Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senate Committee on Criminal Justice'
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TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII Feb 27th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Appropriations - S/C on Articles VI, VII, & VIII
Transcript Highlights:
- A couple of interims ago, the Senate Water, Ag, and Rural Affairs Committee looked at that very issue
- We are proud of each and every one of you that comes before this committee.
- This is only one approach, and we look forward to working with this committee, you, and stakeholders
- So I just want to remind this committee that the investigative committee on the wildfires did identify
- Get with the committee on that; I think there'll be some interest.
Keywords:
Gulf Coast Protection District, Alamo funding, infrastructure, environmental initiatives, public testimony
Summary:
The committee meeting addressed several pressing issues, notably focusing on funding appropriations for the Gulf Coast Protection District and infrastructure projects, including the Alamo complex. Members expressed concerns over budget constraints, with requests for substantial funds aimed at supporting environmental initiatives and the upcoming biennium. Discussion points included the efficacy of previous funding and the anticipated impact of new capital on local communities. Public testimony was encouraged at various intervals throughout the meeting, adding robust dialogue amongst members and stakeholders.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Intergovernmental Affairs Aug 22nd, 2025 at 10:08 am
House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
The House Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs will come to order
- The committee can take public comments on individual bills
- Adam Haynes from the Conference of Urban Counties is here to testify on Senate Bill 14 and just wants
- And the reason that we're on this bill is because Chairman Perry in the Senate and as it came over.
- Senate Bill 10 on the revenue caps.
Keywords:
fiscal responsibility, local government spending, House Bill 46, House Bill 73, public safety, infrastructure, taxpayer concerns, cost inflation, community services
Summary:
The committee meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding fiscal responsibility in local governments, particularly the implications of House Bills 46 and 73. Proponents argued that these bills would help limit unnecessary spending and ensure that expenditures are tied to inflation and population growth, addressing taxpayer concerns about rising local budgets. However, numerous city officials and representatives from various organizations voiced strong opposition, claiming that these measures would hinder essential services and infrastructure improvements, particularly in rapidly growing areas. Current spending practices were deemed inadequate for meeting the demands of public safety and community services, especially in light of increased costs in areas like public water systems and emergency response. The meeting was characterized by passionate debate, as stakeholders lined up to express their views both for and against the proposed legislation.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Intergovernmental Affairs Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
The House Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs will now come to
- a committee substitute, is addressing Chapter 394 of the Local Government Code on how an apartment complex
- Senator Betancourt has filed HB21 on the Senate side and is moving it there.
- We do know the chairman is working on a committee substitute.
- I know Representative Gates is working on a committee.
Keywords:
housing finance, multifamily residential, low income, tax exemption, audit requirements, affordable housing, local government, development bonds, housing assistance, financial assistance, low income housing, community support, affordability, veterans housing, housing assistance, financial assistance, low income housing, community involvement, air conditioning, tenant support
Summary:
The meeting highlighted significant issues regarding housing funding mechanisms, particularly surrounding the complexities of Housing Finance Corporations (HFCs). Members voiced their concerns about the financial impacts these HFCs have on local government revenues, given that many property tax exemptions are given while maintaining market-rate rents. This discussion was sparked by alarming statistics indicating a rapid increase in tax dollars removed from local jurisdictions due to HFC activities, stressing the need for regulatory reforms to preserve affordable housing without financially jeopardizing municipalities.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Jul 31st, 2025 at 09:07 am
House Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Committee
Transcript Highlights:
Senate Committee on Disaster Preparedness and Flooding, come to order
The House Select Committee on Disaster Preparedness is
- The Senate committee is working on it, so thank you.
- Well, I think we are all committed; everybody on this committee...
- Would you care to elaborate on that for the benefit of this committee on your reasoning for that?
Keywords:
flooding, disaster response, Kerr County, emergency management, community resilience, legislation, flood control, public safety
Summary:
This meeting, held in Kerr County, focused on the recent flooding disaster that affected the area. Lieutenant Governor Patrick and Speaker Burroughs spearheaded discussions, emphasizing the need for improved emergency response and flood management. Various testimonies highlighted the community's resilience while revealing critical gaps in communication and the effectiveness of evacuation strategies during the flooding. The commitment from state leaders to address these issues was evident, as they assured the local populace that legislative action would follow to prevent future tragedies. Overall, the meeting served as both a reflection on the recent disaster and a clarion call for enhanced preparedness measures across Texas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Normally, we handle the people on the committee last, except for the last two bills, which have 53 witnesses
- and Representative DiIulio for their continued work on House Bill 5177 and Senate Bill 2722.
