Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senator Cook'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships May 19th, 2025 at 02:05 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • It is Senate Bill 66, and I will lay out Senate Bill 66 for Chairman Leach.
Bills: SB66
Summary: The meeting focused on Senate Bill 66, which addresses supportive decision-making agreements for individuals with disabilities. The bill aims to provide an alternative to full guardianship, allowing those with the ability to make their own choices the supportive assistance they may need. There was a discussion about the implications of authorizing such a supporter during legal proceedings, especially concerning confidentiality and attorney-client privilege. Some concerns were raised regarding how these agreements would work in practice, prompting the committee to consider conducting a study on these legal and ethical implications before proceeding further.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • There has been some testimony over at the Senate from others
  • All three bodies of the legislature—the Senate, the House

  • we'll certainly still continue to work with folks that are, that we've talked about through both the Senate
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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Under the substitute, we adopt changes made by Senator Huffman to her Senate Bill 293, including, but
  • Senate to fund what I believe is the finest judiciary in the
  • You and the Senate have provided a path to ensure the judicial system has the resources it needs to incentivize
  • believe may be some unintended consequences in relation to the proposal that has been outlined in the Senate
Summary: The meeting focused on discussions surrounding judicial reform, specifically addressing issues such as judicial accountability, compensation, and the backlog of cases. Members expressed concerns over the lack of sufficient compensation for judges, which has hindered their ability to attract qualified candidates to the bench. Witness testimonies highlighted the significant workload judges face and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on court operations. There was a concerted effort among committee members to ensure judges are held accountable while also providing them with fair compensation and resources to effectively manage their caseloads. The gathering concluded with commitments to further discuss proposed legislation and its potential effects on the judicial system in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I just want to show and send a message: here's a bill where the Senate
  • And one of the things, first of all, procedure, we were waiting on the Senate bill to come over.
  • The Senate bill, the residency requirement is being worked
  • I've actually had the opportunity to testify twice in the Senate.
  • By the way, that has already passed the House, and the Senate will make more of that possible.
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Culture, Recreation and Tourism centered around the discussion of HB4568, aimed at enhancing the Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program. Key witnesses including film industry representatives, local officials, and the Executive Director of the Texas Film Commission, Adriana Cruz, presented testimony supporting the bill's potential to boost economic growth and job creation in Texas. Notably, celebrity supporters, such as Matthew McConaughey, emphasized the importance of keeping film production within Texas, highlighting the economic benefits it brings to local communities and industries.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Intergovernmental Affairs Aug 22nd, 2025 at 10:08 am

House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So I'd like to chair lays out Senate Bill 14.
  • Senate Bill 14 is Senator Perry's bill related to the

  • Thank you, members, for the opportunity to lay out Senate Bill 14.
  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill.
  • The Chair moves that Senate Bill 14 without amendments.
Bills: HB26, HB73, SB14, HB46
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding fiscal responsibility in local governments, particularly the implications of House Bills 46 and 73. Proponents argued that these bills would help limit unnecessary spending and ensure that expenditures are tied to inflation and population growth, addressing taxpayer concerns about rising local budgets. However, numerous city officials and representatives from various organizations voiced strong opposition, claiming that these measures would hinder essential services and infrastructure improvements, particularly in rapidly growing areas. Current spending practices were deemed inadequate for meeting the demands of public safety and community services, especially in light of increased costs in areas like public water systems and emergency response. The meeting was characterized by passionate debate, as stakeholders lined up to express their views both for and against the proposed legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on County & Regional Government Mar 24th, 2025 at 10:03 am

