Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Texas Senate Committee'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Jan 27th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Finance will come to order.

  • Thank you, Senator Alvarado, for agreeing to serve on this committee.
  • it's great to be back on the Senate Finance Committee.
  • So I will be attending all the Senate Finance Committee meetings.
  • Could you brief the committee on what recommendations the Texas Judicial Council has?
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Finance Committee was marked by extensive discussions around the budget proposals for various judicial services and the impact of proposed salary increases on staffing. Notably, there were concerns raised regarding a significant attorney shortage in rural areas, which has seen a 27% decline in attorneys taking positions compared to previous years. Scott Ehlers highlighted a crucial $12 million funding request aimed at addressing this shortfall to maintain the adequate operational capacity of indigent defense services across the state. The committee members, led by Chairman Hinojosa, emphasized the importance of finding solutions to improve legal access and representation in underserved areas to respond effectively to this critical issue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Sep 3rd, 2025 at 06:09 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Speaker, on the conference committee for Senate.
  • And then we will come back to the conference committee report on Senate Bill 5, and I will lay out each
  • Speaker, I call up the conference committee report on Senate Bill 5.
  • The conference committee report on Senate Bill 5 is pretty straightforward. It has four components.
  • This penalty is similar to how the Texas Senate currently punishes quorum breakers, targeting seniority
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding several bills, including HB8, which faced significant scrutiny for its approach to educational assessments and accountability. Representative Garcia Hernandez voiced strong opposition, emphasizing the bill's reliance on high-stakes testing and the lack of meaningful stakeholder engagement, particularly from educators and parents. She urged the committee to pause the bill for further consideration, advocating for a more inclusive reform process. The discussion highlighted a growing concern over the implications of school testing standards and the balance of state versus local control in education. Chairman Bonin presented a conference committee report for SB5 related to disaster funding, underscoring its significance for future preparedness and local government support following recent flooding events. The bill was adopted without significant contention, reflecting bipartisan agreement on its importance.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 12th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Adam Hinojosa.
  • by Senator Nichols.
  • The Chair lays out Senate Bill 2246 by Senator West and recognizes the representatives.
  • Senate Bill 2246 is recommended by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.
  • Senate Bill 2246 is recommended by the Texas Department

Summary: The meeting of the committee addressed several key bills focused on transportation and vehicle regulations. Notably, SB1353 introduced by Representative Gaines aims to create a regulatory framework for towing vessel pilots in the port of Brownsville, alongside testimonies highlighting support from local authorities. Additionally, SB1902 proposed by Senator Nichols seeks to amend the previous legislation affecting license plate transfers, addressing concerns over dealer inventory storage issues. The discussion around SB249 centered on alleviating the financial strain on families of fallen peace officers regarding highway dedications, shifting the burden to TxDOT for funding and maintaining signs. Despite the positive atmosphere, some bills, such as SB1029, faced opposition due to potential customer trust issues related to advertising vehicles not currently in dealers' possession.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation (Part I) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Bettencourt sends up the committee.
  • Senator Bettencourt sends up the committee.
  • Bill 39 and the committee substitute for Senate Bill 39.
  • We are from Houston, Texas, and we oppose Senate Bill 39.
  • I'm from Whitesboro, Texas, and I oppose Senate Bill 39.
Summary: During the committee meeting, significant discussions revolved around three main bills: SB39, HB19, and SB2246. Senator Bettencourt laid out SB39, aimed at revising the admission rule related to commercial vehicle collision cases. The intention behind this bill is to standardize trial procedures by limiting the evidence admissible in the first phase, ensuring that unnecessary complexity does not cloud the issue of fault. Various stakeholders, including trial lawyers and business representatives, provided insights into the impact of these changes, highlighting concerns over insurance costs and practical implications on litigations. Public testimony reflected a mix of support and opposition, showcasing the contentious nature of the bill's modifications. Additionally, the committee addressed SB2246 regarding salvage auto dealers and the process of obtaining titles for vehicles that will not return to the road, which was met with relatively little challenge as stakeholders recognized the necessity for clarity and efficiency in this process. The meeting concluded with promises from members to continue discussions on these important legislative measures, indicating an ongoing commitment to addressing the complex issues at hand.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • In fact, I don't have this in these notes here, but there is another committee in the Senate taking up
  • Each member of this committee represents a part of Texas that is...
  • I know in the Senate, Senator King, the chairman of your Redistricting Committee, sent a letter...
  • of what DOJ is asking Texas to do, that the DOJ will appear before the Senate Redistricting Committee
  • My name is Nikki, and I am a resident of Crowley, Texas, in Texas Senate District 10, represented by
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on public testimonies regarding the revised congressional redistricting plan. Numerous witnesses presented their concerns about how the proposed changes could potentially dilute representation for minority communities. A consistent theme throughout the testimonies was the fear that the redistricting effort was not aimed at serving constituents but rather at securing power for political parties. Several participants expressed a strong opposition to what they perceived as gerrymandering tactics, claiming they would negatively impact African-American and Hispanic communities in Texas. The meeting revealed a clear public sentiment against the redistricting proposals, with nearly all witnesses speaking out against the changes. The Chair noted an overwhelming number of testimonies opposing the redistricting, indicating a strong community response to the proposed changes and their implications on fair representation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) May 15th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Capitol and present before the Texas Senate Committee on State Affairs and view these issues very seriously
  • This is an unusual institution, the Texas Senate, but more importantly,
  • This is the companion to Senate Bill 2101 that this committee heard at the end of April and voted on.
  • For Texas parents and guardians, and senators, I would ask
  • I'm very excited that now that it is in Senate State Affairs, Texas will join 16 other states that have
Summary: During the meeting of the committee on state affairs, multiple bills were discussed, with a significant focus on HB186, which aims to implement age verification for social media usage among minors. Public testimony highlighted concerns regarding potential invasions of privacy, the overreach of governmental authority, and the impact on children's mental health. Advocates for the bill argued that it protects children from harmful online content, while opponents expressed worries about its broader implications on free speech and social connectivity for young people. The meeting attracted a diverse audience, including experts, advocates, and concerned citizens, each contributing passionately to the dialogue surrounding these important legislative issues.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 6th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Finance will come to order.

