Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'bipartisan legislation'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce (Part II) Mar 27th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Wendell from Texas Watch, in favor of the legislation. Thank you again, Mr.
  • So we're in support of this legislation.
  • So I think that's being addressed in other legislation.
  • This legislation is directly antithetical to that.
  • Passing this legislation would basically restrict our growth.
Summary: The meeting included discussions primarily focused on energy and insurance-related legislation. Senator Schwartner led the committee in reviewing multiple bills, with a notable emphasis on SB819, which faced opposition from various stakeholders, including energy providers and advocacy groups. Testimonies highlighted concerns about regulatory burdens potentially stifling renewable energy projects, which are crucial to Texas's energy needs. Furthermore, the committee examined SB458, aimed at improving the appraisal process for insurance claims, which garnered support from industry representatives for promoting fairness and transparency.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It's not a legislative priority.
  • In our last legislative session, the COS resolution

  • I'm the legislative liaison for Convention of States.
  • That's why we have ongoing legislative sessions.
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss several significant legislative measures, notably focusing on the SJR54, which is an application for a Convention of States under Article V of the Constitution. The resolution seeks to impose fiscal restraints on the federal government, limit federal jurisdiction, and restrict terms of Congress members. The discussion included historical perspectives and current motivations behind the push for such a convention, highlighting its urgency in light of perceived federal overreach. Members engaged in a thorough debate regarding the implications of a permanent application for a convention, and several witnesses from various interest groups provided testimony both for and against the resolution.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) Apr 7th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • My name's Clint Brown, I'm with the Texas Legislative Action Committee.
  • This legislation raises the punishment for public officials
  • But the principle at the heart of this legislation is universal.
  • So I want to encourage the committee to look favorably on this legislation.
  • It is a great piece of legislation.
Summary: The meeting covered several significant bills, primarily focusing on enhancing transparency and accountability within local government and homeowners' associations. Notably, Senator Hinojosa introduced SB1935, aimed to reform the operations of Property Owners Association Boards, addressing concerns over insufficient representation and transparency for homeowners. The bill drew a mix of support and opposition, with testimonies highlighting the need for greater homeowner engagement in decisions affecting their communities. Additionally, SB2046 was discussed, which would enhance penalties for public officials engaging in bid rigging, emphasizing the need for stricter enforcement of competitive bidding processes to curb misconduct within government contracts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Apr 8th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This bill is in line with past legislative efforts made

