Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'public utility communication'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Administration Apr 14th, 2025

Senate Administration Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If not, we'll open public testimony.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed.
  • If not, we'll now open public testimony, and we will call up Jose Padilla.
  • This effort does not involve the use of public funds.
  • Hearing no one, public testimony is closed, and we'll leave the bill pending.
Bills: SB2053, SCR19, SCR23, SCR29
Summary: The committee meeting covered several important bills, including SCR19, which proposes the construction of the Texas Life Monument on the Capitol grounds to honor the sanctity of life and motherhood. Senator Parker explained that the monument would be funded privately and aim to create a public space for reflection. Public testimony offered support from pro-life organizations, emphasizing the monument's significance in celebrating the role of mothers and the value of life. The discussions surrounding this resolution were passionate and involved testimonies from individuals and organizations dedicated to celebrating family values in Texas. In addition to SCR19, the meeting featured SB2053, aimed at establishing the Governor's Medal of Service Award to recognize exceptional public service contributions. The bill gained positive acceptance among committee members and public attendees alike. Public testimonies reflected the importance of recognizing local heroes and encouraging public engagement. Overall, the meeting highlighted the committee's commitment to advancing legislation that honors both individual contributions and collective values within Texas society.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources (Part I) May 7th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Hearing none, we'll move to public testimony. I show no one registered to give public testimony.
  • Hearing and seeing none, we'll move to public testimony.
  • I show no one registered for public testimony.
  • Is there anyone wishing to provide public testimony for or against House Bill 2970?
  • We're going to show up, basically, just within the community.
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 1st C.S.

State Affairs Aug 11th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • With substantiated claims, they will be available for public
  • Scaramucci, we will open public testimony. We have one witness registered at this time.
  • As far as members of the public and as law enforcement,...
  • Seeing and hearing none, public testimony is closed and the bill is left pending at this time.
  • And I'm going to hand the gavel back over to the chairman for public testimony.
Bills: SB10, SB16, SB6
Summary: The committee meeting featured discussions on several key legislative issues, particularly focusing on human trafficking and related victim protections. Notably, Senate Bill 10 was presented by Senator Parker, aiming to provide an affirmative defense for victims of trafficking charged with crimes committed under coercion. The bill garnered significant support as witnesses provided personal testimonies highlighting the struggles faced by survivors, emphasizing the need for legal recognition of their circumstances. Additionally, Senate Bill 6 concerning the regulation of medication used in abortions was debated, with concerns raised about its potential implications on women's health rights and judicial protections for healthcare providers. The meeting included a robust exchange of views, reflecting a wide array of stakeholder interests including public health and law enforcement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Culture, Recreation & Tourism Aug 6th, 2025 at 10:08 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, please remember to check out the public available comments.
  • These comments are left by the public on each agenda item in our hearing.
  • We still have some communication issues at the emergency response level.
  • So, thank you all for what you do for our communities.
  • I have found the Hunt community, the Kerr County...
Summary: The meeting held by the Cultural, Recreation, and Tourism Committee focused primarily on emergency preparedness and responses to natural disasters, notably in the context of the recent floods that occurred in Texas on July 4th. The committee expressed deep sympathy for the affected communities and acknowledged the impressive efforts of first responders during the calamity. Testimonies were provided by representatives from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Texas Historical Commission, and various youth camps, focusing on the challenges faced during these emergencies and the steps taken to ensure visitor safety and habitat preservation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures May 6th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • accommodate all who wish to testify, there will be a time limit of two minutes per witness during the public
  • He mattered to me, his dad, his brother, sister, and his community.
  • It will ensure that our public schools, veterans, and

