Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'qualified counties'

Page 43 of 51
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Environmental Regulation Apr 24th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Environmental Regulation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • marker="67" data-time="396">This legislation is focused on protecting the Devil's River in Valverde County
  • and landowners, the city of Del Rio, and Valverde County, all
  • The Devil's River, which begins and ends within the boundary of Val Verde County, is one of the last
  • We have landowners, environmental advocates, and county officials that all support this.
  • On behalf of the Harris County Attorney's Office for the
Summary: The committee meeting was focused on several key legislative matters, including the discussion of HB1904 concerning littering associated with balloon releases, which was presented favorably and passed unanimously. Additionally, the elimination of the Motor Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Program was discussed within the context of HB5033, with a substitute motion adopted and passed. The meeting featured public testimony, allowing interested parties to share their views during a structured testimony period, ensuring all voices were heard within the limited timeframe. Overall, the members expressed a cooperative spirit aimed at addressing community concerns through legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Mar 19th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • storage units must post an advertisement of the sale, not once, but twice in a print newspaper in the county
  • in Texas that already have no printed newspaper in their county.
  • ...who look for bids in any county or any city in Texas.
  • Depending on the county, the cost of running the ads in local newspapers.
  • , with an amazing Wharton County Junior College with satellite campuses.
Summary: In this meeting, the focus was on HB1093, which addresses the advertising requirements for self-service storage facility lien sales. The bill, presented by a representative, advocates for updating outdated newspaper notice requirements that have been in place since 1984. The representative emphasized that many areas in Texas no longer have access to printed newspapers, making it crucial to adapt the law to allow for advertising on publicly accessible internet platforms and other methods to ensure transparency and access to information regarding lien sales. Several stakeholders and witnesses shared opinions on the merits and potential drawbacks of the bill, leading to a lively discussion.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session (Part II) Jul 21st, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • People move in and out, and I know my home county, two years ago, was the sixth fastest growing county
  • I represent more counties than you do. Fourteen.
  • Even if we go to regional hearings, there are 254 counties in the state of Texas.
  • Travis County. Three are still missing.
  • Specifically, for example, the Democratic County Judge in Webb County who changed parties last December
Summary: The meeting centered around the discussion of congressional redistricting, where the committee established the procedures to ensure a fair and transparent process. Led by Senator King, the session focused on adopting a resolution that authorized a special committee dedicated to congressional redistricting and allowed for regional hearings to gather public input via videoconferencing. Concerns were raised about ensuring adequate notice for public participation, especially from marginalized communities potentially affected by proposed changes. Disagreements emerged regarding the timeline for regional hearings and how to address the implications of the redistricting process on minority districts. Overall, participants acknowledged the complex nature of redistricting and the importance of engaging constituents in the legislative process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Secretary of State and three counties have breached the
  • It means that when we're looking at data across counties, you can do an apples-to-apples comparison.
  • Many of our counties are already implementing these practices.
  • We also require daily reconciliation of ballots to voters during early voting, as some counties only
  • To the conduct of randomized county election audits.
Summary: The committee meeting covered numerous bills focusing on election integrity and transparency, alongside various regulatory measures. Senator Middleton presented SB1717, aimed at transferring the regulation of charitable bingo, and it was reported favorably to the Senate. Key discussions also revolved around SB1845 concerning registration for lobbyists engaged in activities on behalf of foreign adversaries, which received unanimous support. Another significant bill was SB2216, which addresses the security of election system equipment; it also passed with no opposition. The session was marked by contributions from various senators, emphasizing accountability and the integrity of the electoral process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Finance Aug 12th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas disasters do not respect county lines.
  • span> My name is Ralph Rodriguez, and I'm the Fire Chief of Bexar County
  • And I've personally made calls to those counties that hadn't.
  • I'm with Montgomery County ESD number 7 and we could benefit greatly from this facility.
  • One, we inadvertently left out Guadalupe County as one of the emergency disaster counties.
Bills: SB3
Summary: The Senate committee on finance convened to discuss critical flood response legislation, particularly SB3, which aims to address the needs of flooding victims in Texas. The bill, presented by Chair Huffman, includes $200 million for FEMA reimbursements and additional funding for disaster preparedness, equipment, and training facilities. Public testimony indicated strong support for SB3, highlighting the significant need for improved flood response mechanisms. Several first responders shared their need for consistent, year-round training facilities, emphasizing that current training resources are insufficient.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources (Part I) May 14th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If, let me ask this: if the defining element of the bill, i.e., the county with a population of more
  • you, but recognize that the Chinese Navy is not doing laps around this waste facility in Tarrant County
  • I'm a landowner in Childress and Donley Counties of Texas, and I am here also representing...
  • Many of these fires start in the West Panhandle Field in and around Hutchinson County, around Borger,
  • You know, in the big… Tarrant County is growing faster than almost any county in the country.
Summary: The meeting included a robust discussion on several bills aimed at addressing regulatory issues in the state. Key among these was House Bill 4384, presented by Representative Darby, which focuses on alleviating financial burdens caused by regulatory lag for natural gas utilities. The bill seeks to allow temporary deferral of costs related to new infrastructure, and public testimonies highlighted a significant division in opinion, with some stakeholders arguing it would increase costs for consumers without adequate oversight. The committee members engaged actively with the testimonies, indicating a comprehensive review of the implications of the bill. House Bill 2663 was also introduced, aimed at preventing wildfires through better oversight of outdated electrical infrastructure at inactive oil and gas well sites, emphasizing the need for removed or de-energized equipment to avoid future incidents. Additionally, several other bills like HB1237 and HB3071 were discussed, with the latter addressing the cancellation of inactive landfill permits to reflect current land use and community development. The overall tone of the meeting was collaborative, with members expressing gratitude for professionalism despite some disagreements on policy details. The meeting concluded with several bills left pending for further discussion before moving to votes in subsequent sessions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Sep 3rd, 2025 at 06:09 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • And he also says that this could actually encourage counties not to redraw the maps.
  • I think this would encourage counties to draw the map to what the actual data shows.
  • This was an unprecedented flood that no one has seen in Kerr County before July 4th.
  • three counties that I represent, and I'll do it right now.
  • Commissioner in a seat that was also taken from African Americans in Tarrant County.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding several bills, including HB8, which faced significant scrutiny for its approach to educational assessments and accountability. Representative Garcia Hernandez voiced strong opposition, emphasizing the bill's reliance on high-stakes testing and the lack of meaningful stakeholder engagement, particularly from educators and parents. She urged the committee to pause the bill for further consideration, advocating for a more inclusive reform process. The discussion highlighted a growing concern over the implications of school testing standards and the balance of state versus local control in education. Chairman Bonin presented a conference committee report for SB5 related to disaster funding, underscoring its significance for future preparedness and local government support following recent flooding events. The bill was adopted without significant contention, reflecting bipartisan agreement on its importance.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Jan 29th, 2025 at 10:01 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair recognizes the Honorable Stan Kitzman of Waller County