  • With over 30 states actively changing CPA pathways and mobility legislation, passage of House Bill 1764
  • Our consumers are very price conscious, so that's why we're opposed to this legislation.
  • Regarding this legislation, seeing none, thank you TABC for being here.
  • So, based purely on that, the current legislation allows for up to 17%, so we respectfully oppose.
Summary: The meeting was marked by thorough discussions regarding several pivotal bills aimed at addressing safety and regulatory reforms within various sectors. Notably, House Bill 3352 was a focal point, where industry representatives highlighted the urgent need for enhanced driver safety training in work zones due to a rise in fatalities. Supporters argued that including work zone safety in driver education programs could significantly improve awareness and reduce accidents. Additionally, House Bill 2186 drew scrutiny from small business owners who expressed concerns about the regulatory burden it would impose on electricians and the potential impact on employment within the industry. Despite the commitment to improve safety, stakeholders warned of unintended consequences that could affect operational viability for non-signatory firms.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services Apr 30th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This legislation will build on that and provides us the opportunity to actually get ahead of the harm
  • I'm Stephen Alderman with Disability Rights Texas, and we're here regarding the legislation.
  • We appreciate him bringing this important piece of legislation forward.
  • And from my side, I look at this and USAP is irrelevant to this piece of legislation.
  • Into law during this legislative session.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services covered multiple bills focusing on healthcare, education, and child welfare. A key highlight was the presentation of Senate Bill 3001, which aims to add medical nutrition counseling as a Medicaid service for patients with chronic conditions. Chairman Korkhorst emphasized the importance of this bill in addressing healthcare needs in low-income communities. Public testimony was gathered, with several professionals supporting the inclusion of nutrition services to improve health outcomes for Texans, particularly those battling chronic diseases. Another notable discussion revolved around Senate Bill 425, designed to enhance the accuracy of investigations into child and adult protective services. Members raised concerns regarding the need for transparency and improved protocols in these sensitive areas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 25th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...to rest upon the legislators, leaders, laborers, and the
  • ...legislate in the capital chambers of this great state.
  • ...Make this 89th regular legislative session a positive, productive
  • experience, allowing them to work full-time for Texas House and Texas Senate members during the legislative
  • Joyce Horn, Legislative Director, and Jolene Peters for leading
Summary: The meeting focused on various resolutions and bills, demonstrating active participation from all members present. Notably, HR309 was adopted, recognizing the contributions of the Texas Food and Fuel Association in supporting the oil and gas industry for over 70 years. Representatives emphasized the organization's role in ensuring the supply and distribution of fuel across Texas and highlighted their commitment to education and professional development within the industry. Other resolutions discussed included HR306, which recognized March 2025 as Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month, illustrating the committee's engagement with healthcare issues.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 May 1st, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ="49" data-time="288"> Association for Bilingual Education, known as TAVE, where I serve as the legislative
  • Thank you for joint authoring and supporting this legislation.
  • I believe this legislation will put more Texans in the driver's seat of their own lives, and I believe
  • Governor Abbott issued two executive orders that are relevant for this legislation: EO 47 and EO 48,
  • This broad legislation achieves many goals for securing Texas higher education.
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Education K-16 was characterized by a series of discussions on multiple Senate Bills aimed at enhancing educational opportunities across the state. Notably, SB750 was presented by Senator Eckhardt, which seeks to close a loophole that currently excludes standalone EMS employees from receiving tuition exemptions available to firefighters and law enforcement. The testimony from James Monks of the Austin EMS Association highlighted the critical shortage of EMS personnel and the need for incentives to attract workers to this career path. The committee allowed public testimony, which generally supported the bill, leading to positive discussions among members regarding the importance of equal benefits for all first responders. Additionally, SB2430, introduced by Senator Higginbotham, aims to regulate higher education institutions' interactions with foreign adversaries. The bill received support from witnesses such as Michael Lucci, who emphasized the necessity of securing Texas's higher education from potential threats while facilitating collaborations with trusted entities. These discussions emphasized the need for strategies that not only bolster educational funding and accessibility but also protect academic integrity. Overall, the meeting was well-attended, with robust engagement from both committee members and the public.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • substitute differs from Senate Bill 2568 as filed in that it simply replaces the original with a legislative
  • Originally filed, there are no changes; it's just a legislative
  • I'm here today to express strong support for the legislation that would enable Medina County to pursue
  • This legislation would allow for an aquifer storage

