Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'state employee benefits'
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TX
Transcript Highlights:
The Senate Committee on State Affairs will come to order.
- It was a somewhat similar bill in the state of Florida.
- The First Amendment concludes importantly stating...
- State money. The state pays for primary election days.
- It costs, and we had a runoff that the state had to pay for due to him.
Bills:
SB38, SB287, SB291, SB292, SB508, SB618, SB901, SB1436, SB1494, SB1626, SB1719, SB1999, SB1333
Keywords:
evictions, property law, tenant rights, landlord responsibilities, justice court, court rules, eminent domain, property acquisition, landowner's rights, public use, condemnation procedure, election procedures, civil penalty, public officials, voter rights, election integrity, elections, local governance, political subdivisions, general elections
Summary:
The meeting addressed several key pieces of legislation, including SB1626, which proposes to enhance Texans' ability to pursue legal action against social media platforms for censorship. The bill aims to provide statutory damages, making it easier for individuals to protect their free speech rights. Testimonies were heard from various public representatives expressing support for the bill, emphasizing its importance in maintaining free speech in the digital age. Other bills discussed included SB1719 and SB1494, each receiving varying levels of scrutiny and support.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- ="80"> Senate Bill 2232 simply seeks to encourage Texans to get out and explore all that our great state
- lead to increased park usage, stronger community connections, and better health outcomes across the state
- Recognize the hard-working crossing guards of the state of
- Blue Bell is present in 23 states and has been an economic driver for the state of Texas for a long,
- I think he is the longest-serving state judge, I think, but I'd have to double-check that.
Keywords:
Unplug Texas Day, digital detox, family activities, outdoor recreation, community engagement, Brenham, ice cream, Blue Bell Creameries, economic impact, tourism, Senate Committee on Administration, Unplug Texas Day, Health and Safety, Crossing Guard Appreciation Day, Public Testimony, Senator Hinojosa, Senator Hall, Community engagement
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Administration commenced with a quorum established, led by Chairman Hall. The committee discussed and voted on several bills, including SB2232 which promotes an annual 'Unplug Texas Day' aimed at encouraging outdoor activities and community interactions among Texans. Senator Hinojosa presented the bill, highlighting its potential health benefits and community strengthening. Testimonies were invited but none were provided, leading to a smooth passage of the bill to the full Senate.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Juvenile Justice Mar 4th, 2025 at 11:00 am
House S/C on Juvenile Justice
Transcript Highlights:
- Here in the state, I want to say that the state agencies have
- It is a very tough job that TJJD has; it's a much more expensive cost to the state taxpayers for what
- stuff that we do, that the trajectory of the juvenile system in Texas, as it is across the United States
- From state to state, people have been trying their best to
- , or 49 other states.
Keywords:
juvenile justice, rehabilitation, subcommittee, policy discussions, youth programs, testimony, committee responsibilities
Summary:
The meeting of the Subcommittee on Juvenile Justice opened with introductory remarks and set out to discuss the responsibilities and upcoming discussions on juvenile justice matters. Members expressed a commitment to addressing the serious issues faced by the juvenile population and the need for rehabilitative approaches within the system. Members recognized that the committee's work could significantly impact the lives of young individuals who enter the juvenile system, emphasizing the importance of effective programs and policies that will contribute to their rehabilitation and reduce recidivism rates. Representative Jones and other members shared insights from their experiences, reinforcing the notion that the state's juvenile system is evolving for the better and aims to align with practices from across the country that have shown positive outcomes.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Senate Special Committee on Congressional Redistricting Aug 21st, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
Members, as stated on the posting, we will not be taking
The House Committee stated...
- On this map across the state of Texas, I can tell you that
- Chairman Hunter stated, "we held three public hearings.
- I think I went through three state senators without ever moving in a 10-year period.
Keywords:
redistricting, HB4, SB4, congressional districts, public testimony, Senate committee, political implications
Summary:
The meeting of the special committee on congressional redistricting was convened to discuss and vote on HB4, a key bill aimed at revising congressional district maps in Texas. Chairman King presented the bill, which is a companion to SB4 that had already passed out of the Senate. The discussion focused on minor differences between HB4 and SB4, primarily revolving around the political implications of the proposed changes. Several senators highlighted concerns over the lack of public testimony for the amendments, raising questions about the inclusiveness of the redistricting process. The committee ultimately voted to report HB4 favorably to the Senate, with a narrow vote of 5 to 3. This spirited debate underscored the contentious nature of redistricting and its impact on electoral outcomes.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
89th Legislative Session - First Called Session Aug 8th, 2025 at 01:08 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- wisdom and protection that our governor, our legislature, and all of our peace officers around the state
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States
- of Illinois, seeking to make them enforceable beyond Texas state lines.
