Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'agricultural use'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) May 8th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • As you know, counties can only do what the state lets us do.
  • It used to be a military base for training. It's an underutilized asset.
  • I've got Carl Walker and James Quintero who are testifying for us today.
  • Noring us this morning. Nope.
  • Join us at the front.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee focused on the discussion of several significant bills including HB3526, which aims to improve transparency in local government bond obligations. Advocates from the Texas Taxpayers and Research Association and Texas Public Policy Foundation emphasized the importance of this legislation for making financial information accessible to taxpayers and policy makers. Furthermore, the meeting included deliberations over HB148 and HB762, which seek to enhance the regulatory framework around appraisal district board training and limit executive severance packages in local government, respectively. Public testimonies reflected a range of perspectives, underscoring the complexities surrounding property rights and fiscal responsibility in governance.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The real harm wasn't from what the women carried; it was from what was taken from us—our dignity, our
  • And being able to use that as a way to—how do I say it?
  • had another inmate's TDCJ number in the collar, chapstick, which we were not allowed to bring with us
  • I think that some of us have the ability to do certain things to enable ourselves on...
  • So that's deeply problematic for us.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several legislative bills, primarily related to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) and corrections. Notable discussions included the adoption of committee substitutes for bills such as HB1515, which proposes the TDCJ Sunset Bill, and HB2854, which discusses necessary hospital visits for inmates. The meeting featured extensive participation from members and witnesses, who provided testimonies in support of or opposition to the various bills. The atmosphere remained collaborative, with members showing mutual respect during discussions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health Mar 24th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • You know, I think that for us as legislators, we always look at the fiscal note.
  • The legislature directed us to do so.
  • Additionally, e-cigarette use heightens...
  • We support HB 2735, a proactive approach to curb tobacco and e-cigarette use.
  • Thank you for staying with us today. Thank you for your testimony.
Summary: The committee meeting centered around significant discussions on healthcare legislation, specifically focusing on two main bills: HB18 and HB37. HB18, known as the Rural Health Stabilization and Innovation Act, was presented to ensure that rural Texans have access to healthcare services, outlining a series of grants and the establishment of a new office to aid rural hospitals. The chair emphasized the importance of this legislation, particularly for counties with limited access to hospitals. In contrast, HB37 was discussed with emphasis on perinatal palliative care, where various members voiced their opinions regarding its impact and necessity, noting the compassionate approach it signifies for families dealing with life-limiting diagnoses.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Corrections Apr 16th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Corrections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If they judge us by that standard, we're third world. Texas.
  • So, it allows the use of inmate labor.
  • But I used to have to fight to do that.
  • I think for us trying to identify a way housing is where you spend the majority of...
  • All of us ironed our uniforms and stood tall.
Summary: The committee meeting was focused primarily on voting and discussions surrounding a range of house bills, particularly those related to criminal justice reform and the structure of educational programs within correctional facilities. Significant bills discussed included HB1828 on legislative leave for correctional officers and HB5261, which aims to transfer the administration of post-secondary education for inmates from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice to the Windham School District. The committee members expressed varying levels of support for the bills and highlighted the need for improvements in the correctional system, particularly in education and health standards for inmates. Additionally, public testimony underscored the urgency of air conditioning in prison facilities, citing recent court findings regarding extreme temperatures as a violation of inmates' rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 1st, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • He was killed on US 281 Military Highway.

  • today and making time for us.
  • This crash reminds us of the dangers we face on our state highways.
  • ...the trail for so many of us, including me.
  • His young life was taken from us far too soon in this tragic accident.
Summary: The committee meeting centered on several key pieces of legislation, including discussions around safety at railroad crossings, vehicle operation regulations, and the confidentiality of collected information. House Bill 1772 and Senate Bill 2129 were particularly notable, both aimed at increasing penalties related to vehicle operations at grade crossings. Representative Canales made a significant move for these bills to be forwarded to the House with recommendations for approval, highlighting the collective support from committee members. Public testimony reflected concerns and endorsements regarding transportation safety and legislative impacts on local communities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Juvenile Justice Apr 3rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Juvenile Justice

