Transcript Highlights:

• He has offered DPS to fully help us make sure we do what we need to do.

Keywords: flooding, legislation, bipartisan, funding, policy changes, human trafficking, standardized testing, Texas House

Summary: The meeting addressed pressing legislative matters including responses to recent unprecedented flooding in the Hill Country. Members discussed important legislation aimed at funding necessary for flood victims and proposed policy changes to mitigate future occurrences. The Chairman emphasized the bipartisan efforts put forth by members present, despite some absenteeism from others who were out of state. Discussions also touched on the governor's initiatives related to eliminating standardized testing and tackling human trafficking, highlighting the diverse agenda of the Texas House in the ongoing special session.

Transcript Highlights:

• have worked on preserving the heart of the bill and making sure that it is strong and will do what it needs

Keywords: HB15, HB7, Senator King, Representative Leach, police confidentiality, abortion pills, pro-life, legislative support, committee staff

Summary: The committee meeting focused on two primary bills: HB15 and HB7. Senator King led discussions on HB15, which seeks to address the confidentiality of police officers' files by dividing them into department and personnel files. This bill has seen multiple discussions in previous sessions and was once again favorably reported after discussions removed certain amendments made during its time in the House. Notably, the bill received bipartisan support, although some members voiced concerns during the voting process. Meanwhile, Representative Leach's HB7 addressed the issue of illegal abortion pills entering Texas, receiving wide support from pro-life groups, including the backing of Catholic bishops, while medical groups remained neutral. The meeting concluded with positive sentiments from members towards ongoing legislative efforts and gratitude towards departing committee staff, concluding a session marked by significant dialogue on sensitive legislative matters.

Transcript Highlights:

• And we recognize that we are very You know, we need to be

Bills: HB3115, HB5671, HB5693, SB790, SB1055, SB1302, SB1504, SB1625, SB1663, SB2692

Keywords: election, utility district, bonds, director eligibility, special utility district, customer complaints, Public Utility Commission, water service, complaint process, utility regulation, water discharge, general permit, environmental regulation, waste management, Texas Water Code, executive authority, telecommunication, board meetings, Gulf Coast Authority, conference call

Summary: The committee meeting engaged in a robust discussion regarding several key bills aimed at improving community services and infrastructure. Notably, the discussion surrounding SB4 highlighted concerns about funding allocations which were addressed by various members during the session. Public testimony was also a significant element of the meeting, particularly in relation to HB2214, where residents expressed their views on the proposed changes to community resources. The meeting concluded with a general consensus to forward the discussed bills to the next stage in the legislative process, reflecting a productive day of debate and collaboration.

Transcript Highlights:

• This bill would give our local prosecutors the tools they need

Bills: HB2217

Keywords: law enforcement, bullet-resistant, grant program, safety equipment, peace officers, HB2217, HB2594, law enforcement, public safety, cybercrime, legislation, Senate Committee on Criminal Justice

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice was convened by Chair Flores and involved the discussion of two significant bills: HB2217 and HB2594. HB2217 was presented by Senator Higginbotham, establishing a grant program to equip local law enforcement vehicles with bullet-resistant components. The purpose of this legislation is to enhance officer safety amid rising violence against law enforcement personnel, as it aims to reduce fatalities caused by gunfire. The bill was favorably reported to the full Senate with unanimous support from committee members, indicating strong approval for initiatives aimed at law enforcement safety. Public testimony for the bill was minimal as no speakers registered for or against it.

Transcript Highlights:

• It is evident to the chair that DPS will need some time to

Bills: HB4

Keywords: redistricting, congressional districts, Texas Legislature, elections, 2020 Census, Texas Department of Public Safety, legislative attendance, Disaster Preparedness Committee, flood legislation, quorum

Summary: In this meeting, the chair addressed concerns regarding the attendance of certain members who have been evading their legislative duties. The Texas Department of Public Safety is actively working to enforce civil arrest warrants to ensure that these members return to the chamber. This issue is pressing as the Disaster Preparedness Committee is poised to evaluate five crucial pieces of legislation aimed at addressing catastrophic flooding that has severely impacted communities across the state. The emphasis was placed on the urgency and importance of the work undertaken by the committee in these trying times. The meeting concluded with a plan for the House to reconvene, urging members to ensure their attendance. The chair expressed hope for a quorum to be achieved by the next session, allowing for the continuation of critical discussions. This session saw active participation from members, highlighting the dedication towards serving constituents despite the present challenges faced within the legislature.

