Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Senate Veterans Affairs Committee'

Page 55 of 62
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 3rd, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Finance will come to order.

  • The Senate Committee on Finance will come to order.
  • Thank you, Senator.
  • Senator Perry.
  • Senator Perry.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting focused on various topics related to child welfare, particularly emphasizing the importance of kinship placements in the foster care system. Senators Alvarado and Hinojosa engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the benefits of kinship care, highlighting better outcomes for children and the financial implications for the state. They emphasized a need for continued investments in kinship care as a strategy to improve child welfare outcomes, encouraging the legislature to consider this approach moving forward. Additionally, the committee reviewed community-based care programs, which aim to keep children in their communities to promote stability and familial connections.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Natural Resources Aug 11th, 2025 at 01:08 pm

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Good afternoon, Chairman and committee members.

  • So, thank you for taking the time to come and visit with our committee today.
  • That was Senate Bill 7 from 2019. This was followed by...
  • Thank you, committee, for your attention.
  • Hearing none, the committee stands adjourned, subject to the call of the chair.
Summary: The meeting of the committee emphasized the urgent need for effective flood mitigation strategies in response to recent severe flooding events in South Texas. Local officials, including Commissioner David Fuentes and General Manager Raul Sassin, presented the devastating impacts of heavy rainfall that inundated homes, destroyed infrastructure, and led to significant loss of life. They discussed the importance of projects like the Delta Region Water Management initiative, which aims to manage stormwater effectively while also addressing future water supply challenges. The legislators reiterated the legislature's ongoing commitment to funding and implementing robust flood management policies, underscoring the significance of community involvement in these efforts. The discussions also highlighted innovative approaches to capturing floodwaters for potable use as part of a broader water management strategy.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair offers a committee substitute.
  • Members, there is a committee substitute. The chair offers the committee substitute.
  • Members, there is a committee substitute. The chair offers a committee substitute.
  • Senate Bill 365 by Senator Eckhardt.
  • The committee substitute simply makes the bill align with Senator Coltrane's as a legislative council
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on several bills related to education and public safety. Notable discussions included HB1105, which seeks to provide EMS employees with tuition exemptions similar to those received by firefighters and police officers, thus addressing educational parity among first responders. Representative Ward-Johnson presented the bill and highlighted the growing responsibilities of paramedics in the changing landscape of emergency services. Witnesses from the Austin EMS Association spoke in support, emphasizing the importance of quality education for EMS workers in enhancing public safety and service delivery. The committee also discussed HB1705 and HB2290, which aim to improve educational accreditation and health benefits for students, respectively, indicating a broad focus on enhancing the educational framework within the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Elections Aug 25th, 2025 at 11:08 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • p>

    As a reminder, anyone present wishing to testify before the committee

  • marker="5" data-time="40"> If you require assistance in registering or testifying, please come to committee
  • Thank you, Chair Bucy, members of the committee.

  • I just want to make notice that I will have committee amendments for this bill to do just that, and I
  • That might be of consideration to the committee. Thank you so much for your time.
Bills: HB18
Summary: In the meeting, the primary focus was on HB18, which aims to prohibit legislators from fundraising while breaking quorum without an excused absence. The bill sparked a lively discussion among committee members, highlighting concerns regarding the financial benefits that legislators may receive while hindering the legislative process. Members debated the implications of enacting such a law, with some arguing that it could unfairly penalize minority parties exercising their constitutional rights. Notably, testimony was heard from constituents who expressed their discontent with fundraising efforts that coincided with quorum breaks, presenting a strong case for the necessity of the bill. The committee ultimately chose to leave the bill pending for further discussion.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Mar 19th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Vice Chairman, members of the committee, today.
  • Vice Chairman, and members of the committee.
  • In a House and Senate subcommittee that I co-chaired, or I'm sorry, a House and Senate joint committee
  • They've been before our joint committees and our study committees in past interims.
  • Thank you, Madam Chair and committee.
Summary: In this meeting, the focus was on HB1093, which addresses the advertising requirements for self-service storage facility lien sales. The bill, presented by a representative, advocates for updating outdated newspaper notice requirements that have been in place since 1984. The representative emphasized that many areas in Texas no longer have access to printed newspapers, making it crucial to adapt the law to allow for advertising on publicly accessible internet platforms and other methods to ensure transparency and access to information regarding lien sales. Several stakeholders and witnesses shared opinions on the merits and potential drawbacks of the bill, leading to a lively discussion.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on International Relations Apr 28th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House S/C on International Relations

Transcript Highlights:
  • Please contact the committee staff.
  • The secretary offers up a committee substitute on HB1026.
  • At this time, the Chair withdraws the committee substitute to HB1026.
  • All right, thank you committee members.

