Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senate Committee on Natural Resources'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 14th, 2025 at 09:04 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The committee substitute bills on this by requiring

  • We are working on the committee substitute. The committee substitute does remove the rate.
  • I also serve on the TMRS Stakeholder Advisory Committee, where I represent the Texas State Association
  • , so I think it's important for you to understand the makeup of that committee and who is on there.
  • ="8712"> Retirement System, and you are testifying on the bill as a resource witness.
Summary: The meeting involved extensive discussions around several house bills, with notable emphasis on HB700, which aims to increase transparency in the merchant cash advance (MCA) sector. Representative McQueen provided a detailed explanation of the issues small business owners face due to aggressive tactics and lack of regulation in this area. The committee also examined HB4609, which focuses on updating the Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) benefits to provide clearer options for cities regarding cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), allowing cities to offer retirement benefits in a more flexible and informed manner. Additionally, the meeting featured a strong public testimony segment, where witnesses voiced their support and concerns, especially regarding the implications of digital currencies framed in HB703.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Senate Session Aug 1st, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I hear Senator Cook say one joint, one edible, one toke away from...
  • Thank you, Senator Perry. You have put in incredible work on this.
  • of the committee substitute for Senate Bill 11.
  • Thank you, Senators Heffernan. Senator Menendez, you may speak on the bill. Thank you, Mr.
  • Senator Hall, you may speak on the bill.
Bills: SB5, SB11, SB12
Summary: The committee meeting held a vigorous debate primarily concerning Senate Bills 11, 12, and 5, each addressing significant legislative issues including taxpayer-funded lobbying, election integrity, and the regulation of hemp-derived THC products. Proponents of SB12 defended it as necessary for transparency and fiscal responsibility, emphasizing the suppression of taxpayer-funded lobbying as a means to protect taxpayer interests. In contrast, opponents raised concerns that the bill would silence local government voices and hinder advocacy from smaller communities, arguing that it undermines local control and representation in the legislative process. Throughout the discussions, key testimonies illustrated the political divides over these legislative priorities, generating significant public interest and engagement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 6th, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • on Land and Resource Management.
  • on Land and Resource Management.
  • on Natural Resources.
  • on Land and Resource Management.
  • on Land and Resource Management.
Summary: The meeting focused on celebrating Jim Wells County Day at the Capitol, where various dignitaries from the county, including Judge Pete Trevino and County Commissioners were present. Representative Lozano took the floor to explain the significance of Jim Wells County, highlighting its historical importance, particularly as a once-thriving oil boom town and its cultural contributions, such as Tejano music. The discussion praised ongoing economic development efforts and future plans for water resource management through desalinization initiatives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management Mar 6th, 2025 at 08:03 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • on Land and Resource Management.
  • And again, if it's something that we can work with the committee on, work with stakeholders on, we'd
  • that indeed, there is a housing affordability crisis, so perfect timing to be on this committee.
  • We're here to serve as a resource on these issues.
  • on Land and Resource Management.
Summary: The Committee on Land and Resource Management convened to address pressing issues surrounding housing affordability in Texas. Central to the discussions was the testimony of various stakeholders, including housing developers, local officials, and advocates who highlighted an acute shortage of over 300,000 homes due to rapid population growth. The committee explored legislative measures aimed at reducing regulatory burdens that contribute significantly to housing costs, particularly related to the development and construction processes. A theme of collaboration with local governments and state agencies was a pivotal point, emphasizing the need for an organized approach to address housing supply while balancing local infrastructural concerns.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on County & Regional Government Apr 28th, 2025 at 11:04 am

House S/C on County & Regional Government

Transcript Highlights:
  • and Rules Advisory Committee of the Texas Commission on Jail Standards.
  • find any information on what happened to their loved ones.
  • We also have a resource witness from the Texas Commission on Jail Standards to help answer any questions
  • We respectfully urge the committee to vote yes on House Bill 5108. Thank you.
  • 9-1-1 systems have created a burden on resources and

Summary: The meeting focused on significant legislative proposals primarily centered around public health and criminal justice reforms. Notably, discussions centered on HB3841 and HB5108, which aim to enhance transparency and accountability in death investigations within county jails. Representatives shared compelling testimonies involving the necessity for improved oversight following recent incidents of in-custody deaths, highlighting the emotional impact on affected families. Witnesses from advocacy groups passionately urged the committee to approve the bills to foster trust in the system and uphold public safety standards. Additionally, various members addressed HB5611, which would empower emergency services districts to provide preventative healthcare services, contributing to the prevention of unnecessary 911 calls.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 12th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Committee on Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence will come to order