- I respectfully ask the committee to allow us to continue working with our cities and NCTCOG on a long-term
- Thank you to everyone on the committee and Chairman Craddock for having the hearing and being with us
- This committee was formed to oppose a proposal by a Dallas City Council member, the one that appointed
Bills:
HB2065, HB2462, HB2621, HB3187, HB3539, HB3563, HB3726, HB4164, HB4207, HB4368, HB4706, HB4916, HB4950, HB4967, HB5177, HB4429, HB5597
Keywords:
commercial vehicles, parking regulations, residential areas, local governance, land use, traffic safety, high occupancy vehicle lane, pregnant operators, transportation, parental rights, motor vehicle regulations, live video feed, transportation, state agency, transparency, public safety, regional transportation, mobility program, sales tax, public infrastructure
Summary:
The meeting was centered around the discussions of several bills, primarily focusing on HB3187, which proposes to reduce DART's funding by 25%. This bill drew significant opposition from various members and public witnesses who argued it would severely impact public transportation services in North Texas, especially with the upcoming FIFA World Cup in 2026. Many speakers highlighted the economic consequences, job losses, and diminished accessibility for residents that would result from passing this legislation. Members of the committee engaged in heated debates, with some representatives advocating for the preservation of DART's funding and others supporting the proposed cuts based on financial grievances from certain cities. The meeting ended with a resolve to consider future negotiations among local municipalities instead of pursuing state intervention on the funding issue.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local Government (Part II) May 5th, 2025
Senate Local Government Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- With that, we're going to go to Senator Nichols on bill number, which one?
- Let's go ahead and open up public testimony on the committee substitute for Senate Bill 2764.
- We'll open up public testimony on the committee substitute for Senate Bill 3051.
- Seeing none, we'll open up public testimony on the committee substitute in Senate Bill 2063.
- Senator West. Four ayes, one nay.
Bills:
SB1331, SB1375, SB1443, SB1578, SB2251, SB2519, SB2553, SB2655, SB2764, SB2907, SB3030, SB3033, SB3035, SB3036, SB3037, SB3043, SB3047, SB3048, SB3050, SB3051, SB3052, SB3053, SB3056, SB3057, SB3063, SJR78, HB9, HB467, HB331, HB1244, HB1399, HB2559, HB2730, HB3307, HJR1, HJR99, HB1327, HB2723
Keywords:
civil service, firefighters, police officers, municipalities, local government, repeal, voter petition, health care, provider participation, local government, continuation programs, population-based regulation, health care provider participation, Medicaid, local government, hospital funding, voluntary compliance, mandatory payments, public health, healthcare program
Summary:
The meeting of the committee included vigorous discussions on various bills, particularly Senate Bills aimed at creating municipal management districts and local improvement initiatives. Senate Bill 3048, presented by Senator Birdwell, was notably passed with unanimous support, establishing a management framework for a 448-acre community called Blue Bonnet Hills. Concurrently, attention was drawn to SB2559, which received public testimony related to development moratoriums that have affected local businesses, emphasizing the need for legislative safeguards against prolonged restrictions on development projects. The session concluded with plans to continue deliberating on various local bills aiming to amend district management provisions.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local Government (Part II) May 22nd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Senator Nichols, we'll open up public testimony on the committee substitute.
- Any questions for Senator Nichols on House Bill 5699?
- Any questions for Senator Nichols on House Bill 5437?
- Any questions for Senator Zaffirini on House Bill 5320?
- standard template used by the Senate committee.
Keywords:
municipal management district, economic development, Mansfield, Fort Bend County, public testimony
Summary:
The committee meeting primarily focused on a series of municipal management district bills, including several proposals for new districts across various counties. Notably, House Bill 5696 was discussed, which aims to establish a reserve municipal management district in Mansfield, projected to facilitate economic growth through a mixed-use development. During the session, multiple bills such as HB5665, HB5670, and HB5637 were moved forward, passing unanimously with recommendations for further evaluation. Public testimony for these bills was minimal, with no significant opposition raised against any provisions during discussions.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I'm here today testifying in support of Senate Bill 2082 and thank Senator Miles for his leadership on
- Governor and Senator Miles are doing work on the committee sub.
- There is a committee substitute, Senator Birdwell.
