Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'economic policy'
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TX
Transcript Highlights:
- The policy behind it makes sense. It's fair.
- Bringing those more in line makes sense policy-wise, and in that regard, it is one of the reasons why
- This is only about whether I'm liable on policy violations in the administration.
- That would probably violate policy. Okay.
- I'm a policy attorney with the Texas Civil Rights Project here in opposition to SB14.
Keywords:
sex designation, privacy rights, public facilities, civil penalties, gender-specific spaces, Texas Women's Privacy Act, law enforcement, employee misconduct, department file, personnel records, confidentiality, SB14, police accountability, transparency, misconduct records, public trust, civil rights, community relations
Summary:
The meeting centered on a heated discussion regarding SB14, which proposed changes to how police misconduct records are managed and accessed. Numerous witnesses, including representatives from civil rights organizations and concerned citizens, expressed strong opposition to the bill, arguing that it would significantly reduce transparency and accountability within law enforcement agencies. Testimonies highlighted historical failures in police accountability and emphasized the importance of public access to misconduct records to restore community trust. The committee received both emotional appeals and expert opinions, painting a vivid picture of the potential negative impacts of the proposed legislation on police-community relations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- We talked about how HB 2 doesn't just allow through policy
- policy over other vehicles addressing similar sections of code
So obviously, the school finance bill and the policy
- with those policies.
If there was a conflict between those policies in the
Keywords:
House Bill 2, education funding, public schools, special education, teacher pay, Senate Committee on Education K-16, substitute bill, public testimony, Senator Creighton, educational reforms
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Education K-16 convened to discuss House Bill 2, which focuses on public education funding and reforms. Senator Creighton presented amendments to the bill, highlighting significant increases in funding for special education and enhancements to teacher pay. Notably, the committee adopted a new substitute version of the bill after thorough discussions regarding its implications on districts and educators. Several senators expressed their concerns and support for the bill, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that all educational stakeholders are adequately compensated and that the bill addresses ongoing educational challenges in Texas.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the nomination of Lieutenant General John D. Caine (Retired), to be general and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Department of Defense. Apr 1st, 2025 at 08:30 am
Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel
Transcript Highlights:
- hearing some rumors that have suggested that the administration is considering ending the dual-hat policy
- ...that that's a policy decision, but what I'm really asking
- But again, I would defer to the President as he considers what the future policy may look like.
- So if the President makes a decision on this, that, or the other policy or operation about this, that
- In your advanced policy...
Keywords:
national security, military readiness, Kane nomination, defense budget, China threats, Russia, collaboration, modernization
Summary:
The meeting centered on the nomination of retired Lieutenant General Dan Kane for Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, delving into various security concerns and the strategic environment facing the U.S. today. Testimonies highlighted the growing threats from adversaries such as China and Russia, with discussions around the necessity of maintaining and modernizing military capabilities to address these challenges. The need for agility in military operations and enhancing collaboration among various defense agencies was underscored. Further, concerns were raised regarding the defense budget and the importance of a strong national defense strategy were prevalent throughout the discussions. The committee members collectively emphasized the need for superior readiness and modernization to keep pace with global threats.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services May 19th, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- We show you registered as James Quintero on behalf of Texas Public Policy Foundation testifying for the
- I represent the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
- The Texas Public Policy Foundation brings them in at every
- I represent the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
- I represent the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
Keywords:
school funding, bonds, education, finance, Texas Education Code, public banks, bond proceeds, voter transparency, Texas legislation, Senate Bill 621, Senate Bill 414
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several key bills impacting public funds, particularly regarding the use of unspent bond proceeds and mandated transparency during bond elections. Notably, Senate Bill 621 was discussed, which seeks to prohibit political subdivisions from establishing public banks, emphasizing core governmental functions and preventing taxpayer exposure to financial risks. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted concerns about the appropriateness of using public funds for non-essential projects, which led to vigorous debate amongst committee members. Additionally, Senate Bill 414 was addressed, which requires clear disclosures about estimated interest costs in bond proposals, aiming to enhance voter awareness and accountability.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I changed the policy.
- Is that what informed the concerns that led to our policy statement?
- And so I ordered that as an initial step with our new policy.
- So we first had the top-down policy.
- We didn't make policy decisions without consulting the board.
