Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senator Johnson'

Page 51 of 58
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Mar 27th, 2025 at 10:03 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator, we've got these...

  • In the 86th legislature, Senator Springer passed HB 3163, which
  • In response to this, in the 88th, in 2023, Senator Springer
  • In a previous session, Senator Hinojosa and designated a
  • Members, back many years ago, when Todd Staples was a senator
Summary: The committee meeting comprised extensive discussions on various legislative bills, focusing particularly on transportation, school safety, and accessibility issues. One prominent topic was HB3034, which seeks to clarify and expand the use of school bus stop-arm cameras, allowing communities to implement this life-saving technology more effectively. Testimony from multiple community leaders highlighted the need for clear regulations to protect children from vehicle accidents during school bus boarding and disembarking times. Concerns were raised about the potential misuse of ticketing from these cameras, with calls for accountability from the companies involved in managing these systems. Other bills such as HB2427 and HB2455 addressed the movement of commercial vehicles across international bridges, emphasizing the need for fair competition and safety in transportation infrastructure.
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

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 29th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This committee and the full House has passed this bill numerous times in a bipartisan way, and the Senate
  • has passed it once, just not in the Senate...
  • And I know there's a Senate bill companion on this. Do you know where it is?
  • Its identical Senate companion is on the way to us with no opposition.
  • to just go over the agreed-upon provisions that are coming over in an identical version from the Senate
Summary: The meeting focused on several key pieces of legislation aiming to address legal representation issues, specifically regarding indigent defendants and the implications of artificial intelligence in legal matters. Notably, House Bill 3694, introduced by Representative Raymond, sought to regulate the use of AI in creating non-consensual explicit media, establishing stricter penalties. Additionally, House Bill 507, presented by Representative Gervin Hawkins, aimed to enhance the quality of legal representation for indigent defendants in capital cases by establishing stricter standards for appointed attorneys and promoting transparency in legal processes. Testimonies were heard for and against various bills, highlighting strong community engagement and varying opinions on these critical issues.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • 11.073 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, commonly referred to as the Texas Junk Science Rett Law via Senate
  • Bill 344 by Senator Whitmire.
  • It made it out of the House 143 to 1, made it to the Senate, and died in the Senate because it just ran
Summary: The committee meeting featured comprehensive discussions surrounding several significant bills aimed at reforming laws related to criminal justice and individual rights. Notable among the bills was HB2309, which intends to update the civil asset forfeiture laws in Texas, empowering the Attorney General's office to pursue forfeiture in serious cases like human trafficking and organized crime. Representative Villalba presented this bill, emphasizing the need for state-level resources to address broader criminal enterprises effectively. The bill's testimony included insights from witnesses associated with the Texas Attorney General's office who affirmed the necessity for such changes to enhance law enforcement's capabilities across jurisdictions.
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

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

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • and Senator Huffman carried it in the Senate.
  • Resolution 57 by Senator Huffman and recognizes Chairman