I expect suits in other states will be forthcoming.
Bills:
HB4
Keywords:
redistricting, congressional districts, Texas Legislature, elections, 2020 Census, quorum, attendance, administrative policies, civil arrest, flood recovery, infrastructure funding, legislation
Summary:
In this meeting, key discussions revolved around the enactment of new measures to manage member attendance and address quorum issues. The chairman addressed the ongoing challenges presented by absent members and introduced administrative policies impacting pay and expenses for those not present. He emphasized the need for all members to return expeditiously, or face consequences, including potential civil arrest for those evading attendance. The significance of HB3, a priority legislation concerning flood recovery and infrastructure funding, was highlighted as essential for restoring communities affected by recent flooding, following extensive testimonies from impacted citizens.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- It would define "epinephrine delivery device" as a medical delivery device approved by the United States
- It includes the Department of State Health Services through a statewide standing order.
- Are you saying even a state senator? I'd say most...
- So, it gives the power to the commissioner of state...
- The Education Council of the United States sounds official, but it is not a governmental body.
Keywords:
epinephrine, auto-injectors, school health, public school policy, emergency medical response, nonprescription medication, school health, healthcare provider, liability immunity, student welfare, adoption, parenting, education, family law, health curriculum, respiratory distress, school health, medication training, public education, student safety
Summary:
The Senate Education Committee convened to discuss multiple bills, primarily focusing on SB1619 and SB6019. Senator Dean Zaffirini presented SB1619, and the discussion revolved around modernizing the state's approach to epinephrine delivery devices. The highlighted importance of addressing anaphylaxis treatments in schools, particularly focusing on ensuring that both current and future delivery methods are adequately represented in the legislation was prominent. Participation from public testimony was also anticipated, allowing for community engagement.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources (Part I) May 7th, 2025
Senate Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- If you would state your name, who you represent, and your position on the bill.
- The United States, of course, leads, Mr.
- Chairman, the world in LNG exports, with Texas serving as the top state in that category.
- In the United States, Mr.
- Please state your name and whom you represent. You have two minutes.
Keywords:
pipeline, construction, cash bond, county authority, local government, injection wells, environmental regulation, water quality, site inspection, geoscientist, satellite imagery, interstate compact, liquefied natural gas, energy resources, Gulf Coast, regulatory coordination, Senate Committee, Natural Resources, HB206, HB1238
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Natural Resources focused on several key bills, including HB206, HB1238, and HB2890. Senator Birdwell introduced HB206, which prohibits counties from mandating cash bonds for pipeline construction, a move aimed at facilitating energy infrastructure development. The bill was supported by witnesses from the industry who voiced their experiences regarding the financial burdens of cash bond requirements. Following this discussion, public testimony was heard but ultimately concluded without any opponents present, leading to the bill being left pending further consideration.
Senator Parker then laid out HB2890, which seeks to establish an interstate compact to protect and enhance liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports along the Gulf Coast. The bill aims to improve interstate communication and collaboration while addressing economic impacts due to recent regulatory challenges faced by the LNG industry. Public testimony for this bill was also minimal, with no witnesses registered to testify, but it was noted as an important step for Texas's energy future. The meeting concluded with discussions about pending votes on the bills, indicating a need to reconvene at a later time to finalize actions on these proposals.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the Arctic and Greenland's geostrategic importance to U.S. interests. Feb 12th, 2025 at 09:00 am
Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- treated as far-fetched but has long been worth serious consideration: the potential of the United States
- China has invested heavily with a clear strategic eye, there is a direct challenge to the United States
- "109" data-time="1296"> Ballistic missiles traveling from Russia or the Middle East to the United States
- Without the Louisiana Purchase, the United States would be a very different place than it is today.