Keywords:
lottery, gambling, internet gaming, mobile application, criminal offenses, Supreme Court, constitutional amendment, judicial independence, Keep Nine, checks and balances, Senate Bill 992, Senate Bill 523, Attorney General, public safety, legal counsel, probation officers, committee meeting, legislation
Summary:
The meeting was a crucial session for discussing several important bills including SB992, which aims to establish a clear time frame for the Attorney General's approval on outside legal counsel for state agencies. Senator Nichols presented the bill, emphasizing its necessity for timely responses to ensure efficient legal processing. Another notable discussion centered around SB523, which seeks to allow parole and probation officers to use a business address on their driver's licenses for safety and security purposes. This bill passed favorably out of the committee, with public testimony supporting the need for such provisions due to the risks these officers face.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
Good morning, I am Kirsten Budwine, policy attorney
- They came up with a model policy. The policy is already in effect voluntarily.
- This just makes it consistent across the state in how those policies are handled.
- So they just would say, "Look, I'm sorry, our policy is we just don't release that."
Keywords:
bail reform, criminal justice, felony offenses, constitutional amendment, public safety, bail reform, SJR87, SB3073, public safety, due process, judicial discretion, criminal justice, violent offenders, legislation
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to discuss important legislative amendments regarding bail reform in Texas. The meeting centered around two key bills: SJR87 and SB3073. SJR87 is a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at imposing stricter bail conditions for repeat violent offenders, requiring judges to deny bail without individual assessments of risk in certain cases. This sparked contentious debate, highlighting the concerns among committee members and public witnesses about potential infringements on due process and judicial discretion. Proponents argued that the amendment would help safeguard the community against repeat offenders by ensuring that those with serious crimes on their record could not be released on bail under questionable circumstances.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Agriculture & Livestock Aug 19th, 2025 at 02:08 pm
House Agriculture & Livestock Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- livestock industry, but also a huge issue for the wildlife industry that's a multi-billion dollar annual economic
- Its larvae feed on living flesh, causing suffering, economic losses, and even death in livestock and
Keywords:
New World Screw Worm, livestock management, sterile fly facility, Texas agriculture, FDA emergency use, animal health
Summary:
The meeting of the Committee on Agriculture and Livestock addressed the ongoing threat of the New World Screw Worm, which poses significant risks to both livestock and wildlife in Texas. Chairman Kitzman emphasized the importance of a coordinated response among state and federal agencies, including the recent $750 million investment for a new sterile fly facility in south Texas, crucial for combating this threat. Several invited witnesses provided insights on current research, management strategies, and the collaboration needed to effectively handle potential infestations.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the nominations of Scott Kupor, of California, to be Director of the Office of Personnel Management, and Eric Matthew Ueland, of Virginia, to be Deputy Director for Management, Office of Management and Budget. Apr 3rd, 2025 at 08:30 am
Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Together they steer policy, hiring policy, benefits administration, and performance metrics.
- It's not just bad policy; it's a complete misreading of the problem.
- ...for driving personnel policy across the government.
Keywords:
nominations, Scott Cooper, Eric Ulan, federal workforce, Office of Personnel Management, Office of Management and Budget, accountability, collective bargaining
Summary:
The committee convened to discuss the nominations of Scott Cooper for Director of the Office of Personnel Management and Eric Ulan for Deputy Director at the Office of Management and Budget. This meeting highlighted the critical roles both positions play in managing the federal workforce, which comprises over two million civilian employees. Concerns were raised regarding the current administration's approach to federal employment, citing issues like mass firings and the undermining of collective bargaining rights. Members expressed the need for better accountability and transparency within the federal system, emphasizing the importance of attracting talented public servants.
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:
- processes and policies could be improved for better outcomes
- Brandon would appear to have, so that they can tell us more about the policies and their implications
- they can tell us why those policies exist.
- and come up with policies and rules to minimize the deaths
- After communicating with stakeholders, we believe that narrowing the scope of the policy focuses on that
Bills:
HB2814, HB4477, HB5084, HB5108, HB5127, HB5383, HB5611, HB5663, HB5664, SB1563, HB2668, HB3841, HB4114
Keywords:
juvenile justice, release documents, children, identification, Texas Juvenile Justice Department, civil service, staffing requirements, local government, positions exemption, Texas legislation, fireworks, Lunar New Year, retail permits, local government, public safety, Texas law, holiday sales, county purchasing, government authority, local government
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
Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Apr 14th, 2025 at 10:04 am
House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Private businesses should be able to determine their policies.
- any policy problem.
- My name is Erin Erb, and I'm a senior policy attorney at the Giffords Law Center.
- I am the policy director for the Texas Women's Health Care Coalition.
- The general zero tolerance policy we have in the education code allows them to prohibit weapons.