  • of the members on the committee.
  • state boards and committees, including panels like this one that are connected to...
  • Lastly, this will increase the burden on local resources when people are forced to...
  • This is a very serious issue and we're lawyers, everyone on this committee.
Summary: The meeting of the Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence Committee included discussions on critical bills impacting public safety and tenant rights. Representative Garcia-Hernandez presented HB923, which aims to add two public members to the Texas Medical Disclosure Panel, thereby enhancing informed consent for medical procedures. This move sought to enhance transparency and public trust, especially since the panel previously lacked any public representation. The committee also received testimonies both for and against the bill, highlighting the importance of public input in health-related decisions. The bill faced opposition mainly due to concerns about balancing medical expertise with public representation. Another significant discussion revolved around HB32, which seeks to streamline the eviction process in Texas. While proponents argue that the bill addresses inefficiencies affecting landlords, opponents, including activists and legal experts, expressed concerns that the bill could exacerbate homelessness and undermine tenant rights. They stressed the need for adequate protections and due process for tenants. As the committee moved through multiple bills, the need for careful consideration of both landlord and tenant rights remained a focal point of debate, indicating the complexities surrounding housing legislation in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The House Committee on Elections will come to order.
  • Chairman and committee members. You know, again, on some of the information...
  • Thank you, committee, for the ability to be here today and to testify on this bill.
  • I've said many of the same things on the Senate side, but...
  • So I would appreciate favorable consideration on this Senate bill.
Summary: The House Committee on Elections convened to deliberate on several legislative measures, focusing significantly on the accessibility and integrity of the voting process. Key discussions included the presentation of HB5430, which addresses the declaration of a candidate’s ineligibility based on their filing status. The committee also reviewed Senate Bill SB901, a companion bill that echoes the intentions of HB5430. Other bills such as HB2253 aimed to introduce flexibility for local governments in case of disaster declarations, allowing them to cancel elections in a specified timeframe, emphasizing the need for local leaders to act decisively during crises. Additionally, Senate Bill SB760 was introduced to protect vulnerable populations, ensuring that legal guardians are notified when mail-in ballots are requested by individuals in long-term care facilities. Testimonies both supported and challenged the measures, revealing deep concerns regarding potential implications of these bills on voter rights, particularly for disabled stakeholders and elderly populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Apr 7th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • background on the committee.
  • I cannot get back one second, one minute, one week, one month, or one year.
  • one side and acceptance on the other.
  • Um, on its face, the committee substitute reduces the deadline
  • Unless there's anything else, members, the committee on
Summary: The committee meeting centered around discussions on HB3284, which focuses on promoting family stability and the commissioning of a task force to evaluate existing regulations affecting marriage and family formation. Chairman Dutton initiated the conversation by emphasizing the need for governmental support in fostering a robust societal framework based on stable family units. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted the declining marriage rates in Texas, prompting discussions on effective strategies to reverse this trend. Public testimony was heard from representatives of Texas Values Action and the Texas Family Law Foundation, both advocating for stronger legislative measures to foster lifelong marriages and family stability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation (Part II) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We're on Senate Bill 2722 and the committee substitute by

  • If there's no one else here to testify for or against Senate Bill 2722, Orange Committee Substitute,
  • Is there anyone else wishing to testify on Senate Bill 2323, the committee substitute?
  • Just to clarify, so on the committee substitute for Senate Bill 548.
  • This is on Senate Bill 546.
Summary: The meeting involved significant discussions around several bills focused on public safety and infrastructure, particularly involving the Texas Toll Road Authority. A prominent topic was SB2722 and its implications for funding essential services at the local level. Various members expressed concerns that the bill could undermine local budgets and infrastructure projects, potentially redirecting funds intended for critical transport services to cover emergency responses without proper oversight. Fire and police representatives emphasized the importance of toll revenue being used for its intended purposes rather than being diverted to address fiscal mismanagement within the city.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 22nd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • One member will be appointed by the governor and three members appointed by the Senate.
  • Is there anyone else who wishes to testify on, for, or against the committee substitute for House Bill
  • ...be smart, thoughtful, compassionate people on your committee
  • One second. The committee substitute is withdrawn.
  • The 2024 Committee on Maternal Mobility and Mortality Report found that substance use disorder is a significant
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several key bills related to health care and adoption services, with a significant emphasis on fostering care systems. Vice Chair Emanuel presented bills that aimed to streamline reporting requirements for the HHSC, while Representative Slauson's bill on voluntary adoption registries prompted a discussion on improving access and procedures within the child welfare system. Each bill was generally met with favorable votes, indicating strong bipartisan support for these initiatives. The committee heard testimonies from various stakeholders who voiced the importance of these legislative efforts in enhancing the quality of life for children and families involved in the welfare system. Notably, the committee also tackled the issue of Medicaid services and accessibility for children needing medical equipment like baby helmets, which have been a burden for many low-income families.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • On behalf of Senator Cortez Masto...
  • But Senator Haslam and I have worked a lot on southbound