Transcript Highlights:

• marker="64" data-time="378"> to convene with the quorum on Friday so we can address the issues that need

Bills: HB1, HB2, HB18, HB19, HB20, HB4, HB1, HB2, HB18, HB19, HB20

Keywords: disaster response, emergency management, mass fatality, justices of the peace, training programs, emergency manager license, volunteer management, disaster response, mass fatality, emergency management, justice of the peace training, volunteer management, criminal history checks, state health services, emergency communication, interoperability, grant program, first responders, state council, emergency communication

Summary: In this meeting of the legislative committee, members gathered to discuss pressing issues, including critical flood response legislation that could significantly impact families and communities affected by recent disasters. Despite the efforts to address these urgent matters, a quorum was not present, preventing any formal actions from being taken. The absence of a sufficient number of members meant that discussions were limited and centered around logistics for the upcoming sessions to ensure that necessary votes could be conducted in the near future. The chairman expressed concerns about the operational costs related to these absences and emphasized the continuous tracking of taxpayer dollars being spent in response to the critical situations faced by communities.

Transcript Highlights:

• I need a move.

Keywords: Veterans Affairs, legislation, SB210, SB2007, SB2926, SB2938, SB2543, committee substitute, unanimous vote

Summary: The Senate Veterans Affairs Committee meeting focused on discussing several important bills, including SB210, SB2007, SB2926, SB2938, and SB2543. Each bill was put forth for a vote, and all passed unanimously with no objections. Notably, Senator Parker played a significant role in moving several of these bills to the full Senate for further action. The committee also adopted a substitute for SB2543, clarifying the references to Veterans Cemeteries in the legislation, which showcased the committee's commitment to refining the language and ensuring clarity in legislative texts. The atmosphere was collaborative, with members actively participating in the discussions and decision-making processes.

Transcript Highlights:

• He needs to go to the floor because he's going to have to go

Bills: HB2407, HB3425

Keywords: sex offender registration, criminal penalties, law enforcement, criminal justice, public safety, public servant, address disclosure, retrieval of information, electronic communication, criminal offense, retaliation, safety concerns, Criminal Justice, HB2407, Sex Offender Registration, HB3425, Doxing, Legislation

Summary: The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to discuss several important bills including HB2407, HB3425, and HB2854. HB2407, focused on strengthening penalties for repeated failures to comply with sex offender registration requirements, received unanimous support from committee members and was reported favorably to the full Senate. The discussion emphasized the seriousness of these registration laws and the bill's potential to enhance public safety by ensuring accountability among offenders. The hearing also highlighted concerns around doxing with HB3425, which aims to criminalize the unlawful disclosure of personal addresses and phone numbers through electronic communications, thus addressing a significant gap in current legislation. Meanwhile, HB2854 was passed forward with a recommendation, highlighting the committee's commitment to address various legal gaps.

Transcript Highlights:

• That is why I need you in my corner and to rush a donation now and join me in this fight.

Bills: SB2, SB5, SB9, SB7, SB17, SB4, HB4

Keywords: disaster relief, emergency preparedness, flood management, local government grants, meteorological forecasting, state appropriations, school assessment, public education, accountability, transparency, education standards, abortion, civil liability, abortion-inducing drugs, qui tam actions, Texas Citizens Participation Act, Religious Freedom Restoration Act, healthcare regulations, judicial branch, court security

Summary: The Senate meeting convened with notable tension surrounding HB4, which was ultimately passed after a contentious discussion. Senator Charles Perry raised concerns about Senator Carol Alvarado's fundraising filibuster, claiming it violated Senate ethics and decorum by using state resources for campaign purposes. This prompted a heated debate among members, reflecting deep divisions regarding the use of legislative sessions for political gain. Ultimately, the roll call revealed 18 ayes and 11 nays as HB4 passed, leading to discussions about future sessions and pending bills. The atmosphere in the Senate was marked by strong emotions, especially surrounding the issue of ethical conduct in legislative practices. Several members expressed their displeasure about the potential implications for state resources utilized during such political maneuvers. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, reflecting the urgency felt by members to address these issues adequately in future gatherings. Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing struggles and the dynamics at play within the Senate regarding governance and ethics in political conduct.

