion on HB 4623 that intertwines the liability of educational institutions and their employees in the context of student protection, reflecting on the impact of recent testimony on children’s abuse cases heard previously.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Finance Aug 15th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • West.

  • West.

  • West.

  • West? Aye.

  • West. Aye.

Bills: SB2, SB3, SB5, SB9, SB10, SB14, SB16, SB34, SB18
Summary: The committee meeting covered multiple bills, primarily focusing on flood relief initiatives and education reforms. Senator Bettencourt presented SB3, detailing updates to the state's flood warning system. He expressed that the bill's objective is to enhance early warning systems funded through the governor's office. Public testimony was opened but no individuals expressed their opinion, leading to a smooth progression as the bill was reported favorably to the Senate. Additionally, Senator Perry discussed SB14, which aims to provide impact fee credits to cities to encourage innovative water conservation efforts. This bill mirrored previous legislation passed last session.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • West.
  • West.

  • Senator West moves that House Bill...
  • Paxson, West.
  • West.
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on a series of municipal management district bills, including several proposals for new districts across various counties. Notably, House Bill 5696 was discussed, which aims to establish a reserve municipal management district in Mansfield, projected to facilitate economic growth through a mixed-use development. During the session, multiple bills such as HB5665, HB5670, and HB5637 were moved forward, passing unanimously with recommendations for further evaluation. Public testimony for these bills was minimal, with no significant opposition raised against any provisions during discussions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government Apr 14th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • At this time, Senator West lays out a...
  • the University of Texas Law School, where I teach Texas Property Tax Law.
  • That’s not how we do things in Texas.
  • and the Texas Property Tax Code.
  • Senator West, thank you very much.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Local Government covered various pressing bills focused primarily on property tax issues. Notable discussions included the examination of Senate Bill 1052, which addresses appraisal challenges faced by Gulf Coast counties and aims to ensure tax calculations reflect realistic revenue expectations. Witnesses from local governments expressed the necessity of this bill, highlighting the severe financial implications of tax disputes on public services and education. Additionally, the committee reviewed Senate Bill 325, which reinforces the requirement for water availability to be confirmed prior to land development, as previous loopholes allowed developers to bypass this essential regulation. Public testimonies echoed concerns around the implications of unchecked property development and emphasized the need for proper resource allocation.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I think you had the companion to this, Senator West, that we heard in the committee.
  • Senator West to explain the bill.
  • I'm a general dentist from Katy, Texas, and I'm in support of this bill.
  • The Texas Dental Association is also in support of this bill.
  • Ho, thank you for coming from Katy, Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the Health and Human Services Committee covered a variety of bills primarily focused on health care service enhancements and legal protections for employees. A notable discussion surrounded HB50, which aims to integrate HIV testing into routine STD screenings, a topic that received unanimous backing due to its potential to reduce the transmission of the virus. There was also significant dialogue around HB2399, which requires courts to provide detailed findings when making safety determinations regarding children's placements, further ensuring transparency and clarity in decision-making processes. The committee deliberated on various aspects of health care accessibility, particularly regarding individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as legislative measures to protect family services workers from damages caused in the line of duty. The session was characterized by thoughtful engagement from committee members and testimonies from various stakeholders.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • You've heard me in front of the committee talk about the issues in foster care in West Texas and our
  • Well, whenever we were trying to implement community-based care here in West Texas, there was an issue
  • to improve the foster care system in West Texas.
  • We're also the backbone organization for a community collaborative called West Texas Together.
  • We have frequent wildfires and dust storms from West Texas to North Texas.
Summary: The committee meeting encompassed a comprehensive discussion regarding various legislative matters, including the critical examination of HB741, HB341, HB582, and HB471. Representative Gervin Hawkins presented HB741, aimed at enhancing financial support for relative caregivers, ensuring an alignment in assistance with licensed foster parents to foster kinship placements. This initiative was met with supportive testimonies from several stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of keeping children connected with their families for stability. Furthermore, representatives voiced differing views on the proposed regulations in HB341 and HB582, leading to a vibrant debate where several public members provided insight into practical implications and potential consequences of the bills.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce (Part I) May 1st, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • of the Texas Humane Legislation Network.
  • They will lose all consumer protection provided by Texas law.
  • I represent the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • and customers, but also for employees here in Texas.
  • Our average deal in Texas is about...
Summary: In the recent meeting of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce, multiple significant bills were discussed, with House Bill 912 and Senate Bill 1003 receiving favorable recommendations for further consideration. Senator Zaffirini played a pivotal role in moving several bills through the committee process, including Senate Bill 748, which also received support with a unanimous vote. Public testimonies were taken for various bills, notably SB 2113, which focuses on improving legislative access to information, fostering a more transparent government. The committee's discussions were marked by an emphasis on good governance and the importance of legislative oversight.
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:
  • Sul Ross State University was established in March of 1917 in Alpine, Texas, to serve West Texas rural
  • Water resources are inherently rare in West Texas, making water conservation particularly critical in
  • The local communities of West Texas are ill-prepared for managing the precious water resources in the
  • The West Texas Water Research Center will lead in the development of collaborative solutions to the water
  • challenges of West Texas, supporting landowners, communities, and water rights.
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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) Mar 24th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator West, here.