  • What I promise you and the entire committee is I'll do everything I can to ensure that the resources
  • I will work with everyone in this committee and in the Senate to make this country safer.
  • Chief Scott, would you agree there's a need for more personnel, more equipment, and resources on our
Summary: The meeting centered on the nomination of Rodney Scott to serve as the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Throughout the session, various senators expressed concerns regarding CBP's recent practices, including issues related to border security and the treatment of migrants. Questions were raised about Scott's involvement in previous incidents, particularly surrounding the controversial death of Mr. Hernandez Rojas while in custody, which sparked a heated discussion about accountability and transparency in current border policies. Senators emphasized the importance of balancing efficient border security with humane treatment of individuals seeking asylum.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The House Committee on Public Education will come to order, and the

  • It tells parents how their child did on the state tests, and it provides a lot of good resources to address
  • Lawyers on the House Public Education Committee educate members of the...
  • us on the committee.
  • As one of the directors of human resources for our district.
Summary: The meeting convened with a focus on educational legislation, with discussions spanning several key bills concerning mental health support for students, school safety measures, and the involvement of students in school governance. House Bill 1441, aimed at enhancing training for school resource officers on mental health awareness, received notable attention. Advocates highlighted the importance of equipping officers with the skills to address grief and trauma, thereby fostering a supportive environment for students. The bill was backed by testimonies from stakeholders emphasizing the critical need for proactive measures in schools to prevent crises and support students in need. Another significant piece of legislation was House Bill 3672, introduced by Chairman Ashby, focused on creating grant programs for extracurricular community education, providing essential resources for youth development and engagement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Apr 28th, 2025 at 09:04 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • form on the registration kiosk in the hallway.
  • One employee just had...
  • I've had one employee in 30 years ever file for a...
  • This is not a one-off mistake or technical error.
  • Chairman, members of the committee.
Summary: The meeting was focused on various legislative discussions, particularly centered around environmental initiatives and tax incentives. Notable discussions occurred regarding HB3746, which aims to grant sales tax exemptions for power generation equipment, a proposal that sparked significant engagement among members. Representative Darby, who championed the bill, emphasized its limited scope and potential benefits to Texas businesses. The session was lively, with members exchanging views on the implications of the bill on the local economy and the environment. Public testimony was invited to weigh in on this matter, further enriching the dialogue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Chairman Leach and the committee for the opportunity to testify on HB 1088, and thank you,
  • The chair lays out the committee substitute to House Bill 2637, which is the bill we're on, and recognizes
  • These ERs, which typically lack on-staff psychiatrists and the necessary resources for effective mental
  • But hold on, hold on, hold on. Yeah. I always let you talk, please let me finish.
  • Committee members, as you heard, there's a committee substitute.
Summary: During the meeting, the committee engaged in substantial discussions surrounding several key pieces of legislation, particularly focusing on HB3004 which aims to enhance safety standards around high voltage power lines. Testimonies revealed concerns about the historical inadequacies of existing safety protocols, with multiple stakeholders advocating for strengthening provisions to avoid incidents of electrocution. Additionally, HB1088 was addressed, with debates regarding its potential implications on healthcare access, especially concerning transgender youth. There were conflicting opinions expressed regarding the necessity and impact of these legislative changes, highlighting the broader societal debates occurring around health and safety regulations.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • During my time on this committee, I've met with several judges whose lives have been threatened simply
  • Second, insofar as this committee wants to focus on

  • One of the things that Senator Grassley noted and that many of us have discussed is that there is no
  • It is the judiciary acting as policy deciders, and it is incumbent on this committee and this body to
  • Senator Moody, we have debates on this committee; they

Summary: During this meeting, the committee focused on the implications of universal injunctions, which have become a significant concern in recent years. The discussion centered around various legislative proposals aimed at addressing the perceived overreach of district judges who issue nationwide injunctions that affect policies across the entire country. Several members expressed the belief that such injunctions undermine judicial authority and disrupt the balance of power between the judiciary and executive branches. Expert witnesses testified about the historical context of universal injunctions and the necessity for reforms that would limit the power of courts to grant remedies benefitting non-parties.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Armed Services Committee meets today to consider the nominations of.
  • Mink, on the resource question.
  • I worked with Senator Rubio for years on this.
  • some other senators on the committee, but we have an Air Force Reserve fighter wing, the 442nd, that
  • Senator Reid, we've got a vote on.