House S/C on County & Regional Government

Transcript Highlights:
  • Last session, it just got hung up in the Senate, as most of
  • span> and support to our rural law enforcement entities through Senate
  • treasurer, or another comparable office in county government, as our county judges do not administer Senate
  • comparable auditor office report on the disbursement and compliance of grants received under the Senate
Summary: During this meeting, significant discussions revolved around essential bills, including HB1646, HB605, HB2379, and HB2115. HB1646, aimed at amending the Health and Safety Code, was presented as a means to enhance the operational efficiency of emergency service districts by raising the expenditure threshold for board approval from $2,000 to $50,000. Testimonies from emergency service officials were notably in favor of the bill, highlighting the improved response times and operational flexibility it would provide. On the other hand, HB605 sought to grant the Harris County Hospital District the authority to employ and commission its peace officers, tackling the increasing concerns of workplace violence in healthcare settings, which was addressed with urgency as it aimed at improving safety for both staff and patients. The bill was left pending to allow further considerations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management Apr 24th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair recognized Senator Gary Gates, who provided insight into the objectives of the bill.
  • Senator Gates noted the expected benefits and how it aligns with the state’s overall strategic goals.
  • Oh, it got to the Senate in the 10th calendar. Oh my gosh.
  • data-time="1494"> The committee substitute puts the bill in line with the bill that was passed out of the Senate
Summary: The meeting focused heavily on discussions surrounding affordable housing, particularly through the lens of House Bill 4398. Representative Garcia-Hernandez presented the bill, which aims to streamline the permitting process for low-income housing projects, thus reducing the timeline municipalities typically take to approve or deny permits by 50%. This bill is viewed as critical given the pressing issues related to low-income housing availability in Texas. Public testimony included supportive evidence from various stakeholders, highlighting the urgent need for expedited permits to align construction timelines with strict tax credit requirements. Experts from the Texas Affiliation of Affordable Housing Providers also underscored that permitting delays create significant financial risks, complicating the completion of necessary housing units.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • There's a companion in the Senate. There's a...
  • There's a whole other bill in the Senate related to this
  • That's why Senator Paxton filed all three of these bills in the Senate, and Chairman Shaheen and I both
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on several key bills pertaining to the accountability and operational continuity of single-source continuum contractors within the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). Representative Davis presented three related bills: HB4129, HB4130, and HB4131, which were designed to strengthen DFPS's enforcement mechanisms, clarify contract termination timelines, and enable swift action in cases of non-compliance by services providers. Each bill was discussed in detail, highlighting their importance for ensuring services for children and families remain uninterrupted and meet quality standards. Witnesses from various stakeholders provided testimony both in support and in critique of the proposed legislation, indicating the significant impact these bills could have on service delivery across the state. A notable moment during the meeting was when the discussion surrounding HB4130 revealed concerns regarding current 60-day notice requirements for contract terminations, which were deemed insufficient. The proposed extension to 180 days is aimed at ensuring a seamless transition without service disruption. The meeting concluded with the decision to leave the bills pending further consideration, demonstrating a commitment to address the pressing issues raised by the lawmakers and community members involved.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Yes, it did not pass the Senate.

  • Senate members of the esteemed committee,

  • How many senators, if you know, how many historical cemeteries are actually landlocked?
  • Last session, the Commission supported a bill by Senator
  • Zaffirini, Senate Bill 380, ensuring that individuals filing a valid statement of inability to pay court
Summary: The committee meeting featured extensive deliberations on several bills, most notably House Bill 1110, concerning civil suits against individuals reporting suspicious activity in good faith, proposed by Chairman Shaheen. The committee expressed unanimous support for the bill, and it was reported to the full House without amendments. Additionally, House Bill 865, introduced by Speaker Moody, addressing civil liability related to firearm hold agreements, also garnered unanimous approval, underscoring a collaborative effort among committee members. Public testimony highlighted concerns regarding proposed bills, specifically criticisms of House Bill 1748, aimed at exempting municipal courts from language certification requirements, which raised significant opposition related to equitable access to justice for non-English speakers.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 13th, 2025 at 09:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Speaker, I have a message from the Senate at the door of the House.
  • The Senate has requested to inform the House that it

  • The Senate has passed the following measures.

Summary: The meeting was marked by a respectful tribute to the late Congressman Sylvester Turner, who was commemorated for his dedication to public service and his impactful legacy within the community. Various members spoke highly of Turner, recalling his commitment to bipartisanship and his ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life. The sentiments expressed by multiple representatives highlighted the need to honor his memory by continuing to work cooperatively across party lines. One member particularly emphasized the importance of diversity, service, and commitment to the community that Turner embodied throughout his career. In addition to the memorial segments, the committee also took action on several bills, including SB20 and HR525. The meeting featured discussions on the implications of these bills, integrating testimonies and clarifications on the proposed legislative actions. Overall, the meeting was well-attended by legislators and community leaders, marking an emotional but significant session that combined reflection with legislative responsibilities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Transportation Funding Mar 31st, 2025 at 10:03 am

