Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'voting by mail'
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US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine S.124, to amend title 38, United States Code, to provide for disciplinary procedures for supervisors and managers at the Department of Veterans Affairs and to modify the procedures of personnel actions against employees of the Dep Mar 11th, 2025 at 09:30 am
Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- I can't guarantee by the end of the week. We will definitely comment on that.
- It's by the seat of your pants, and it's illegal.
- We've increased our budget by 85 percent. The PACT Act is really important, sir.
- It impacted not just the VA, and by the way, another 80,000 plus will be getting fired.
- By the time the administration is through, some 80,000, 90,000, or even 85,000 people.
Keywords:
Department of Veterans Affairs, disciplinary procedures, accountability, personnel actions, whistleblower protection, cancer study, veterans, military health, aircrew, mortality research, National Academies, exposure, health risks, veterans, mental health, community care, accessibility, treatment programs, substance abuse, appointments
Summary:
During the meeting, various members engaged in extensive discussions surrounding 15 proposed bills related to veterans' affairs. Notably, concerns regarding recent VA workforce changes sparked debates, particularly about potential cuts and their implications for veterans' care and benefits. Chairman Moran emphasized the need for thoughtful reforms and coordination with stakeholders, urging responsible measures to prevent negatively impacting service delivery. The meeting highlighted a significant bipartisan effort to enhance veterans' access to essential health services, particularly in light of recent challenges faced by the VA workforce. Senator Blumenthal's assertions about the urgent plight of veterans due to cuts in personnel drew strong reactions, showcasing the deep concern among committee members regarding the current state of veteran services.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 29th, 2025 at 04:08 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
Resolutions by Perez of El Paso are being referred, including
Additionally, HR109 by Leo Wilson is also being referred
The following resolutions by De Hiallo are being referred
HR120 by Wu, HR123 by Button, HR124 by Kitzman, and HR125
- by Flores.
Keywords:
resolutions, committee referrals, local governance, constitutional compliance, house procedures
Summary:
The meeting included procedural resolutions and referrals to various committees, covering topics such as constitutional compliance and absences within the House. Member discussions primarily revolved around resolutions HR 108 to HR 125, demonstrating a focus on local governance and procedural efficiency. The clerk read through numerous resolutions, which drew the attention of present members, suggesting active participation from the representatives in handling local matters.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Criminal Jurisprudence S/C New Offenses and Changed Penalties May 1st, 2025 at 08:05 am
Transcript Highlights:
- House Bill 544 addresses this gap by expanding the court's ability to impose consecutive sentences for
- In 2022, there were 492 assaults on public transit vehicles, as reported by the Urban Institute.
- HB 689 strengthens public transit safety by increasing penalties.
- This bill was brought to us by...
- Sir, you're welcome to film over there, but you've got to stay by that chair.
Keywords:
public safety, criminal penalties, HB544, vulnerable populations, child abuse, consecutive sentencing, HB689, elder abuse, public testimony
Summary:
The committee meeting primarily focused on discussing various bills addressing public safety and criminal penalties within Texas. Notable discussions included the introduction of HB544, which aims to expand consecutive sentencing for crimes against children and vulnerable adults. Representative Gervin Hawkins highlighted the urgent need for this legislation by referencing a shocking case in Bexar County involving severe abuse, illustrating the limitations of current law in imposing adequate penalties. The bill received public support and raised awareness of the ongoing issues surrounding the safety of vulnerable populations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
Created by the legislature in 1856, the Texas School
- government code section 2165.005, which requires that a proposed name may only be approved and authorized by
- concurrent resolution passed by the legislature and signed by the governor.
- That issue by requiring utilities to regularly explain how
- 828"> It requires licensing from TDLR and disclosures and protection for folks who are being scammed by
Keywords:
utilities, extraterritorial jurisdiction, development plat, water connection, land subdivision, local government, Texas energy fund, grants, loans, utilities, energy capacity, Supreme Court, constitutional amendment, judicial independence, Keep Nine, checks and balances, Texas beef, cattle industry, agricultural heritage, Texas strip steak
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on several Senate Concurrent Resolutions and Senate Bills. Notably, SCR8 was introduced to express Texas' strong opposition to the creation of a central bank digital currency, raising concerns about cybersecurity and privacy implications. There was no public testimony for or against, but committee members engaged in dialogue on its potential impact. Another highlight was SCR5, which proposed naming a gymnasium at the Texas School for the Deaf after Robert Rivas, recognizing his significant contributions. This sentiment garnered unanimous support from committee members, highlighting the importance of honoring legacies within the state educational system.
In addition, various bills concerning utilities were discussed, particularly SB1566, which clarifies utility connection requirements, and SB1036, aiming to regulate the solar panel sales industry to protect consumers. The discussions reflected a commitment to enhance transparency in utility rate changes and impose stricter regulations on the solar market to prevent consumer fraud. Overall, the meeting showcased a collaborative approach to addressing pressing legislative matters, with an emphasis on consumer protection and legacy recognition.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- 342"> The rules that each standing committee is using during this legislative session were developed by
- DPS seizures of fentanyl increased by 1,272 percent.
- Legal border crossings by 90% to ensure we have every tool
We now work side-by-side with Border Patrol agents
- Y'all set us up to be able to deal with this threat by adding...
