Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'voting by mail'
Page 44 of 61
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local Government (Part II) Apr 10th, 2025
Senate Local Government Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Yes, you can, if you wish, but do you want to vote on Senate Bill 1927?
- ...circumvent cash unconditional requirements by using alternative
- " data-time="198">With no other business that needs to come before the committee, and with a motion by
Summary:
Additionally, SB2010 was reviewed with a focus on tightening language to prevent misuse of funds related to universal basic income (UBI) programs by political subdivisions. The committee adopted a proposed substitute and reported the bill favorably to the full Senate, citing concerns over the use of state funds in supporting UBI initiatives. The meeting concluded without further business, and the committee chairman signaled a recess.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- span marker="10" data-time="54"> did not have quorum, which, in one instance, resulted in a budget vote
That money will be used by the institution to provide
We do some of them by Zoom.
- ="37" data-time="216"> Just outside the hearing room for registration, we'll close public testimony by
The chair lays out Senate Bill 1741 by Senator Parker
Keywords:
higher education, curriculum review, governing board, faculty council, ombudsman, higher education, faculty governance, decision-making, transparency, public meetings, higher education, governing board, department head, employment approval, public institutions, higher education, governing board, department head, employment approval, institutional oversight
Summary:
The committee meeting was marked by significant discussions surrounding various legislative proposals, particularly Senate Bill 1741, which aims to tackle espionage and intellectual property theft within Texas public institutions of higher education. Senator Parker took the floor to present the bill, highlighting its importance in safeguarding the state’s educational institutions from foreign threats. The conversation around this bill was substantive, with public testimonies being invited to gather a range of opinions on the proposed regulations. Another critical aspect discussed was Senate Bill 724, which addresses the attendance of governing board members in person during meetings, a vital issue raised post-COVID due to a lack of quorum in past gatherings. The committee's chair, Senator Kolkhorst, emphasized the necessity for physical presence to maintain the integrity of board meetings and deliberations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- by a political subdivision where they are eligible for the tuition exemption.
- The bill passed out of the Senate in the 86th session on a vote of 30 to 1.
- Let's begin by stating your name and your position on the bill.
- The chair lays out Senate Bill 2430 by...
Moved by Senator Hughes.
Keywords:
tuition exemption, paramedics, higher education, public institutions, laboratory fees, education code, financial aid, education, student support, scholarships, higher education, nontraditional education, student enrollment, financial assistance, higher education, Texas students, foreign adversaries, higher education, trade secrets, research integrity
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
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Intergovernmental Affairs May 6th, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- One is for and secures those by either contract payments or ad valorem taxes.
- Some of these properties, I would suggest, are probably owned by the city.
- There's a squatters bill going right now by...
- Dutton for trying—but we're getting really frustrated by the lack of response.
- In fact, I've seen a copy of a resolution adopted by the Senate.
Keywords:
homelessness, housing services, Texas Department of Housing, municipal programs, community development, homelessness, housing programs, Texas Department of Housing, municipal administration, community initiatives, homelessness, housing program, local governments, community services, Texas Department of Housing, low income housing, tax credits, education criteria, affordable housing, housing development
Summary:
The meeting of the committee featured several active discussions regarding various bills, with notable emphasis on matters of affordable housing and local governance. House Bill 3753 was a focal point, aimed at addressing the allocation of low-income housing credits, which raised concerns among members over its implications for local communities. Representative Cunningham provided compelling arguments for the bill, emphasizing its potential benefits for teachers and residents struggling with housing issues, triggering a dialogue on transparency and accountability in housing decisions. Additionally, the committee reviewed House Bill 293, which proposed uniformity in transparency requirements across different housing tax credit programs, underscoring the complexity of legislative processes in housing development.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 23rd, 2025 at 10:04 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- That is correct, by about $13 million. Thank you.
- Districts are bound by that, isn't that correct?
- By increasing each rate by six percent.
- So we're kicking it up by 6%, not 6%, but by 11%, allowing
- Senate Bill 1809 by Senator Flores.