- Once I get the committee substitute on SB2082 with Senator Miles, if it's...
- Committee on Natural Resources?
Keywords:
concrete crushing, hospital proximity, environmental regulation, public health, zoning laws, concrete plants, standard permit, construction regulation, environmental compliance, health and safety code, water rights, property transfer, disclosure requirements, coastal property, Texas legislation, real estate, environmental impact, Gulf of America, coastal resources, Texas sovereignty
Summary:
The meeting of the committee convened to discuss multiple bills including SCR48, SB2351, SB2550, SB2203, SB410, and SB2082. Notably, Senator Miles presented SB2082, which aims to prevent concrete crushing facilities from operating near hospitals, following community outcry over health concerns linked to air pollution. The committee heard public testimony from various stakeholders, highlighting the community's significant opposition to such facilities in close proximity to critical healthcare services. Senator Alvarado's SB2351, addressing concrete plant regulations, was supported with favorable votes but faced concerns over the environmental implications of expansion requests. The meeting concluded with a recommendation for several bills to move forward to the full Senate for consideration.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and Commerce May 22nd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Committee on Substance Abuse reports House Bill 252 favorably.
- The committee substitute to House Bill 2818 is favorably reported on the motion of Senator King and sent
- There is a committee substitute. Senator King moves the committee substitute for House Bill 3689.
- Senator Kolkhorst, you are recognized on the substitute.
Members of the Senate Committee on Business, Commerce
Keywords:
House Bill 5247, HCR 102, capital cost recovery, nuclear energy, legislative testimony, Senator Campbell
Summary:
The meeting was characterized by a thorough examination of various bills, with particular focus on House Bill 5247, which dealt with capital cost recovery mechanisms for utilities and featured discussions on its implications for consumers. Senator Campbell presented the bill, emphasizing its balanced approach and necessity for clarity in existing utility provisions. Multiple members expressed support, leading to a unanimous vote for its approval, showcasing a collaborative atmosphere within the committee. Additionally, HCR 102 was highlighted, which sought to call attention to the importance of federal tax credits for sustaining and expanding nuclear energy in Texas. The testimony from industry experts reinforced the bill's significance as Texas seeks to maintain its leadership in energy production amidst rising demands and competitive pressures from international markets.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Economic Development May 23rd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Senator Sparks sends up a committee substitute, and Senator
Senator Sparks sends up a committee substitute, and Senator
- Senator, is this the one that we have the commission...
- Senator Sparks sends up a committee substitute for House Bill 2313.
- Senator Sparks sends up a committee substitute for House Bill 5616, and Senator Johnson is recognized
Keywords:
economic development, science park districts, innovation, public safety, retired peace officers, testimony, legislation
Summary:
The Senate Economic Development Committee convened to discuss several proposed bills, primarily focusing on enhancing economic growth, infrastructure, and public safety. Key discussions included HB112, which aims to establish Texas Science Park Districts to foster innovation and secure the state's economic future. Senator Parker presented this bill, emphasizing its potential to support local entrepreneurs and technology leaders while safeguarding Texas jobs. There were no witnesses registered for public testimony for this bill, highlighting the requirement for robust stakeholder engagement moving forward. Additionally, HB3686 was addressed, which involves the recognition of retired peace officers' ranks on their credentials, a measure intended to uphold their dignity and address past oversights in the credentialing process.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human ServicesAudio only. May 5th, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services will come to order
- Senator Sparks sends up the committee substitute.
- last week in the Committee on Health and Human Services.
- I understand there is a committee substitute. Senator Miles sends up the committee substitute.
- Senator Perry sends up the committee substitute.
Keywords:
health services, child protection, therapeutic residential treatment, mental health, child welfare
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services meeting featured extensive discussions surrounding several bills pertaining to health services and child protection. Notably, House Bill 109, aimed at establishing therapeutic residential treatment placements for children, was presented along with a committee substitute that included a provision for pass-through grants to build mental health facilities. The bill passed unanimously and was recommended for the local and contested calendar without any objections. Furthermore, House Bill 140 saw significant amendments to sharpen its focus on child protective services, receiving unanimous support as well.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
Do we have a committee substitute on it?
- Okay, the chair lays out HCR 118 and recognizes Senator Sparks on behalf of its sponsor, Senator Campbell
- Senator Schwertner sends up the committee substitute for HB 346, and Senator...
- There's a committee substitute. Senator Schwertner sends up the committee substitute for HB 5596.