  • privilege to recognize one of your sorors, the tax assessor collector **Carmen Turner** from Fort Bend County
  • southernmost city at the tip of Texas, a cultural and economic gateway to the Rio Grande Valley, Cameron County
  • You heard all the great accomplishments from the great city of Brownsville, from Cameron County.
  • It is indeed a great honor to recognize some guests in the gallery from Bell County, more specifically
Summary: The meeting of the Texas House of Representatives focused on several notable resolutions, including the recognition of January 29, 2025, as 'Brownsville Day,' 'Alpha Kappa Alpha Day,' and 'Shen Yun Day.' Each resolution was met with enthusiasm as representatives shared their pride in their communities and honored the cultural significance of these events. In particular, Representative Gomez emphasized the economic and cultural contributions of Brownsville, while Dr. Oliverson highlighted Shen Yun's dedication to reviving traditional Chinese culture through the art of dance and music. The discussions underscored the importance of inclusivity and representation in celebrations throughout the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...of the county.
  • to now applying to counties with populations of 3 million or less.
  • I'm Fort Bend County Commissioner W.A. Andy Myers.
  • The three largest employers in the county are governments, two school districts, and the county itself
  • This legislation will provide Fort Bend County and other Texas counties a vehicle to finance the development
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 Regular

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

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This changes the bracket from applying only to Fort Bend County to now applying to counties with populations
  • Myers testifying on behalf of Fort Bend County and yourself.
  • I'm Fort Bend County Commissioner W.A. Andy Myers.
  • In the county, there are two school districts and the county itself.
  • This legislation will provide Fort Bend County and other Texas counties a vehicle to finance the development
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 2nd C.S.