Bills:
HB886, HB1514, HB2434, HB2688, HB2802, HB3161, HB3221, HB4029, HB4339, HB4774, HB4802, HB4853, HB5627, SB1737, HB4591
Keywords:
retirement, supplemental payment, benefits, Employees Retirement System, eligible annuitants, legislation, annuity, retirement, service credit, Employees Retirement System of Texas, employee benefits, pension reform, public retirement systems, municipality pensions, firefighters, police officers, retirement age, DROP program, actuarial studies, pension benefits
Summary:
During the meeting, the committee discussed several important bills focused on state employee pensions, the education sector, and consumer credit resources. One of the main topics was HB886, which proposes a 13th check for state retirees to help alleviate financial challenges faced by those who have not seen any pension adjustments for over a decade. The bill received support from various stakeholders who emphasized its necessity given the rising costs of living and inflation. Additionally, HB3221 was examined, addressing unequal pension contributions between traditional school districts and charter schools, which has placed undue financial burdens on charter schools since 2019. The bill aims to unify the contribution rates to ensure fairness and retain essential funding for education.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Apr 22nd, 2025 at 02:04 pm
House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships
Transcript Highlights:
- So please vote yes on HCR16.
- I can tell you this: I was raised by my father for 10 plus years by himself, along with my sister.
- It was conducted by Cynthia Osborne.
- is established by a man and a child by a man.
- And by doing that, it says.
Keywords:
fatherhood, family support, fatherlessness, community engagement, youth development, social policy, male role models, fatherhood, child development, fatherlessness, policy reform, community engagement, role models, mental health, fatherhood, parenting, child development, family support, single-parent homes, role models
Summary:
During the meeting of the committee, several key bills were debated, most notably HB3281, which addresses the grounds for terminating parental rights. The discussion revolved around significant concerns presented by various members regarding the language change in the bill that requires serious bodily injury for termination, a shift that many find troubling. Witnesses also testified, with some advocating for amendments to ensure child safety, emphasizing the importance of a balanced approach without unintended consequences. Additionally, HB4696 was introduced, focused on improving access to protective orders through remote testimony, further engaging committee members and experts on the necessity of such reforms for survivors of domestic violence.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Senate Session (Part I)Receipt of House messages. Aug 21st, 2025
Texas Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
I am directed by the House to inform the Senate that the
- House has taken a vote.
Keywords:
school assessment, public education, accountability, transparency, education standards, abortion, civil liability, abortion-inducing drugs, qui tam actions, Texas Citizens Participation Act, Religious Freedom Restoration Act, healthcare regulations, judicial branch, court security, juvenile boards, mental health services, election challenges, judicial procedures, court security, mental health services
Summary:
The meeting commenced with the Senate being called to order, following a message from the House regarding a vote that had been taken. The session demonstrated a structured agenda, focusing on various legislative matters, though detailed discussions were not present within the transcript. It was noted that the Senate plans to adjourn until the evening of Thursday, August 21st, which indicates ongoing legislative work ahead. While specific bills and concerns were not highlighted in this portion of the transcript, the protocol of the meeting adhered to the formalities of legislative processes.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
89th Legislative Session - First Called Session Aug 12th, 2025 at 10:08 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- By Representatives Canales, Cortez, Mary Gonzalez, Longoria, Martinez, Moody, Eddie Morales, Munoz, and
- marker="19" data-time="108">The House and gallery, please rise for the invocation which will be offered by
- meantime, DPS will continue to knock on doors, sit outside homes, and track every lead until we have the vote
Keywords:
disaster response, emergency management, mass fatality, justices of the peace, training programs, emergency manager license, volunteer management, disaster response, mass fatality, emergency management, justice of the peace training, volunteer management, criminal history checks, state health services, emergency communication, interoperability, grant program, first responders, state council, emergency communication
Summary:
In this meeting of the legislative committee, members gathered to discuss pressing issues, including critical flood response legislation that could significantly impact families and communities affected by recent disasters. Despite the efforts to address these urgent matters, a quorum was not present, preventing any formal actions from being taken. The absence of a sufficient number of members meant that discussions were limited and centered around logistics for the upcoming sessions to ensure that necessary votes could be conducted in the near future. The chairman expressed concerns about the operational costs related to these absences and emphasized the continuous tracking of taxpayer dollars being spent in response to the critical situations faced by communities.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the nominations of Reed Rubinstein, of Maryland, to be Legal Adviser, Mike Huckabee, of Arkansas, to be Ambassador to the State of Israel, and Kevin Cabrera, of Florida, to be Ambassador to the Republic of Panama, all of the Depar Mar 25th, 2025 at 09:00 am
Senate Foreign Relations Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- We got stiff-armed by the administration and by the State Department.
