Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Unplug Texas Day'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Apr 30th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair calls Daniel McCarthy with LP Texas and himself.
  • Actually, I can't remember if it's for sure the same day, but there's a day that is prescribed where
  • You're with the Libertarian Party of Texas.
  • Texas, I have a very blinded view of what's going on.
  • I'm the Vice Chair of the Libertarian Party of Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused primarily on discussions surrounding HB4309, aimed at allowing third parties to handle filing fees similarly to major political parties. Witnesses from the Libertarian Party, including Wes Benedict, expressed the need for equitable treatment in political financing, highlighting how fees imposed on them currently do not assist their party in any meaningful way like they do for Republicans and Democrats. Concerns were raised regarding the lack of accountability for fees collected from third parties, with committee members discussing potential oversight mechanisms.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Mar 24th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • Over 7,000 of these, approximately 11 percent, lived in Texas.
  • And I think it'll be a great day in Texas because we will see families not have to be separated simply
  • law firm, and we represent victims of abuse all across Texas.
  • Because someone could be remorseful in a day.
  • say I want to dismiss this case because it's been 94 days.
Summary: The meeting of the committee was marked by rigorous discussions focused primarily on child protection legislation, particularly HB116. The bill seeks to amend existing laws that allow for the termination of parental rights under vague circumstances, often without sufficient due process. Kate Murphy, Director of Child Protection Policy at Texans Care for Children, delivered a heartfelt testimony supporting the bill's intent to prioritize family preservation and ensure that parents facing challenges receive adequate support rather than facing punitive measures. This stirred considerable discussion among committee members about the implications of the current legal framework and how it disproportionately affects families without proven endangerment.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management May 15th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So this was a bill that the Texas Association of Builders and...
  • Texas Public Policy Foundation testifying for the bill, is that correct?
  • I'm a policy analyst with the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • We've got 10 days, Mr. Chairman. And I'm not trying to delay this bill.
  • I'm a local developer, land broker here in Austin, Texas.
Bills: SB1708, SB2523, SB1450
Summary: The meeting involved discussions primarily around SB1450, SB2523, and SB1708. The highlight was SB1450, which seeks to streamline the review process for building permits by allowing licensed third-party professionals to conduct inspections. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including local housing advocates and property developers, indicated strong support for the bill, as it addresses the ongoing housing crisis by reducing permitting delays. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on county regulatory authority, emphasizing the need for counties to retain oversight in the review process, especially regarding flood insurance and safety regulations. The committee members showed proactive engagement in addressing amendments to the bill aimed at safeguarding public interests, while also facilitating efficient housing development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation (Part II) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • of the largest city in Texas.
  • The North Texas Turnpike Authority does compensate DPS.
  • But then they turn around, and we have to wait four hours, five hours, sometimes a day or two days to
  • This is the state of Texas.
  • It was for that day exactly.
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

Local Government Apr 14th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • the University of Texas Law School, where I teach Texas Property Tax Law.
  • That’s not how we do things in Texas.
  • and the Texas Property Tax Code.
  • We track it every day.
  • I represent the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Local Government covered various pressing bills focused primarily on property tax issues. Notable discussions included the examination of Senate Bill 1052, which addresses appraisal challenges faced by Gulf Coast counties and aims to ensure tax calculations reflect realistic revenue expectations. Witnesses from local governments expressed the necessity of this bill, highlighting the severe financial implications of tax disputes on public services and education. Additionally, the committee reviewed Senate Bill 325, which reinforces the requirement for water availability to be confirmed prior to land development, as previous loopholes allowed developers to bypass this essential regulation. Public testimonies echoed concerns around the implications of unchecked property development and emphasized the need for proper resource allocation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V Feb 24th, 2025 at 10:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V

Transcript Highlights:
  • people per day.
  • Rice and I could speak to you all day about the tremendous work being done in Texas because of the state
  • South Texas, to North Texas, to East Texas, to West Texas
  • Canada to Texas.
  • We lose them every day.
Summary: The meeting of the committee was primarily focused on reviewing various bills, with robust conversations surrounding fiscal allocations for upcoming bienniums. Notably, discussions centered around SB22, which relates to salary assistance grants for law enforcement agencies, indicated strong support, with members expressing a consensus on the importance of enhancing financial resources for police departments across Texas. Additionally, the committee examined HB1, which proposed increases to funding to improve tax collection efficiencies and recruitment of professionals in critical roles. The meeting witnessed input from various stakeholders and representatives emphasizing the significance of these initiatives for state operations and public safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government Apr 14th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • an adjunct professor at the University of Texas Law School, where I teach Texas Property Tax Law.