  • Is there any further business for the committee to address?
Bills: HB1026, SCR37
Summary: The meeting centered on the discussion of two key pieces of legislation: HB1026 and SCR37. HB1026, presented by Vice Chair Morales, aims to address infrastructure issues by paving a critical 40-mile stretch of road between Eagle Pass and Laredo, which has been a longstanding concern for local communities and law enforcement. The bill received strong support from stakeholders citing the need for improved transportation routes and enhanced border security capabilities. Following the discussion on HB1026, SCR37 was introduced by Chairman Lujan, emphasizing the significance of the Panama Canal to Texas economic development and trade. The meeting saw ample opportunity for public testimony, with members expressing support for the proposed bills and asking insightful questions regarding their implications.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Elections Aug 25th, 2025 at 11:08 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That's a part of Texas history, when 13 senators walked out to block a bill granting the governor wartime
  • > Major moments include references to 1870, 1979, when the famous killer bees occurred, and three Senate
  • Senators also don't want members of the Legislature that are breaking quorum to raise money off of that
  • I just want to make notice that I will have committee amendments to do just that, and I hope this body
  • That might be of consideration to the committee.
Bills: HB18
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on the discussions surrounding HB18, which aims to prevent legislators from financially benefiting when they break quorum. Chairman Shaheen emphasized that this bill addresses the integrity of the Texas legislature and responds to constituent concerns about lawmakers being absent and raising funds simultaneously. Throughout the meeting, members discussed the implications of enforcing penalties for breaking quorum and the balance between legislative strategy and financial transparency. Various representatives expressed their views, with some supporting the bill for enhancing accountability, while others argued that it imposes unfair restrictions on a constitutional tactic historically used by minority factions.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine stemming the tide of antisemitism in America. Mar 5th, 2025 at 09:15 am

Senate Judiciary Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • But on this side of the Capitol, committees remained silent.
  • One Democratic senator put it quite simply: quote, "There
  • Continuing to quote that senator, "I don't hear a lot of people on our side really focused on..."
  • This committee didn't hold a hearing.
  • Senator Durbin: Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

Summary: The committee meeting focused on addressing the rising tide of anti-Semitism across the nation. Among the discussions, members expressed concerns about the disturbing acts of hate witnessed on college campuses, with instances of harassment and intimidation targeting Jewish students being highlighted. High-profile incidents, including vandalism and the display of extremist symbols, prompted urgent calls for investigations and measures to protect civil rights. The importance of moral clarity in confronting such hate crimes was emphasized as well, outlining the responsibilities of leaders to ensure safety and uphold justice.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 22nd, 2025 at 11:04 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The chair offers a committee substitute.
  • Members, this is the committee substitute we heard in the committee last week.
  • The chair offers a committee substitute and recognizes Chairman Frank to explain the committee substitute
  • Members, this is the committee substitute we heard in the committee last week.
  • The committee substitute is withdrawn.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on multiple bills pertaining to educational reforms and initiatives. Notable discussions included the passage of HB824, which aims to expand civics education in Texas high schools, emphasizing the importance of understanding government functions and participation in democracy. The bill received unanimous support from the committee members, reflecting broad consensus on the need for enhanced civic education. Similarly, HB1581 and HB1579 were discussed, aiming to improve bilingual education and establish a state seal of bilingualism and biliteracy for high school students, respectively, thereby emphasizing the educational framework's inclusivity and quality enhancement.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 6th, 2025 at 10:02 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm directed by the Senate to inform the House that the Senate has taken the following action.
  • The Senate has passed the...
  • Speaker, I have a messenger from the Senate at the door of the House.
  • the Senate has taken the following action.
  • Respectfully, Patsy Spahr, Secretary of the Senate.
Summary: In this meeting of the legislative body, the committee engaged in a series of significant discussions and recognitions. Dr. Lalani honored Prince Rahim for his contributions to education and community service, linking it to a larger narrative of Texas being a global economic powerhouse. Furthermore, numerous resolutions, such as HR 135 recognizing Howard County Day and HR 190 in memory of Antonio Cornelius Baker, were adopted, highlighting community contributions and memorializing impactful individuals. Representative Jones stressed the importance of HIV/AIDS awareness, reflecting the meeting's commitment to societal issues. The session culminated in a call for unity and service to the public from the speakers present.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate will come to order.

