Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'public works'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Aug 22nd, 2025 at 08:08 am

House Disaster Preparedness & Flooding, Select Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I think it works in harmony.
  • We look forward to continuing to work with you.
  • We've got a lot of public things.
  • ...and are watching, and we do better work when the public
  • They will conclude their work no later than December 1, 2026.
Summary: The committee meeting addressed multiple bills related to emergency preparedness and flood prevention, with significant discussions on HB48, SB3, and HB75. Representative Darby opened the meeting by advocating for the creation of a nine-member alert notification system to address public saturation with emergency alerts and to streamline the notification process by evaluating the effectiveness and coordination of existing systems. Testimonies from various stakeholders underscored the necessity of reducing alert fatigue among residents while enhancing the state’s overall readiness for impending natural disasters. The meeting featured robust support for HB75, aimed at establishing stricter safety standards for youth camps located in flood-prone areas following recent tragic flooding incidents that highlighted the urgent need for improved safety measures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Appropriations Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It's a system where public dollars create private fortunes.
  • It also has provisions on public information on...
  • We've got a lot of insurance work we need to do in this state.
  • There being none, public testimony is closed. Thank you, members.
  • It's a work in progress and it'll be finalized in...
Summary: During this meeting, the committee engaged in detailed discussions surrounding various legislative proposals, notably focusing on HB2054 and HB4601. HB2054 was discussed in the context of addressing financial support for victims' families during declared emergencies, removing existing procedural barriers. Representative Manuel presented HB4601, which aims to assist Texas veterans in purchasing affordable housing by creating a down payment assistance program financed through a dedicated tax fund. This program is essential to simplify homeownership for veterans facing financial challenges in the current housing market.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Were working mandatory overtime, six-day work weeks, and
  • Was their equipment working properly?
  • The NTSB does terrific work.
  • Is that working?
  • and the FAA's good work in 2020.
Summary: The meeting focused on the discussions surrounding the tragic midair collision involving American Airlines Flight 5342 and an Army Black Hawk helicopter, which resulted in the loss of 67 lives. Testimonies were provided by key figures including NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy and FAA Acting Administrator Chris Richelieu. The committee expressed grave concerns regarding the existing safety protocols, questioning why the FAA failed to act on numerous warnings and data indicating potential collision risks. Members emphasized the need for urgent reforms in aviation safety to prevent such tragedies in the future. Specific highlights included the recognition of the importance of ADS-B out technology and concerns about the operational practices of military helicopters in controlled airspaces.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • We've got to work together."
  • And so our public schools are funded.
  • I enjoy working with you on so many topics of public policy affecting our state.
  • This is to make sure that that's how it works.
  • Safety website, open to the public.
Summary: The recent Senate meeting primarily covered two resolutions, HCR65 and HCR19, both of which were passed unanimously with little to no opposition. HCR65 was introduced in memory of Tracy Lee Vincent of Longview, while HCR19 was presented to honor the late Terrell Lynn Roberts of Angleton. The meeting included brief addresses from several senators, who shared personal reflections on the impacts of the individuals being honored and expressed gratitude for their contributions to the community. This collaborative atmosphere showcased the members' capacity for camaraderie and respect, emphasizing the importance of human connection in legislative proceedings.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Instead of saying the STAAR test isn't working...
  • It perpetuates a broken system of testing and miraculously makes it work.
  • It's what we were promised for our public schools; it's what kids who get vouchers get to take.
  • That never works out well for our Texas students.
  • We've been able to work collaboratively on minimizing testing in Texas.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on the impacts of House Bill 8, which proposes increasing the frequency of state testing for students in Texas. During the meeting, various testimonies were provided by students, highlighting their concerns about the negative effects of standardized testing on their educational experience. Students expressed that the pressure of multiple assessments causes significant stress and detracts from the joy of learning. Some lawmakers voiced their opposition to the bill, emphasizing the need for a thorough review and consideration of alternative evaluation methods that prioritize student well-being over testing metrics.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management May 15th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I believe that's in the works.