House S/C on Transportation Funding

Transcript Highlights:
  • I used the words of former Senate Finance Committee Chair
  • The issue goes back, at least for me, to HB 3588 in 2003, which at the time Senator Nichols...
  • Senator Nichols was on the Transportation Commission.
  • I was carrying the bill in the Senate, and there was a long and serious discussion about whether tolls
  • And so Senator Nelson and a number—Senator Taylor—

Summary: The recent committee meeting focused heavily on transportation infrastructure, with significant discussions surrounding multiple bills aimed at addressing funding and operational strategies. Notably, HB263 aimed to update grant distribution from the Transportation Infrastructure Fund to better reflect the needs of rural and energy-producing counties, thereby ensuring equitable support for necessary infrastructure improvements. Public testimonies in favor of the bill highlighted its importance to local communities impacted by oil and gas activities on their roads. Additionally, HJR58 was discussed, proposing to permit the Texas Department of Transportation to allocate funds toward transit-oriented projects, marking a shift toward multi-modal transportation strategies to reduce congestion and foster economic development. However, opposition arose regarding the potential misuse of gasoline taxes for non-road purposes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Chair lays out Senate Bill 24 by Senator Campbell relating
  • We're against Senate Bill 24.
  • And then it died on the intent calendar in the Senate.
  • Chairman, for giving me the opportunity to speak on Senate Bill 10.
  • I know you're carrying this bill for the Senate. But...
Summary: The committee meeting was marked by significant discussions surrounding House Bill 4, which aims to reform the Texas public school assessment and accountability system. The bill proposes to eliminate the existing STAAR testing framework and replace it with a nationally norm-referenced assessment that emphasizes growth over year-end testing, promoting a more individualized learning experience for students. This shift was widely supported among educators and stakeholders, with many testifying in favor of creating a system that aligns better with both educational outcomes and community accountability. Notably, there were concerns raised about maintaining adequate oversight and integrity in the assessment process, as well as the timing of implementing these significant changes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on County & Regional Government Mar 17th, 2025 at 10:00 am

House S/C on County & Regional Government

Transcript Highlights:
  • He's still over in the Senate.
  • He's on the Senate committee here. He's still hung up over there. All right.
  • The Texas Senate will adjourn, and the Houston City Council
  • Senator Zaffirini has over in the Senate so that both of
Summary: In this meeting, discussions centered around public safety and law enforcement contracts in unincorporated areas of Harris County. Key bills, including HB336, were examined which aim to allow homeowners and municipal utility districts the right to contract for police services directly, ensuring that these communities have reliable law enforcement amid growing populations. Representatives voiced concerns regarding oversight, fiscal responsibility, and the need for adequate policing coverage, especially as the unincorporated areas continue to expand rapidly without corresponding funding for public safety. Witnesses testified both in support and opposition to the proposed legislation, highlighting the need for accountability and clarity in contracting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs Mar 17th, 2025 at 11:00 am

House S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs

Transcript Highlights:
  • It didn't quite make it across in the Senate last time

  • We weren't able to get it through in the Senate.
  • This similar bill was just passed in the Arizona Senate, 99 to 0.
  • This bill was bipartisan, both 99 to 0 in the Arizona Senate.
  • A slew of other U.S. senators and congressmen believe it's also.
Bills: HB39, HB227, HB930, HB1078
Summary: During the meeting, the committee deliberated on several bills primarily focused on veteran welfare and transition issues. One of the main highlights was the discussion of HB39, which proposes to improve data collection on veteran suicide rates, addressing the alarming statistics that reveal veterans are dying by suicide at a rate significantly higher than the general population. The bill seeks to mandate the Texas Department of Health and Human Services to submit aggregate data regarding deceased veterans to the Texas Veterans Commission, ensuring proper analysis and reporting on this critical issue. Witnesses, including mental health professionals and veterans, provided their insights, emphasizing the importance of having accurate data to inform better policies for preventing veteran suicides.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Well, as candidates, everyone on this dais, with the exception of the Senate, is a candidate, or has
  • Senator Raymond. Thank you, Chairman.
  • Senate Bill 1929 from last session required...