Transcript Highlights:

• span marker="25" data-time="144"> healing to touch those injured and for your provision to meet every need

Bills: SR5, SB5, SB11, SB12, SB25, SB26, SB28, SB35, SB5, SB11, SB12, SB25, SB26, SB28, SB35

Keywords: redistricting, Senate procedures, public input, Texas Legislature, amendments, redistricting, Texas Senate, congressional districts, public input, legislative procedures, redistricting, Senate procedures, congressional districts, public input, legislative transparency, redistricting, Senate rules, congressional districts, public hearings, committee procedures

Summary: The meeting of the 89th Legislature featured discussions primarily centered around several key bills, including SB648 concerning protections against title theft and deed fraud, SB1253 which addresses impact fees for builders incorporating water conservation measures, and SB2878 related to the administration of the judicial department. The session began with a prayer acknowledging the devastating floods that affected Central Texas, followed by a message from Governor Greg Abbott calling for the special session. Members engaged in robust debates on the importance of the proposed legislations, particularly focusing on community recovery efforts following recent natural disasters. Public testimonies were elicited, highlighting the varied perspectives on the bills under discussion and underscoring the significance of legislative action in response to constituents' needs.

Transcript Highlights:

• The other one was adopted this morning, we need one and

Bills: SB302, SB1335, SB1734, SB1760, SB1975, SB2127

Keywords: probate court, statutory judge, reimbursement, court costs, court proceedings, probate court, statutory judge, reimbursement, court costs, judicial assignments, probate court, judge assignment, cost reimbursement, judicial expenses, estate management, probate court, judge assignment, cost reimbursement, statutory requirement, court expenses

Summary: The Committee on Jurisprudence convened to discuss multiple pending bills aimed at improving various aspects of legal and property matters. Notably, several bills were reported favorably to the full Senate with unanimous support, including SB1335, which addresses issues involving decedents' affairs, and SB1734, focusing on property title documentation. Senator Zaffirini and Senator Johnson were instrumental in moving these bills forward, ensuring the committee maintained a swift pace in considering legislation. Furthermore, the chair highlighted the importance of guardianship for incapacitated persons in upcoming discussions around SB1760, indicating a commitment to addressing vulnerable populations in legislative changes.

Transcript Highlights:

• a historical context looking back that this is where Texas chose to meet one of the biggest unmet needs

Keywords: Senate Committee on Finance, HB3000, ambulance service grants, HGR7, Texas Water Fund, constitutional amendment, funding allocation, rural counties

Summary: The Senate Committee on Finance convened to discuss several key bills focused on public finance and water resources. Senator Perry presented House Bill 3000, which proposes a $90 million grant program aimed at providing financial assistance to qualified ambulance service providers in rural counties. The bill received strong support, being reported favorably to the full Senate without any opposition. Concurrently, the committee adopted a substitute for HGR 7, which seeks to amend the state constitution for revenue allocation to the Texas Water Fund, extending the dedication period from 16 to 20 years. This change was met with discussions on revenue splits and interim allocations, pivotal for funding future projects related to water infrastructure in Texas.

Transcript Highlights:

• recent annual threat assessments of the U.S. intelligence community in the Senate version to only needing