  • I couldn't help but notice that Senator Perry's take Texas Tech tie is very prominently displayed at
  • After 10 years of sitting next to Senator Perry, a Texas
  • Senator, it's rare earths. It's also in East Texas; it's coal.
  • Elon Musk of the Texas Senate, okay?
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

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

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Speaker, and Vice Chair Thompson, and members of the committee for the opportunity to lay out Senate
  • We do have a committee substitute because some of the changes the Senate made to this bill have created
  • were legal in Texas.
  • So I completely respect and understand the concern of Senator Hall that led to Senate Bill 28.
  • , and I came to 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

Insurance Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And the best senator in Texas. Senate...

  • I'm testifying today on behalf of the Texas Pharmacy Association in support of Senate Bill 493.
  • Texas...
  • in Texas.
  • This passed the Senate committee and was placed on the local and uncontested calendar during the last
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance focused on several significant bills, including HB854, which aims to reform insurance payment structures to improve accessibility for homeowners needing urgent repairs. Representative Garcia-Hernandez strongly advocated for this bill, highlighting the struggles faced by constituents unable to cover upfront repair costs. Additionally, HB4092 was discussed, which seeks to clarify regulations surrounding pre-suit notices in insurance claims, emphasizing the importance of protecting policyholders' rights. The meeting included various testimonies, with both supporters and opponents voicing their concerns about how these bills could impact consumers and the insurance industry.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

State Affairs Sep 3rd, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Hinojosa.
  • Thank you, Senator Hall.
  • Senator Hinojosa, thanks for mentioning Senate Bill 19.
  • Thank you, Senator Middleton.
  • She serves this committee, as well as the Jurisprudence Committee, and serves the people of Texas in
Bills: HB18
Summary: The committee meeting focused on House Bill 18, which aims to establish penalties for lawmakers who intentionally break quorum to obstruct legislative processes. Senator Hinojosa presented the bill, explaining that it prohibits absent legislators from fundraising and incurs civil penalties for violations. Public testimony was taken, with supporters emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency among legislators. Discussions among committee members highlighted the bill's implications and raised questions about its efficacy in preventing planned quorum breaks.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Jurisprudence (Part I) May 14th, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair sends up the committee substitute and recognizes Senator
  • The committee substitute of Senate Bill 3009 restores fairness and uniformity by requiring receivers
  • The Vice Chair sends up the committee substitute, and Senator Parker is recognized to explain the differences
  • I ask the vice chair of the committee, Senator Johnson, to
  • Chairman, I'm Mike Gallagher, a member of the Executive Committee of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association
Summary: The committee meeting included a thorough examination of several bills, notably HB2733, HB3104, HB4325, and HB2495, each addressing significant legal and procedural issues in Texas law. HB2733, presented by Representative Canuccio, sought to modernize existing definitions related to barratry to include digital solicitation methods, and it received no public testimony for or against, suggesting a general consensus on the need for this update. Conversely, HB3104 by Representative McLaughlin focused on the appointment and salary provisions for bailiffs in Webb County, addressing concerns over discrepancies across district courts, while HB2495 clarified the rights of sole managing conservators regarding their children's school enrollment, which generated testimony from family law professionals in support of the bill.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part II) Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Good afternoon, esteemed Chair, Senator Kolkhorst, and the rest of the committee. My name is Dr.
  • I'm here to testify in support of the committee substitute for Senate Bill 1283.
  • The committee substitute for Senate Bill 1283 picks up where last...
  • Is the chair's intent to leave the committee substitute for Senate Bill?
  • With no other business to come before the committee, Senator Perry moves that the...