  • I am directed by the House to inform the Senate that the

  • 36">Members of the United States House of Representatives from the State of Texas to the Special Committee
  • Pursuant to a previously adopted motion, the Senate stands

  • August 21st, pending the reading and referral of bills, reports, and the receipt of messages and committee
Bills: HB4, HB4
Summary: The meeting of the committee included spirited discussions on various topics including the implications of new legislative proposals and their potential impacts on local communities. The chairperson led several discussions with committee members focusing on economic growth initiatives, healthcare reform, and education funding. Notably, witnesses were invited to provide testimony regarding specific bills, highlighting concerns and support from various stakeholder groups. The meeting concluded with a clear intent to follow up on several issues raised, ensuring continued engagement with constituents and experts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Questions from the committee?
  • Chair, committee members.
  • This is a refile of Senator Colcourt's SB 726 from last session, a bill that passed out of the Senate
  • Senate last week, 29-2.
  • It just passed the Senate last week.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on the discussion surrounding HB1414, presented by Representative Bowers on behalf of Representative Dr. Alma Allen. The bill aims to eliminate the Class B misdemeanor penalty for driving with a suspended license (DWLI) for those with prior convictions, allowing county courts to dedicate resources to more serious offenses and potentially preventing many Texans from facing excessive debt and jail time. Representatives and witnesses provided insights into the bill's implications for individuals unable to afford civil surcharges that lead to license suspensions, highlighting the financial burdens placed on lower-income families.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on International Relations Apr 14th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House S/C on International Relations

Transcript Highlights:
  • Chairman and members, the committee substitute to H.
  • Chairman, Vice Chair, and esteemed members of the committee.
  • I respectfully urge this committee to support House Committee Resolution 108 and...
  • At this time, the Chair withdraws the committee substitute to HCR108.
  • Hearing none, the committee stands adjourned, subject to the call of the chair.
Bills: HCR108, HCR127
Summary: The committee meeting focused on two significant resolutions: HCR108 and HCR127. HCR108 urges the U.S. Department of Commerce to maintain the tomato suspension agreement, which has been pivotal for Texas's economy and food security since its inception in 1996. Numerous stakeholders, including county commissioners and mayors, testified on the agreement's importance, claiming that its termination could jeopardize over 30,000 jobs and lead to a $4.5 billion loss in the Texas economy. The tomatoes imported under this agreement are crucial not only for fresh produce availability but also for maintaining a stable market for local farmers and businesses. The chair acknowledged the testimony and discussed the economic ramifications of potential changes to trade policies, insisting on the need for support to continue the current agreement.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • " data-time="162"> The Honorable Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and the Honorable Members of the Senate
  • The Senate will please come to order.
  • Thank you, Senators and Representatives.
  • I want to thank Senator Joan Huffman for her leadership on this vital issue of public safety.
  • The Senate will now return to the Senate chamber for consideration of further business.
Summary: The meeting focused notably on judicial salaries and the importance of retaining qualified judges in Texas. Chief Justice Jimmy Blacklock discussed the need for a significant pay increase for judges, citing that their base salary has not risen since 2013 despite rising inflation. He made a compelling case that increasing judicial salaries would attract better candidates to serve the public as judges. The Chief Justice emphasized that the state's judicial system relies on highly capable individuals to uphold the rule of law and deliver fair justice to Texans, especially in family law cases where outcomes dramatically affect vulnerable populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Apr 8th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Chairman Buckley and members of the committee, thank you for allowing me to lay out Committee Substitute
  • Thank you, committee.
  • The Senate and House should start measuring each senator to determine if they only consent to a capable
  • Chairman and committee members.
  • Hello, committee members.
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Public Education involved significant discussions regarding several bills aimed at improving the functioning and quality of public education in Texas. Notably, Representative Tepper presented HB3627, which seeks to empower the State Board of Education to employ its own personnel to fulfill its responsibilities more effectively. Chairman Kinsey also provided testimony highlighting the continued commitment to enhancing educational materials and instructional quality following the successful passage of HB1605 in the previous session. The committee demonstrated active engagement as members reviewed the implications of these bills on teacher workload and administrative burdens associated with current educational regulations, indicating a desire to enhance the work environment for educators.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Committee come to order.

