Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Appropriations Committee'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The committee substitute makes two changes to the bill.
  • This bill is a big, big improvement with the committee substitute.
  • Thank you, Chairman Harris, members of the committee, and thank you to...
  • Without objection, the committee substitutes with...
  • Is there any further business for the committee to address?
Summary: The recent committee meeting showcased significant discussions around various groundwater management bills, emphasizing legislative accountability and environmental conservation efforts. Notably, HB4896 was presented, which aims to streamline the designation of brackish groundwater production zones, facilitating better management of Texas' water resources. Testimonies from multiple stakeholders underscored the necessity for transparency in groundwater conservation districts and the importance of adapting to climate impacts. Additionally, House Bill 4212 aimed to enhance interagency communication pertaining to land and water conservation, further stressing a collaborative approach to resource management.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice (Part II) Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Chairman, members of the committee.
  • The chair sends up a committee substitute for Senate Bill 1806.
  • The committee substitute to Senate Bill 1806.
  • The committee substitute does two things, basically.
  • The committee substitute for Senate Bill 1646...
Summary: The meeting of the committee was marked by critical discussions surrounding several bills focused on enhancing public safety and addressing criminal activities. Notably, Senate Bill 1208 sparked significant debate as several members expressed concerns regarding its implications for free speech and civil rights. Testimonies from various public participants highlighted fears that the increased penalties could infringe on First Amendment rights by deterring individuals from holding law enforcement accountable. The committee also tackled Senate Bill 1646, aiming to combat copper theft, which has surged significantly across Texas, affecting essential infrastructure and emergency services.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Representative Ashby offers a committee substitute.
  • Members, Committee Substitute HB3898...
  • Thank you, Chairman, committee.
  • Thank you, Chairman of the Committee.
  • The committee stands in recess.
Summary: In this meeting, the committee engaged in extensive discussions surrounding House Bill 1523, which addresses the City of Austin's Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) project. Representative Gerdes laid out substantial concerns regarding the potential risks posed to local aquifers, as he emphasized the lack of transparency and community engagement by the City of Austin. Testimonies from members of the Lost Pines Groundwater Conservation District supported the bill, citing worries about adverse chemical reactions and the implications for groundwater as crucial reasons for opposing the project. Conversely, representatives from the City of Austin expressed the necessity of the ASR project for regional water supply planning and addressed the purported benefits it would provide.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance May 21st, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

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

  • You're recognized on the Committee Substitute for Senate Bill 3487.
  • There is a committee substitute.
  • The committee substitute is before us.
  • There is an objection to the adoption of the committee substitute.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several house bills, notably those concerning environmental conservation, tax incentives for local businesses, and public safety. Key discussions revolved around HB3486, which introduces a sales and use tax incentive for restaurants purchasing Texas farm-raised oysters. Testimonies highlighted the importance of supporting local oyster farming to mitigate the decline of natural oyster reefs, and several witnesses praised the initiative for its potential environmental benefits. HB2688 also received attention, where representatives emphasized its role in enhancing public safety through improved support for police officers, echoing the community's need for stable recruitment and retention strategies in law enforcement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Let my committee clerk know.
  • Good morning, Chairman Button and committee.
  • The chair offers a committee substitute.
  • Is there any objection to the adoption of the committee substitute?
  • The chair offers a committee substitute to SB2420.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several significant bills, with notable discussions revolving around HB2343. This bill, presented by Representative Leo Wilson, aims to enhance transparency in the shrimping industry by requiring restaurants to disclose the origin of shrimp served. The bill was met with mixed reactions, especially from the Texas Restaurant Association, which raised concerns regarding the burdensome requirements for menu updates and potential liability issues if inaccuracies were reported. Meanwhile, the committee passed other bills, including HB4204 aimed at protecting older homeowners from unfair contracts, which received support from AARP Texas and sparked discussions about the implications on consumers' rights. In addition to presentation and testimony on bills, the committee also examined HCR76, which urges the federal government to regulate imports of foreign shrimp, reflecting a proactive stance on protecting local industries from unregulated competition. Overall, the meeting demonstrated a commitment to addressing economic concerns, consumer protection, and the sustainability of local businesses. The chamber was well attended, and many stakeholders provided public testimony for and against the various proposals.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Committee on State Affairs will come to order.