Bills:
HB259, HB1128, HB1337, HB1506, HB1794, HB2215, HB2470, HB2771, HB2882, HB2993, HB3053, HB3428, HB3669, HB3789, HB3924, HB4201, HB4675
Keywords:
healthcare, insurance, patient rights, medical expenses, access to care, affordability, legislation, firearms, penal code, regulation, short-barrel firearms, ammunition, legislation, firearms, gun control, public safety, short-barrel firearms, Texas law, firearms, gun control
Summary:
The committee meeting featured a rigorous discussion on several bills, most notably House Bill 4201, which aims to expand firearm carry rights for licensed individuals on government-owned properties, including schools. The proponent of the bill, Representative Schatzlein, emphasized the importance of safeguarding the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding Texans. However, multiple witnesses testified against the bill, arguing that it could lead to increased risks, particularly in sensitive locations like educational institutions, where the presence of firearms could exacerbate safety concerns. Testimonies from representatives of various organizations, including Texas Gun Sense and Moms Demand Action, highlighted the potential dangers such legislation could introduce, and many witnesses shared personal stories that reinforced their opposition to the bill.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- It's a policy decision to make, with an understanding of the impact.
- I'm here representing Texas Realtors on the Public Policy Oversight.
- I'm a policy director.
- And in the city where I put in policies for Southlake, we're paying for a lot of people to.
- And talk to you about tax policy.
Keywords:
property tax, homestead exemption, school funding, state aid, constitutional amendment, property tax relief, homestead exemption, SB4, SJR2, public testimony, local government spending, Texas economy
Summary:
The committee meeting centered around significant discussions regarding property tax relief, particularly through Senate Bill 4 (SB4) and Senate Joint Resolution 2 (SJR2). Chairman Bettencourt and other committee members expressed strong support for increasing the homestead exemption to $140,000, emphasizing the necessity of this adjustment in light of a multi-billion dollar revenue surplus. Public testimonies revealed a mix of support and opposition, highlighting the complexities of local government spending and its impact on tax relief effectiveness. Witnesses articulated concerns about rising property taxes and urged the committee to consider systemic reforms to enhance the efficacy of tax relief initiatives.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
This isn't just about improving policy; it's about
- Ensuring officers have proper equipment to safely do their jobs is just as important as any policy change
- Our policy is that the camera remains on the entire time.
- The bill itself, basically the statute supports our policies
- We enacted a mental health policy leave for our peace officers across the state of Texas.
Keywords:
community supervision, repeat offenders, intoxication, Texas Penal Code, criminal justice reform, intoxication manslaughter, criminal penalties, community supervision, mandatory supervision, parole eligibility, Grayson's Law, mental health, trauma, jailers, law enforcement, occupational health, diligent participation, state jail felony, criminal justice reform, time credits
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on several significant bills addressing public safety and reform within the correctional system. Notably, HB2103 was discussed, which aims to provide mental health leave for correctional officers, amid growing concerns about their wellbeing due to the psychological stress associated with their duties. Support was voiced by various stakeholders, highlighting the need for better support systems for officers facing trauma related to their jobs. This bill was aimed at recognizing the critical role that mental health plays in maintaining a safe working environment for those in the corrections field.
In another part of the meeting, HB2017 sparked heated debates, as it sought to instate stricter penalties for intoxication manslaughter committed by undocumented individuals. The discussion brought forth views on fairness and the implications of distinguishing sentences based on immigration status. Several witnesses offered testimony, both for and against the bill, leading to a contentious atmosphere that reflected the broader societal debates about immigration and public safety. Overall, the meeting highlighted the challenges of reforming laws while considering the variables of mental health and immigration status in the context of public safety.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Business meeting to consider S.558, to provide for the consideration of a definition of antisemitism set forth by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance for the enforcement of Federal antidiscrimination laws concerning education programs or Apr 30th, 2025 at 09:00 am
Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- to punish law firms that have represented clients who took legal action against Donald Trump, his policies
- one can criticize the government of Israel, or the government of any country on earth for their policies
- One can criticize the government of Israel for their policies
- One of them is the bill would punish speech that draws a comparison of Israeli policy to that of the
- Under current policy, the Office for Civil Rights ...can
Keywords:
civil rights, higher education, discrimination, complaints, awareness campaign, antisemitism, discrimination, education, Civil Rights Act, IHRA definition, federal enforcement, Jewish community, anti-discrimination laws, Anti-Semitism Awareness Act, Protecting Students on Campus Act, First Amendment, Senator Tim Scott, free speech, college campuses, civil rights
Summary:
The committee meeting primarily focused on reviewing two significant bills: S558, the Anti-Semitism Awareness Act of 2025, and S163, the Protecting Students on Campus Act. Senator Tim Scott introduced S558, emphasizing its importance in combatting anti-Jewish violence and harassment, and providing the Department of Education with necessary tools to investigate incidents of anti-Semitism on college campuses. The bill sparked a vigorous debate among members who expressed concerns over potential implications for free speech, particularly regarding its definitions of anti-Semitism, and whether it would infringe upon First Amendment rights.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 27th, 2025 at 10:08 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Is it true that this body's personnel manual on policy and procedures and the House rules serve as the
- main sources of governing policy for House personnel and staff conduct?