  • We've heard that it does work; Fort Worth and El Paso are some great examples.
  • Texas Public Policy Foundation testifying for the bill, is that correct?
  • I'm a policy analyst with the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
  • The computers work most of the time, but not all of the time.
Bills: SB1708, SB2523, SB1450
Summary: The meeting involved discussions primarily around SB1450, SB2523, and SB1708. The highlight was SB1450, which seeks to streamline the review process for building permits by allowing licensed third-party professionals to conduct inspections. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including local housing advocates and property developers, indicated strong support for the bill, as it addresses the ongoing housing crisis by reducing permitting delays. Concerns were raised about the potential impact on county regulatory authority, emphasizing the need for counties to retain oversight in the review process, especially regarding flood insurance and safety regulations. The committee members showed proactive engagement in addressing amendments to the bill aimed at safeguarding public interests, while also facilitating efficient housing development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Apr 14th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • I will work with the Legislative Council on court orders and guardianship.
  • We are actually working on a committee subcommittee.
  • We're working on a committee.
  • Not hearing any, we'll proceed with the public testimony.
  • Not hearing any, we'll proceed down the public...
Summary: The committee meeting covered a range of legislative bills centered around child welfare and family rights. Notably, House Bill 4870, presented by Representative Aisha Davis, aimed at supporting kinship caregivers by creating a grant program to alleviate the high legal fees for obtaining custody authority. The bill received strong support from testimony highlighting the importance of kinship care in keeping families together and reducing the costs associated with foster care. The witnesses included representatives from various legal aid organizations, all emphasizing the significant financial savings and emotional benefits of formalizing kinship arrangements. Additionally, discussions surrounding HB3758 focused on ensuring due process for parents in child protective services cases, stressing the need for legal protections during therapy and treatment. Observers noted the passionate debates around parental rights and child welfare, underscoring the delicate balance legislators seek to maintain.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 17th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • A whistleblower will work in...
  • You and I know how this works, right?
  • Members, we're working on a sub.
  • We need to work on that.
  • We will commit to work with Mr.
Summary: The meeting was characterized by detailed discussions surrounding several key bills, including HB1464, HB4012, and SB916. Representative Tallarico provided an overview of HB1464, which establishes a state drug purchasing pool aimed at reducing prescription costs for Texas consumers. Multiple stakeholders offered testimony, emphasizing the potential savings and expressing support for the bill. On the other hand, the discussion around HB4012 elicited differing opinions, particularly related to its implications for fraud enforcement in private insurance, with opponents warning against government overreach in private business dealings. Senator Spillers presented SB916, focusing on consumer protections against surprise billing from emergency medical services, indicating collaborative efforts with various health plans to strengthen patient protections without imposing financial burdens on them. Throughout the meeting, representatives and witnesses engaged in constructive dialogue about healthcare costs, insurance reforms, and consumer protection measures. The committee concluded with several bills left pending for future consideration, indicating ongoing concerns and a commitment to further deliberation on these important legislative matters.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

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

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm Bella Rockman, and I work as a licensee.
  • Can you give us a remedy that you think would work?
  • We currently work on motor fuel theft cases.
  • So, of course, I will work with you offline.
  • Glad that it worked out OK.
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

Insurance Mar 19th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'll give an example that we worked on this week.
  • OK, we'll go to public testimony.
  • Even though I no longer work for Regarding Cancer, I can certainly speak to my years of work alongside
  • There's no public transparency, there's no public comment, and there's no ability for other parties that
  • We're honored to work with this committee in that regard.
Bills: HB138, HB335, HB388
Summary: The House Committee on Insurance convened a meeting focusing on critical legislative objectives aimed at insurance reform. Noteworthy discussions emerged around HB138, which aims to address cost reduction in health insurance and increase transparency in the reporting of private insurance costs. The committee members emphasized the need to identify cost drivers and cut unnecessary regulations while also working on effective methods to deliver insurance benefits efficiently. There were extensive remarks made regarding the implications of insurance mandates on overall costs, bring forth a call for a thorough evaluation and revision of existing mandates that may result in unintended consequences.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security (Part II) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Sorry you had to wait so long, but we were working.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed.

  • How does that work? Does that work?
  • Public testimony.
  • Hearing none, public testimony is closed. We'll leave the bill pending.
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around several significant legislative proposals, notably focusing on SB2201, which aims to enhance intelligence databases to tackle organized crime, including street gangs and terrorist organizations. Senator Birdwell led the discussions by emphasizing the need for strong measures to adapt to the evolving landscape of criminal activity in Texas and proposed key amendments designed to strengthen accountability for law enforcement. Members engaged in detailed conversations with testimonies supporting the bill's intention to safeguard civil liberties while bolstering law enforcement's ability to manage public safety concerns effectively. Additionally, SB2200 and SB2199 were discussed and subsequently passed favorably to the full Senate following committee substitutions that addressed minor drafting corrections and compliance with federal standards.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Workforce Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Workforce

Transcript Highlights:
  • It's incredibly grueling to have to work...
  • Last year, I was working on a remodeling project at a home, and we were working in a small space with
  • ...to hard work.
  • It gives me hope that the state of Texas cares about its workers and the work that they do—the same work
  • You see, in this work...
Summary: The meeting held by the committee focused on several bills aimed at improving worker safety and economic support for rural communities. Key discussions included the introduction of HB446, which aims to establish a Heat Illness Prevention Advisory Board to address the increasing number of heat-related worker deaths in Texas. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted the need for heat safety standards and the emotional impact of heat-related illnesses on workers' lives. HB1609 was also presented, seeking protections for volunteer firefighters during declared disasters to prevent job loss while responding to emergencies. The committee expressed strong support for these initiatives, suggesting a collective understanding of their importance amid rising temperatures and demands on the workforce.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Jurisprudence May 7th, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Public testimony is now open on House Bill 2340.
  • If you work for one, the only requirement...
  • How does that work?
  • There's also work going on over in the House and one or both bills, but we're going to work in conjunction
  • Well, we're working through it.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several key pieces of legislation including HB1734, HB2340, HB3376, and HB2350. Notably, discussions surrounding HB1734 centered on streamlining the transfer of court files related to parent-child relationships, with testimony suggesting significant support for the changes aimed at promoting efficiency. Meanwhile, HB2340 was discussed to enhance the qualifications and training requirements for child custody evaluators, reflecting a commitment to improving standards in this sensitive area.
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:
  • I have been on the Public Education Committee now for two sessions, and I have kids in public schools
  • , if it works.
  • Thank you for trusting us to do your work. That is the people's work. This bill is.
  • If people, regardless of the reason, decide not to show up for work, we were working every day.
  • So yes, we were working.
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