  • than 150,000 Texas residents.
  • I'm the CEO of the Texas Association of Builders.
  • Senator West.

    Oh yes, Senator West.

  • You know, Senator West, we will ask that question and get an ...
Summary: The committee meeting focused primarily on the discussion of various bills aimed at addressing key issues related to housing development and youth tobacco use. Notably, SB1882 was brought to the floor by Senator Betancourt, which aims to reassess the regulations surrounding moratoriums on residential and commercial property development. Several industry representatives testified in favor of the bill, emphasizing the necessity of increased transparency and more robust guidelines for imposing moratoriums. The discussions highlighted the economic impact that open-ended moratoriums can have on local builders and potential homeowners, urging the need for legislative changes to protect development rights and housing availability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government Apr 14th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • an adjunct professor at the University of Texas Law School, where I teach Texas Property Tax Law.
  • and in the Texas Property Tax Code.
  • The Texas...
  • It's Texas Disposal.
  • Senator West. Thank you very much.
Summary: During this committee meeting, several critical bills were deliberated, reflecting the legislators' commitment to addressing property tax regulations and groundwater issues in Texas. Notably, Senate Bill 325 was introduced to close loopholes created by House Bill 3697, ensuring that subdivisions reliant on private roads must demonstrate groundwater availability, a move praised by representatives from environmental and public welfare organizations. The bill emphasizes the necessity for sustainable development practices to prevent future water shortages. Another significant focus was Senate Bill 2172, which aims to rectify the erroneous interpretation of the tax code regarding homestead exemptions, protecting compliant homeowners from unfair tax burdens. This cleanup bill clarifies reapplication processes for homestead exemptions to prevent confusion among appraisal districts and homeowners alike. Public testimony from various stakeholders echoed widespread support for the bills, highlighting the importance of transparency and fair administration in property-related legislation.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • And so currently, Texas...

  • Monica Martinez with the Texas Education Agency is available as a...
  • Hill here on behalf of the Texas Association of Builders, our nearly 10,000...
  • Senator West. Thank you, Madam Chair.
  • West. Nay.