Then in 1867, the United States purchased Alaska from
Keywords:
Greenland, acquisition, national security, Arctic, geopolitical, China, Russia, icebreakers, trade routes
Summary:
The meeting convened by the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation focused on the potential acquisition of Greenland by the United States. This issue, first raised by President Trump in 2019, has gained renewed significance amidst shifting global dynamics and the strategic importance of Greenland in relation to transatlantic trade routes and national security. The members discussed the geopolitical implications of Greenland's position, especially given the increasing influence of China and Russia in the Arctic region. Notably, the urgency to address military presence and icebreaker capabilities in the Arctic was a major point of contention, with a call for a new fleet to counter foreign dominance in the area.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
Now therefore, I, Greg Abbott, Governor of the State
As you know, our state suffered horrific historic flash
- And to us in the state, as Senator Perry said, we've got
- And we have that commitment at every level of this state.
- As we move forward, I would hope that we, as a body, and we, as a state, continue to be prepared.
Keywords:
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, juvenile boards, mental health services, election challenges, judicial procedures, court security, mental health services
Summary:
The meeting focused on the discussion and passage of SB1, known as the Heaven's 27 Camp Safety Act, which aims to implement critical safety measures for youth camps following a tragic flood incident that resulted in numerous fatalities. Senator Perry led a profound dialogue stressing the importance of ensuring that all campers and camping facilities are adequately prepared for emergencies, emphasizing the need for comprehensive evacuation plans and safety standards. Members expressed heartfelt sentiments toward the families affected by the tragedy, and many voiced their commitment to preventing such an event from occurring again in the future. The overall tone was somber yet dedicated, with a strong emphasis on moving forward in honor of those lost.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Jan 16th, 2025 at 10:01 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Honorable Carolyn Fairley of Potter County to lead us in the Pledges of Allegiance to the United States
- I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands
- I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands
- >
Let us celebrate the freedom our constituents in this great state
- A state where we can pray in a church, synagogue, mosque, temple, Jamaat Khana, Gurdwara, or anywhere
Keywords:
memorial recognition, fallen officers, law enforcement, Jesus Jesse Vargas, Mark Butler, National Religious Freedom Day, service, community impact
Summary:
The meeting included significant discussions around memorial recognitions for fallen law enforcement officers, specifically honoring Brazoria County Deputy Jesus Jesse Vargas and Navasota Police Sergeant Mark Butler. Representatives expressed their condolences and shared memories of the fallen officers, highlighting their service and the impact they made in their communities. The emotional nature of these tributes emphasized the importance of solidarity and respect for those who serve in law enforcement. The meeting also included an acknowledgement of National Religious Freedom Day, emphasizing the fundamental rights of all citizens to practice their faith freely.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- That we have throughout the state.
- Please state your name, who you represent, and your position on the bill.
- We have the most of any state in the country.
- Every city that's under state civil service, it's a matter of law with them already.
- This just makes it consistent across the state in how those policies are handled.
Keywords:
bail reform, criminal justice, felony offenses, constitutional amendment, public safety, bail reform, SJR87, SB3073, public safety, due process, judicial discretion, criminal justice, violent offenders, legislation
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to discuss important legislative amendments regarding bail reform in Texas. The meeting centered around two key bills: SJR87 and SB3073. SJR87 is a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at imposing stricter bail conditions for repeat violent offenders, requiring judges to deny bail without individual assessments of risk in certain cases. This sparked contentious debate, highlighting the concerns among committee members and public witnesses about potential infringements on due process and judicial discretion. Proponents argued that the amendment would help safeguard the community against repeat offenders by ensuring that those with serious crimes on their record could not be released on bail under questionable circumstances.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
89th Legislative Session - First Called Session Aug 4th, 2025 at 03:08 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- But instead of confronting those challenges, some of our colleagues have fled the state in their duty
To be absolutely clear, leaving the state does not stop
I pledge allegiance to the United States of America,
And now to the greatest state in our land.
I pledge allegiance to thee, Texas, one state, under
Bills:
HB4
Keywords:
redistricting, congressional districts, Texas Legislature, elections, 2020 Census, quorum, disaster recovery, human trafficking, legislation, Speaker's warning, Texas families, absent members
Summary:
The meeting focused on significant legislative issues and the need for prompt actions regarding disaster recovery, human trafficking, and local governance. Speaker raised concerns about the absence of several members, which hindered the establishment of a quorum and delayed critical discussions. Emphasis was placed on the responsibilities of elected officials to their constituents, with a stern warning that their absence would lead to necessary actions being taken to ensure their return to fulfill their duties. The Speaker highlighted the urgency of addressing pressing issues faced by Texas families and cited the growing cost of inaction.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am
House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- 324">The 2024 study from the Texas A&M Public Policy Research Institute found that when looking at state
- We are not an attorney representing the state for that purpose.