Senate Session (Part III) Aug 22nd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • At Hidalgo County, despite the city of Laredo and the

  • Even the Nueces County refineries are split into two.
  • Because when they see gerrymandered maps like this, that takes someone living in Travis County and puts
  • Hector County, 375 miles away, they're like, what is fair
  • County neighbor of their choice.
Bills: SB2, SB5, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB4
Summary: In the recent committee meeting, the primary focus was on HB4, the congressional redistricting bill. Intense debates ensued regarding the implications of this proposed map on minority voting representation. Senator Zaffirini and other members expressed strong opposition, citing that the redistricting efforts were not only untimely but also undermined the gains made by minority communities in past elections. Significant testimony was provided from the public, showing overwhelming disapproval of the proposed changes, with 98% of the testimonies against the bill. Members highlighted the historical context of disenfranchisement and warned that this redistricting would further dilute the voices of crucial voting blocs in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 31st, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Now we have dozens of cases pending in Harris County, many of which have no nexus to Harris County or
  • We have had minor incidents in places as far away as Cook County, Illinois, and Los Angeles County, California
  • We're based out of Liberty County.
  • That's fine; that's normal, that happens in Harris County, it happens in Grimes County, it happens in
  • Amarillo, whatever county that is.
Summary: The Senate Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss several critical pieces of legislation including SB30 and SB38. Senator Betancourt introduced a committee substitute for SB38 which underwent a smooth adoption process, moving it favorably toward the Senate. The meeting featured a mix of invited testimonies where both proponents and opponents took the floor. One notable highlight included a testimony from Melissa Casey, who criticized the current legal state as prone to fraud and detrimental to both insurers and the public at large, contending that it inflated insurance costs across the board. The discussions delved deeply into the implications of the bills on judicial processes and potential insurance ramifications, with spirited debates surrounding issues of non-economic damages and jury rights. The atmosphere remained engaged as committee members heard varied perspectives on the bills, showcasing a robust democratic process. The meeting underscored the importance of public testimony in shaping legislation, ensuring that multiple voices were considered as the committee pressed on towards making decisions that affect the legal landscape of Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 19th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Chairman, I believe you had a bench come open in Collin County recently. I'm informed.
  • And for those in our Harris County delegation, our county alone has the fourth highest population in
  • The Harris County Veterans Services Department has a program called Texas Two-Step.
  • I grew up in a small town, Hominy, in Osage County.
  • He turned himself in to authorities just two days ago in Osage County.
Summary: The committee meeting centered around the discussions of three key bills: HB865, HB1928, and HB748. Notably, HB865, presented by Speaker Moody, received significant attention as it aims to clarify liability protections for federal firearms licensees, emphasizing its importance for supporting veterans' mental health and safety. Testimonies were provided by various stakeholders, including city council members and law enforcement representatives, who underscored the pressing need for legislative support in the wake of alarming suicide rates among veterans. The committee engaged in comprehensive discussions, highlighting the bill’s potential impact on improving public safety and mental health support within the veteran community. Throughout the session, the committee showed commitment to addressing issues within the statutory probate court system as well, referring HB1928 directly to a relevant subcommittee for further evaluation. The meeting concluded with a strong emphasis on collaboration among committee members and public input, setting the stage for further review and action on these significant legislative proposals. Overall, the meeting was efficient and well-attended, with active participation from both committee members and the public.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs Aug 15th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It needs to have a set regulation in there to encourage local city councils and county commissions to
  • Should cities and counties have a public process to adopt their legislation?
  • that they wanted an adjustment to the jurisdiction of the County Court of Law.
  • That's not controversial in the House and Senate representation for that county.
  • And I now know Celia Israel, who is the current county clerk who ran against Kirk Watson in 2022.
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

