Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'public improvement'

Page 50 of 60
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • There will be a time limit of five minutes per witness during the public testimony period.
  • We have 482 FTEs, all committed public servants. We have three main functions.
  • We oversee about 7,300 public water systems in the state,
  • and we regularly interact with these public water systems to ensure that Texans have safe access to
  • Staff work closely with the public water system to

Summary: During this meeting of the Texas House Natural Resources Committee, critical discussions centered on various legislative proposals impacting water management and conservation in the state. Chairman Harris emphasized the importance of balancing economic growth with conservation efforts, noting the urgency of addressing Texas's finite water resources. Several members raised concerns about the administrative processes governing water laws, and a variety of bills were presented, including a definition cleanup bill and modifications to reporting requirements. The committee heard testimony from multiple stakeholders who provided insights on existing issues and proposed solutions to enhance water management in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 4th, 2025 at 02:02 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Ending DEI in our public universities, or allowing students
  • service delivery and improving access to care for our Texans.
  • OTs enhance public health across the state by strengthening service delivery and improving access to
  • They've been meeting with offices, learning about policy, impacting public schools at Raise Your Hand
  • OTs enhance public health across the state by strengthening service delivery and improving...
Summary: The committee meeting highlighted several key resolutions, including the recognition of various days to celebrate regions and groups within Texas. Notably, H.R. 127 was passed, recognizing February 4th, 2025, as Texas Energy Day, underscoring the significance of the oil and gas industry in Texas' economy. During discussions, Representative Harrison voiced strong opposition to SCR 11, expressing concerns over legislative inaction and advocating for tackling pressing issues like property taxes and educational reform. His remarks underscored frustrations with the current leadership’s handling of significant legislation, suggesting a pattern of strategic inaction to avoid accountability.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Library, and Ken Benson, Chairman of the Board of the Dallas Public Library.
  • Under this framework, the Controller of Public Accounts would collect it.
  • also improved rights.
  • It has to be in consultation with our Department of Public Safety.
  • I appreciate her bringing this forward, and it does improve the bill.
Summary: The meeting focused on several crucial pieces of legislation, notably Senate Joint Resolution 40, which proposed a constitutional amendment to clarify the powers of the governor, the legislature, and the Supreme Court during emergencies. Senator Birdwell presented the resolution, emphasizing the need for legislative involvement during prolonged crises. It garnered broad support, passing with 29 votes in favor and only 1 against. Following this, Senate Bill 871, considered the enabling legislation, was also moved for discussion, with the aim of reinforcing the legislature's authority during emergencies while establishing clear guidelines for the governor's powers.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • For the record, Thomas Gleason, Chairman of the Public Utility Commission of Texas.
  • And we want improved cost outcomes.

  • I know we've had talks about what might be improved

  • My name is Mark Stelling, I am with the Public Utility Commission, and I'm testifying on the bill.
  • Not only the grid, but public safety.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Business Commerce Committee addressed multiple bills, notably focusing on SB842, SB372, and SB262. Chairman Schwartner facilitated discussions around the Texas Energy Fund, with updates provided by PUC Chairman Thomas Gleeson. Gleeson outlined the current status of the energy applications, highlighting that out of 72 applications, 17 had progressed. The committee also raised concerns regarding the need for additional transmission capacity, particularly in the Permian Basin, and discussed the implications of transitioning from 345 kV to 765 kV lines. Overall, the session was marked by a sense of urgency to finalize decisions by the approaching deadlines set for May 1st.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 6th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I think there's room for improvement.
  • health knowledge and public health education.
  • ...as a public university to advance the public good, to
  • Okay, we're going to open public testimony.
  • Back here, we, the public, seriously.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting of the committee was primarily focused on budget requests and legislative priorities from various educational institutions. Each institution expressed the need for increased funding to support academic programs, STEM education, and critical health initiatives. For instance, representatives from UT Dallas highlighted the importance of their Fentanyl Protection Initiative and advances in pain therapy, reaffirming their commitment to combat the opioid crisis in Texas. Other notable discussions included the need for updates to campus infrastructure and the request for new programs aimed at enhancing workforce development across various fields, particularly healthcare and technology. Topics such as the restoration of Institutional Enhancement Funds and the increase of appropriations for research initiatives were also extensively discussed. The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration among universities to strengthen Texas's overall higher education landscape.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism May 1st, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We heard public testimony on.
  • We do have Why don't we have public comments on this item?
  • ...and protecting wildlife and improving driver safety in
  • Seeing none, we will move on to public testimony. This time, the chair calls Matt Wagner.
  • While this infrastructure has improved access for Texans,
Summary: The meeting of the Culture, Recreation, and Tourism Committee centered on several important bills primarily aimed at enhancing Texas's wildlife management and cultural initiatives. One of the standout discussions was around HB5259, which advocates for the development of a wildlife corridor action plan by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. The bill aims to address the high number of animal-vehicle collisions in Texas, proposing to set up designated areas to connect wildlife populations and habitats. Witnesses, including wildlife conservationists, testified in support of this bill, stressing its potential to significantly reduce accidents and protect endangered species like ocelots. The committee also deliberated on multiple Senate Bills aimed at streamlining hunting licenses and supporting state historical initiatives.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • We have significant legislative matters to discuss, especially concerning public education and community
  • Schmitt introduced HR1025, emphasizing its aim to support mental health resources for students in public
  • Following the debate, the Chair called for public comment

