Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'public engagement'

Page 52 of 60
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • You may be aware that TDI is engaged in a rulemaking on this issue as well, and I attended the hearing
  • ...for public affairs, Texas Association of Health Plans,
  • The Chair calls Chess Bostic, Texas Association of Public Insurance Advisors.
  • I am with the Texas Association of Public Insurance Adjusters.
  • Association of Public Insurance Adjusters President for
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 Regular

Appropriations Feb 19th, 2025 at 10:02 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • , I call it public charter in traditional public.
  • And, you know, our biggest job is public education.
  • So public schools still have to pay for that when they're...
  • how poor public schools are doing.
  • From Bryan, they handle health insurance for public school teachers.
Summary: The meeting focused on significant discussions surrounding the Texas state water planning process and flood mitigation efforts. During the session, experts presented on the need for an adaptive and collaborative approach to manage Texas's water resources. A particular emphasis was placed on the upcoming updates to the state water plan, which aims to address projected shortages and enhance infrastructure to handle both drought and flood conditions. The collaboration involved regional groups who play a vital role in identifying community needs regarding water infrastructure development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part I) Mar 26th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • disclosure under the Texas Public Information Act.
  • I serve as Vice President of Policy with the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • Cliff Porter, I'm the senior fellow for health care at the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • If not, the chair will close public testimony at this time.
  • Again, I've already mentioned that the chair has closed public testimony, so we will...
Summary: The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services convened to discuss various pieces of legislation, addressing critical issues affecting healthcare and social services in Texas. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 481, which mandates backup power provisions for nursing homes and assisted living facilities to ensure the safety of vulnerable residents during outages, and Senate Bill 596, aimed at improving reporting requirements related to child welfare, enhancing the oversight of removals and placements. The committee also reviewed several other bills aimed at supporting healthcare access and enhancing protections for children under various circumstances.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part II) Mar 26th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • But that's all we show for public testimony.
  • The floor is now open for public testimony.
  • The floor is now open for public testimony.
  • The floor is now open for public testimony.
  • The floor is now open for public testimony.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services addressed several significant pieces of legislation focused primarily on health and welfare issues in Texas. One of the central topics was SB1233, which aims to provide perinatal palliative care information to families receiving diagnoses of life-threatening conditions. Testimonies highlighted the importance of immediate access to support resources, as speakers shared personal experiences illustrating the emotional and medical implications of these diagnoses. Additionally, SB1368 was discussed, focusing on emergency preparedness within assisted living and nursing facilities, emphasizing the need for actionable contingency plans to protect vulnerable residents during power outages and emergencies. The committee explored how to ensure compliance with new standards while considering the realities faced by these facilities, especially in determining the appropriate levels of emergency power backup requirements.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • marker="319" data-time="1908">There will be a hard time limit of two minutes per witness during the public
  • The people that are doing that work are engaged in a critical role.
  • David Bolduc, the Office of Public Safety.
  • span> Which lowers the age for pyrotechnic operator licenses and public
  • are specifically prohibited from obtaining these two: the pyrotechnic operator's license and the public
Summary: The meeting of the committee included discussions concerning various bills primarily related to insurance policies, their regulations, and procedures. Notably, HB3812 was introduced to further streamline the prior authorization process in healthcare, enhancing the ease for practitioners to receive approvals for common procedures. The committee also deliberated over HB2213, which focused on the restructuring of the board of directors for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, and there was broad consensus to move it forward. Several other bills, such as HB2518, addressing installment premium payment plans for windstorm insurance, were also discussed and moved to be reported favorably without amendments.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 22nd, 2025 at 11:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We keep on hearing about public safety and saving God's children, and ending cartels and traffickers.
Summary: The meeting of the committee brought forth significant discussions focused on the legislation surrounding newborn health coverage. Representative Johnson presented HB3940, highlighting the issues with newborns not receiving timely healthcare coverage due to inefficiencies in the enrollment process. The committee engaged in a thorough review, emphasizing the critical impact on health outcomes for infants who were uninsured during vital early checkups. Other members raised questions and concerns, adding to the dialogue on how to improve the automatic enrollment processes currently in place. The intent of the proposed bill is to empower parents with necessary information to prevent the enrollment issues from persisting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 22nd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the Senior Fellow for Health Care at the Texas Public Health Association, a policy foundation which
  • It improves a person's quality of life, increases engagement with services, and enhances whole health
  • My name is Sabrina Gonzalez-Ocedo, and I'm the Director of Public Policy.
  • support services, assisting another adult with autism in learning to live independently, navigate public
  • >