Transcript Highlights:
  • Let the record reflect that Representative Wu is with us.
  • Show us.
  • I'm not going to use empirical data. I've seen the empirical data.
  • We were using candles. She would try to have the gas on.
  • I used to sit on the school board.
Bills: HB2947, HB3276, HB3513
Summary: The Subcommittee on Juvenile Justice convened a meeting where they voted on several bills, notably HB1988, which allows the Texas Juvenile Justice Department to disclose personally identifiable information about former juvenile offenders with their consent. The motion to advance HB1988 passed with a four to one vote. The committee also discussed HB3276, aimed at holding individuals working with juveniles accountable for misconduct, which received considerable support from the committee members. The discourse highlighted the importance of protective measures for the juvenile justice system, ensuring that any individuals found unfit to serve would be effectively barred from such roles.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government Feb 11th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Also, we have various people helping us.
  • I've been waiting to use that. Waiting, waiting.
  • It used to be my silver hair.
  • That didn't leave us much option, did it? So we approved it.
  • concern to us.
Bills: SB4, SJR2
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

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Transportation Funding Apr 28th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House S/C on Transportation Funding

Transcript Highlights:
  • This would correct the use of appropriations to establish

  • correct the use of appropriations to establish the revolving
  • No matter what politicians will promise us in their slick campaigns, the tolls never come down.
  • Both worked with us to pass in 2017.
  • cities to ban certain classes of vehicles from using toll
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on discussions surrounding several notable bills, particularly concerning toll roads in Texas. Chairman Metcalf introduced HB5346, which aims to establish clear mandates for the cessation of tolling once a project's financial obligations have been satisfied. This bill sparked considerable debate, with proponents arguing for taxpayer fairness and control, while opponents raised concerns about potential perpetual tolls disguised as public votes every five years. Witnesses voiced strong opinions both for and against the measures, highlighting the ongoing tensions over infrastructure funding and user fees.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm certainly willing to listen to anybody that can help us get this bill over.
  • Us accepting contracts.
  • It's a basic budgeting principle that we use, that cities use, and that the state of Texas, frankly,
  • uses every biennium whenever they set their budget, or y'all set your budget.
  • It leaves us kind of hamstrung on what we can do.
Summary: The meeting focused on various bills concerning law enforcement and budgetary practices in the state. Discussions highlighted the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies, particularly in Harris County, regarding staffing shortages and funding gaps. Representatives presented bills such as HB2413 and HB2014, which aim to address pay parity and improve law enforcement capabilities within the local jurisdiction. Witness testimonies underscored the urgency of ensuring that law enforcement agencies have the necessary resources to meet the demands of their communities, especially in light of rising crime rates and public safety concerns.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Jan 16th, 2025 at 10:01 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • We ask you, Lord, to be our Savior, to guide us through these days as we do the hard work for the people
  • marker="7" data-time="180"> The chair recognizes the Honorable Carolyn Fairley of Potter County to lead us
  • And thank you for joining us, and continue to pray for comfort and peace for Deputy Vargas's family and
  • Let us remember his dedication to protect and serve and the profound impact he left.
  • Let us celebrate the freedom our constituents in this