- Tehran's air defenses have been wiped out by the IDF.
- The way it was expressed, both by career and mostly by political
- disrupted by the vicious attack by Hamas.
- It changes by its very nature. I agree with you 100%.
Summary:
The committee meeting was focused on various key issues, including the implications of recent violence in the Middle East and U.S. foreign policy in relation to Israel and Panama. Members discussed the need for diplomatic efforts between the U.S. and Israeli officials following the recent attack by Hamas. Governor Huckabee emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong U.S.-Israel relationship and reiterated the need for accountability for terrorist organizations involved in violent acts against civilians. Senators shared their concerns regarding the ramifications of U.S. actions in Panama and the presence of Chinese influence, highlighting the significance of the Panama Canal in terms of trade and security.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I'm sure the businesses represented by...
- In 2023, despite the relief provided, the increase was by about 650.
- House Bill 9 attempts to adjust for this disparity by creating...
- By doing so, virtually all eligible taxpayers will benefit.
- And yet most Texans are employed by small businesses.
Keywords:
ad valorem taxation, intangible property, tax exemption, property tax reform, economic implications, tax relief, small business, property tax, legislation, economic conditions, stakeholder testimony
Summary:
The meeting focused on discussions surrounding bills HB9 and HCR1, aimed at providing tax relief and addressing disparities between residential and commercial taxpayers. Members expressed concerns over the rising property taxes and the burden small businesses have faced, particularly due to recent economic conditions. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Oil and Gas Association and the Texas Association of Manufacturers, emphasized the need for equitable tax policies that would benefit all taxpayers. The committee was engaged in vibrant discussions, evaluating the implications and potential benefits of the proposed legislation.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Senate Session (Part II)The Senate of the 89th Legislature, Second Called Session, adjourns sine die. Sep 4th, 2025
Texas Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
Senate Resolution 2 by Flores.
- be hereby created, and be it further resolved that the committee consists of five senators appointed by
- According to the procedures prescribed by Subchapter B, Chapter
- Senate Resolution 5 by Hughes, amending the permanent rules
Members, this is a voice vote.
Keywords:
property tax, school funding, enrollment changes, inflation adjustment, tax rate notice, school assessment, public education, accountability, transparency, education standards, abortion, civil liability, abortion-inducing drugs, qui tam actions, Texas Citizens Participation Act, Religious Freedom Restoration Act, healthcare regulations, judicial branch, court security, juvenile boards
Summary:
The meeting convened to address significant resolutions, including the formation of a committee to investigate the catastrophic flooding events in July 2025 that resulted in tragic losses across Texas. Senator Flores introduced Senate Resolution 2, aiming to conduct a comprehensive examination of the flooding's impacts and the effectiveness of immediate legislative responses. The resolution was adopted unanimously, indicating a shared commitment to understand and improve future disaster preparedness. Additionally, Senate Resolution 5 was discussed, which proposed amendments to the Senate rules regarding committee structure, particularly in creating a new combined committee for Homeland Security and Veterans Affairs. This resolution also received unanimous support, showcasing a collaborative effort to streamline legislative functions.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Criminal Jurisprudence May 13th, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- I think we voted on pretty much everything we had last night to vote on.
- So the Chair lays out Senate Bill 614 by Senator Juan Hinojosa.
- She was murdered in 1984 by her trafficker. They called them pimps back then.
- The second she got kicked out of the house by my grandfather.
- Chairman and members, this is a bill by Senate.
Bills:
SB1099, SB1896, SB1980, SB127, SB614, SB955, SB1278, SB1372, SB1936, SB1937, SB2580, SB2595, SB2798
Keywords:
emergency protection, arrest information, victim rights, magistrate duties, criminal procedure, child abuse, reporting obligation, statute of limitations, negligence, legal professionals, forensic science, capital writs, criminal justice, case review, Texas Forensic Science Commission, human trafficking, penal code, felony, punishment, child protection
Summary:
The meeting of the committee primarily focused on several legislative bills aimed at enhancing public safety and criminal justice reforms. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 2595, which aims to criminalize acts of concealing identity while committing harassment or intimidation, with provisions for affirmative defenses. Additionally, Senate Bill 1980 was discussed, aiming to increase penalties for assaults on peace officers and extending legal protections to community supervision officers. The meeting featured testimonies from various stakeholders, emphasizing the need for enhanced protections for vulnerable groups, including victims of trafficking.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Business meeting to consider S.331, to amend the Controlled Substances Act with respect to the scheduling of fentanyl-related substances, and the nominations of Todd Blanche, of Florida, to be Deputy Attorney General, and Abigail Slater, of the Distr Feb 20th, 2025 at 09:15 am
Senate Judiciary Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- 1200">Today, we gather to consider S-331, the Halt All Lethal Trafficking and Fentanyl Act, also known by
- span>
This bill targets illegal fentanyl knockoffs created by
- "1488"> That number is substantial, yet it represents just a small fraction of families left broken by
- It's co-sponsored by seven Democratic senators, and 98 Democratic members voted for it.
