Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'public officers'

Page 48 of 61
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the Senior Fellow for Health Care at the Texas Public Health Association, a policy foundation which
  • It says that hearing officers have the power to require relevant agency representatives and witnesses
  • My name is Sabrina Gonzalez-Ocedo, and I'm the Director of Public Policy.
  • attorney's office and report it to the police.
  • The district attorney's office. But that's not OK.
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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part I) Mar 26th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • disclosure under the Texas Public Information Act.
  • I have had phone calls to my office from people who support these bills that...
  • I serve as Vice President of Policy with the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • If not, the chair will close public testimony at this time.
  • I'm happy to talk about it afterward with your office.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services convened to discuss various pieces of legislation, addressing critical issues affecting healthcare and social services in Texas. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 481, which mandates backup power provisions for nursing homes and assisted living facilities to ensure the safety of vulnerable residents during outages, and Senate Bill 596, aimed at improving reporting requirements related to child welfare, enhancing the oversight of removals and placements. The committee also reviewed several other bills aimed at supporting healthcare access and enhancing protections for children under various circumstances.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 22nd, 2025 at 11:04 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • , the district clerk, the public defender's office, and other community entities with the Expunction
  • I hold a Master Peace Officer certification, and I am a mental health peace officer as well.
  • You're a peace officer now.
  • That's what the Peace Officer...
  • Patton, you've registered as Joe Patton on behalf of the Dallas County Public Defender's Office, and
Summary: The committee meeting focused on a range of topics surrounding criminal justice reform, with significant emphasis on House Bills 3166 and 3330. Representative Cook presented HB 3166, which proposed a system for prosecutor-initiated resentencing, allowing courts to adjust the punishment for inmates based on changing circumstances. This bill aims to rectify injustices in cases where new evidence arises. Public testimony included support from various stakeholders, emphasizing the need for a more flexible justice system that can consider circumstances affecting individual cases, particularly for nonviolent offenders. On the contrary, HB 3330 faced opposition from the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, which argued that it would undermine key protections established by the Michael Morton Act, designed to prevent wrongful convictions for innocent individuals. Testimonies highlighted concerns about the potential for setbacks in protecting the rights and dignity of the accused, creating a heavy atmosphere during discussions on the bill.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Mar 31st, 2025 at 10:03 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • These reports are used by the comptroller's office to...
  • RITS database or the public safety of Texans.
  • I do have a resource witness from the Comptroller's Office.
  • I'm also a retired military officer here.
  • I'm a retired Army officer from Harker Heights and a small business owner.
Summary: The meeting of the committee explored various bills with significant discussions centered around House Bills like HB8, HB2723, and HB3093. Members expressed concerns about the financial implications of property tax assessments and the impact of unjust appraisals on local government budgets. Representative Cunningham highlighted the urgency of addressing the discrepancies in property tax laws as they relate to non-profit cemeteries, pointing out historical injustices that have led to the loss of community burial sites. Meanwhile, the discussions on HB3093 revolved around ensuring fair taxation practices to reduce financial uncertainties for local governments, emphasizing the need for realistic revenue calculations in budget projections. The committee actively invited public testimonies, illustrating the widespread interest and implications of these legislative efforts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If not, we will now move on to public testimony.
  • also resulted in the Collin County Medical Examiner's office
  • I'm the VP of Public Policy.
  • The bill may not prevent law enforcement or a court officer
  • regular safety audits, and reports those audits to the Texas School Safety Center, just like our public
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