  • Such practices would uphold public confidence and operational integrity.
  • I'm the Director of Public Policy and General Counsel for the Baptist General Convention of Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the committee primarily focused on discussing various bills, including HB1800, which aims to establish safety standards for swim schools. The bill was introduced by Ms. Garcia, who shared a heart-wrenching personal story about her son, Mitchell, who drowned during a swim program due to inadequate safety protocols. This led to strong public testimony both supporting and opposing the bill, with many witnesses emphasizing the need for stringent regulations to protect children in swim schools. In contrast, some representatives voiced concerns about over-regulating well-established programs that already have safety measures in place.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services May 6th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • data-time="1134"> program that provides Medicaid reimbursement to participating school districts and public
Summary: In this meeting of the Committee on Human Services, key discussions centered on Senate Bills 1183 and 1952. The committee examined SB 1183, which proposes requiring the Lone Star card used for financial assistance programs to feature the recipient's name and photo. This bill faced significant opposition with members arguing that implementing the changes would lead to wasteful spending of taxpayer funds without effectively reducing fraud. Representatives highlighted that the majority of fraud involves retailers rather than recipients, raising questions about the bill's actual impact. The discussions also emphasized the potential challenges faced by caretakers and families in accessing benefits during emergencies due to new identification requirements imposed by the bill.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) May 5th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • the public is who drives the outcomes we see.
  • We will close invited testimony and open public testimony.
  • My name is John Lutzler, I'm the Director of Public.
  • The floor is now open for public testimony for House Bill 119.
  • If not, public testimony is closed, and the bill will be left pending.
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs held a comprehensive meeting focused on several noteworthy bills, particularly those related to the Texas Lottery Commission and foreign adversaries. Discussions were led by various members, including Senator Hall, who expressed serious concerns regarding the legality and integrity of practices within the Lottery Commission, alleging that it has enabled a series of fraudulent activities. Testimonies were heard from stakeholders advocating for House Bill 130, aimed at protecting Texans' genetic information from foreign access. The committee also reviewed House Bills 119 and 581, which tackle transparency in dealings with lobbyists connected to foreign adversaries and address child safety against evolving technological threats, including deepfake technology, respectively. The atmosphere was engaging, with active participation from both committee members and witnesses from various organizations arguing for or against the proposed legislation. The meeting concluded with gratitude expressed towards the committee staff for their efforts in facilitating a productive session, acknowledging both the importance of the issues at hand and the various testimonies provided. The members agreed on the significance of regulating the Lottery Commission more effectively and ensuring the protection of Texans from potentially harmful external influences. All bills were left pending for further discussion and refinement in future meetings.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II)Audio only. Apr 7th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on State Affairs featured several important bills, particularly focusing on alcohol regulations and controlled substances. Notably, Senator Perry presented Senate Bill 1868, which aims to update the Controlled Substance Act by allowing kratom in its natural state to be legal, recognizing its natural benefits while continuing to ban certain synthetic derivatives. The bill was positively received and reported favorably to the Senate without any objections. Further discussions included provisions related to the sale of alcoholic beverages and a joint resolution concerning veto overrides from the last legislative session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Administration Apr 28th, 2025

Senate Administration Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed.
  • Hearing none, we'll now open for public testimony and call up Jeff Archer.
  • I'll now open it for public testimony. Actually, oh, I'm sorry.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed.
Bills: SCR3, SCR30, SB2375, HCR35
Summary: The Senate Committee on Administration convened to discuss several important bills, notably SCR30, SB2375, HCR35, and HCR64. Senator Cook presented SB2375, which is related to non-substantive codification of laws and ensures that existing codes are accurately maintained without substantive changes. The committee reported favorably on this bill, recognizing the significant cleanup it provides within the statute. Furthermore, SCR30 was discussed, aiming to designate Matagorda County as the Birding Capital of Texas, emphasizing the area's rich ecological diversity and the promotion of ecotourism. Public testimony supported the designation, highlighting local pride and environmental conservation efforts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • He dedicated his life to public service, and I know

  • he is greatly missed in his community.
  • It is that spirit of public service and passion.