  • And the backup power package that was an idea that came over from the Senate was adopted.
  • data-time="5652"> Let's talk about load projections very quickly, and I've heard a lot coming from the Senate
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on the activities and initiatives of the Public Utility Commission (PUC) since the last legislative session. Key discussions included the implementation of Senate Bill 1929 regarding large crypto miners in Texas, which has led to 12 companies registering with the PUC and a projected demand of around 4,000 megawatts. Additionally, the committee addressed system resiliency plans authorized by HB2555, which allows electric utilities to file these plans to better handle extreme weather events and security threats. The meeting showcased the ongoing efforts to ensure infrastructure can meet growing demands, particularly in the rapidly expanding Permian Basin, and highlighted the need for minimum standards for utility infrastructure design, construction, and maintenance to improve resiliency against adverse conditions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health Apr 21st, 2025 at 12:04 pm

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 922, the Senate companion

  • Senate Bill 922 is Senator Hancock's bill, which amends

  • Thank you so much, Senator Wannell.
  • Senator Perry said in the Senate Health Committee

  • Bill 1233 by Senator Hancock.
Summary: The Committee on Public Health convened to discuss various bills related to mental health, public health initiatives, and animal care. Notably, representatives presented House Bill 2264, which aims to facilitate communication between mental health patients and their families, allowing family members to provide important medical information during emergencies. The bill sparked a substantial discussion, with advocates from the National Alliance on Mental Illness supporting its intention to improve patient outcomes. Other significant bills included HB 1747, introduced to create a council for mental health and substance use, fostering collaboration among affected systems, and HB 2684, which focuses on palliative care options for parents facing life-limiting diagnoses for their unborn children. Public testimonies supported these measures, highlighting their importance in enhancing care and support for vulnerable populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII Feb 24th, 2025 at 10:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII

Transcript Highlights:
  • Last session, SB 224 was authored by Senator Alvarado

  • One of those mentioned today was the catalytic converter bill, Senator Alvarado's bill.
  • And I'll say this: we were speaking at a Senate committee on a Thursday, and it was driving home from
  • This fund grew quickly, and in 2021, we worked with legislators to pass Senate Bill 2054.
  • Since the passage of Senate Bill 2054, there have

Summary: The meeting of the Texas Lottery Commission centered around vital discussions regarding the regulatory framework and operational issues related to the lottery and charitable bingo systems in Texas. The committee reviewed financial appropriations, focusing on the need for infrastructure improvements to the Charitable Bingo Operations Division and highlighted the ongoing work with the Sunset Advisory Commission to enhance operational efficiency and compliance. Significant attention was given to the unregulated activities of lottery ticket couriers, which have raised concerns about integrity and fairness in lottery games, prompting the commission to consider appropriate measures to stop such activities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Agriculture & Livestock Aug 19th, 2025 at 02:08 pm

House Agriculture & Livestock Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Guerra: Thank you, Mr. Chair.

  • The chair recognized Senator Guillen for a comment.

  • Senator Guillen: Thank you, Senator Guerra.

  • The chair recognized Senator Muñoz as well.

  • I echo Senator Cain’s sentiments and believe that this legislation is overdue.
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
Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation

  • ="125" data-time="1488">However, in recent years, the Senate
Summary: The meeting was convened by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, where robust discussions were held regarding the need for improved oversight within the Senate. The chairman emphasized the historical decline in oversight activities and proposed motions to authorize subpoenas related to an ongoing investigation involving the Massachusetts Port Authority and allegations of illegal immigrant sheltering at airports. This prompted a detailed examination of the current practices and measures needed to address such issues effectively, particularly in light of recent reports from O'Hare Airport. The committee engaged in deliberations that highlighted the importance of maintaining legislative oversight to safeguard national interests.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Mar 24th, 2025 at 11:00 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Today we have Senator Rodney Abrams.
  • Senate Bill 786 transfers the regulatory jurisdiction of
  • The intent of Senate Bill 786 was to transfer regulatory
  • This bill prevents regulatory overreach and aligns with the legislative intent of Senate Bill 786.
  • Senator Perry in his Senate Bill 7... that I think we heard got voted out today, maybe, on the water
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on the discussion and advancement of several key bills, notably HB1285, HB2890, HB1971, and HB1169. Chairman Darby opened the session by presenting HB2890, addressing the economic impact of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, particularly in light of recent federal pauses on LNG projects which have affected Texas significantly. The committee heard testimonies regarding the necessity of increasing communication between Gulf states to protect the industry, illustrating the importance of unified action against federal regulations that may harm Texas's LNG sector.

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