Ways & Means Apr 21st, 2025 at 01:04 pm

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Broadband Development Office at the controller's office has a detailed system.
  • So I went over to the tax office.
  • Office of Stevens, Inc., after serving 30 years in public service.
  • But even then, in 2010, we were still faced with laying off police officers, firefighters, and public
  • And the voting public deserves.
Summary: The committee meeting focused heavily on evaluating a series of bills aimed at improving fiscal responsibility and transparency in local government borrowing. A significant discussion centered around HB19, which proposes reforms to debt issuance by local governments. Members expressed concerns that some provisions could hinder local government operations. Some stakeholders acknowledged positive aspects of the proposed reforms but highlighted potential impacts on public safety and ongoing projects due to stricter debt limits. Throughout the meeting, various representatives voiced differing opinions, contributing to a robust dialogue on improving taxpayer protections while ensuring local governments can meet community needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services May 20th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • through a 30-day public comment period.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services discussed multiple bills focused on diverse health issues including maternal care, organ transplant eligibility, and child welfare regulations. Notably, HB215, presented by Senator Perry, received attention for its provisions on requiring itemized bills from healthcare providers to enhance transparency. The bill garnered support from various witnesses who emphasized the importance of clearer billing processes for patients. Another significant discussion point was HB4076, which aimed to prevent discrimination against individuals seeking organ transplants based on vaccination status. This bill sparked public testimony highlighting the ethical implications of such mandates on vulnerable patients, especially children. Overall, the committee's deliberations emphasized a commitment to improving health care transparency and patient rights in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part II) May 21st, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed.
  • The chair opens public testimony on House Bill 2846.
  • Public health is maintained.
  • It will protect public health and public safety, it doesn't affect zoning, and I encourage you to support
  • Hearing none, the Chair opens up public testimony.
Summary: The committee meeting featured extensive discussions surrounding various bills, notably focusing on HB3284, which aims to establish a commission to promote marriage and family stability while addressing the needs of vulnerable children in the Texas foster care system. Witnesses provided diverse perspectives, with some expressing support for the bill's goal of strengthening family units, while others raised concerns about the potential discrimination against single-parent households and LGBTQ+ families. Additional highlights included debates on HB1106 regarding the treatment of transgender youth and HB4638, which sought to streamline the state's engagement with developers and capacity builders, addressing concerns over administrative efficiencies and child welfare.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part I) May 21st, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Public testimony will be limited to two minutes to speak on the bill.
  • I've closed public testimony.
  • With that, we'll close public testimony and we'll leave this bill pending at this time.
  • After that, we will have to do public testimony after the floor session.
  • suicides by police officers.
Summary: The committee meeting convened to discuss a variety of bills primarily related to healthcare and early childhood education. Notably, the committee reported favorably on several bills including HB721, HB2035, and HB2038, with all receiving unanimous support of 7-0. Senator Perry played a crucial role in moving the bills forward, advocating for their inclusion on the local and uncontested calendars. Furthermore, there was significant discussion surrounding HB3940, which addresses Medicaid eligibility for newborns, emphasizing the necessity for automatic enrollment to avoid gaps in coverage for infants during critical early stages of development. The meeting was characterized by the committee's cohesive efforts to streamline processes and enhance the efficiency of healthcare services for vulnerable populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Apr 14th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That project was recently announced just within the last few weeks to the public as Kalahari Resorts'
  • House Bill 4659, Chair Officer Committee Substitute

  • I am the Chief Financial Officer for the Galveston Park Board, and I'll keep this brief for you all.
  • With a shared commitment from my office to the city, we
  • Additionally, our office is working on substitute language to address certain concerns regarding the
Summary: The committee meeting involved a range of discussions focused on local economic development through various House Bills primarily related to hotel occupancy taxes. Noteworthy was the presentation of House Bill 2370, which aims to allow municipalities like Harlingen to use hotel occupancy tax revenue retroactively for convention center expenses, facilitating fiscal responsibility and community involvement via voter approval. Representative Lopez encouraged support for the bill, highlighting its potential benefits for the city's budget and operational flexibility. Testimonies from local leaders, including Harlingen's Mayor, reinforced the need for this legislative change to support vital city projects.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 1st, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I think y'all have given you a copy of what you're going to hear in your office.
  • Before using public Texas roads, TxDOT is the agency responsible for road maintenance.
  • There's a resource witness from the Comptroller's Office.
  • Good evening, I'm David Zimmerman with the Comptroller's Office.
  • You have this in your office, those of you...
Summary: The committee meeting focused on discussing multiple bills primarily related to transportation and road safety. Notable discussions included House Bill 5332, proposed by Representative Kerwin, which aimed to limit truck weights to 80,000 pounds on both county roads and interstates, addressing concerns over crumbling infrastructure and accident rates in Johnson County. The bill received support from committee members as they acknowledged the pressing issue of road safety and the need for uniform weight regulations to protect county infrastructure. Additionally, House Bill 4924 and House Bill 4916 were discussed, both of which aimed at improving vehicle titling processes and documentation requirements.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means May 5th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • everywhere are competing for qualified peace officers.
  • It helps keep experienced officers in the communities they serve.
  • I'm a 25-year officer in the Air Force.
  • I represent the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • You're testifying on behalf of the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
Summary: The meeting covered several key legislative proposals aimed at enhancing property tax relief and supporting community development initiatives. House Bill 2032, which addresses tax exemptions for disabled veterans, was discussed; the bill proposes a proportional property tax deduction based on disability ratings, helping veterans secure housing stability amidst rising property costs. House Bill 4270 was also introduced to revitalize declining neighborhoods by offering property tax exemptions for young families moving into these areas—an initiative prompted by demographic shifts in urban areas such as El Paso. The discussions emphasized the critical need for fostering sustainable communities and supporting vulnerable populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Jan 27th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • , and you can also get public service loan forgiveness if you work for a public defender office.
  • if you work for a public defender office.
  • , and you can also get public service loan forgiveness if you work for a public defender office.
  • , and you can also get public service loan forgiveness if you work for a public defender office.
  • , and you can also get public service loan forgiveness if you work for a public defender office.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Finance Committee was marked by extensive discussions around the budget proposals for various judicial services and the impact of proposed salary increases on staffing. Notably, there were concerns raised regarding a significant attorney shortage in rural areas, which has seen a 27% decline in attorneys taking positions compared to previous years. Scott Ehlers highlighted a crucial $12 million funding request aimed at addressing this shortfall to maintain the adequate operational capacity of indigent defense services across the state. The committee members, led by Chairman Hinojosa, emphasized the importance of finding solutions to improve legal access and representation in underserved areas to respond effectively to this critical issue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • He has participated in many public safety events and social media posts promoting public safety in Texas
  • of certain public officers and governs the impeachment trial or disqualification of state officers;
  • certain public officers may be removed from office as per the Committee on State Affairs.
  • on Public Education.
  • discipline in public schools for the Committee on Public
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