Summary: The committee meeting was centered on the discussion of various bills, notably focusing on House Bill 3521, which aims to enhance retention incentives for police officers in Houston. Chairman Harless opened discussions highlighting the urgency of the bill due to staffing challenges within the Houston Police Department. Testimonies were given by several members of the police department and pension fund representatives, stipulating the need for actionable changes to prevent a significant exodus of experienced officers. The bill was met with supportive testimony that underscored the precarious staffing situation and the necessity for improved retention strategies. Following deliberations, the bill remained pending for further review.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • It's co-sponsored by seven Democratic senators, and 98 Democratic members voted for it.
  • It also proves to you I've learned something from Senator
Bills: SB331
Summary: In this committee meeting, the focus was primarily on S-331, the Halt All Lethal Trafficking and Fentanyl Act, aimed at addressing the fentanyl crisis. The bill's key components include making permanent the class scheduling of fentanyl-related substances, confirming existing sentencing penalties, and easing registration requirements for scientific research on Schedule I substances. Numerous parents shared heartbreaking testimonies about their losses due to fentanyl, which fueled an urgent call to pass the legislation without alterations. The committee members engaged in passionate discussions highlighting the urgency of the situation as overdoses continue to claim American lives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations Feb 19th, 2025 at 08:02 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • you would see a material difference in size between the blue and the gray because of the effects of Senate
  • We essentially give all the estimates and instructions for the estimates in late June, and Senate Bill
  • I'm loosely aware of the provisions that are in Senate Bill 2.
  • There is a continuous enrollment requirement in Senate Bill
  • Memory of what's in Senate Bill 2 at the moment.
Summary: The meeting hosted various discussions surrounding legislative measures impacting community resources and public safety. Notable discussions included a focus on environmental initiatives, which spurred passionate debates among committee members regarding the potential economic and ecological impacts. Several members raised concerns about the implementation timeline for new policies, while proponents emphasized the need for swift action to address pressing environmental challenges. Public testimony was also a significant part of the meeting, with citizens voicing their opinions on recent bills.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Workforce Apr 29th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Workforce

Transcript Highlights:
  • span> Unanimously, but unfortunately ran out of time over in the Senate
  • one on the front end of workers' comp, which, unfortunately, passed both bodies but didn't pass the Senate
  • You know, on Article 1, Section 27 of the Texas Constitution, which Senator Wiltz taught me about.
  • He was also a senator.
  • to have your legacy and stay alive in people's memories than by writing bills for the people, like Senator
Summary: The meeting of the committee included significant discussions centered around various bills, particularly those related to workers' compensation, opportunity youth, and sexual harassment. Representative Patterson spearheaded a discussion on HB2369, a bill aimed at reforming the workers' compensation system for first responders, stressing the need for swift evaluations and treatment to facilitate quicker recovery. Several members voiced their support, citing the bill's importance in ensuring that injured first responders can return to work more efficiently. Public testimony highlighted personal stories that underscored the critical impact of the legislation.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Armed Services.
  • I look forward to your testimony, and now Senator Warren can give her opening statement.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on pressing issues related to the U.S. military's recruitment and personnel strategies, especially in light of the upcoming NDAA for fiscal year 2026. Chairperson expressed appreciation for the service of witnesses including senior military leaders from different branches, emphasizing the importance of personnel as the backbone of national defense. Discussions revealed concerns regarding the recent lowering of recruitment standards across military branches, which could potentially affect the quality of service members and long-term military readiness. Witnesses were asked to address the implications of these changes on military health and efficiency.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Button's proposal would obviously create a...
  • We came up with a compromise in the Senate with all the parties.
  • Even if we pass this in the House, we've still got to get it passed in the Senate.
  • To that original one from 2021 in the Senate, do you know
  • No, it is not in the Senate either, but I'm happy to share that with the committee.
Summary: This committee meeting predominantly focused on the discussions surrounding several significant bills aimed at enhancing child care accessibility and addressing the issues related to deepfake technology. Representative Bojani introduced HB3133, which seeks to create a clear reporting process for deepfake material, ensuring social media platforms take accountability for harmful content. The bill aims to safeguard users from digital manipulations. Notably, the representatives engaged in a robust dialogue regarding the rising need for responsible management of deepfake content, establishing that Texas could take a leading role in this area.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Article II Feb 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Article II

Transcript Highlights:
  • San Antonio City Limits ended because I called Senators. This is ridiculous.
  • I called a Senator, who was not even my Senator.
Summary: The meeting of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Article 2 featured public testimony focused on the budget and specific funding needs within various state agencies. A significant amount of discussion centered around tobacco control efforts, where multiple witnesses emphasized the need for increased funding to combat tobacco and vaping among youth. Zoe Pippin, a high school student, shared personal experiences of how vaping has impacted her peers, advocating for more educational and prevention resources to address the addiction issues in her small community. This sentiment resonated with many committee members, prompting them to consider expanding support for tobacco prevention programs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management Apr 24th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • You know, we've had several bills in the Senate dealing