  • and in the Texas Property Tax Code.
  • The Texas...
  • It's Texas Disposal.
  • We track it every day.
Summary: During this committee meeting, several critical bills were deliberated, reflecting the legislators' commitment to addressing property tax regulations and groundwater issues in Texas. Notably, Senate Bill 325 was introduced to close loopholes created by House Bill 3697, ensuring that subdivisions reliant on private roads must demonstrate groundwater availability, a move praised by representatives from environmental and public welfare organizations. The bill emphasizes the necessity for sustainable development practices to prevent future water shortages. Another significant focus was Senate Bill 2172, which aims to rectify the erroneous interpretation of the tax code regarding homestead exemptions, protecting compliant homeowners from unfair tax burdens. This cleanup bill clarifies reapplication processes for homestead exemptions to prevent confusion among appraisal districts and homeowners alike. Public testimony from various stakeholders echoed widespread support for the bills, highlighting the importance of transparency and fair administration in property-related legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part II) May 7th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Hospitality Health ER operates three healthcare facilities in Texas, two in East Texas and one on the
  • Is Crane, Texas, near Midland? Yes.
  • Texas can lead the way.
  • Lastly, the Texas Conservative Coalition...
  • So the proportion of deaths in Texas...
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on various significant bills impacting health, family welfare, and vaccinations. Discussion around SB1887 generated notable interest, as it proposed a ten-year prohibition on administering mRNA vaccines, allowing exceptions for cancer treatment and genetic disorders. Senator Sparks, the bill's author, highlighted safety concerns regarding the mRNA technology, stating that further evaluations were necessary. Public testimonies included both support and opposition, with advocates arguing for informed consent and safety, while others expressed concern about restricting scientific advancements in healthcare. Additionally, the conversation addressed HB2216, which aimed at reforming parental rights in child welfare cases, ensuring that parental drug use alone would not warrant automatic termination of rights unless there was a direct, substantial risk to the child. Public testimony for this bill emphasized the need for additional resources to effectively implement its provisions. The committee also discussed HB2809 regarding tracking suicide attempts by children and SB1590 which proposed adopting an electronic process for paternity verification in adoption cases. Overall, the meeting was marked by lively discussions and significant public involvement, indicating the community's vested interest in the legislative outcomes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That's another story for another day.
  • One day is too long.
  • So I believe that why not Texas?
  • According to the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault, two in five women and one in five men in Texas
  • In Texas, data from the FBI shows that in 2020, over 13,000 rapes were reported to Texas law enforcement
Summary: The meeting of the Juvenile Justice Committee on March 26th focused on multiple significant bills aimed at enhancing the juvenile justice system. Noteworthy discussions included House Bill 1831, presented by Vice Chair Johnson, which seeks to expand juvenile eligibility for drug court programs with a goal of increasing access to rehabilitative treatment for youth. The bill received strong support, passing with a vote of 9-2, and was recommended for favorable reporting to the full House. Additionally, House Bill 2147, introduced by Chairman Van Dever, allows for remote juvenile depositions and court proceedings to increase access and efficiency in the legal process, also passing unanimously with a vote of 10-1. The committee members engaged in thorough debates regarding the impact of these bills on families and juveniles, emphasizing the importance of rehabilitation over punishment.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Our witness had to leave for the day, Mr. Chairman.
  • So, Texas Rural Water Association, we have met with staff.
  • In Texas, there are now more...
  • Even HEB has sponsored the Pollinators for Texas project.
  • The Texas Wildlife Association does a lot of this.
Summary: The committee meeting was marked by significant discussions around various bills, especially those related to water quality and public utilities. House Bill 2692 was presented to simplify and clarify the enabling legislation for the San Antonio River Authority, highlighting improvements necessary for effective governance and administration. Additionally, there were discussions on Senate Bill 2497, which mandates public water systems to install filtration systems to ensure safe drinking water in communities facing water quality issues. Witnesses emphasized the financial burden and the need for more flexibility in solutions to address water contamination without imposing heavy costs on small water systems. The conversation underscored the balance between public health and fiscal responsibility, with various solutions proposed to mitigate the risks of water contamination.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence May 14th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm about to get the Texas DPS to come remove you.
  • I have supervision status in Texas.
  • Does this just serve as notice, and then they have 30 days to vacate?