  • Speaker, Members, Congressman, Mayor, community leaders, the Honorable Sylvester Turner, who has many
  • He dedicated his whole life to service, to keep us safe and thriving—43 years of selfless public service
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

Insurance Mar 19th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • do is to provide better information to stakeholders and policymakers on how health care is being utilized
  • the report that Texas Department of Insurance used to do, the Texas Mandated Benefits Cost and Utilization
  • And I would imagine, you know, utilization and the cost of
  • We have heard from the business community that they are drowning in questions about costs.
Bills: HB138, HB335, HB388
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused significantly on discussions surrounding HB138 and HB388. Representative Harris-DeVille presented HB388, which aims to standardize the coordination of benefits questionnaires used by health benefit plan issuers and healthcare providers. This discussion highlighted the issues of patient billing complexities and the potential for reduced errors in healthcare coverage. Various stakeholders provided testimony in support of the bill, emphasizing its importance in streamlining the process for patients who have dual coverage, such as Medicaid and Medicare. There was considerable backing for the functionality that HB388 would bring in clearing up confusion in billing practices across different insurance plans.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Administration Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Administration Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Hearing none, the committee is now open for public testimony.
Bills: SCR4, SCR18, SCR31, SCR43, SCR46
Summary: The Senate Committee on Administration convened to discuss SCR46, a resolution aimed at renaming the 'New York Strip Steak' to 'Texas Strip Steak' in tribute to Texas's significant agricultural heritage. Senator Sparks presented the resolution, emphasizing Texas's position as the number one beef cattle producer in the United States. The discussion highlighted the importance of the beef industry in Texas, with an emphasis on the economic contributions and cultural significance of ranchers and farmers in shaping local cuisine. The meeting also allowed for public testimony, which indicated strong community interest in the matter.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Well, we will open up public testimony.

  • If anyone has a question, I don't see any, and we'll open public testimony.
  • I'll call open public testimony and call Robert Jones. Mr. Jones, you're recognized.
  • There's no other cards, so I will close public testimony on Senate Bill 771.
  • There's no other cards, so I will close public testimony on Senate Bill 771.
Bills: SB771, SB2345, HB135
Summary: The Senate Finance Committee meeting covered crucial legislative discussions surrounding several important bills, particularly focused on firefighter pension reforms and tax equity for diesel fuel. Senate Bill 771, presented by Senator Hinojosa, seeks to rectify a gap in state tax law regarding tax credits for diesel fuel used in auxiliary power units. The bill drew support from several witnesses who emphasized its importance for maintaining fairness in tax treatment across fuel types. Additionally, House Bill 135, aimed at providing tax exemptions for exotic game sales, was discussed with fervent support from stakeholders within the industry. Public testimonies highlighted the positive economic impact of the bill on rural communities in Texas. The committee also reviewed Senate Bill 2345, another pension-related bill, which showcased collaboration between the city and the firefighters' association.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations May 8th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • But we have uses that they also look at that we haven't utilized.
  • Instead of reaching this cap, actually utilizing it like we do for the State Highway Fund, funneling
  • I could think of a lot of things that we could utilize some of this money for.
  • We don't have anyone registered for public testimony.
  • There being none, public testimony is closed.