  • ...on healthcare competition, FDA policy, public health, and
  • ...These innovations offer exciting opportunities to improve
Summary: The meeting was chaired by Chairman Schweikert and involved a comprehensive discussion on how to utilize artificial intelligence (AI) for reducing waste, fraud, and improper payments within federal programs. Key witnesses, including Mr. Andrew Canarsa from the Council of the Inspectors General, provided insights on the potential of AI in enhancing government efficiency. The committee emphasized the importance of reliable data and thorough examination of AI application to avoid unintended consequences while addressing the estimated $162 billion in improper payments reported by the federal government. Concerns were raised regarding the recent firing of inspectors general and the impacts that could have on oversight and accountability processes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Aug 22nd, 2025 at 08:08 am

House Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • 90"> As stated in the hearing notice, there will be a time limit of two minutes per witness during public
  • ...infrastructure and public infrastructure.
  • In fact, it's just a way of life if you're in the law enforcement public safety community.
  • We've got a lot of public things.
  • They improve the water quality and enhance the value of the land.
Summary: The committee meeting addressed multiple bills related to emergency preparedness and flood prevention, with significant discussions on HB48, SB3, and HB75. Representative Darby opened the meeting by advocating for the creation of a nine-member alert notification system to address public saturation with emergency alerts and to streamline the notification process by evaluating the effectiveness and coordination of existing systems. Testimonies from various stakeholders underscored the necessity of reducing alert fatigue among residents while enhancing the state’s overall readiness for impending natural disasters. The meeting featured robust support for HB75, aimed at establishing stricter safety standards for youth camps located in flood-prone areas following recent tragic flooding incidents that highlighted the urgent need for improved safety measures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Autopsy reports are generally public records.
  • And public officials.
  • Of public safety, justice, and protecting public safety
  • I represent the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • and public safety.
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

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Apr 28th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • And if there are no questions, we'll proceed down to public testimony.
  • With that said, the substitute bill is a vast improvement.
  • But if there are ways to improve victims' rights, the foundation would like to help.
  • TIDC works to improve public defense in adult criminal

  • Yet awareness, resources, and public understanding remain alarmingly low.
Summary: The meeting of the Family and Fiduciary Relationships Committee involved extensive discussions focused on improvements in family law, particularly regarding child welfare and representation in court. Several bills were presented, including HB3382, which aims to enhance the standard of representation for children and parents in legal proceedings. Testimony highlighted concerns over attorney performance and the necessity of timely communication between attorneys and their young clients. Members voiced both support and opposition, especially regarding the timelines set forth for attorney consultations prior to hearings, reflecting a strong concern for the welfare of children involved in custody and welfare cases.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Mar 19th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • > and to accommodate all who testify, there will be a limit of two minutes per witness during the public
  • I welcome honest, constructive discussion to improve this bill
  • OK, we'll go to public testimony.
  • in good faith, to come up and improve this bill.
  • There's no public transparency, there's no public comment, and there's no ability for other parties that
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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations May 5th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • She asked the same thing because she's had a lot of different public meetings and public hearings held
  • Some clarity is probably needed for the public.
  • Is it protective of public health?
  • the public HBCUs...
  • and Public Council of the Office of Public Utility Council
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

Land & Resource Management Mar 6th, 2025 at 08:03 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • p>We will continue to develop better policies that will enhance public
  • The GLO improves the lives of every Texan by preserving

  • "216"> preserving our state's history, maximizing the revenue from state lands to help fund Texas public
  • In 1876, Texas set aside half of its public lands to

  • I want to say thank you all for showing us the improvements this weekend.
Summary: The Committee on Land and Resource Management convened to address pressing issues surrounding housing affordability in Texas. Central to the discussions was the testimony of various stakeholders, including housing developers, local officials, and advocates who highlighted an acute shortage of over 300,000 homes due to rapid population growth. The committee explored legislative measures aimed at reducing regulatory burdens that contribute significantly to housing costs, particularly related to the development and construction processes. A theme of collaboration with local governments and state agencies was a pivotal point, emphasizing the need for an organized approach to address housing supply while balancing local infrastructural concerns.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations Mar 24th, 2025 at 04:00 pm

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We aimed to expand public defender services in rural

  • health, and improving the health, safety, and well-being of countless Texans.
  • And if so, where can the public find them?
  • Recorded via video and audio and made available to the public as required?
  • Recorded via video and audio and made available to the public as required?
Summary: The meeting of the Appropriations Committee focused on the adoption of subcommittee reports for various articles, emphasizing critical funding needs for Texas. Representative Gonzalez highlighted significant budget recommendations, including appropriations for crime victim services, military community support, and enhancements to juvenile probation departments. The adoption of several articles was met with a mixture of support and dissent, showcasing discussions surrounding the allocation of state resources and adherence to House rules regarding formal meeting records and transparency.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security May 15th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We do have one resource witness from the Department of Public Safety, Jason.
  • All right, we'll move to public testimony.