Summary: The meeting of the committee covered critical discussions focused on several key bills aimed at enhancing safety and improving healthcare access for vulnerable populations, particularly seniors and pediatric patients. The members heard testimony in support of SB1283, with Lieutenant Jonathan Blanchard from the Dallas Police Department advocating for the bill as a means to ensure safer environments in senior facilities by instituting criminal history checks for employees. Carmen Tilton from the Texas Assisted Living Association also highlighted the bill's balance between safety and privacy, showing strong support from various stakeholders. Additionally, the committee discussed SB527, which addresses the challenges of obtaining insurance coverage for general anesthesia required for pediatric dental procedures. Experts testified about the urgent need for reform to prevent potential health crises in children and to streamline care access for parents.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Finance Aug 12th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senate Committee on Finance, come to order.

  • to the members of the Senate Select Committee on Disaster Preparedness
  • Bill 1 by Senator Perry and Senate Bill 2 by Senator Bettencourt
  • Yes, thanks for allowing me to address your committee, Senator Huffman.
  • Texas 2036 here today in support of Senate Bill 3.
Bills: SB3
Summary: The Senate committee on finance convened to discuss critical flood response legislation, particularly SB3, which aims to address the needs of flooding victims in Texas. The bill, presented by Chair Huffman, includes $200 million for FEMA reimbursements and additional funding for disaster preparedness, equipment, and training facilities. Public testimony indicated strong support for SB3, highlighting the significant need for improved flood response mechanisms. Several first responders shared their need for consistent, year-round training facilities, emphasizing that current training resources are insufficient.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Chairman, I do have a committee substitute for Senate Bill Paris and set the committee substitute.
  • This committee will recall a number of bills that were passed by this committee and the Senate which
  • The chair recognizes Senator Middleton to send up a new committee substitute, and Senator Middleton is
  • House Bill 4157 is Senator Bonin's bill, sponsored by Senator Hinojosa of Nueces, our committee colleague
  • out, and Senator Betancourt moves that we adopt the committee substitute.
Summary: The committee meeting conducted significant discussions around various bills, notably focusing on House Bill 223, which was reported favorably with recommendations for a full Senate pass. Several members, including Senator Middleton, participated in laying out the bill, emphasizing its potential impacts. Senator Gann's HB521 also garnered attention, receiving approval with aim to accommodate voters' needs, particularly those with disabilities. Throughout the meeting, members exhibited collaboration despite differing views on certain propositions, reflecting a commitment to legislative progress. Public testimony was sought for various bills, expanding the dialogue with stakeholders on topics affecting their communities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance May 7th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Oliverson to explain Senate Bill 527.
  • Senate Bill 527 deals with an issue that I'm very, very familiar with, and this committee has heard several
  • I'm here today to testify in support of Senate Bill 527 on behalf of the Texas Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
  • I am representing the Texas Dental Association, the Texas Academy of Dental Surgeons, and the Texas Academy
  • Also, currently, based on a committee change in the Senate, there's a removal of the need to submit the
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance centered around numerous healthcare-related bills, focusing heavily on issues such as artificial intelligence (AI) in medical determinations, autism insurance coverage, and HIV prevention. Representative Garcia Hernandez presented HB4635, aiming to ensure transparency in the use of AI in medical claim denials, which has become increasingly prevalent. The bill introduces mandates for disclosures on AI algorithms used in decisions, enhancing patient rights and keeping the Texas Department of Insurance informed of potential denials. Public testimony supported the bill as essential for safeguarding Texans from unintended biases in AI applications. Additionally, HB813, presented by Representative Goodwin, garnered attention for its effort to update autism-related insurance mandates, removing outdated age restrictions for therapy coverage. This legislation is seen as a crucial step in accommodating the needs of all individuals on the autism spectrum, regardless of the timing of their diagnosis.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Flores, Senator Betancourt, Senator Blanco, Senator

  • Senator Swerdner?
  • I've worked on this committee since we came into the Senate
  • Members, Senator Perry moves adoption of the committee