    Well, here's the thing: you don't have to do it in a public

Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several key bills related to health care and adoption services, with a significant emphasis on fostering care systems. Vice Chair Emanuel presented bills that aimed to streamline reporting requirements for the HHSC, while Representative Slauson's bill on voluntary adoption registries prompted a discussion on improving access and procedures within the child welfare system. Each bill was generally met with favorable votes, indicating strong bipartisan support for these initiatives. The committee heard testimonies from various stakeholders who voiced the importance of these legislative efforts in enhancing the quality of life for children and families involved in the welfare system. Notably, the committee also tackled the issue of Medicaid services and accessibility for children needing medical equipment like baby helmets, which have been a burden for many low-income families.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government (Part I) Apr 24th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Local Government was marked by discussions focusing primarily on addressing the housing crisis in Texas. Key bills, including SB208 and SB2778, were thoroughly examined. SB208 aims to create the Workforce Housing Capital Investment Fund to provide non-profit builders with zero-interest loans, facilitating the construction of affordable homes for low to moderate-income families. Meanwhile, SB2778 seeks to raise the board approval threshold for emergency service districts from $2,000 to $50,000 to enhance operational efficiency and expedite procurement processes for necessary resources. Various testimonies were heard from stakeholders, including housing authorities and fire chiefs, emphasizing the importance of these bills in improving housing availability and emergency response capabilities in Texas. The meeting concluded with several bills left pending for further review and discussion.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Mar 5th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • desalination project is an example of good planning by including it in the regional water plan, engaging
  • I am the Director of Houston Water and I’m with Houston Public Works and the City of Houston.
  • So this legislature has a unique opportunity to engage in planning and investment beyond the regional
  • The PUC defines an IOU as a private enterprise acting as a public utility, aka a private water and/or
  • Rural utilities in Texas are dedicated public servants
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on water management issues related to the ongoing drought in Texas, particularly concerning the need for new water sources such as seawater desalination. Testimonies highlighted the critical status of local water supplies and the urgency of projects designed to secure future water availability. A noteworthy discussion revolved around the upcoming Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus and desalination plant in Corpus Christi, which is aiming to become Texas's first municipally owned facility of its kind. Various stakeholders emphasized the importance of timely state support and funding in expediting these projects to mitigate water shortages and their potential economic impacts on the region.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs Mar 3rd, 2025 at 11:03 am

House S/C on Defense & Veterans' Affairs

Transcript Highlights:
  • That's a lot of great information, a lot of great data, and a lot of great potential public policies
  • They provide career pathways through our public education.
  • I know we're going to have a lot of wonderful bills and public policy sent our way, and a lot of great
  • A veteran receives 150 hours of exempted tuition at a public university.
  • So we get engaged. I have, you may have seen in some of the documents that I sent you,...
Summary: The meeting of the Defense and Veterans Affairs Committee served as the inaugural session for the legislative year, focusing on various significant veteran issues and programs. Chairman Cortez led discussions around the upcoming legislative workload, with an estimated 75 bills anticipated for review. Members acknowledged the importance of addressing recruitment and retention challenges within the defense forces, with insights on necessary facility upgrades and the impacts on local communities. Collaborative efforts, such as home loan programs and the Veteran Entrepreneur Program, were highlighted to demonstrate the support provided to veterans in transitioning to civilian life. The committee emphasized the vital role of outreach initiatives to ensure veterans are aware of available services.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence May 20th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • would note that this Information will not be subject to public
  • I'm a public policy... I'm here to testify on SB 2794.
  • Your affirmation shows that you are here on behalf of the Texas Department of Public Safety, neutral
  • You know, you have a new driver or someone that's not used to the vehicle; it may engage the traction
  • times the offenses as engaging in two or more instances of
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence was marked by extensive discussions around various legislative bills, including measures to combat organ trafficking and address custody interference issues. Notably, SB456 aimed to impose stronger penalties on organ trafficking, with supporting testimonies emphasizing the severity of the issue, alongside a proposal to enhance existing laws on deepfake media by SB442. The committee sought to tighten the definitions and penalties surrounding these crimes, reflecting a growing urgency to safeguard vulnerable individuals in society. Witnesses from various organizations echoed the necessity for these legislative changes, presenting evidence and arguments supporting the amendments. The session concluded with positive indications of potential legislative action, as well as plans for further meetings to review additional measures. This well-attended meeting showcased active participation from both committee members and public stakeholders, demonstrating a collective commitment to addressing these pressing legal issues.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Property Tax Appraisals Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House S/C on Property Tax Appraisals