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

House Public Health Committee

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

  • It was one of the most meaningful public safety initiatives that I worked on, but it was born from a
  • These will be kept confidential and exempt from public disclosure.
  • of social work.
  • 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

Education K-16 Apr 24th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Each public witness will be given two minutes to provide his or her testimony.
  • The intention is simply to provide all of our public

  • With no public testimony on Senate Bill 2847, public

  • I think we've made some improvements, but we still have a lot of work to do.
  • Okay, with no public testimony, public testimony will close.
Bills: SB2847, SB3039
Summary: The Senate Committee on Education K through 16 convened to discuss two significant bills, SB2846 and SB2847, with a focus on enhancing educational structures in Texas. Senator Hagen-Booe introduced SB2847, which aims to provide greater flexibility in core curricula for bachelor's degree programs. The discussion highlighted the potential positive implications of this bill, particularly in terms of aligning education with workforce needs and reducing barriers for students seeking technical degrees. However, there was no public testimony registered for either bill, which limited the input from stakeholders outside the legislative body. The committee chair indicated that further review of SB3039 would be necessary, pending additional discussions and data collection on student transfer issues from community colleges to four-year universities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Jan 28th, 2025 at 10:01 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • H.R. 110 by Lalani, recognizing Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants Advocacy Day at the State
  • Today, we recognize the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants, or Texas CPA, as they gather for
  • Please help us to work together with strength and courage to make decisions for Texas, both in and out
  • of the public eye.
  • He repealed the laws of this state that said it was illegal to speak Spanish in a public school.
Summary: The meeting addressed several critical resolutions, including H.R. 106, which recognized Demet County Day, and H.R. 119 for UT Health Houston Legislative Day. Each resolution prompted discussions highlighting the history and contributions of both Demet County and UT Health to their communities and the state. Representatives shared heartfelt remarks, expressing pride in the initiatives and the collaboration between local and state governance. These resolutions passed without any objections, showcasing a unified support for local communities and education efforts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 2nd, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • tell you that the citizens and businesses who live and work on the Texas coast have been working together
  • We are working on a committee substitute that will address more changes, working with all the stakeholders
  • How would that functionally work?
  • work contracts.
  • has to be certified in doing the work in order for this to work, because you don't get credit for just
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance revolved around discussions primarily focused on the intricacies of multiple proposed bills aimed at reforming insurance regulations, particularly in the context of windstorm insurance. Chairman Hunter introduced HB3689, which seeks to create a more equitable funding system for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association by eliminating costly debt financing options. Multiple testimonies from representatives of the insurance industry highlighted collaboration efforts that have resulted in more affordable coverage options for residents in coastal regions. Key stakeholders, including insurance experts and affected constituents, expressed overwhelming support for the proposed changes, emphasizing the urgent need for reform to combat the rising costs that have burdened homeowners over the years. Additionally, discussions around HB1576 focused on incentivizing homeowners to improve the resilience of their properties against weather-related damage through a proposed grant program administered by the Department of Insurance. This proposal was deemed a significant step toward stabilizing insurance costs and encouraging safer construction practices.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • and Budget and the Office of Personnel Management have been at the center of the administration's work
  • ...to work in the federal government.
  • service, find out that they are fired from a Friday night email or when they show up to work and are
  • This is not the way to attract the next generation of talented and dedicated public servants.
  • I've been working at OMB since January.

Summary: The committee convened to discuss the nominations of Scott Cooper for Director of the Office of Personnel Management and Eric Ulan for Deputy Director at the Office of Management and Budget. This meeting highlighted the critical roles both positions play in managing the federal workforce, which comprises over two million civilian employees. Concerns were raised regarding the current administration's approach to federal employment, citing issues like mass firings and the undermining of collective bargaining rights. Members expressed the need for better accountability and transparency within the federal system, emphasizing the importance of attracting talented public servants.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part I) Mar 31st, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • work here, are going to move back.
  • It has to be, or it's not going to work?
  • It would not work. But that's up to us. Thank you. Come to Laredo.
  • I have worked in film production in Texas and Houston since 1992.
  • I'm here in Texas working on producing.
Bills: SB22
Summary: The meeting centered around the discussion of SB22, the Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program, which aims to provide reimbursement grants for projects produced in Texas. Senator Huffman presented the bill highlighting its potential to create jobs and grow the state's economy. Several members discussed the advantages of keeping film production within Texas, emphasizing that for every dollar spent in grants, an estimated $4.69 is returned to the state's economy. Additionally, a portion of the discussion focused on the need for careful oversight of taxpayer money utilized in the reimbursement process, ensuring grants are awarded only to those projects that align with the state's values.

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