Bills: SJR4
Summary: The meeting focused on Senate Joint Resolution 4, which proposes to raise the constitutional cap of the Economic Stabilization Fund from 10% to 15%. Members engaged in a comprehensive discussion regarding the potential implications of this increase, especially in relation to Texas's long-term financial liabilities. Concerns were raised about maintaining adequate reserves while simultaneously addressing the need for taxpayer relief, especially considering factors such as property tax compression and future economic downturns. Various members voiced their opinions on the balance between saving for potential future needs and returning money to taxpayers, fostering a vigorous debate on the state's fiscal strategy and priorities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Mar 25th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • over the last 20 years, and we have designed and installed hundreds, close to 700, senior living communities
Summary: The meeting of the committee predominantly focused on several key bills aimed at addressing significant social issues, particularly around human trafficking and workforce development. Among the notable discussions was House Bill 491, which seeks to empower local attorneys to collect penalties from illicit massage parlors to fund anti-human trafficking efforts. Testimonies revealed the alarming rise of such establishments in Texas and underscored the importance of effective legislative solutions. There were also discussions surrounding House Bill 1757, introduced to create an additional pathway for CPA licensure, addressing workforce shortages in the accounting field, which has become increasingly urgent as Texas experiences a population boom.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance May 20th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • data-time="36"> Testifying, there will be a limit of no more than two minutes per witness during the public
  • So everyone wants to put on the board, what about adjusters, public adjusters, and other people that
Bills: SB1642, SB1643, SB2530
Summary: The committee meeting held extensive discussions on multiple pieces of legislation focused primarily on insurance and healthcare. A significant portion of the meeting revolved around SB1643, which proposes changes to how property and casualty insurance rates are regulated in Texas by requiring prior approval from the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) for any rate changes exceeding 10%. Members expressed mixed feelings about this proposal, with concerns that it might lead to increased costs for consumers while discussing the balance between consumer protection and maintaining a competitive insurance market. Witnesses offered testimony both in favor and against the bill, highlighting the importance of thoughtful regulatory frameworks amidst rising insurance costs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Sep 2nd, 2025 at 12:09 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas, one state under God, one community
  • Utility districts were brought under the ambit of this

  • I will also express my concern that public safety is

  • And that are utilizing their constitutional right.

  • What are you leaving for your community? What impact did you have, like my pastor used to say?
Bills: HB18, SB54, SB10
Summary: The recent committee meeting addressed several significant bills, primarily focused on electoral processes and legislative conduct. Notably, HB18, which regulates political contributions by legislative members during absences, was passed with a notable vote of 86 ayes to 46 nays. Additionally, Senate Bill 54, centered on election procedures regarding the registration of voters with outdated addresses, also advanced successfully through the committee, although not without discussion regarding its implications. The chair emphasized the importance of these legislative measures and their potential impact on voting rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Seeing none, public testimony is closed.
  • It doesn't say that it can be secret from the public, but it's okay for elected officials, public officials
  • We'll open public testimony on Senate Bill 3013.
  • We'll open public testimony on Senate Bill 3014.
  • The layout will open public testimony on Senate Bill 2533. Public testimony is now open.
Summary: The committee meeting covered numerous bills focusing on election integrity and transparency, alongside various regulatory measures. Senator Middleton presented SB1717, aimed at transferring the regulation of charitable bingo, and it was reported favorably to the Senate. Key discussions also revolved around SB1845 concerning registration for lobbyists engaged in activities on behalf of foreign adversaries, which received unanimous support. Another significant bill was SB2216, which addresses the security of election system equipment; it also passed with no opposition. The session was marked by contributions from various senators, emphasizing accountability and the integrity of the electoral process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

State Affairs Aug 26th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...public policy.
  • comment, very little public awareness of this kind of legislation.
  • It very well will open public testimony.
  • Public testimony is closed. Thank you.
  • Seeing and hearing none, public testimony is closed.
Bills: SB53, SB54, HB16, SB19
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened to discuss several significant bills, including SB19, SB54, HB16, and SB2217. A major focus was the potential changes to fundraising rules during special legislative sessions, aimed at aligning policies for regular and special sessions. Senator Bettencourt presented SB19, which prohibits political contributions during special sessions, raising questions about the implications for ongoing fundraising activities. Additionally, the committee reviewed SB54, which seeks to amend recent changes around voting procedures to prevent misunderstandings related to voter registration within counties. The session featured robust discussions, particularly surrounding the balance of regulations and the need for clear public policy. The meeting concluded with several bills moving forward positively, highlighting the collaborative effort among members.

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