  • There is a new committee substitute that Senator Perry sends up, a new committee substitute, which is
  • Any other questions for the author on the committee substitute?
  • But we are voting on the committee substitute.

  • on State Affairs, is there any other business for the 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

S/C on Workforce Apr 1st, 2025 at 09:00 am

House S/C on Workforce

Transcript Highlights:
  • Vale offers a committee substitute to HB669.
  • Thank you, Chairman and committee.

  • Representative Harris-Davila offers a committee substitute to HB1306.
  • Chairman Bell offers a committee substitute to HB3807.
  • The committee substitute to HB3173 is withdrawn.
Summary: The meeting of the Workforce Committee included extensive discussions around several key bills, primarily focusing on issues related to wage theft and child care services. Representative Gonzalez presented HB 669, highlighting the significant problem of wage theft affecting low-income workers. Testimonies from various stakeholders underscored the importance of creating a transparent database that would hold employers accountable for wage violations, emphasizing the need for a fair labor market for all workers. Several witnesses provided support for the bill, discussing its potential positive impact on Texas families and businesses.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This committee works on a lot.
  • Thank you, Madam Chairman and committee members.
  • Good morning, well, good afternoon, Madam Chair and committee members.
  • The chair lays out HB 1155 and offers a committee substitute and recognizes.
  • Is there any further business for the committee to address?
Summary: The committee meeting focused on three significant bills: HB1151, HB1155, and HB1041. A notable discussion arose surrounding HB1151, which aims to protect parental rights regarding medical decisions for children, especially in foster care settings. Supporters highlighted concerns about coercive practices by Child Protective Services that could label parents as neglectful for refusing certain medical treatments. Several witnesses testified in favor of the bill, emphasizing the need for parents to retain autonomy over their children's medical care. There was also a compelling narrative shared regarding a family's struggle with the complexities of health decisions under CPS supervision, further underscoring the importance of this legislation. The committee also reviewed HB1155, aimed at providing temporary financial assistance to economically disadvantaged families who have completed their service plans for the reunification of children removed by the Department of Family and Protective Services. The sentiment in favor of this bill echoed the challenges faced by families trying to navigate the system while meeting their basic needs. Furthermore, HB1041 was discussed, which seeks to prevent non-family caregivers from being named beneficiaries on life insurance policies of individuals under their care, highlighting a moral obligation to protect vulnerable populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 29th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Madam Chair and Committee.
  • The committee steps to withdraw the bill.
  • Committee members.
  • Thank you, Chairman and committee members.
  • The committee is adjourned.
Summary: The committee meeting featured significant discussion around various bills impacting transportation, housing, and public safety. Notably, House Bill 4348 garnered substantial opposition due to concerns that it could hinder local governments' ability to address safety improvements on their streets, potentially impacting affordable housing initiatives. Representatives from community organizations expressed that the bill would punish cities attempting to enhance road safety, while proponents argued it encourages effective use of transportation facilities. House Bill 4402 regarding autonomous vehicle regulation also sparked a heated debate about safety concerns related to driverless trucks operating without human oversight, with passionate testimonies both for and against the bill.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education May 13th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, you got the committee substitute to Senate Bill 12 last night.
  • I know there's been work on this committee.
  • The committee substitute is withdrawn.
  • There's no objection; the committee substitute will be left pending.
  • The committee stands in recess until final adjournment.
Summary: This meeting primarily focused on the discussions surrounding SB12 and SB1191. SB12, which relates to parental rights and public education, was met with significant opposition from various witnesses who expressed concerns over its provisions related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in schools. Testimonies from educators, parents, and students highlighted the bill's potential to censor important discussions about race, gender identity, and systemic inequalities, which they believe are essential for a well-rounded education. The committee allowed ample public testimony, where individuals articulated both support and opposition to the bill, indicating the contentious atmosphere surrounding educational policy in Texas. Similarly, SB1191 aimed at standardizing GPA calculations for high school students, received explanations from sponsors, but did not escape scrutiny as members questioned its implementation impact across districts.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • We are scattered over every committee with more.
  • I thank you and your excellent committee, and committee members and their great teams for working with
  • Chairman, that committee substitute...
  • I'm sorry, we do have a committee substitute.
  • Hearing none, the committee substitute is adopted.
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

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 24th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Good afternoon, the Senate Committee on State Affairs will come to

  • It actually—Senator Hall sends up the committee substitute.
  • The committee substitute adds some accountability measures for the Secretary of State.
  • Committee members, any questions for the author?
  • Thank you, Chair and Committee.