- Does the Personnel Manual on Policies and Procedures outline
- Pursuant to the Personnel Manual on Policies and Procedures.
- dressed up as public policy.
Bills:
HB25, HB48, HB149, HB254, HB26, HB192, HCR3, HCR4, HCR5, HCR6, HCR8, HCR14, HCR16, HR1, HR2, HR3, HR4, HR6, HR7, HR8, HR9, HR12, HR11, HR13, HR14, HR15, HR16, HR20, HR22, HR23, HR24, HR25, HR26, HR27, HR28, HR29, HR30, HR31, HR32, HR33, HR45, HR48, HR49, HR51, HR52, HR55, HR56, HR57, HR59, HR60, HR61, HR62, HR63, HR64, HR65, HR66, HR70, HR71, HR72, HR74, HCR2, HCR7, HR10, HR21, HR35, HR36, HR37, HR38, HR39, HR40, HR42, HR43, HR44, HR46, HR47, HR50, HR53, HR54, HR67, HR69, HR75
Keywords:
ivermectin, pharmacist authority, prescription-free, healthcare regulation, patient access, public safety, communication, governor approval, interoperability, political subdivision, radio systems, education, funding, school districts, equity, resources, retirement, judge, Brazoria County, probate court
Summary:
The meeting included significant discussions on several bills, with a notably vibrant debate around HB25, which seeks to authorize pharmacists to dispense ivermectin without prescription. Supporters highlighted the potential benefits for rural communities by improving access to affordable medications, while opponents raised concerns around safety and the implications of over-the-counter availability. Following extensive discussion, HB25 ultimately passed with a vote of 88 ayes to 51 nays. Additionally, HB192 and HB254 were discussed, both of which passed with strong support, marking a productive session for those advocating for the modernization of public health and infrastructure funding.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Criminal Jurisprudence Mar 4th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- When we look at this graph, many of the counties are keeping their policies.
Is there a policy that says if you turn off your body
- It's discipline up to and including termination, but we've switched the policy.
- When we look at this graph, a lot of the counties are keeping their policies...
- It's discipline up to and including termination, but we've switched the policy.
Keywords:
juvenile justice, staffing shortages, youth violence, mental health, Texas Juvenile Justice Department, funding
Summary:
The meeting of the Texas Juvenile Justice Committee focused on addressing key issues within the juvenile justice system, particularly outlining a severe staffing shortage that impacts service delivery to youth in secure facilities. The Director of the Texas Juvenile Justice Department presented significant findings, including a spike in violence among youth and a concerning increase in youth with heightened aggressive behaviors and mental health needs. The committee emphasized the urgent need for additional staffing and funding to enhance the living and working conditions in juvenile facilities and ensure adequate programming for the youth involved.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine S.124, to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for disciplinary procedures for supervisors and managers at the Department of Veterans Affairs and to modify the procedures of personnel actions against employees of the Dep Mar 11th, 2025 at 09:30 am
Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- However, Changes that affect VA policy and personnel must
- these cruel cuts in staff and critical resources resulting from the Trump-Musk-Collins anti-vet policies
- , the Acting Director,
Deputy Undersecretary for Policy
- Melissa Cohen, Acting Deputy Undersecretary for Policy and Oversight, Veterans Benefits Administration
- This isn't policy.
Keywords:
Department of Veterans Affairs, disciplinary procedures, accountability, personnel actions, whistleblower protection, cancer study, veterans, military health, aircrew, mortality research, National Academies, exposure, health risks, veterans, mental health, community care, accessibility, treatment programs, substance abuse, appointments
Summary:
During the meeting, various members engaged in extensive discussions surrounding 15 proposed bills related to veterans' affairs. Notably, concerns regarding recent VA workforce changes sparked debates, particularly about potential cuts and their implications for veterans' care and benefits. Chairman Moran emphasized the need for thoughtful reforms and coordination with stakeholders, urging responsible measures to prevent negatively impacting service delivery. The meeting highlighted a significant bipartisan effort to enhance veterans' access to essential health services, particularly in light of recent challenges faced by the VA workforce. Senator Blumenthal's assertions about the urgent plight of veterans due to cuts in personnel drew strong reactions, showcasing the deep concern among committee members regarding the current state of veteran services.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- But at the end of the day, there probably already is a policy against someone that works for that district
- How's that good policy in public education?