Summary: During this committee meeting, a total of 16 bills were discussed, covering various topics mainly focused on education and support for vulnerable populations. Notably, House Bill 1211 was a significant highlight, aiming to remove the 25th birthday deadline for former foster youth to utilize state college tuition benefits. This bill garnered strong support from multiple members, including personal testimonies from individuals who benefited from such educational support. The conversation around HB1211 emphasized the challenges faced by former foster youth, including lack of awareness and support, which aligns with the bill's objective of extending opportunities regardless of age.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part I) Jan 28th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • **West**? **Zafirini**?
  • West. Here. Zaffirini. Present.
  • **Senator West**, you have questions?
  • **Senator West**, thank you, Madam Chair.
  • Supreme Court against a dentist in North Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the committee primarily focused on the Office of the Attorney General, where General Ken Paxton and his staff presented budget recommendations, highlighting a proposed decrease of $163.9 million from the 2024-25 biennium budget. Discussions included essential service funding such as the Crime Victims Compensation Program, which is facing challenges due to revenue shortfalls and increased demand. The committee raised concerns regarding the method of finance swaps that impacted the overall budget, leading to a $38 million cut that the Attorney General’s office deemed an error. Representatives from the LBB were also questioned about the implications of these funding changes.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas.
  • would not work for West Texas.
  • One Accord partners with local leaders, service providers, and families in West Texas to.
  • West Texas Together has laid the groundwork for local collaboration in child welfare, showing the potential
  • But you're saying that in far West Texas, it can't be?
Summary: The meeting involved in-depth discussions focused primarily on several significant bills aimed at reforming healthcare, improving consumer protection, and enhancing community-based care. Key highlights included House Bill 1919 and House Bill 1763, which address the roles and regulation of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) in Texas. Lawmakers emphasized the need for these bills to create a fairer landscape for independent pharmacies while ensuring patient access to necessary medications. Public testimonies reflected both support for the reforms and concerns regarding their potential implications. Another major topic was Senate Bill 513, which proposes the development of a pilot program for community-based care in rural West Texas, aiming to improve child welfare services in regions facing unique challenges.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 1st, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This gives Texas a voice and some rule-making authority.
  • One of them is that it would allow for Texas to opt in once.
  • So that's why we're trying to find a way to serve both Texas customers.
  • Texas has the highest number of people uninsured.
  • Texas is not a one-size-fits-all state. Everybody.
Summary: The meeting convened with Chair Hull overseeing the discussions, and a quorum was confirmed with all members present. The primary focus was on voting several bills that had been discussed in previous hearings. Notable among them was HB1155, which relates to monetary assistance from the DFPS to certain parents. The committee adopted a substitute for the bill without objection and subsequently moved it forward with recommendations for favorable approval to the full House. Another significant topic was HB136, which aimed to include lactation consultation in Medicaid coverage, which also passed out of committee with a substitute.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Apr 28th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • Bartlett, you are with the Texas Lawyers for Children, and you're testifying for yourself and Texas Lawyers
  • That is the interpretation of Texas Lawyers for Children; the state of Texas is not.
  • they're even still doing it—was West Virginia.
  • ...when Texas gets audited there is a deem for Texas.
  • The Texas Family Code.
Summary: The meeting of the Family and Fiduciary Relationships Committee involved extensive discussions focused on improvements in family law, particularly regarding child welfare and representation in court. Several bills were presented, including HB3382, which aims to enhance the standard of representation for children and parents in legal proceedings. Testimony highlighted concerns over attorney performance and the necessity of timely communication between attorneys and their young clients. Members voiced both support and opposition, especially regarding the timelines set forth for attorney consultations prior to hearings, reflecting a strong concern for the welfare of children involved in custody and welfare cases.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Apr 23rd, 2025 at 10:04 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I represent a West Texas district with nearly 8 gigawatts

  • doesn't change the laws, liberties, or lives of people in West Texas.
  • I'm here today representing the Texas Department of Health.
  • We currently spend over $21,000 a year on business licenses in Texas alone.
  • Texas.
Summary: The committee meeting was marked by discussions on several key legislative measures, particularly focusing on amendments to emergency powers and local food vendor regulations. A highlight was the presentation of SJR 40 by Representative Slauson, aimed at redefining how the state handles emergency declarations and asserting legislative authority beyond the traditional session times. This proposal elicited significant interest and debate among committee members, emphasizing the need for a more responsive governance framework to better handle future crises like COVID-19. In regards to food regulations, House Bill 2844 was discussed, seeking to streamline licensing requirements for food trucks operating across multiple jurisdictions. Testimony included perspectives from both supporters advocating for fewer regulatory hurdles and critics warning about potential public health risks.

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