Summary: During this meeting of the Senate Committee on State Affairs, significant discussions revolved around Senate Bill 618, which seeks to establish civil penalties for election officials who fail to adhere to the Texas election laws. Proponents, including Dr. Laura Pesce from True Texas Elections, passionately advocated for the bill, emphasizing the need for accountability and integrity in the electoral process. The committee heard testimonies underscoring the importance of consistent application of election laws and the necessity to deter violations that undermine public trust in the elections. Many witnesses detailed personal experiences with administrative overreach and violations of election law that directly affect voters and candidates alike. In addition to SB 618, the committee also reviewed Senate Bill 1999. This bill was met with considerable opposition, particularly from advocates arguing that it would promote discrimination against transgender students and exacerbate bullying within schools. Testimonies portrayed stark contrasts between supporters who claimed it would uphold religious freedom and critics who argued it would harm vulnerable youth by legitimizing discrimination based on gender identity. Ultimately, the meeting evidenced the varied views on legislative intent and societal implications surrounding these bills.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations Mar 31st, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • From the committee.
  • Juvenile Justice and Family Issues Committees.
  • as a committee because my commitment is to reduce recidivism.
  • Madam Chair and committee members, thank you.
  • With no further business to come before the committee, the Senate Committee on Nominations stands adjourned
Summary: The meeting of the committee predominantly focused on discussions surrounding juvenile justice reform and nomination confirmations. A notable point of contention was the nomination of Officer Justin Barry to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, which was met with dissent from Senator Eckhardt due to previous allegations of excessive force against protesters. The committee also engaged in discussions about the state of juvenile facilities and the Department of Juvenile Justice's current capacity and staffing, with various members emphasizing the importance of rehabilitation and reducing recidivism. There's a collective effort observed among committee members to adopt new strategies that encompass better training and improvements in facilities to ensure the proper care of youth within the system. Towards the end of the meeting, members reflected on past legislative efforts to increase funding and resources aimed at enhancing the juvenile justice system's effectiveness. The committee adjourned with decisions to continue refining their approaches to juvenile rehabilitation and to reconnect with community stakeholders to improve outcomes. Public contribution to these matters was apparent, highlighting a commitment to collaborate with various entities for better juvenile justice practices in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence May 21st, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you, Chairman Leach and members of the esteemed JCJ Committee.
  • Your diligent service on the committee this session is appreciated.
  • I just wanted to inform the committee of that.
  • Chairman and committee members.
  • Representative Leach offers up that committee substitute.
Summary: During this meeting of the Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence Committee, several significant bills were discussed, particularly focusing on Senate Bill 1960, which aims to protect Texans from unauthorized use of their voices or likenesses in the age of artificial intelligence. Chairman Hunter led the presentation, highlighting the importance of preserving artistic integrity while ensuring that First Amendment rights are respected. The committee welcomed public testimony, receiving support for the bill from representatives of the music industry, who expressed concerns about the misuse of AI in recreating artists' performances without consent. The discussion included insight from various stakeholders regarding the implications of such legislation on their professional rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Veteran Affairs Apr 1st, 2025

Senate Veteran Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • "> The Committee
  • Chairman, there is a committee substitute.

  • The difference between the committee substitute and the bill as filed is as follows:

  • Chairman, there is a committee substitute.

  • Chair, Vice Chair, members of the committee. I'm Jim Brennan, the legislative director.
Bills: SB390, SB1197, SB1271
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Veteran Affairs addressed several significant bills aimed at supporting veterans and their businesses. Among the bills discussed was SB390, which seeks to expand the definition of historically underutilized businesses to include all veteran-owned businesses, regardless of disability status. This change aims to create a more equitable economic landscape for veterans and to foster their participation in state procurement opportunities. The committee heard strong testimony supporting this initiative, emphasizing the importance of providing veterans with fair chances in business development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources (Part II) Mar 26th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And the Committee on Natural Resources will come to order.