Summary: The meeting included significant discussions around memorial recognitions for fallen law enforcement officers, specifically honoring Brazoria County Deputy Jesus Jesse Vargas and Navasota Police Sergeant Mark Butler. Representatives expressed their condolences and shared memories of the fallen officers, highlighting their service and the impact they made in their communities. The emotional nature of these tributes emphasized the importance of solidarity and respect for those who serve in law enforcement. The meeting also included an acknowledgement of National Religious Freedom Day, emphasizing the fundamental rights of all citizens to practice their faith freely.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 28th, 2025 at 09:04 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Additionally, I represent myself as a practicing physician locally using the direct primary care model
  • people actually call, text, or email for simple referrals, which makes it so much easier, allowing us
  • Then you've got $1,200 using the numbers provided by the previous testimony a year in these payments.
  • Can you tell us a little bit about some of the costs that they incurred?
  • The proceeds from these bonds were used to buy land, which was then resold to veterans.
Summary: The committee meeting was centered on the discussion of various bills, notably focusing on House Bill 3521, which aims to enhance retention incentives for police officers in Houston. Chairman Harless opened discussions highlighting the urgency of the bill due to staffing challenges within the Houston Police Department. Testimonies were given by several members of the police department and pension fund representatives, stipulating the need for actionable changes to prevent a significant exodus of experienced officers. The bill was met with supportive testimony that underscored the precarious staffing situation and the necessity for improved retention strategies. Following deliberations, the bill remained pending for further review.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • I thank you all for working with all of us.
  • Because the law requires us to redistrict after the census; nothing says...
  • Serve us. The moment you gain power, the moment you gain representation, is the moment you die.
  • This action, this body does not move us forward. It takes us very far back.
  • We didn't have to have this hearing that was given to us.
Summary: The House Select Committee on Congressional Registration convened to discuss and vote on HB4, a congressional redistricting bill. During the meeting, Representative Turner expressed strong opposition, labeling the bill as discriminatory and racially motivated, claiming it intended to dismantle historically minority districts. Overall, there was a significant public outcry regarding the process, with many constituents unable to voice their concerns effectively. Despite the strong backlash, the bill was moved forward without amendments, reflecting broader tensions in the committee regarding representation and civic engagement. Members voiced their concerns about the bill's implications on minority communities and how the redistricting process appeared opaque. Emotional testimonies highlighted the potential disenfranchisement of historically marginalized groups, with representatives stressing the importance of community representation in Congress. Although the bill was passed along party lines, it sparked a commitment among members to continue advocating for fairness and transparency in future legislative processes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We hope third time is the charm for us.
  • The communities are those who raised us and protected us at one point. Someday, those will be us.
  • That streamlines the things for us.
  • Before I start, let me ask, let us pause for a second and reflect.
  • You are welcome to come with us.
Summary: During the committee meeting, several bills focused on enhancing safety and welfare legislation were discussed. Notably, House Bill 3195 received poignant commentary, as it aims to improve communication and safety measures in senior living communities following tragic incidents. Representative Garcia-Hernandez highlighted the need for mandatory background checks for employees at these facilities, emphasizing the bill’s importance in preventing avoidable tragedies. The bill garnered strong support from witnesses, including family members of victims who shared their personal stories of loss and the importance of safeguarding seniors. Additionally, House Bill 5223 was discussed, aiming to implement standardized emergency response protocols in daycare facilities, ensuring that children are adequately protected during emergencies. This bill also received testimonies underscoring the critical need for regular safety audits in these establishments.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Intergovernmental Affairs Apr 22nd, 2025 at 11:04 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Okay, so it's okay for us to delete the one that says Bobby
  • ="40" data-time="234">Right now, there's this arbitrary, artificial cap that's preventing TDHCA and us
  • as tax credit developers from using this federal resource more efficiently.
  • This is not us, developers.
  • Help us understand the RONO requirement and what it.
Summary: The meeting centered around discussions on affordable housing legislation, particularly focusing on HB627 and HB1865. The chair laid out HB627, which aims to address issues related to the resolution of no objection (RONO) requirement for affordable housing projects. This bill is designed to improve the process for developers by mandating timely responses from local jurisdictions, which would facilitate an increase in affordable housing units in Texas. Numerous witnesses, including representatives from housing associations, testified in favor of the bill, highlighting the need for greater efficiency in housing development. Concerns were raised regarding the removal of public hearing requirements for smaller jurisdictions, with some members expressing the need for community input on housing developments.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • data-time="984">China's vast maritime militia, backed by the PLA Navy and Chinese Coast Guard, is using
  • ...nuclear first use.
  • The risk is simply too high for us to avoid making

  • today, and please convey our thanks to the men and women serving under your commands and defending us
  • President Trump's actions serve only to push our friends away from us, and that is not appropriate.
Summary: The meeting focused on significant strategic discussions regarding the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and its military posture in the region. Admiral Paparo and General Brunson were commended for their services, with the Chair noting an alarming shift in the balance of power towards China. Key topics included China's aggressive military drills near Taiwan, the increasing coercion against the Philippines, and the need for the U.S. to reaffirm its commitments to its allies in the region. Concerns were raised regarding China's military modernization and its implications for U.S. forces, alongside discussions on North Korea's threats and its burgeoning nuclear capabilities. The committee emphasized the urgent need for military and defense appropriations to counteract these growing security challenges.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

89th Legislative Session - First Called Session Aug 4th, 2025 at 03:08 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • You understand that the issues before us—disaster recovery

  • Help us to increase in our faith and our trust in you, even though we may not always understand your
  • Lord, help us to surrender our lives to your service.