- Senator Schwertner moves the committee substitute for.
Keywords:
expedited service, business records, veteran-owned businesses, franchise tax, fee schedule, surplus vehicles, law enforcement equipment, school districts, Texas Facilities Commission, economically disadvantaged areas, warship manufacturing, national security, economic growth, job creation, shipbuilding, Taiwan, U.S. relations, trade, economic cooperation, sister-state
Summary:
The meeting centered around several significant bills and resolutions, with a focus on supporting veteran-owned businesses and the manufacturing industry in Texas. The discussion led to the adoption of committee substitutes for multiple bills, including HB346 and HB5596, which aimed to streamline business processes and support local communities by reporting on municipal hotel occupancy tax revenues. Notably, HCR127 emphasized the importance of the relationship between Texas and Taiwan, highlighting trade partnerships and mutual benefits for both regions. Public testimony was minimal, which may have contributed to a swift passage of many measures without contention.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
We're on Senate Bill 2722 and the committee substitute by
- If there's no one else here to testify for or against Senate Bill 2722, Orange Committee Substitute,
- Is there anyone else wishing to testify on Senate Bill 2323, the committee substitute?
- Just to clarify, so on the committee substitute for Senate Bill 548.
- This is on Senate Bill 546.
Keywords:
railroad, train, collision, information disclosure, safety, driver's license, reporting, off-highway vehicles, public land, safety certificate, transportation, Parks and Wildlife Code, tolls, county revenue, civil penalty, ad valorem tax, transportation funding, public safety, infrastructure, toll road authority
Summary:
The meeting involved significant discussions around several bills focused on public safety and infrastructure, particularly involving the Texas Toll Road Authority. A prominent topic was SB2722 and its implications for funding essential services at the local level. Various members expressed concerns that the bill could undermine local budgets and infrastructure projects, potentially redirecting funds intended for critical transport services to cover emergency responses without proper oversight. Fire and police representatives emphasized the importance of toll revenue being used for its intended purposes rather than being diverted to address fiscal mismanagement within the city.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Senator? If not, we'll open it up for public testimony on Senate Bill 1895.
- If not, we'll open up public testimony on Senate Bill 22.
- I'm here to testify on Senate Bill 2226.
- Senator Nichols sends up the committee substitute for Senate Bill 2425.
- The first one being Senate Bill 1493 by Senator Parker.
Keywords:
sidewalk user, pedestrian safety, traffic laws, bicycles, electric scooters, mobility devices, transportation, aviation, economic development, grants, loans, SB1598, SB1493, law enforcement, collision report, public safety, flashing stop lamps, CARFAX program, crime solving
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on two primary bills, SB1598 and SB1493. SB1598, introduced by Senator Hagen Booth, addresses the clarity of collision report information access for law enforcement, aiming to enhance the tools available to police agencies across Texas for solving crimes. The meeting featured strong support from police representatives, including Sheriff Brian Hawthorne of Chambers County, who emphasized the significance of the CARFAX program for police in facilitating access to vital vehicle information, free of charge. Public testimony reflected a consensus on the necessity of the bill for improved investigatory processes.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources (Part I) Mar 26th, 2025
Senate Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
The Senate Natural Resources Committee will come to order.
Moving on to Senate Bill 1758.
- senators on this committee, and Black Mountain Cement wants to be a partner in keeping it that way.
- We also appreciate all committee members for considering this Senate Bill.
- Senator Birdwell sends up a committee substitute.
Keywords:
rock crushing, permits, air quality, environmental monitoring, aggregate production, seismicity, public meeting, land use, oil emergency, gas emergency, liability protection, Railroad Commission, emergency assistance, civil liability, natural resources, LNG export, semiconductor, permitting process, aggregate production, energy infrastructure
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Natural Resources Committee centered around several key pieces of legislation, particularly focusing on the energy and infrastructure sectors. Discussion highlighted Senate Bill SB2037, aimed at expediting the LNG export terminal permitting process, receiving strong support from industry representatives. Notably, SB1758 and SB1759 were also discussed, addressing the contentious interactions between aggregate production operations and semiconductor wafer manufacturing, with testimonies from stakeholders emphasizing the need for careful regulatory oversight to cater to all parties involved. Concern was voiced regarding the vibrations caused by mining operations, potentially impacting manufacturing processes, particularly in Grayson County.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services (Part I) Feb 26th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services will come to order
- His steady hand will be with us on this committee.