  • And is that a 30-day notice? I mean, how much time does this...?
  • It doesn't mean that they can't throw them out in a day, five days, or ten days, or what, I mean.
Bills: SB1015, SB2933
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around several significant pieces of legislation, highlighting bills primarily focused on court proceedings, mental health services, and civil liabilities. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 441, which addressed civil liabilities for the promotion of artificial intimate visual material, and SB1164, concerning emergency detention for individuals with mental health issues. Both bills saw no amendments and garnered unanimous support in votes, showcasing the committee's intent to streamline judicial processes concerning these sensitive areas. Additionally, bills regarding guardianships and decedent estates were included, reflecting a commitment to improve the judicial system's handling of family law matters.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm here in Austin three days a week.
  • These days, the days I'm in...
  • I'm Ann Bishop, Executive Director of the Texas Public Employees Association, for another eight days.
  • ...one of those being right here in Texas at the South Texas
  • who are licensed in Texas that moved.
Summary: The meeting was characterized by a thorough examination of various bills, with particular focus on House Bill 5247, which dealt with capital cost recovery mechanisms for utilities and featured discussions on its implications for consumers. Senator Campbell presented the bill, emphasizing its balanced approach and necessity for clarity in existing utility provisions. Multiple members expressed support, leading to a unanimous vote for its approval, showcasing a collaborative atmosphere within the committee. Additionally, HCR 102 was highlighted, which sought to call attention to the importance of federal tax credits for sustaining and expanding nuclear energy in Texas. The testimony from industry experts reinforced the bill's significance as Texas seeks to maintain its leadership in energy production amidst rising demands and competitive pressures from international markets.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 7th, 2025 at 03:00 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Michael McCloud from Crockett as Doctor of the Day.
  • at the Texas State Capitol.
  • Texas Crown Act last session.
  • We were honored to welcome D.J. to the Texas.
  • conditional driver's permit, provisional Texas conditional driver's permit, and Texas conditional learner
Summary: The committee meeting addressed significant topics, including two resolutions, HCR65 and HCR119. HCR65 commemorated the life of Tracy Lee Vincent from Longview, while HCR119 also addressed another memorial. These discussions involved motions for deferring other bills’ readings and the scheduling of a congratulatory memorial resolutions calendar. The meeting included formal recognitions of important individuals, including veterans and milestones in their contributions, illustrating the dignity of the proceedings and the respect given to public service. Additionally, the committee conducted motions to allow for committee meetings during session hours, ensuring legislative business continued smoothly despite scheduling challenges. Amidst these discussions, members recognized first responders and notable citizens whose actions had significantly impacted their communities. This highlighted the meeting's focus not only on legislative duties but also on honoring the individuals that contribute to societal welfare. The session was characterized by a spirit of collaboration and respect, as well as moments of solemn remembrance, establishing a balanced agenda that combined urgency in legislative work with the ceremonial aspects of governance. By the end of the meeting, a clear path forward was established with several motions ordered and memorials acknowledged.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations Feb 19th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas Strategic Leadership.
  • >That process is a big lift for a teacher, but the other process is really just about the teacher's day-to-day
  • One day, the student population is X and the next day it
  • Like, do the students have to attend the private school a certain number of days?
  • ...the day they show up.
Summary: The meeting covered various topics, but specific discussions and bills were not detailed in the available transcript. Despite the lack of documented debates or acknowledgments, it was noted that committee members were present, and there may have been attempts to address crucial legislative matters. The dynamics of the meeting suggested a standard procedural gathering where routine insights were likely shared among the attendees.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government May 12th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It's been that type of day. Whatever.
  • I'm president of the Texas State Association of Firefighters.
  • However, there have been multiple situations across Texas in which a building...
  • and they don't get it, the Texas AG usually takes the case on.
  • help Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the legislative committee was focused on the discussion and voting of several bills, including HB303, HB2740, HB2742, and HB4753. Each bill presented drew attention from various committee members, with detailed debates surrounding their implications and utility. For instance, HB4753, which addresses issues arising from lost certificates of occupancy, prompted a discussion on the difficulties faced by property owners in different municipalities struggling to comply with documentation requirements. In general, the committee expressed support for the bills, as many passed with unanimous votes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Mar 25th, 2025 at 02:03 pm

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Texas should prohibit the possession...

  • , or even outside of Texas?
  • Like how effective would it be in addressing things that come from outside of Texas?
  • Yes, outside of Texas.