  • This legislation would allow us to use that water more

Summary: The meeting was convened to discuss several pivotal bills primarily relating to water management, environmental regulations, and labor standards. Amongst key discussions, SB243 aimed to reform migrant housing penalties, transforming the flat fee structure into a more compelling model that could incite improvements in living conditions for migrant workers. Furthermore, the committee deliberated on SB2159 and SB2568, both significant for addressing water resource management in Medina County, with testimonies from local water authority representatives emphasizing the urgent need for updated legislative support amid local growth pressures. Other bills discussed included SB1891 and SB1442, which prompted lively debates regarding utility rate adjustments and environmental compliance procedures for wastewater facilities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Mar 31st, 2025 at 04:03 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • I am a trust and estate litigation attorney here in Austin, and I'm the co-chair of legislative.
  • We report legislative updates in our practice area to the Real Estate, Probate, and Trust Law section
  • There are several sections of this bill that build on legislation from 2023.
  • Last legislative session, there was a big bill talking about how you transfer cases between courts when
  • As the Chairman mentioned, this legislation addresses the
Summary: The meeting of the Family and Judiciary Committee was productive, with in-depth discussions focused on multiple bills that address important aspects of family law. Notable conversations revolved around HB2495, which aims to clarify the rights of parents regarding their children's education amidst existing ambiguities in lower court rulings. Testimony supporting this bill highlighted the necessity for legal clarity to ensure children can be enrolled in school without delays. The committee also discussed HB3181, which seeks to enhance the enforcement of child possession orders by linking repeated contempt findings to custody modifications, reinforcing accountability for parents who violate court orders.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Mar 31st, 2025 at 10:03 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The legislation permits participating districts.
  • During the 87th legislative session, we passed House Bill 21.
  • I'm proud to carry this legislation, not just as a lawmaker, but also as a first responder.
  • I am the chairman of the legislative committee.
  • Due to this growing issue, legislation is needed to mitigate these vulnerabilities and provide greater
Summary: The Committee on Pensions, Investments, and Financial Services convened to discuss various legislative bills focused on enhancing financial security for public employees and addressing instances of financial fraud. Notably, House Bill 3594 was presented by Representative Lujan, aimed at modernizing the San Antonio Fire and Police Retiree Health Care Fund, with support from key stakeholders, indicating broad consensus on the bill's implications. In addition, House Bill 3109 was addressed, expanding the scope of the Financial Crimes Intelligence Center to include payment fraud, reflecting Texas's proactive approach to tackling criminal financial activities and protecting its citizens.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships May 5th, 2025 at 02:05 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • judges are qualified to understand the research this legislation
  • While this may be necessary from an administrative standpoint, the legislation should be amended to ensure
  • Effectively, this legislation would ensure that fathers equitably discharge parental duties to their
  • If you want to draft legislation that is in the best interest of the child...
  • we should work on legislation that reforms child custody,
Summary: The meeting of the Subcommittee on Family and Fiduciary Relationships focused on a range of bills concerning child support, child welfare, and probate law. Notable discussions included HB1980, which aims to require fathers to provide financial support from the moment of conception. This bill was presented by Representative Hicklin, who highlighted the economic challenges faced by single mothers and the importance of ensuring paternal responsibility. Public testimonies were received both in favor and against this bill, including criticisms about the fairness of imposing retroactive child support. The committee members expressed varied opinions, leading to a nuanced debate about the implications of the bill on family dynamics and economic responsibilities . Other bills discussed included SB1923, which allows child support payments to follow the child to non-parent caregivers, thus aiming to better serve children in kinship care situations. This bill was supported by advocates highlighting the financial strain on kinship caregivers without custody. Additionally, HB5642 addressed clouded titles in real estate and the importance of providing clear information to homebuyers regarding estate planning. Overall, the meeting was productive and well-attended, with substantial participation from committee members and the public.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I think about a month ago, it was from the Louisiana Legislative

  • This legislation is something I worked on in the interim, recognizing that problem, to try to address
  • Our purpose is to monitor and promote legislation pertaining to TWAIA that serves the best interests
  • I don't know, I might ask the legislative budget board why that statement is very confusing.
  • I ask the members of this committee to vote no on this legislation. Thank you for your time.
Summary: The committee meeting addressed several key bills, with significant discussions surrounding HB778, which focuses on insurance coverage for individuals undergoing gender transition and those wishing to detransition. During the presentations, the bill's author, Chairman Leach, emphasized the importance of ensuring coverage for potential adverse effects from gender transition procedures. However, concerns were raised by various witnesses regarding the potential implications of limiting coverage for transgender care, leading to heated debates and a range of testimonies from both supporters and opponents of the bill. HB2517 and HB2213 also received attention, with discussions centered on insurance premiums and board eligibility for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, respectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 12th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • To receive a committee substitute from Legislative Council,
  • stakeholder feedback, but approaching my office just days before the hearing to subsequently oppose legislation
  • When was the first time you found out about this legislation?
  • I found out about this legislation at the beginning

  • marker="133" data-time="792"> Personally as well, you know, a lot of times we work hard on this legislation
Summary: The meeting conducted by the committee included detailed discussions on two main bills: HB279 and HB638. Representative Harris opened the session by moving that HB279 be reported favorably, a motion that passed unanimously with ten votes in favor and none opposed. Following this, Representative Tepper presented HB638, which requires most water districts to record their meetings and post them online. The purpose of this bill is to ensure transparency and accessibility, especially in light of the substantial investments in water infrastructure projected for the state. Various stakeholders, including those in favor and against the bill, provided testimony highlighting both the benefits of transparency and concerns over implementation costs and logistical challenges for smaller districts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 2nd, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In the legislative session, the legislature moved to make the commission more fee-based.
  • We have to have legislative approval.
  • Mark Wiles with the Legislative Budget Board, and with