- I'm honored to serve on this committee.
- And Senator Cook, welcome to the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services.
- We do have that committee substitute. Senator Perry sends up the committee substitute.
Keywords:
SB25, SB314, health crisis, nutrition, chronic disease, children's health, food labeling, school meals, legislation, preventive health
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services centered around two significant bills, SB25 and SB314, aimed at addressing the growing health crisis in Texas, particularly concerning children. The legislators acknowledged the prevalence of diet-related chronic health issues, including obesity and diabetes, and emphasized the need for a legislative response to improve dietary standards in schools. Senator Kocher championed SB25, which promotes measures like nutrition training for physicians, enhanced food labeling, and physical activity in schools as ways to combat the health crisis. Senator Hughes presented SB314, focusing specifically on prohibiting certain harmful chemicals in school meal programs and ensuring that children have access to healthier food options during school hours.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
The Senate Committee on Local Government will come to order.
- Governor for putting me back on the committee.
- committee watchers out there on Senate TV.
- On the Senate Finance Committee chaired by Chairman Huffman
- Senator Gutierrez is right on this. $36,000 of income—look, just this one bill adds, you know...
Keywords:
property tax, homestead exemption, school funding, state aid, constitutional amendment, property tax relief, homestead exemption, SB4, SJR2, public testimony, local government spending, Texas economy
Summary:
The committee meeting centered around significant discussions regarding property tax relief, particularly through Senate Bill 4 (SB4) and Senate Joint Resolution 2 (SJR2). Chairman Bettencourt and other committee members expressed strong support for increasing the homestead exemption to $140,000, emphasizing the necessity of this adjustment in light of a multi-billion dollar revenue surplus. Public testimonies revealed a mix of support and opposition, highlighting the complexities of local government spending and its impact on tax relief effectiveness. Witnesses articulated concerns about rising property taxes and urged the committee to consider systemic reforms to enhance the efficacy of tax relief initiatives.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
The Senate Committee on Natural Resources will come to order
- Senator Hancock sends up the committee substitute.
- I do have a committee... Oh, I'm sorry. Senator Hancock has a committee substitute.
- Other senators, part one more question.
Senate Committee on Natural Resources, hearing and
Keywords:
Gulf Coast Protection District, navigation safety, special districts, state governance, Texas legislation, Gulf Coast, flood protection, storm risk management, coastal restoration, natural resources, prescribed burns, self-insurance, fire management, liability protection, rural land management, recycling, environment, sustainability, economic development, Texas Recycling Fund
Summary:
The committee meeting focused primarily on several significant legislative proposals, particularly detailing the plans for the Gulf Coast Protection District and various recycling initiatives. Notable discussions were led by Senator Alvarado regarding SB795, which is aimed at establishing a dedicated Gulf Coast Protection Account to secure funding for coastal infrastructure projects critical for flood protection. Stakeholders expressed gratitude for ongoing legislative support, emphasizing the potential for this project to become the largest civil works project in U.S. history. Additionally, testimony was heard on recycling bills including SB2689, which seeks to improve Texas's recycling infrastructure without imposing fees, and SB410 which manages the Gulf Coast Protection District’s operations to ensure safety and navigability within Houston's waterways. Public and expert witnesses contributed insights that highlighted the economic implications and community benefits of these initiatives, demonstrating the state's commitment to sustainable development.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- That's a different committee than this one, but I'm committed to work with you on that.
- We're the ones paying the bill. Thank you, Senator Menéndez. Thank you, Senator King.
- Senator Gray, that was one of the issues that I noted in the bill.
- I want to thank Senator Creighton and the committee members for their time.
- by Senator Hinojosa, this Committee on Education K-16 will
Bills:
HB2
Keywords:
public education, teacher compensation, certification, funding, school finance, educator rights, education funding, charter schools, staff compensation, state aid, retention allotment, HB2, public education, special education funding, pre-K eligibility, teacher compensation
Summary:
The meeting focused prominently on the discussions surrounding HB2, which entails significant investments in public education and aims to reform funding mechanisms to better support students and teachers. Multiple stakeholders, including educators and policymakers, conveyed their support while also voicing concerns about the bill's potential shortcomings. Witnesses discussed the urgent need for increased funding for special education and the necessity of expanding pre-K eligibility for students with disabilities. The testimony highlighted the historical context of the funding model and emphasized the importance of creating equitable solutions for all public school districts.