- We'll hold on that one, members, because that's good policy and my bill.
- Southwestern, as an example, this is their policy now.
- As one of those given input, this is their current policy now.
Keywords:
education, public safety, tuition exemptions, school liability, child protection, committee recommendations
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Education K-16 convened to address several legislative proposals, primarily focusing on bills related to education and public safety. Among the notable discussions was House Bill 121 concerning public school safety measures. Advocates highlighted the need for enhanced security protocols and the commissioning of peace officers, while the committee unanimously passed the bill for further review by the full Senate. Additionally, House Bill 1105, which provides tuition exemptions for certain parent paramedics, sparked an engaging debate about educational incentives and support for emergency responders, resulting in a favorable recommendation from the committee. The session also witnessed an intensive discussion on HB 4623 that intertwines the liability of educational institutions and their employees in the context of student protection, reflecting on the impact of recent testimony on children’s abuse cases heard previously.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services May 12th, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- This policy was set to go into effect later that year, prohibiting customers from using its services
- span>
PayPal's former president, David Marcus, slammed the policy
- in a tweet saying The new policy goes against everything he
James Quintero on behalf of the Texas Public Policy Foundation
- I represent the Texas Public Policy Foundation. Good morning.
Keywords:
money transmission, public finance, certificates of obligation, tax anticipation notes, consumer protection, First Amendment, voter will
Summary:
The meeting focused on the discussion of two significant pieces of legislation: SB512 and SB1024. SB512 aims to protect users of money transmission services by preventing penalties imposed by service providers for violating terms of service. Representative Hayes explained that this bill responds to troubling practices observed among money service businesses. Public testimonies were presented both in support and opposition to the bill, highlighting concerns over First Amendment rights and the implications for consumer protection. The committee ultimately left the bill pending for further consideration.
In contrast, SB1024 addresses public finance issues, specifically the misuse of voter-rejected projects through certificates of obligation and tax anticipation notes. Senator Betancourt described instances where municipalities have circumvented voter will by issuing debt for projects previously rejected in elections. The committee heard extensive public testimony critiquing the proposed restrictions in the bill, with arguments centered around the potential unintended consequences for local governments and necessary infrastructure projects. Both bills generated lively discussions among committee members, leading to wider considerations of public finance ethics and the relationship between voters and local governments.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Although there is important policy work ahead of us this legislative session, Texas has made great strides
- span marker="31" data-time="180">This committee has the chance to rise to the moment, to put good policy
- know to all of Us that we must do better by developing policies
That is a policy decision for the legislature, sir.
- I encourage you to give these common sense and nonpartisan policies the attention they deserve.
Keywords:
election integrity, Senate Bill 924, polling locations, worker recruitment, election security, 2024 elections, voter confidence
Summary:
The House Committee on Elections convened a session to evaluate recent legislative changes and their implications on the electoral process. A key focus was on enhancing election integrity and procedures, including discussions about Senate Bill 924, which aims to address challenges related to polling locations and worker recruitment in Texas counties. Various members acknowledged the crucial role local election officials play in implementing reforms and managing elections amidst growing scrutiny and challenges such as natural disasters and security threats. The session highlighted the resilience and coordination efforts of election officials across the state.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- insurance product purchased and were included in the policy
- There's no good policy reason to enforce anti-rebating laws by lawsuit. This bill moves the life.
- Clifford Porter, Texas Public Policy Foundation, in support.
- ...Policy Foundation, representing myself.
- statute requires disclosing reasons for declining, canceling, or not renewing personal insurance policies
Keywords:
advanced practice registered nurse, health maintenance organization, preferred provider, insurance, healthcare access, healthcare, insurance, provider ranking, cost-sharing, fiduciary duty, patient choice, insurance, annuities, health coverage, trade practices, rebates, inducements, health promotion, wellness programs, insurance
Summary:
The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance was a significant gathering that focused on various health-related bills, including HB138, AB388, HB1942, and others. The committee heard testimony from multiple stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Medical Association, who emphasized the importance of health insurance transparency and compliance. Notably, HB1818 garnered attention as it aims to enhance the oversight of utilization review processes, which has previously faced challenges from both insurers and healthcare providers. The committee also discussed measures to improve the prescribed burning insurance under HB2563, a critical topic due to the increasing risk of wildfires in Texas. Several witnesses provided insights into the urgent need for a robust insurance framework to support prescribed burn managers, highlighting the current limitations and risks posed by the lack of coverage in the market.