Transcript Highlights:
  • Public testimony may be limited.

  • should refer to the public notice post.
  • This was a great step toward public accountability, but it revealed a gap.
  • It engages them, and it reduces the support.
  • Public school funding in Texas heavily relies on property taxes.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several key bills related to property tax appraisals and education funding. Notable discussions included House Bill 2786, which proposed annual reappraisals to ensure property values reflect current market conditions. Representative Turner highlighted concerns around inconsistent appraisals that could adversely affect funding for local schools, particularly in Tarrant County. The session also saw testimony from representatives and concerned citizens advocating for the bill, emphasizing the importance of fair and accurate appraisals for maintaining educational funding and taxpayer equity. The committee members discussed the overall impact of property tax policies on local districts and pushed for a resolution to this ongoing issue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Autopsy reports are generally public records.
  • And public officials.
  • Of public safety, justice, and protecting public safety
  • I represent the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • and public safety.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on a range of topics surrounding criminal justice reform, with significant emphasis on House Bills 3166 and 3330. Representative Cook presented HB 3166, which proposed a system for prosecutor-initiated resentencing, allowing courts to adjust the punishment for inmates based on changing circumstances. This bill aims to rectify injustices in cases where new evidence arises. Public testimony included support from various stakeholders, emphasizing the need for a more flexible justice system that can consider circumstances affecting individual cases, particularly for nonviolent offenders. On the contrary, HB 3330 faced opposition from the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, which argued that it would undermine key protections established by the Michael Morton Act, designed to prevent wrongful convictions for innocent individuals. Testimonies highlighted concerns about the potential for setbacks in protecting the rights and dignity of the accused, creating a heavy atmosphere during discussions on the bill.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • We're not doing public testimony yet, okay?
  • That is mandatory and will be public.
  • If there is no one testifying, that concludes public testimony on this bill and public testimony is closed
  • That concludes public testimony on this bill and public testimony is closed.
  • If not, that concludes public testimony. That's my own bill. Public testimony is closed.
Summary: The meeting of the committee primarily focused on several significant bills aimed at enhancing accountability and transparency within Texas's Medicaid and long-term care systems. Notably, SB457 seeks to ensure that a substantial portion of Medicaid funds is allocated directly to patient care in nursing facilities, addressing concerns about the misuse of taxpayer dollars. Various testimonies were provided from key stakeholders, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by nursing homes and the pressing need for reform. Notably, AARP Texas endorsed SB457, emphasizing the critical need for improvements in care quality, especially in light of staffing shortages and neglect issues prevalent in some facilities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Nominations Apr 14th, 2025

Senate Nominations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Vaughn has contributed significantly to public service in higher education.
  • Jody, you and your wife are both good public servants and very...
  • She's actively engaged as an alumna, and we continue to support her.
  • established private partnerships, private-public partnerships.
  • That's basically how we formed this public-private partnership.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Nominations convened to address various nominee confirmations, highlighting the significance of higher education and environmental management. Discussions centered around the responsibilities of the Brazos River Authority and the need for effective cooperation with the legislature and other state authorities. Several senators raised concerns regarding the agricultural runoff affecting impaired streams leading into the Brazos River. The committee emphasized the importance of stewardship, collaboration, and facilitating a balance between resource utilization and environmental protection.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Licensing & Administrative Procedures Mar 11th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Licensing & Administrative Procedures Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We also have a public safety mission and have 230 peace