Bills: SJR27, SB7, SB27, SB57, SB66, SB140, SB293, SB413, SB437, SB467, SB506, SB510, SB512, SB571, SB710, SB785, SB800, SB850, SB863, SB865, SB904, SB905, SB973, SB974, SB1191, SB1281, SB1300, SB1362, SB1494, SB1504, SB1522, SB1567, SB1579, SB1580, SB1723, SB1760, SB1838, SB1923, SB1946, SB1957, SB1964, SB2121, SB2167, SB2221, SB2321, SB2368, SB2373, SB2407, SB2431, SB2477, SB2587, SB2615, SB2807, SB2965, SB2986, SB3039, SB3047, SB3070, SB1, SB8, SB12, SB13, SB15, SB17, SB21, SB30, SB37, SB260, SB268, SB331, SB379, SB441, SB447, SB457, SB509, SB568, SB650, SB763, SB1198, SB1405, SB1506, SB1540, SB1566, SB1610, SB1637, SB1660, SB1833, SB2018, SB2024, SB2155, SB2217, SB2308, SB2337, SB2601, SB2753, SB2778, SB2878, SB2900, SB2972, SB3059, HB4, HB145, HB300, HB493, HB2011, HB2067, HB2516, HB2525, HB2885, HB2974, HB3071, HB3372, HB3556, HB3595, HB5138, HB5246, HB40, HB46, HB119, HB705, HB1545, HB2017, HB2963, HB3642, HB3909, SJR36, SJR50, SJR63, SCR12, SCR39, SB2023, SB62, SB666, SB847, SB284, SB854, SB810, SB1505, SB583, SB507, SB1434, SB1772, SB2016, SB1122, SB731, SB397, SB508, SB1436, SB287, SB1882, SB393, SB1791, SB209, SB2429, SB1085, SB1975, SB2717, SB1262, SB636, SB2056, SB884, SB1200, SB1845, SB2458, SB801, SB3014, SB3013, SB758, SB2797, SB2076, SB2876, SB1640, SB1449, SB1181, SB1234, SB2926, SB2841, SB1528, SB1854, SB317, SB1250, SB2082, SB1237, SB2819, SB629, SB2608, SB1602, SB2009, SB867, SB640, SB1698, SB2680, SB913, SB1071, SB1086, SB1087, SB1483, SB1444, SB1553, SB1556, SB1703, SB2133, SB2297, SB2298, SB2622, SB2955, SB2334, SB1367, SB2044, SB2363, SB2565, SB1888, SB3036, SB3057, SB3043, SB3063, SB3035, SB203, SB2688, SB2522, SB2459, SB2655, SB2251, SB1884, SB2928, SB2566, SB2549, SB2553, SB2919, SB1944, SB1232, SB1798, SB2603, SB2607, SB2683, SB1319, SB3045, SB3071, HB796, HB1523, HB5294, HB748, HB3395, HB180, HB3171, HB146, HB5596, HB5694, HB1135, HB3225, HB186, HB1449, HB3793, HB112, HB104, HB3336, HB3520, HB3320, HB5663, HB2399, HB111, HB3483, HB4580, HB3748, HB632, HB4730, HB5690, HB5689, HB3385, HB4359, HB5381, HB123, HB5606, HB1057, HB3664, HCR141, HCR40, HCR59, SR695, SCR54, HCR153, HCR166, HCR168, SJR27, SB7, SB57, SB66, SB140, SB293, SB413, SB437, SB467, SB506, SB510, SB512, SB571, SB710, SB785, SB800, SB850, SB863, SB865, SB904, SB905, SB973, SB974, SB1191, SB1281, SB1300, SB1362, SB1504, SB1522, SB1567, SB1579, SB1580, SB1723, SB1760, SB1838, SB1923, SB1946, SB1957, SB1964, SB2167, SB2221, SB2321, SB2368, SB2407, SB2477, SB2587, SB2615, SB2807, SB2965, SB2986, SB3039, SB3047, SB3070, HB40, HB119, HB705, HB1545, HB2017, HB2963, HB3642, HB3909, SB17, SB21, SB509, SB1198, SB1506, SB1833, SB2155, SB2601, SB2778, HB300, HB2011

Keywords: judicial conduct, state commission, judicial misconduct, commission membership, constitutional amendment, water infrastructure, financial assistance, Texas Water Development Board, water supply, environmental sustainability, disability, supported decision-making, legal assistance, confidentiality, access to justice, autonomy, civil rights, advocacy, judicial conduct, judges discipline

Summary: During this meeting of the Senate, critical discussions unfolded around several bills, notably focusing on SB17, which was highlighted as a substantial national security measure. Senator Kolkhorst, who played an instrumental role, emphasized that this bill represents the strongest prohibition against adversarial foreign ownership of Texas land. The session included extensive debates, illustrating a collaborative effort between the Senate and House to address and refine the provisions, ultimately tightening restrictions and adding enforcement mechanisms to deter potential threats from foreign entities. Additionally, public statements were made to recognize the work of veterans and organizations that support them, underscoring the community's dedication to those who have served.