  • Reminder members, we laid out the bill, sent up the committee

  • span>

    Okay, and the bill number is Senate Bill 1757 and its committee

  • Senate Bill 1757 and its committee substitute.

  • Public testimony is closed, and the bill and its committee substitute will be left pending.
Summary: The committee meeting was convened to discuss SB1757, which proposed a new standard permit impacting aggregate production operations (APOs) in Texas. Witnesses from various industries, including the Associated General Contractors and the Texas Aggregate and Concrete Association, provided insights supporting the bill while cautioning about potential overreach in regulation. Many expressed gratitude towards the committee members for their collaboration in achieving regulations that could accommodate operational needs while still being protective of community interests. Concerns were raised concerning the proposed public participation measures and the adequacy of environmental monitoring requirements under the new permit structure. Significant discussions centered around balancing industry growth with community health, particularly regarding air quality and the implementation of best management practices. Some witnesses voiced opposition, insisting that the current version fails to correctly incorporate control requirements and could potentially exacerbate tensions between industry and public health considerations. It was clear that ongoing negotiations were taking place among stakeholders, with a collective aim to refine the bill to better align with both industry and community needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security Feb 27th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Border Security will now come to order.

  • hearing of the Senate Committee on Border Security for the 8th and 9th legislature session.
  • And then our committee clerk is Truman.

  • But he also serves in the criminal justice system and on the Justice Committee as well.
  • I'm excited to be on the Border Security Committee.
Summary: The meeting of the Border Security Committee was marked by intensive discussions surrounding the ongoing initiatives related to Operation Lone Star. Members shared updates on border security measures, underscoring the significant operational changes resulting from shifts in federal policies. General Salter provided extensive insights into the deployment of state resources, highlighting the 5,000 active personnel engaged in various border control operations. The various strategies employed for enhancing surveillance and interdicting drug smuggling were also covered, emphasizing the importance of strong collaboration between state and federal agencies.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, there's a committee substitute.
  • Jason urges this committee, and I back him up 100%.
  • Good evening, committee members.
  • Good evening, Chairman Wilson and committee members.
  • from Kingsville, Texas, who chaired the committee.
Summary: The meeting revolved around discussions on House Bill 232, which seeks to amend the Texas Dream Act regarding in-state tuition for undocumented students. Key testimonies were presented, with numerous advocates opposing the bill, arguing it would harm talented Texas youths by denying them affordable education opportunities. Speakers included community leaders and affected students who shared personal stories illustrating the bill's potential drawbacks, emphasizing the negative economic impact that could result from limiting access to education for Dreamers and the associated societal benefits. The committee also explored House Bill 5154, which updates the Joint Admission Medical Program to improve access for economically disadvantaged students, receiving positive feedback and support from committee members.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Environmental Regulation Apr 24th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Environmental Regulation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Chairman and members of the committee, my name is Marie Camino.
  • We respectfully urge the committee to favorably report this bill.
  • At this time, the chair withdraws the committee substitute to HB3333.
  • I'm coming over from another committee, but appreciate this bill.
  • Chairman and members, I have been in front of this committee.
Summary: The committee meeting was focused on several key legislative matters, including the discussion of HB1904 concerning littering associated with balloon releases, which was presented favorably and passed unanimously. Additionally, the elimination of the Motor Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Program was discussed within the context of HB5033, with a substitute motion adopted and passed. The meeting featured public testimony, allowing interested parties to share their views during a structured testimony period, ensuring all voices were heard within the limited timeframe. Overall, the members expressed a cooperative spirit aimed at addressing community concerns through legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The committee substitute has been withdrawn.
  • Chairman and committee members.
  • Chairman, the chair offers a committee substitute to House Bill 2512 and the chair...
  • The Chair offers a committee substitute to House Bill 4753.
  • Is there objection to the adoption of the committee substitute? The Chair hears none.
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.

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