  • James O'Connor, Legislative Budget Board. Thank you. Could you answer Senator...
  • As the gentleman from the Legislative Budget Board said,
Bills: SB2122, SB2050
Summary: The Senate Committee on Natural Resources convened to discuss developments regarding SB1150, related to the plugging of inactive wells. Senator Middleton presented the committee substitute for the bill, detailing key adjustments, including extending the effective date by two years to September 2027 to provide operators and the Railroad Commission adequate time for implementation. The discussions sought to address concerns regarding compliance complexity, particularly for wells inactive for more than 15 years. The relaxed timeline was intended to mitigate an initial rush before escalating requirements were imposed on stakeholders. In addition to the new timeline, revisions were made to enhance the clarity of reporting standards for operators regarding inactive wells.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 28th, 2025 at 09:04 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • with legislative council drafting standards and ensures these
  • This legislation will support that option for our state and school employees, aiding in our effort to
  • has limited impact on the long-term funded ratio, with safeguards put in place during the 2017 legislative
  • ...30 years from 2017 with the legislative reform.
  • other constitutional amendments, once it becomes a part of the Constitution, the ability for future legislators
Summary: The committee meeting was centered on the discussion of various bills, notably focusing on House Bill 3521, which aims to enhance retention incentives for police officers in Houston. Chairman Harless opened discussions highlighting the urgency of the bill due to staffing challenges within the Houston Police Department. Testimonies were given by several members of the police department and pension fund representatives, stipulating the need for actionable changes to prevent a significant exodus of experienced officers. The bill was met with supportive testimony that underscored the precarious staffing situation and the necessity for improved retention strategies. Following deliberations, the bill remained pending for further review.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Juvenile Justice Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House S/C on Juvenile Justice

Transcript Highlights:
  • we know about adolescent brain science, and the fact that despite a few states rolling back some legislation
  • In the 85th session, the Legislative Budget Board said $63.8 million might be the cost.
  • Up until the last legislative session, it seemed that every year...
  • So, coming into the next legislative session, there's

  • And yet, when I look at it and when I've examined it, despite what the Legislative Budget Board has said
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding HB2234, which aims to raise the age of criminal responsibility in Texas. There was a strong consensus among witnesses advocating for the change, citing the psychological and social implications of prosecuting 17-year-olds as adults. Several testimonies highlighted the damages inflicted by adult incarceration on youth, recommending a shift towards juvenile systems that provide rehabilitative support tailored for younger individuals. Chairman Dutton acknowledged the historical significance of this session's discussion, emphasizing the need for legislative change to align Texas with national trends and prioritize youth rehabilitation over punishment. The committee remains engaged in discussions on how to effectively implement this legislation, considering fiscal impacts and community needs. The meeting concluded with the bill left pending due to ongoing concerns regarding the financial implications for counties and the judicial system. A diverse panel of advocates, including youth service organizations and legal professionals, reinforced the argument that raising the age is not merely a matter of policy but an essential aspect of ensuring fair treatment and rehabilitation for young individuals in the justice system.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic Development Mar 24th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • 234">He further stated, "I will work with Senator Schwertner and representatives on this needed legislation
  • I would argue, Senator West, that this legislation is an important part of ensuring that there are the
  • We will update the current bill language to ensure that it aligns with the legislative counsel draft.
  • This makes the Midland legislation and the Midland Authority much more viable.
  • This is a wonderful piece of legislation for Midland.
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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • unaffordable for everyday Texans, and it's our responsibility to review the impact of every piece of legislation
  • Also, when we respond to legislative inquiries, we share educational materials that can be included in
  • legislative newsletters or given to constituents directly.
  • We have a regulatory function and a legislative function.
  • And so I think her recommendation, and I'm guessing by your testimony, you support some legislation that
Summary: The meeting involved extensive discussions on various topics, although specific bills or motions were not highlighted. The members engaged in a dialogue surrounding the financial aspects of policies under review, particularly referencing rate components and reserves. Questions were raised regarding the allocation of premiums and the implications for future budgets, but no concrete resolutions were made. The Chair, after guiding the discussion, indicated the conclusion of the agenda and called for any additional business before moving to adjourn.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We ask for your favorable consideration of this piece of legislation

  • A district is also empowered under the zone legislation

  • for carrying this important legislation.
  • ...for drafting this legislation in an attempt to standardize
  • Additionally, this legislation would encourage mitigation

Summary: The recent committee meeting showcased significant discussions around various groundwater management bills, emphasizing legislative accountability and environmental conservation efforts. Notably, HB4896 was presented, which aims to streamline the designation of brackish groundwater production zones, facilitating better management of Texas' water resources. Testimonies from multiple stakeholders underscored the necessity for transparency in groundwater conservation districts and the importance of adapting to climate impacts. Additionally, House Bill 4212 aimed to enhance interagency communication pertaining to land and water conservation, further stressing a collaborative approach to resource management.

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