Summary: The meeting primarily focused on military procurement and modernization, with significant discussions surrounding the Air Force's capabilities and strategic needs. Key topics included the urgent need for recapitalization of the Air Force's fighter squadrons, as well as the importance of integrating new technologies like autonomous systems to bolster military effectiveness. Several senators raised concerns about the current resources available to the Air National Guard and the potential loss of skilled service members if recapitalization plans are not swiftly developed. There were also discussions on the importance of maintaining air superiority in light of evolving threats, particularly from adversaries like China.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And I close on the committee substitute. Are there any questions?
  • Let's get this bill out of committee and on the road.
  • And it died on the Senate side?

    That is correct.

  • It's data specific to everyone on the committee.
  • the Transportation Committee for 2023, we had at least 52 deaths based on this TxDOT data.
Summary: The committee meeting included significant discussions surrounding several bills, particularly focusing on infrastructure projects and their implications for the community. House Bill 2989 initiated a dialogue around modernizing the legal framework for Cedarport National Park, which is vital for enhancing maritime transport and reducing truck traffic. Supporters emphasized the economic benefits and the project's potential to create a more efficient and sustainable transport network, highlighting testimonies from local officials who noted the bill's importance for regional growth and safety. Representative Metcalfe and others advocated strongly for the bill, underscoring its necessity in addressing the increasing container demand due to recent shifts in shipping patterns. The meeting was well-attended and included various testimonies for and against bills, showcasing the passionate involvement of community members and stakeholders. One key point mentioned was the need for grade separations to improve safety around railway crossings. In particular, concerns were raised about the impact of long trains blocking intersections in residential areas, prompting discussions about potential solutions. Overall, the meeting highlighted the ongoing collaboration between legislators, industry representatives, and community leaders to enhance infrastructure and ensure public safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The House Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs will now come to

  • a committee substitute, is addressing Chapter 394 of the Local Government Code on how an apartment complex
  • Senator Betancourt has filed HB21 on the Senate side and is moving it there.
  • We do know the chairman is working on a committee substitute.
  • I know Representative Gates is working on a committee.
Summary: The meeting highlighted significant issues regarding housing funding mechanisms, particularly surrounding the complexities of Housing Finance Corporations (HFCs). Members voiced their concerns about the financial impacts these HFCs have on local government revenues, given that many property tax exemptions are given while maintaining market-rate rents. This discussion was sparked by alarming statistics indicating a rapid increase in tax dollars removed from local jurisdictions due to HFC activities, stressing the need for regulatory reforms to preserve affordable housing without financially jeopardizing municipalities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 19th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • the resource witness on the bill.
  • Robert Sadler with TCEQ's Water Quality Division here as a resource witness on the bill.
  • I'm also working with several organizations on a committee substitute.
  • on Calendars.
  • to the Committee on Calendars.
Summary: The recent committee meeting addressed various critical bills, focusing primarily on water management and flood control across Texas. Notable discussions included House Bill 1177, which proposes introducing stricter penalties for floodplain violations, aiming to deliver swift accountability for ongoing offenses. Representative Cunningham highlighted the urgency of this issue, emphasizing that current enforcement mechanisms lead to prolonged legal challenges, which can heighten flood risks for vulnerable communities. This bill sparked numerous inquiries from members, showcasing the committee's commitment to improving flood management legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part II) May 5th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • With that, we're going to go to Senator Nichols on bill number, which one?
  • Let's go ahead and open up public testimony on the committee substitute for Senate Bill 2764.
  • We'll open up public testimony on the committee substitute for Senate Bill 3051.
  • Seeing none, we'll open up public testimony on the committee substitute in Senate Bill 2063.
  • Senator West. Four ayes, one nay.
Summary: The meeting of the committee included vigorous discussions on various bills, particularly Senate Bills aimed at creating municipal management districts and local improvement initiatives. Senate Bill 3048, presented by Senator Birdwell, was notably passed with unanimous support, establishing a management framework for a 448-acre community called Blue Bonnet Hills. Concurrently, attention was drawn to SB2559, which received public testimony related to development moratoriums that have affected local businesses, emphasizing the need for legislative safeguards against prolonged restrictions on development projects. The session concluded with plans to continue deliberating on various local bills aiming to amend district management provisions.

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