  • I ask Senator Nichols to explain the bill.
  • Thank you, Senator. I appreciate it. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
  • Thank you, Senator Nichols. I appreciate it.
  • Let's go with Senate Bill 2843.
Summary: This committee meeting focused on the discussions surrounding SB2476, which proposes the transfer of the Woodlawn Water Supply Corporation to the Angelina and Natchez River Authority. Senator Nichols presented the bill, highlighting its local agreements and the technical capabilities of the River Authority to manage the water supply efficiently. The discussion included inquiries about the implications of this transfer, particularly regarding sunrise accountability and whether the new arrangement would adhere to sunset processes in the future. Members engaged in a collaborative dialogue, reflecting an understanding of the local needs and the importance of maintaining water supply management.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Public Education Aug 21st, 2025 at 10:08 am

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We turned in the same written testimony in the Senate hearing.
  • She didn't sit up and ask questions with the Senate.
  • To the Senate.
  • We appreciate the chairman and the house committee.
  • Loney, did you testify before the Senate hearing?
Bills: HB8
Summary: The committee meeting focused on HB8, which proposes significant changes to the assessment and accountability system in Texas education. Key discussions involved the transition from the previous STAR testing framework to a new instructionally supportive assessment program that aims to provide timely feedback to enhance instructional strategies. Proponents of the bill argue that it encourages a growth-oriented approach, while opponents express concerns about the potential increase in high-stakes testing and the makeup of the advisory committee, which has limited educator and parental representation. Numerous witnesses spoke, highlighting both support and apprehension regarding the bill's implications for students, educators, and accountability standards.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Business meeting to consider certain pending nominations. Apr 29th, 2025 at 09:00 am

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I now recognize our ranking member Senator Wyden for

  • So that's where things stand as the Finance Committee

  • Thank you, Senator Wyden.
  • And now we would turn to other senators for comments.
  • Without objection, so ordered, and the committee stands

Summary: This meeting of the committee was centered around the consideration of nominations for two key positions: William Kimmett as Undersecretary of Commerce for International Trade and Kenneth Keyes as Assistant Secretary for Tax Policy at the Treasury Department. Members were given the opportunity to provide remarks on the nominees, with discussions revealing contrasting views on their potential impact on U.S. economic policy. While some members expressed support for the nominees, highlighting their qualifications and expertise, others voiced strong opposition, arguing that their confirmation would further a harmful economic agenda that favors billionaires over average Americans. Senator Wyden, the ranking member, emphasized concerns about trade chaos and the detrimental effects on workers and businesses across the country.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Is there a committee?

  • The Chair lays out the committee substitute for HB4414.
  • committee substitute?
  • for the opportunity to present this committee substitute for House Bill 4414.
  • Senator Parker, which was approved by the Senate in a 29 to 2 vote.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several critical pieces of legislation, including discussions around HB1720, aimed at enhancing the security of animal housing facilities to prevent unauthorized trespassing. Representative Gerben-Hawkins emphasized the bill's importance in protecting both the animals and the safety of facilities. The discussion highlighted personal accounts, including a notable incident involving a break-in at the Dallas Zoo, underscoring the urgency of implementing stricter penalties for trespassers in these settings. The bill aims to classify such trespassing as a jail felony or even a third-degree felony depending on the circumstances of any harassment towards the animals involved. Additionally, HB2593 was brought up, proposing to increase penalties for indecent assault against the elderly and disabled, reflecting a growing concern for the safety of vulnerable populations. The committee also discussed HB4414, which addresses mail theft related to checks and introduces offenses for the theft of mail keys. The meeting was well-attended, with ample public testimony supporting these legislative measures, indicating a strong concern from the community about animal welfare and protection for vulnerable citizens.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Thank you for your time, committee members.
  • Chairman, members of the committee.
  • Now, Senator, when she passed Senate Bill 9 out of committee in the Senate, she changed that line.
  • And that is my understanding from Senate Bill 9 that passed the Senate is that a terroristic threat is
  • The auditing documents discussed in the Senate Criminal Justice Committee hearing on HB76 reflect our
Summary: The committee meeting centered around a range of bills, with significant focus on public safety and welfare issues. Discussions highlighted the implications of HB166, which aims to enhance protections for vulnerable populations against the dangers of fentanyl exposure. Witness testimonies were presented both in support and opposition to the legislation. Representative Capriglione underscored the urgency of addressing this growing concern, as fentanyl's potency poses a lethal risk, particularly to children, elderly individuals, and disabled individuals. The session included a robust debate on how best to enforce these legal protections while balancing concerns about enforcement complexities.

Research Filters

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