  • You created each legislative member here with unique gifts and abilities; help them to use theirs.
  • Lord, help us to see each challenge as an opportunity

Bills: HB4
Summary: The meeting focused on significant legislative issues and the need for prompt actions regarding disaster recovery, human trafficking, and local governance. Speaker raised concerns about the absence of several members, which hindered the establishment of a quorum and delayed critical discussions. Emphasis was placed on the responsibilities of elected officials to their constituents, with a stern warning that their absence would lead to necessary actions being taken to ensure their return to fulfill their duties. The Speaker highlighted the urgency of addressing pressing issues faced by Texas families and cited the growing cost of inaction.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources (Part I) May 7th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • As written, pipeline companies that prefer to use a cash

  • You'll have two minutes, but you don't have to use all your time.
  • Madam Clerk, please note that Senator Parker and Senator Alvarado have joined us.
  • Senator Middleton is not yet here with us.
  • Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Embry. Thank you.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources focused on several key bills, including HB206, HB1238, and HB2890. Senator Birdwell introduced HB206, which prohibits counties from mandating cash bonds for pipeline construction, a move aimed at facilitating energy infrastructure development. The bill was supported by witnesses from the industry who voiced their experiences regarding the financial burdens of cash bond requirements. Following this discussion, public testimony was heard but ultimately concluded without any opponents present, leading to the bill being left pending further consideration. Senator Parker then laid out HB2890, which seeks to establish an interstate compact to protect and enhance liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports along the Gulf Coast. The bill aims to improve interstate communication and collaboration while addressing economic impacts due to recent regulatory challenges faced by the LNG industry. Public testimony for this bill was also minimal, with no witnesses registered to testify, but it was noted as an important step for Texas's energy future. The meeting concluded with discussions about pending votes on the bills, indicating a need to reconvene at a later time to finalize actions on these proposals.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Apr 15th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • for teacher salaries or any other instructional uses.
  • Senate Bill 1635 doesn't let us off the hook.

  • Of that $10 million, more than 10 percent will be used to pay for property casualty insurance.
  • But can you just give us those numbers right off?
  • However, that actually doesn't tell us if those students are making progress.
Summary: The meeting focused on advancing several significant pieces of legislation, particularly those pertaining to education and school finance. Notable discussions included the adoption of committee substitutes for various Senate Bills, such as SB2392, which introduced new reporting requirements for educators regarding misconduct cases. The committee also addressed SB1635, aimed at alleviating the financial burdens of high coastal insurance costs on school districts, which included provisions for credits against required recapture payments. Senator Hinojosa emphasized the urgency of responding to the challenges faced by local districts, underscoring the need for legislative support to ensure fair funding in coastal areas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 7th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And so that's what this bill would allow us to address.
  • The funny thing is no one has ever used it.
  • Senate Bill 2790 will name part of US Highway 67 South.
  • We have with us her son as a witness, Mr. Kirk Johnson.
  • I appreciate your working with us.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on reviewing a series of bills with significant implications for local memorials and dedication of roads to honor public servants. Notably, House Bill 1708 was presented by Senator Hinojosa, which aims to designate a section of State Highway 302 as Trooper Kevin Ramirez Vasquez Memorial Highway, in honor of the fallen trooper who lost his life in the line of duty. The bill was supported by different members and received public testimony, highlighting the commitment of law enforcement to honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Additionally, discussions surrounding House Bill 2415 and House Bill 2523 also captured the testimonies of various community members and officials, further emphasizing the community's dedication to memorializing public servants.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Business and Commerce Aug 1st, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The office is working with us on the bill.

  • Which is exactly what would have helped us, too.

  • Thank goodness they worked pro bono for us because it would have been very expensive if they hadn't.
  • It took us two...
  • Thank you for allowing us to be here. My name is Heidi Easley.
Bills: SB15
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce focused primarily on the discussions surrounding SB15 and SB2611, which address the significant issues of property fraud and deed theft. Senator Kolkhorst led the meeting, emphasizing the integration of these bills to effectively tackle the criminal aspects of deed fraud. Numerous testimonies were heard from affected individuals and stakeholders, highlighting the growing problem of property fraud which has seen a disturbing rise over recent years. Guests shared personal accounts of the devastating impacts of such fraud, stressing the bill’s necessity for safeguarding property rights.

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