Nominations May 5th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Is it protective of public health?
  • the public HBCUs...
  • and Public Council of the Office of Public Utility Council
  • Counsel of the Office of Public Utility Counsel, or OPUC, a critical consumer advocate for Texans.
  • Counsel for the Office of Public Utility Counsel in December.
Summary: The meeting focused on discussions regarding the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's (TCEQ) oversight and regulations concerning Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs). Several members expressed concerns about the rapid growth facilitated by the creation of MUDs, with particular emphasis on the legislative authority over such entities. Senator Birdwell highlighted the importance of legislative control over MUD creation, discussing the second and third-order impacts on local communities and infrastructure. The discussion was characterized by a view that the current approval processes may lack necessary scrutiny, leading to community concerns about environmental impacts and infrastructure strain as new developments arise. Public testimony revealed a sense of urgency among constituents regarding environmental regulations and the role TCEQ plays in managing the challenges of population growth. Members of the committee raised issues around the clarity of TCEQ's powers and responsibilities, advocating for more transparency and proactive community engagement from the agency. As the meeting concluded, the need for improved communication and the importance of ensuring compliance with state law were emphasized, with a promise from TCEQ representatives to address these concerns moving forward.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Jan 30th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Is this the interface with the public?
  • On a serious note, the public really only deals with state government—the law-abiding public, let's put
  • On a serious basis, the public really only deals with state government—the law-abiding public, let's
  • and the Office of the Governor.
  • I want the public to hear it.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting focused on several critical budget recommendations for various state agencies, including the Texas Facilities Commission, which proposed significant funding changes. Chair George Purcell highlighted a reduction in appropriations, along with the introduction of new funds aimed at refurbishing the Rudder Building and supporting facilities operations. Discussions also touched on border security, where it was reported that Governor Abbott formally requested congressional support to reclaim $11 billion in funding for Texas operations. The ongoing dialogue regarding the maintenance and responsibilities relating to border wall constructions was emphasized, noting the complexity and the need for clear allocation of responsibilities as discussions with federal authorities develop. Throughout the meeting, there were notable conversations about operational efficiencies, particularly in the context of expanding cyber threats and the need for improved cybersecurity measures at state agencies. Members engaged in deliberating the future hiring of staff and resources necessary for maintaining effective service delivery amidst increasing demand. The discussions concluded with a commitment to keeping an open line with constituents regarding the implications of these funding decisions and the overall strategic direction of the agencies involved.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Officers are frequently recorded by others, especially when there are big crowds or public events.
  • Officers already face a disadvantage where the public view can be, and often is, easily tainted.
  • We also face intense public scrutiny oftentimes and are judged more in the court of public opinion rather
  • What is it that we're trying to get into the public that we can't, and why do we want it in the public
  • It's all out there in public.
Summary: The meeting was primarily focused on discussions surrounding several bills aimed at reforming aspects of criminal justice in Texas. Representative Little laid out HB413, detailing its provisions which aim to prevent pretrial detention from exceeding the maximum time a person could be sentenced if convicted. The bill generated significant discussion, emphasizing the importance of due process and the financial burden of detaining individuals unnecessarily. Public testimonies were presented, with varied opinions on the efficacy and implementation of this bill. Additionally, discussions on HB2507 and HB1418 highlighted the ongoing efforts to improve transparency and reliability in the judicial process, specifically addressing issues related to grand jury proceedings and in-custody informants, respectively. Witnesses from both supporting and opposing sides provided comprehensive insights, showcasing the depth of concern regarding wrongful convictions and the need for reform in testimony verification practices. The committee concluded the meeting with plans for a follow-up session to continue these crucial discussions and potentially advance the bills further.

Research Filters

States
Terms / Sessions
Date Range
Chamber Records
Meetings / Events / Calendars