- I mean, they arrest somebody and charge them with trafficking at the state level.
- It happens all the time, actually, and it happens in other states.
- Other states have things they call expunction, but it's just nondisclosure.
Bills:
HB115, HB507, HB1765, HB1847, HB2046, HB2239, HB2328, HB2309, HB2417, HB2728, HB2794, HB3206, HB3566, HB3694, HB3744, HB4254, HB4697, HB4733, HB4915, HB5465, HB2813
Keywords:
habeas corpus, postconviction, criminal procedure, indigent defense, scientific evidence, legal representation, judicial power, indigent defense, capital felony, legal representation, criminal law, death penalty, attorney qualification, training standards, law enforcement, no-knock warrant, search warrant, criminal procedure, peace officer, indigent defense
Summary:
The committee meeting featured comprehensive discussions surrounding several significant bills aimed at reforming laws related to criminal justice and individual rights. Notable among the bills was HB2309, which intends to update the civil asset forfeiture laws in Texas, empowering the Attorney General's office to pursue forfeiture in serious cases like human trafficking and organized crime. Representative Villalba presented this bill, emphasizing the need for state-level resources to address broader criminal enterprises effectively. The bill's testimony included insights from witnesses associated with the Texas Attorney General's office who affirmed the necessity for such changes to enhance law enforcement's capabilities across jurisdictions.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the posture of the United States European Command and United States Africa Command in review of the Defense Authorization Request for fiscal year 2026 and the Future Years Defense Program; to be immediately followed by a closed he Apr 3rd, 2025 at 08:30 am
Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel
Transcript Highlights:
- and its thousands of varied nuclear weapons continue to pose an existential danger to the United States
- day, as Europe remains by far our largest trading partner and source of investment in the United States
NATO should be led by the United States, but Europe
You have made the United States safer.
- For decades, we have relied upon our State Department diplomats and the U.S.
Summary:
The committee convened to discuss various bills and hear testimonies related to legislative matters, including public concerns and implications surrounding the proposed legislation. Notably, the members engaged in a vigorous debate over SB4, where several representatives shared differing viewpoints on its impact on local communities and the environment. Public testimonies were heard, with advocates arguing for the bill's potential benefits, while opponents raised significant concerns regarding the fiscal implications and land use. Following these discussions, the committee moved to vote on HB2214, which passed without issue, illustrating the bipartisan support for certain initiatives tied to public welfare.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- the state request it, it's It's a cost of up to $50,000
- This bill has been filed, stating that the state has to pay
- It makes clear that the parties representing the state can pay that, so it costs local.
- An affidavit would be required that states the denial of
- Additionally, the substitute requires the courts to state the specific facts that support the court's
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 meeting involved significant discussions around several bills concerning property law and contractor protections. Notably, Senate Bill 1975 and Senate Bill 1734 were at the forefront, where SB1975 focused on protecting Texas contractors from being forced to litigate in foreign jurisdictions, ensuring local disputes are resolved within Texas. The testimony highlighted the need for such protections due to the previous challenges encountered by local contractors when large out-of-state entities imposed unfavorable contractual terms. The bill passed without any opposition during the committee session, highlighting its urgent importance for the local construction community.
In addition, the committee addressed Senate Bill 1734, which aims to provide property owners with a systematic approach to remedy deed fraud. This discussion included public testimonies shedding light on the recent rise in fraudulent deeds, emphasizing the need for legislative measures to streamline the rectification process. The public's input, especially from those in the title insurance industry, offered critical insights into the practical implications of the bill. The committee's deliberations were comprehensive and featured no substantial challenges to any of the bills, leading to a productive session overall.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Wouldn't we be better off stating that?
- The chair recognizes Judge Guy Herman on behalf of the State of Texas testifying for the bill.
- And you just said there are 2,300 historic designated cemeteries across the state?
- And perhaps the state needs to provide additional dollars for...
- These are real issues facing the justice courts across our state.