  • I don't have anybody registered for public testimony on HCR98.
  • The Chair now opens for public testimony.
  • Public testimony is closed.
Bills: HCR98, HB180
Summary: The Senate Committee on Border Security convened to discuss key resolutions aimed at enhancing border security measures. Notable discussions centered around HCR98, which urges Congress to bolster intergovernmental cooperation in deploying counter-unmanned aircraft systems to address unauthorized drone activities at the border. Committee members expressed the urgency of establishing operational protocols for detecting and neutralizing drones that threaten national security. Additionally, HB180 was presented, focusing on elevating state-level cooperation with Mexican authorities to better manage cross-border challenges like drug and human trafficking. There were no public testimonies for either bill; however, HCR98 was reported favorably to the full Senate following a brief voting process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Committee on Education K-16 Apr 3rd, 2025 at 09:00 am

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Each public witness will be given two minutes.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is now closed.
  • The public testimony is now closed on Senate Bill 757.
  • Senate Bill 1241 improves the top 10% criteria.
  • Okay, with no public testimony, public testimony will close
Summary: The meeting focused on significant education reform, particularly the transition of the University of Houston-Victoria into the Texas A&M system. Senator Kohlkorst led the discussions, highlighting the historical context of the partnership and the challenges ahead in transitioning governance, especially regarding accreditation and technical support. Community leaders expressed their support, emphasizing the need for alignment with regional industry needs to enhance educational programs that would ultimately benefit both students and the local economy. Notably, testimony from James Hallmark and Dwayne Crocker highlighted both the potential growth for the region and the collaborative spirit of the involved institutions in implementing this transition.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Public education.
  • We have a robust public participation process and an extensive suite of opportunities for the public
  • ...public meetings, public hearings, workshops, webinars,
  • We understand that public engagement is important to you, and we continue to increase public access to
  • And while we're doing that, we're improving the environment all at the same time.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee focused on several key legislative initiatives, including the implementation of new regulations concerning geothermal injection wells as per SB786, and the jurisdiction over brine mining clarified by SB119 and SB1186. Commissioner Christy spoke about the achievements of the Railroad Commission of Texas in regulatory standards and emphasized the importance of updating environmental practices that safeguard groundwater and surface water while facilitating economic growth. Senators expressed their concerns regarding operational impacts on various sectors, highlighting the need for continued collaboration between agencies to address challenges related to water management and environmental compliance.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The public testimony was closed on HB 3898.
  • HSB 569, I'll open public testimony.
  • We are 100% committed to public transparency.
  • Chair opens up public testimony on House Bill 1690.
  • public of any kind.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on a variety of bills primarily concerning water management and rights. Significant discussions included House Bill 3333, which addressed the management of groundwater and was moved favorably with a recommendation for local and contested calendars. Additionally, House Bill 4158 was passed unanimously, relating to the oversight of ecological water rights dedicated to the Texas Water Trust. Members of the committee emphasized the importance of these bills for sustainable water management practices in the state, reflecting a shift towards more responsible governance in resource use.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services May 14th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • To ensure an independent public voice, the bill prohibits public members from being lobbyists, health
  • members are on this public-facing panel.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed.
  • Hearing none, Chair opens up public testimony.
  • Seeing none, public testimony is closed.
Summary: The meeting of the committee featured a series of discussions primarily focusing on various bills aimed at enhancing accountability and safety in the healthcare sector. Notable highlights included the passage of HB694, which aims to promote transparency in the operations of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) by shortening the notification timeline for significant events from ten days to 48 hours. This bill received unanimous support from all members present, underscoring a strong consensus on improving communication with parents and stakeholders involved in the child welfare system. Another significant topic was the introduction of HB2187, which seeks to amend and update the existing nursing staffing laws to address emerging challenges faced by healthcare professionals, particularly stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill was presented as a response to the increased burnout rates among nurses and aims to provide a more stable working environment to retain talent in the healthcare sector. The committee took testimony from several experts and stakeholders, highlighting the urgency and importance of these legislative changes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Jan 29th, 2025 at 10:01 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, today is **Public Works Day** at the Capitol.
  • The Texas chapter of the American Public Works Association are here in the gallery today.
  • These public workers operate, improve, and maintain public works to provide and sustain structures and
  • Public works professionals focus on the public's well-being.
  • To put it simply, our public workers keep Texas cities and towns running smoothly and efficiently.
Summary: The meeting of the Texas House of Representatives focused on several notable resolutions, including the recognition of January 29, 2025, as 'Brownsville Day,' 'Alpha Kappa Alpha Day,' and 'Shen Yun Day.' Each resolution was met with enthusiasm as representatives shared their pride in their communities and honored the cultural significance of these events. In particular, Representative Gomez emphasized the economic and cultural contributions of Brownsville, while Dr. Oliverson highlighted Shen Yun's dedication to reviving traditional Chinese culture through the art of dance and music. The discussions underscored the importance of inclusivity and representation in celebrations throughout the state.

Research Filters

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