  • You bring that to TABC, we put it in the system as being legal, and make that available for the public
  • Since I became executive director last year, we have engaged with state leadership to seek feedback on
  • I contributed to the public education fund.
  • Because this is a real big fraud on the public.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on legislative discussions surrounding House Bills 11 and 3579, with a significant emphasis on regulatory measures concerning lottery ticket couriers and modernization of licensing systems for the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Various committee members engaged in lively debates, particularly around the implications of using couriers within the lottery framework, as this raised concerns about regulatory gaps and the need for clearer oversight. Additionally, there was mention of the agency’s efforts to combat human trafficking through updated regulations and enforcement actions, indicating a priority agenda for the session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health May 19th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Committee on Public Health will come to order.

  • If you are planning to testify today in our public testimony

  • Established Public Health Committee.
  • These will be kept confidential and exempt from public disclosure.
  • I'm a policy analyst with the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding mental health and homelessness, particularly through the lens of SB2487, which aims to provide better mental health services and support systems for individuals in crisis. Testimonies highlighted the shortcomings of current interventions, which often lead to incarceration rather than treatment, and emphasized the need for a centralized hub to assist people experiencing mental health crises. Various stakeholders, including city officials and social service representatives, voiced their support for the bill, citing its potential to improve access to care and reduce the burden on emergency services, such as jails and hospitals. However, concerns were raised regarding the implementation and the potential for coercion in treatment options, suggesting that the bill could undermine established rights to voluntary mental health care. The committee also addressed SB437, which pertains to modernizing training for substance use disorder providers in Texas, and SB660, regarding safety measures for emergency rooms. The overall tone of the meeting reflected a commitment to reforming how the state handles mental health crises and the intersection of homelessness, with a clear push for systems that prioritize compassionate care rather than punitive measures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 5th, 2025 at 10:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • 900 students step into an environment that pushes them to think deeper, lead with confidence, and engage
  • entities that engage in lobbying, referred to the Committee on State Affairs.
  • HB 805 by Cortez, relating to the study of the Public

  • schools and certain private schools in this state, referred to the Committee on Public Education.
  • and private schools, referred to the Committee on Public Education.
Summary: The committee meeting began with a moment of silence dedicated to the memory of the late Congressman Sylvester Turner, acknowledged by multiple members who spoke eloquently about his legacy and contributions to the community. This emotional tribute was followed by a series of announcements, including recognizing distinguished guests and discussing significant upcoming dates such as Alamo Day. The atmosphere of the meeting reflected a blend of mourning and celebration of service, as members recounted personal anecdotes and expressing gratitude for Turner's guiding influence in their political paths.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • decades, the U.S. nuclear umbrella has provided an ironclad guarantee to deter adversaries from engaging
  • gigahertz region, is an area where we have radars and sensors that allow us to detect, track, and engage
  • I think the American public needs to understand just what a platform this is and what it is capable of
  • our infrared satellites, but then also when they're coasting, so that we can maintain custody to engage
Summary: The meeting focused on the strategic posture of U.S. military capabilities with an emphasis on deterrence amid growing global threats. General Cotton from STRATCOM and General Whiting from SPACECOM provided insights into the modernization efforts of the nuclear triad. Key discussions involved the importance of maintaining control over specific frequency spectrums critical for military operations and the implications of potential auctioning of these bands. Members expressed concerns regarding the evolving landscape with adversaries like China and Russia, emphasizing that swift action is needed to adapt and preserve U.S. national security. Various proposals and existing programs, including the B-21 bomber and the nuclear-armed sea-launched cruise missile (SLICOM), were debated, alongside the necessity of increasing military investment in hypersonic defense systems.

Research Filters

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