Land & Resource Management Apr 10th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • They live in Nacogdoches County, and his family is heavily involved in the poultry business.
  • data-time="486"> I live in the city of Westlake Hills, but I have Redtail Hawk Ranch in southern Bastrop County
  • I'm a resident and a director of Willow Point MUD, which is in the northern section of Fort Bend County
  • Our MUD is located on the west side of Harris County, Texas.
  • I'm also a resident of Fort Bend County and the Vice President of Fort Bend County MUD 35.
Bills: HB1835, HB2561, HB3630
Summary: The meeting convened with a quorum present and was primarily focused on multiple pieces of legislation related to municipal utility districts (MUDs). Among the bills discussed, HB2225 was moved forward favorably, extending public notice requirements for fee impositions. Representative Nozzolio and Vice-Chair Malani contributed significantly to the discussion, highlighting the implications of these changes. Another significant bill was HB2797, which prohibits municipalities from regulating the number of occupants in a dwelling unit based on various status categories. The committee adopted a substitute for this bill, which suggested that key modifications address community concerns around housing policies. Positive sentiments were expressed regarding the adaptability of this substitute which was widely discussed among the members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Environmental Regulation Apr 17th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Environmental Regulation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This bill responds to a growing call for impartiality from drivers in counties like Brazoria, Denton,
  • across Texas while the remaining 237 counties became exempt on January 1st, 2025.
  • In Williamson County and Travis, we're getting an inordinate amount of falsification.
  • Falsified emissions inspection reports from the Dallas and Harris County area.
  • We had another one out of county in one of those two counties. I'm not.
Summary: The meeting focused on several critical environmental bills primarily related to regulatory processes and emissions management. Key discussions included a thorough examination of HB3997, which aims to streamline LNG terminal permitting processes to boost development efficiency and compliance in Texas. Matt Barr of Chenier Energy emphasized the need for clarity in regulatory timelines to better support export operations and maintain Texas's leading position in LNG exports. Additionally, multiple bills were proposed concerning vehicle emissions testing and transparency requirements in waste management contracts, highlighting the varied approaches lawmakers are taking to environmental regulation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs Apr 8th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • 88th regular session, the legislature passed SB 1017, which preempted the practice of cities and counties
  • ="877" data-time="5256"> Worldwide variables make it beyond the scope of individual countries or counties
  • He lives outside of the county where I live here,

  • But it's a help to have someone who's even one county up that can go back and forth because he knows
  • In Harris County, and thank you again.
Summary: The meeting of the committee addressed multiple bills focusing primarily on local government regulations concerning environmental policy and spending practices. Notably, HB4313 and HB4314 were discussed, with advocates expressing concerns about the overreach of local governments in implementing stringent environmental regulations that might impact efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Testimony included perspectives from organizations like the Texas Public Policy Foundation, emphasizing that local governments should focus on practical criteria rather than subjective social governance measures, particularly in contracting processes.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • For decades, the residents of Rusk County have embraced the production of ribbon cane syrup as...
  • Rusk County honors this tradition by celebrating the Heritage Syrup Festival every year.
  • The Rusk County Historical Association, with ribbon cane syrup, has long been a source of great pride
  • for the area, and to honor that, HCR 83 would designate Rusk County as the Syrup Capital of Texas for
  • This small town in southwest Sabine County plays an integral role in the lumber production of our great
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around significant legislative measures, including several bills aimed at enhancing wildlife safety through the establishment of wildlife corridors and licenses for outdoor activities. Key discussions highlighted House Bill 5259, led by Vice Chair Flores, which proposes a wildlife corridor action plan to reduce animal-vehicle collisions in Texas. This bill is crucial given Texas's alarming rate of wildlife-vehicle accidents, and testimonies from supporting members emphasized the need for action to protect both wildlife and public safety. Furthermore, Senate Bill 1247 was brought forward, simplifying the non-resident hunting license system to improve compliance and conservation funding. The committee also addressed multiple concurrent resolutions recognizing towns for their cultural significance, reflecting a broader commitment to community identity and heritage.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Mar 20th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Those are appointed by the elected district judges in some of our counties.
  • Likewise, especially in your bigger counties, you're going to have specialty criminal courts, and we
  • I'm the District Attorney for Galveston County, Texas.
  • I'm the Judicial District Attorney for the 106th Judicial District, which covers four counties in rural
  • Those are appointed by the elected district judges in some of our counties.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on State Affairs was marked by significant discussions surrounding several bills, primarily focusing on jurisdictional changes within the Texas Supreme Court and the Court of Criminal Appeals. One of the key bills discussed was SB1210, which aims to clarify the roles and jurisdictions of these two courts, ensuring that when constitutional interpretations are at issue, the Supreme Court serves as the final authority. Testimony was provided by various stakeholders including judges and legal experts, who articulated both support for and concerns about the potential implications of these changes. The conversation highlighted the historical context of the dual court system in Texas, outlining its benefits and drawbacks, particularly in ensuring consistency in the application of constitutional law.

Research Filters

States
Terms / Sessions
Date Range
Chamber Records
Meetings / Events / Calendars