- It's just one of countless tragedies caused by this epidemic.
Bills:
SB331
Keywords:
fentanyl, controlled substances, drug trafficking, public health, research regulations, law enforcement, S-331, Halt All Lethal Trafficking and Fentanyl Act, fentanyl crisis, public testimony, drug legislation, bipartisan support
Summary:
In this committee meeting, the focus was primarily on S-331, the Halt All Lethal Trafficking and Fentanyl Act, aimed at addressing the fentanyl crisis. The bill's key components include making permanent the class scheduling of fentanyl-related substances, confirming existing sentencing penalties, and easing registration requirements for scientific research on Schedule I substances. Numerous parents shared heartbreaking testimonies about their losses due to fentanyl, which fueled an urgent call to pass the legislation without alterations. The committee members engaged in passionate discussions highlighting the urgency of the situation as overdoses continue to claim American lives.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Administration (Part II)Audio only. May 27th, 2025
Senate Administration Committee
Transcript Highlights:
Senator Menéndez moves to reconsider the vote by which
Keywords:
beekeeping, pollination, agriculture, local economy, Combes, Bee Capital of Texas, water management, eminent domain, bond issuance, Fort Bend County, public infrastructure, special district, government validation, local authority, bonds, Cole Ranch Improvement District, Hunter Ranch Improvement District, bonds, property taxes, infrastructure funding
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Administration convened to reconsider the local and uncontested calendar for May 28, 2025. During the session, Senator Menendez proposed to reconsider the previously certified local calendar, which included the consideration of HB4202. There were no objections raised during the discussions, leading to a smooth affirmation of the calendar containing HB4202. After confirming the recommended list for the May 28, 2025 calendar with a unanimous vote of seven ayes and no nays, the meeting concluded with no additional business on the agenda. The atmosphere was orderly and efficient, highlighting the committee's commitment to addressing legislative scheduling expeditiously.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Senate SessionThe Senate of the 89th Legislature, First Called Session, adjourns sine die. Aug 15th, 2025
Texas Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- " data-time="0">Members, please rise for the invocation in the gallery, and on the floor, delivered by
Members, it's a voice vote. All in favor, say aye.
Bills:
SB2, SB3, SB4, SB5, SB6, SB7, SB8, SB9, SB10, SB11, SB12, SB13, SB14, SB15, SB16, SB18, SB34, SB2, SB3, SB4, SB5, SB6, SB7, SB8, SB9, SB10, SB11, SB12, SB13, SB14, SB15, SB16, SB18, SB34
Keywords:
flooding, public safety, outdoor warning sirens, disaster preparedness, emergency response, flood warning, outdoor sirens, disaster preparedness, local government, safety measures, flood management, outdoor warning sirens, emergency preparedness, municipal safety, disaster response, disaster relief, emergency funding, flood management, Meteorological forecasting, local government assistance
Summary:
The committee meeting opened with an invocation led by Senator Sparks, emphasizing compassion, kindness, and wisdom in legislative work. Several resolutions were read and adopted unanimously through a voice vote, showing a collaborative spirit among the members. However, details on specific bills discussed were not present in the transcript, indicating that key legislative topics may not have been covered or recorded during the session. Overall, the atmosphere was professional and focused on procedural matters rather than in-depth discussions of individual legislation.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
At this time, the chair will discuss House Bill 114 by Representative
- Chairman and members, House Bill 114 by Representative Phillip Cortez.
- p>Members, this is a companion to Senate Bill 2926, which was heard by
- At this time, the chair lays out House Bill 39 by Representative Lopez.
- We'll be gathering to vote on this.