  • House Bill 2512 addresses the unintended consequences of Senate Bill 2038 from last session, which amended
  • Senate Bill 2038 would allow these residents to opt out of
Summary: The committee meeting included extensive discussions on various bills, with a notable focus on housing issues. The members deliberated on HB3892, which aims to address ambiguities in local government regulations and improve the accessibility of affordable housing in Texas. Public testimony was received from multiple stakeholders, including city representatives who voiced support for the bill, highlighting its significance in balancing development and local regulations. The chair also laid out additional bills such as HB5437 to establish a new municipal utility district and HB5650 focused on land use optimization, all of which were passed unanimously with zero nays.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine the Arctic and Greenland's geostrategic importance to U.S. interests. Feb 12th, 2025 at 09:00 am

Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • data-time="1128"> Senate
  • from Russia, spending $7.2 million for what became our 49th state, ultimately giving this committee Senator
Summary: The meeting convened by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation focused on the potential acquisition of Greenland by the United States. This issue, first raised by President Trump in 2019, has gained renewed significance amidst shifting global dynamics and the strategic importance of Greenland in relation to transatlantic trade routes and national security. The members discussed the geopolitical implications of Greenland's position, especially given the increasing influence of China and Russia in the Arctic region. Notably, the urgency to address military presence and icebreaker capabilities in the Arctic was a major point of contention, with a call for a new fleet to counter foreign dominance in the area.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I don't have yet, but the Senate bill as substituted is over
  • The Senate bill does not remove the $30 million cap, as we found additional funding to increase the 2604
  • What the Senate bill, the sub will do, is what I'm talking
  • But I guess the Senate didn't see it that way.
Summary: During this meeting, the committee engaged in detailed discussions surrounding various legislative proposals, notably focusing on HB2054 and HB4601. HB2054 was discussed in the context of addressing financial support for victims' families during declared emergencies, removing existing procedural barriers. Representative Manuel presented HB4601, which aims to assist Texas veterans in purchasing affordable housing by creating a down payment assistance program financed through a dedicated tax fund. This program is essential to simplify homeownership for veterans facing financial challenges in the current housing market.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It ran out of time in the Senate.
  • So now, now that I know where you're talking, Senate Bill 1120.
  • I'm sorry, that was the Senate bill version. I believe it is HB 3330.
  • I don't think we're... that was the Senate.
  • It ran out of time in the Senate, but I'm Jeremy Hale.
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

Transportation Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • If not, the chair will recognize Senator Johnny. Thank you, Chairman Craddick.
  • It has been reworded to match its companion in the Senate and preserves the term "friendly."
  • "6264">Members, this is an opportunity for us to get House Bill 3134 passed as opposed to another Senate
  • The two prior bills have both been Senate bills. This is HB 3134.
  • And it died on the Senate side?

    That is correct.

Summary: The committee meeting included significant discussions surrounding several bills, particularly focusing on infrastructure projects and their implications for the community. House Bill 2989 initiated a dialogue around modernizing the legal framework for Cedarport National Park, which is vital for enhancing maritime transport and reducing truck traffic. Supporters emphasized the economic benefits and the project's potential to create a more efficient and sustainable transport network, highlighting testimonies from local officials who noted the bill's importance for regional growth and safety. Representative Metcalfe and others advocated strongly for the bill, underscoring its necessity in addressing the increasing container demand due to recent shifts in shipping patterns. The meeting was well-attended and included various testimonies for and against bills, showcasing the passionate involvement of community members and stakeholders. One key point mentioned was the need for grade separations to improve safety around railway crossings. In particular, concerns were raised about the impact of long trains blocking intersections in residential areas, prompting discussions about potential solutions. Overall, the meeting highlighted the ongoing collaboration between legislators, industry representatives, and community leaders to enhance infrastructure and ensure public safety.

Research Filters

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