Bills:
HB1239, HB1990, HB1748, HB1749, HB2578, HB2986, HB1970, HB3163, HB2733, HB1922, HB113, HB1088, HB1938, HB3004, HB2637, HB2960
Keywords:
public health, access to healthcare, insurance reforms, medical expenses, healthcare providers, mental health, protective custody, preliminary examination, detention period, emergency circumstances, mental health, protective custody, detention period, emergency detention, legal framework, mental health, protective custody, detention, healthcare, emergency detention
Summary:
The committee meeting featured extensive deliberations on several bills, most notably House Bill 1110, concerning civil suits against individuals reporting suspicious activity in good faith, proposed by Chairman Shaheen. The committee expressed unanimous support for the bill, and it was reported to the full House without amendments. Additionally, House Bill 865, introduced by Speaker Moody, addressing civil liability related to firearm hold agreements, also garnered unanimous approval, underscoring a collaborative effort among committee members. Public testimony highlighted concerns regarding proposed bills, specifically criticisms of House Bill 1748, aimed at exempting municipal courts from language certification requirements, which raised significant opposition related to equitable access to justice for non-English speakers.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine interdicting illicit drug trafficking, focusing on a view from the front lines. Feb 26th, 2025 at 10:00 am
Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- that's why we're working together on legislation to stop illicit fentanyl smuggling in the United States
- That is to say, states like mine, Washington, and yours,
- /span>
Overdose deaths continue to rise in most western states
- We had the largest coordinated drug trafficking bust in Seattle: 600 officers from 10 different states
- Attorney, FBI, DEA, ATF, CBP, Washington State Patrol, the King County Sheriff's Office, and Bellevue
Keywords:
Coast Guard, maritime drug enforcement, illegal drugs, fentanyl crisis, legislative reforms, public testimony
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation addressed critical issues surrounding maritime drug enforcement and the Coast Guard's role in stopping the influx of illegal drugs. The chairman highlighted the alarming consequences of current policies allowing drugs to cross borders, emphasizing the need for legislative reforms, such as the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act of 2025. There was an intense discussion regarding the operational challenges faced by the Coast Guard, which has recently made significant drug seizures, indicating progress but also revealing gaps that need addressing. Several witnesses, including victims of the drug crisis, shared their compelling testimonies, which underscored the urgency for stricter controls and comprehensive support for law enforcement agencies involved in drug interdiction efforts.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
89th Legislative Session - First Called Session Aug 5th, 2025 at 01:08 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- >We thank you, Father, for allowing us to be part of the United States
- In this great state of Texas, Father, we thank you for the
- The Pledges of Allegiance to the United States and Texas flags
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States
State your inquiry.
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.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services May 19th, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- maybe, let's say, 50 or 60 years, do you know what percentage of school funding was provided by the state
- 414 ensures that voters receive a full financial picture of elections by requiring that the ballot state
- Have you consulted with any elections administrators or the Secretary of State?
For the second-largest state in the United States?
- You can name the state. I believe it's Seattle.
Keywords:
school funding, bonds, education, finance, Texas Education Code, public banks, bond proceeds, voter transparency, Texas legislation, Senate Bill 621, Senate Bill 414
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several key bills impacting public funds, particularly regarding the use of unspent bond proceeds and mandated transparency during bond elections. Notably, Senate Bill 621 was discussed, which seeks to prohibit political subdivisions from establishing public banks, emphasizing core governmental functions and preventing taxpayer exposure to financial risks. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted concerns about the appropriateness of using public funds for non-essential projects, which led to vigorous debate amongst committee members. Additionally, Senate Bill 414 was addressed, which requires clear disclosures about estimated interest costs in bond proposals, aiming to enhance voter awareness and accountability.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Jan 22nd, 2025 at 02:01 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Honorable Lauren Ashley Simmons of Harris County to lead us in the pledges of allegiance to the United States
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of
I pledge allegiance to the flag of the State of Texas,
- one state under God, one and indivisible.
- I pledge allegiance to the flag of the State of Texas, one state under God, one and indivisible.
Keywords:
SCR7, committee meeting, agency information session, Pledge of Allegiance, legislative engagement
Summary:
In this meeting, the committee convened to discuss SCR7. The session started with a prayer led by Honorable Gio Capriclione, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the flags. Members were reminded of the agency information sessions taking place during the week, providing opportunities for legislative engagement with constituents and agency leadership. The atmosphere was collegial, and members appeared engaged in the preliminary discussions.