  • Member Senator Perry moves adoption of the committee

Summary: The meeting focused on several key pieces of legislation, including HB20, which aims to address disaster fraud in Texas by enhancing protections for victims during emergencies. The committee substitute for the bill was adopted without challenge and moved forward for a favorable recommendation. Public testimony was closed with no registered speakers, indicating strong support or little opposition to the measures being discussed. Additionally, the committee addressed HB27, sparking a significant debate about groundwater management and local regulations, reflecting growing concerns about resource allocation in Texas. Members engaged in discussions surrounding the need for scientific studies before imposing moratoriums on water permits, highlighting the complexities of balancing ecological concerns with community needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security May 22nd, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And on behalf of Senator Creighton, Senator Flores is recognized
  • Senator Eckhardt?
  • Senator Eckhardt.
  • Senator Birdwell. Aye. Senator Flores. Aye. Senator Hinojosa. Aye. Senator Eckhardt. Aye.
  • Senator Hinojosa of Nueces.
Bills: HCR40, HB214
Summary: The committee convened to discuss two significant bills: HCR40, regarding reimbursement for border security costs, and HB214, which addresses the prosecution of firearm and ammunition-related offenses. Senator Flores represented HCR40, urging Congress to reimburse Texas for expenses incurred under Operation Lone Star, citing ongoing issues with illegal crossings and drug trafficking. Though there was a commendable attempt at public testimony, none was received, and the bill was left pending with intentions for further discussions. Much emphasis was placed on the state's security responsibilities and federal inaction that led to a substantial financial burden on Texas taxpayers. In discussing HB214 introduced by Chairman Birdwell, key points included the need for refinement in identifying which offenses classify as terroristic. The members engaged in a comprehensive debate surrounding the expansion of offenses related to firearms smuggling and terrorism. Members expressed concern over including overly broad definitions that could lead to misuse of power and mislabeling of offenses. The committee's focus shifted towards creating a more precise framework that separates economic offenses from true acts of terrorism. The meeting emphasized collaboration and careful consideration in drafting legislation aimed at enhancing public safety without infringing on rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Business and Commerce Aug 1st, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Business and Commerce will come

  • The committee substitute to Senate Bill 15 is a combination of Senate Bill 15 as filed and Senate Bill
  • I'd like to thank the chair, members of this committee, and Senator West's office for the opportunity
  • Senator Wythe.
  • Hearing none, Senator Kolkhorst moves adoption of the committee substitute for Senate Bill 15 without
Bills: SB15
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce focused primarily on the discussions surrounding SB15 and SB2611, which address the significant issues of property fraud and deed theft. Senator Kolkhorst led the meeting, emphasizing the integration of these bills to effectively tackle the criminal aspects of deed fraud. Numerous testimonies were heard from affected individuals and stakeholders, highlighting the growing problem of property fraud which has seen a disturbing rise over recent years. Guests shared personal accounts of the devastating impacts of such fraud, stressing the bill’s necessity for safeguarding property rights.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • First, the committee substitute entitles Senate Bill 1 as "The Heavens 27, Camp 6."
  • We proudly live in this small community of Belleville, Texas. I am in favor of Senate Bill 1.
  • I'm really grateful for what I've heard from Senator Perry and others on the committee.
  • Is there anyone wishing to testify for or against Senate Bill 1 or its committee substitute?
  • Committee substitute for Senate Bill 1.
Summary: The meeting focused on discussion around SB1, addressing safety reforms in youth camps in light of a tragic flooding incident that resulted in multiple fatalities. The committee heard testimony from various stakeholders, including family members of the victims, who shared heartfelt stories and the urgent need for reforms to ensure that such a tragedy would not happen again. The testimonies highlighted the importance of establishing better safety measures, including evacuation plans and compliance with new safety regulations. Senator Perry emphasized that the bill aims to create objective standards that protect children attending camps, prompting a strong emotional response from attendees as they reflected on the lives lost during the flash floods.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part I) Jan 28th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • **Chair**: Senate committee on finance, please come to order.

  • Which page, Senator?
  • **Senator Kohlhorst**: I did, Senator Flores.

  • I believe **Senator Zaffirini**, then **Senator Bettencourt**. Thank you, Madam Chair.
  • Thank you, Senator Creighton.
Summary: The meeting of the committee primarily focused on the Office of the Attorney General, where General Ken Paxton and his staff presented budget recommendations, highlighting a proposed decrease of $163.9 million from the 2024-25 biennium budget. Discussions included essential service funding such as the Crime Victims Compensation Program, which is facing challenges due to revenue shortfalls and increased demand. The committee raised concerns regarding the method of finance swaps that impacted the overall budget, leading to a $38 million cut that the Attorney General’s office deemed an error. Representatives from the LBB were also questioned about the implications of these funding changes.

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