Transcript Highlights:

• There needs to be a more established standard operating

Bills: HCR98, HB180

Keywords: border security, HCR98, HB180, drones, intergovernmental cooperation, counter-unmanned aircraft systems, drug trafficking, human trafficking

Summary: The Senate Committee on Border Security convened to discuss key resolutions aimed at enhancing border security measures. Notable discussions centered around HCR98, which urges Congress to bolster intergovernmental cooperation in deploying counter-unmanned aircraft systems to address unauthorized drone activities at the border. Committee members expressed the urgency of establishing operational protocols for detecting and neutralizing drones that threaten national security. Additionally, HB180 was presented, focusing on elevating state-level cooperation with Mexican authorities to better manage cross-border challenges like drug and human trafficking. There were no public testimonies for either bill; however, HCR98 was reported favorably to the full Senate following a brief voting process.

Transcript Highlights:

• But if you need us to slow down at any point, let me know.

Keywords: Senate Economic Development Committee, SB217, SB529, SB1265, committee substitutes, SCR37, legislation

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Economic Development Committee was marked by a rapid review and voting on several bills. Notably, Senate Bill 217 was reported favorably with a vote of 4-1, showcasing a split opinion among members. Additionally, Senate Bill 529 and Senate Bill 1265 were both unanimously recommended for certification, indicating strong support. The committee also discussed committee substitutes for Senate Bill 1592 and SCR 37, with both passing without objection. These actions illustrate the committee's proactive approach in addressing pending legislation and facilitating its progress to the full Senate.

Transcript Highlights:

• To the over 400 homes in the area that need help, there were

Keywords: Kerr County, flood, community support, recovery, volunteers, construction, local government, infrastructure

Summary: The committee meeting focused on the aftermath of a devastating flood in Kerr County, where lives were lost and families were displaced. Many representatives expressed their condolences and shared stories of community support, highlighting the extraordinary efforts of volunteers who rushed to help those affected. Member discussions were filled with heartfelt sentiments, as many acknowledged the long road ahead for recovery and rebuilding efforts. The atmosphere was one of solidarity, reflecting the commitment of the representatives to aid their constituents in times of crisis and to ensure such disasters are better managed in the future.

Transcript Highlights:

• So, is there any other business that needs to come before the committee?

Keywords: Senate Committee, Local Government, Senate Bill 1079, Senate Bill 1243, Senate Bill 1504, legislative process, unanimous recommendation

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Local Government revolved around the discussion and voting on several significant bills. Notably, Senate Bill 1079 was reported to the full Senate with a unanimous recommendation for passage, followed by an equally successful vote for Senate Bill 1243. Discussions included procedural details and recommendations for local calendars, showcasing a disciplined approach to legislative processes. The committee also reviewed Senate Bill 1504, which was similarly passed and referred to local and contested calendars. Throughout the meeting, senators engaged in structured dialogue, ensuring all voices were heard during roll calls and motions.

Transcript Highlights:

• Yeah, we need the...

  Good afternoon.

Keywords: Senate Bill 688, Senate Bill 9, equity, meritocracy, social progress, policy reform, public testimony

Summary: During this meeting of the committee, significant discussions centered around Senate Bill 688 and Senate Bill 9, with members expressing deep concerns over the implications of the proposed legislation. Chair Carol Alvarado initiated the meeting by addressing the audience and highlighting the need for robust dialogue regarding the bills in question. Senator Royce West actively contributed to the discussions, emphasizing the necessity to reform existing policies that some believe would regress social progress in the state. The debate revealed a passionate division among committee members, as they navigated the complexities of equity and meritocracy in legislation.

Transcript Highlights:

• We also need to hear from Mr.

Keywords: nomination, Patrick Davis, Assistant Attorney General, Ed Martin, January 6th, public testimony

Summary: This meeting focused primarily on the nomination of Patrick Davis to serve as Assistant Attorney General for the Office of Legislative Affairs. Members discussed Mr. Davis's qualifications and experience, emphasizing his commitment to effectively serving the American public and working collaboratively with Congress. The committee also briefly revisited the nominations of John Eisenberg and Brett Shumate but decided to hold them over until the next meeting. Additionally, concerns regarding the nomination of Ed Martin as U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia were raised, particularly regarding his past statements and conduct related to the January 6th insurrection and its aftermath. The discussion highlighted the importance of reviewing Mr. Martin's responses to various questions before proceeding with a vote on his nomination.