  • I actually don't even think 30 days is enough time to investigate that.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on a range of bills addressing important topics such as artificial intelligence and sexual exploitation laws. Notably, House Bill 235, which aims to add civil and criminal liability for the use of AI-generated deepfake materials, garnered discussion from multiple members and witnesses, including Adrian Shelley from Public Citizen who expressed support for the bill. Concerns about ensuring the legislation's clarity and enforcement were raised. Additionally, House Bill 207 was presented, which seeks to expand definitions within sexual offense laws to include representations involving anatomically correct dolls, eliciting varied perspectives from representatives during the debate.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Have a good day. You got your charts for these ladies?
  • We're going to be using umpteen thousand gallons of water a day.
  • You've had a busy day. I appreciate you.
  • Carl Ray Polk and Charlie Leal, good day, gentlemen.
  • every day.
Summary: The meeting of the committee addressed significant issues surrounding groundwater conservation, with a focus on several proposed bills aimed to enhance the management and sustainability of water resources in the region. House Bill 1633 was discussed, which seeks to strengthen criteria used by groundwater conservation districts (GCDs) when permitting, ensuring that they factor in potential impacts on neighboring exempt wells. Positive sentiments were expressed regarding the need for more stringent evaluations of groundwater permits to preserve resources effectively. This bill aims to reinforce accountability among GCDs, emphasizing the criticality of groundwater, especially in rural areas where access is essential for agricultural and domestic use. In addition, House Bill 1689 and Senate Bill 3058 were presented, both aimed at improving how GCDs utilize export fees and manage water conservation measures. Public testimony highlighted the concerns of landowners about excessive pipeline construction fees and a lack of adequate authority to collaborate with counties on water projects. The committee adopted several amendments to these bills to better align the interests of landowners with water conservation goals. The meeting concluded with an acknowledgment of the pressing need to balance development and conservation, signaling a collective intent to move forward with actionable legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) May 26th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Executive Director of the Texas Rural Water Association here
  • process, or if they follow certain particular criteria, can get it as low as 45 days.
  • You will always be known as the East Texas Navy.
  • Chairman, thanks for your hospitality and all you were doing during those days.
  • So, you will continue to be in close proximity all day long. I'm tracking you. That's right.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Local Government convened to discuss various important bills, primarily focusing on housing and local governance issues. Significant discussions included House Bill 5509, aimed at enhancing municipal powers against human trafficking by allowing the suspension of hotel occupancy certificates when crimes are suspected. The committee thoroughly reviewed the proposed committee substitutes for several bills, stressing stakeholder input and the importance of due process in legislative changes. Additionally, public testimony highlighted community support for the new amendments designed to ensure safety and welfare, particularly concerning vulnerable populations. House Bill 5663, addressing vital infrastructure needs and associated funding, also received a favorable recommendation from the committee, advancing its path through legislative scrutiny.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations Apr 14th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • throughout all of Texas.
  • It touches every life in Texas every day, practically.
  • I look forward to serving the citizens of Texas and the Texas Tech University System.
  • They were crossing the entire state of Texas; we're just about everywhere, but South Texas.
  • How's Texas?
Summary: The Senate Committee on Nominations convened to address various nominee confirmations, highlighting the significance of higher education and environmental management. Discussions centered around the responsibilities of the Brazos River Authority and the need for effective cooperation with the legislature and other state authorities. Several senators raised concerns regarding the agricultural runoff affecting impaired streams leading into the Brazos River. The committee emphasized the importance of stewardship, collaboration, and facilitating a balance between resource utilization and environmental protection.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Mar 19th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair calls Katrina Daniel with the Texas Retirement System.
  • Sometimes we have days; sometimes I'm asked to turn around a fiscal note that same day or the next morning
  • , and we represent Texas families and businesses.
  • I am speaking today on behalf of the Texas Medical Association.
  • Thank you for serving the patients of Texas the way you do.
Bills: HB138, HB335, HB388
Summary: The House Committee on Insurance convened a meeting focusing on critical legislative objectives aimed at insurance reform. Noteworthy discussions emerged around HB138, which aims to address cost reduction in health insurance and increase transparency in the reporting of private insurance costs. The committee members emphasized the need to identify cost drivers and cut unnecessary regulations while also working on effective methods to deliver insurance benefits efficiently. There were extensive remarks made regarding the implications of insurance mandates on overall costs, bring forth a call for a thorough evaluation and revision of existing mandates that may result in unintended consequences.

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