Keywords:
veterans, mental health, Texas Veterans Commission, peer support, suicide prevention, community mental health, grant program, veterans, cemetery, General Land Office, burial plot, Texas Veterans Commission, veterans, remembrance, monthly designation, honoring military, Texas legislation, mental health, veterans, peer support
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several key pieces of legislation aimed at improving services and support for veterans in the state. Notable discussions included House Bill 114, which proposes to transfer veterans' mental health initiatives to the Texas Veterans Commission, emphasizing the need for enhanced mental health resources. This bill received supportive testimony from various stakeholders who advocated for the importance of community-based mental health services for veterans. Additionally, House Bill 1965 was highlighted, seeking to expand the Military Veteran Peer Network to better serve rural communities and address increasing mental health needs. Testimonies reflected a strong commitment to reducing veteran suicides through peer support systems.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- We noticed that the Permanent School Fund was using a proxy voting service, voting our proxies for us
- This is the result of legislation passed last session by Senator Nichols and Senator...
- This isn't new for us, by the way.
- You don't know it by heart?"
- Geothermal is not new for us, by the way; we've been doing it for a long time.
Keywords:
SB786, SB119, SB1186, geothermal injection wells, brine mining, environmental regulations, water management, Texas Railroad Commission, economic growth
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee focused on several key legislative initiatives, including the implementation of new regulations concerning geothermal injection wells as per SB786, and the jurisdiction over brine mining clarified by SB119 and SB1186. Commissioner Christy spoke about the achievements of the Railroad Commission of Texas in regulatory standards and emphasized the importance of updating environmental practices that safeguard groundwater and surface water while facilitating economic growth. Senators expressed their concerns regarding operational impacts on various sectors, highlighting the need for continued collaboration between agencies to address challenges related to water management and environmental compliance.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Culture, Recreation & Tourism Apr 8th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- That's right, by the way.
- And by the way, your brother is going to like this particular resolution.
- Committee as required by Section 2160 of the Government Code.
- by George P.
- choice and not by chance, as Sam Houston did.
Bills:
HB1397, HB1886, HB3088, HB4187, HB4229, HB4230, HB5032, HCR6, HCR34, HCR50, HCR55, HCR58, HCR70, HCR71, HCR72, HCR74, HCR75, HCR80, HCR86, HCR93, HCR100, HCR107, HCR116, HCR117
Keywords:
Texas Constitution, Declaration of Independence, victory or death letter, display, historic preservation, lifeguard requirements, public beaches, municipalities, county regulations, exemptions, Parks and Wildlife, procurement, goods and services, revenue generation, Texas legislature, historical preservation, Texas Historical Commission, fees, nonprofit organizations, fundraising
Summary:
The meeting of the committee facilitated in-depth discussions on several key bills, including HB3887, HB3129, and HCR resolutions such as HCR34 and HCR116. Notably, HB3887 related to contractor requirements within the Parks and Wildlife Department, which was reported favorably to the full House without amendments. There was strong consensus among committee members with unanimous votes, indicating well-supported proposals. Other resolutions touched on designating Newton County as the forest capital of Texas and recognizing the Texas Almanac as the official state book, reflecting an agenda focused on cultural and environmental legacies.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- 2100 by Vice Chair Place from the agenda.
- Bill 2100 by Vice Chair Place.
- We all believe that we should be held accountable not only by the voters.
- but by the legislature, and we are for that.
- And then the second, I'm intrigued by Mr.
Bills:
HB4011, HB2680, HB4325, HB4327, HB4944, HB1761, HB4688, HB3453, HB40, HB1707, HB4749, HB2322, HB3647, HB4139, HB4081, HB2203, HB2100, HB4170, HB3104, HB4623
Keywords:
partition, heirs' property, real estate, co-ownership, family property, non-heir cotenant, right of first refusal, pilot services, liability limitation, maritime commerce, Matagorda Bay, Lavaca Bay, transportation code, maritime industry, civil liability, barratry, penalties, legal actions, damages, wrongful death
Summary:
The meeting focused on discussions surrounding judicial reform, specifically addressing issues such as judicial accountability, compensation, and the backlog of cases. Members expressed concerns over the lack of sufficient compensation for judges, which has hindered their ability to attract qualified candidates to the bench. Witness testimonies highlighted the significant workload judges face and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on court operations. There was a concerted effort among committee members to ensure judges are held accountable while also providing them with fair compensation and resources to effectively manage their caseloads. The gathering concluded with commitments to further discuss proposed legislation and its potential effects on the judicial system in Texas.