Keywords:
Operation Lone Star, border security, Texas Military Department, drug smuggling, federal policy, apprehensions, public safety, human trafficking
Summary:
The meeting of the Border Security Committee was marked by intensive discussions surrounding the ongoing initiatives related to Operation Lone Star. Members shared updates on border security measures, underscoring the significant operational changes resulting from shifts in federal policies. General Salter provided extensive insights into the deployment of state resources, highlighting the 5,000 active personnel engaged in various border control operations. The various strategies employed for enhancing surveillance and interdicting drug smuggling were also covered, emphasizing the importance of strong collaboration between state and federal agencies.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Agriculture & Livestock Mar 18th, 2025 at 02:00 pm
House Agriculture & Livestock Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- The bill clarifies propagation rules, allowing farmers to expand by
- I think this would clean up the industry tremendously by imposing harsher penalties for those who are
- By happenstance, our county extension agent found it.
- An online system proposed by House Bill 147 will allow...
- We've got a lot of big ranchers that could do it, but they oppose tracking by the state.
Keywords:
hemp, agriculture, research permit, cannabis regulation, criminal offense, administrative penalty, hemp regulation, Texas agriculture, hemp research permit, administrative penalties, cannabis standards, hemp regulation, agriculture, research permit, criminal offense, administrative penalty, hemp, agriculture, research, regulation
Summary:
The Committee on Agriculture and Livestock convened to address several pressing bills concerning agriculture, food systems, and hemp regulation in Texas. Notable discussions revolved around HB1113, which focuses on the production and regulation of hemp, ensuring alignment with federal regulations. Testimonies from various stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Hemp Coalition, indicated broad support for the bill, citing its potential to enhance agricultural practices and promote research. Additionally, members expressed concerns regarding the implications of food insecurity, advocating for HB1203, aimed at establishing an Office of Food Systems Security and Resiliency to address access to nutritious foods across Texas.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the President's 2025 trade policy agenda. Apr 8th, 2025 at 09:00 am
Senate Finance Committee
Transcript Highlights:
We can restore faith in free markets by making it easier
Free trade by definition must be reciprocal.
Free trade by definition must be reciprocal.
Free trade by definition must be reciprocal.
Free trade by definition must be reciprocal.
Keywords:
tariffs, Trump administration, economy, public testimony, trade policy, market access, export controls
Summary:
The meeting focused on various significant topics concerning the recent tariff policies and their wide-ranging implications on the American economy. Members expressed their concerns regarding the negative impact of increased tariffs as proposed by the Trump administration, with specific emphasis on how families might suffer from higher costs and market access issues. The discussion was lively, with members questioning the clarity of the tariff plan and raising concerns about its potential effects on small businesses and American exports.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Closed hearings to examine the posture of United States Indo-Pacific Command and United States Forces Korea in review of the Defense Authorization Request for fiscal year 2026 and the Future Years Defense Program; to be immediately followed by an ope Apr 10th, 2025 at 07:00 am
Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel
Transcript Highlights:
China's vast maritime militia, backed by the PLA Navy
- /p>
Even so, it is clear that the Chinese have been emboldened by
- As I mentioned, I am encouraged by the recent progress we have seen.
- Thus, we must continue to manage the threat posed by North Korea.
- However, that must be backed up by the real capability to prevail in combat.
Keywords:
Indo-Pacific Command, U.S. military strategy, China military drills, Taiwan, Philippines, North Korea, defense budget, military modernization
Summary:
The meeting focused on significant strategic discussions regarding the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and its military posture in the region. Admiral Paparo and General Brunson were commended for their services, with the Chair noting an alarming shift in the balance of power towards China. Key topics included China's aggressive military drills near Taiwan, the increasing coercion against the Philippines, and the need for the U.S. to reaffirm its commitments to its allies in the region. Concerns were raised regarding China's military modernization and its implications for U.S. forces, alongside discussions on North Korea's threats and its burgeoning nuclear capabilities. The committee emphasized the urgent need for military and defense appropriations to counteract these growing security challenges.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- p> ...are being misused by
So House Bill 5169 addresses this issue by introducing
- Continue to lead by empowering our businesses, rewarding
- The fiscal note on the bill that was posted yesterday by the LBB projects a GRR.
- ...taxes paid by the top two household income quintiles,
Bills:
HB105, HB982, HB1483, HB1508, HB2575, HB3646, HB3993, HB4083, HB4580, HB4725, HB5169, HB5511, HJR73, HJR102, HJR174, HB3746, HB4240
Keywords:
economic development, job creation, energy, tax incentives, technology investment, ad valorem taxes, elderly, disabled, low-income, tax limitation, homesteads, Texas Tax Code, tax proceeds, horse industry, escalated purse account, agriculture, economic impact, homeowners associations, sales tax exemption, property information
Summary:
The meeting was focused on various legislative discussions, particularly centered around environmental initiatives and tax incentives. Notable discussions occurred regarding HB3746, which aims to grant sales tax exemptions for power generation equipment, a proposal that sparked significant engagement among members. Representative Darby, who championed the bill, emphasized its limited scope and potential benefits to Texas businesses. The session was lively, with members exchanging views on the implications of the bill on the local economy and the environment. Public testimony was invited to weigh in on this matter, further enriching the dialogue.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources Apr 24th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- the board, subject to appropriation, to encourage the development of large-scale conveyance projects by
- span marker="19" data-time="108"> And recommendations relating to transporting water made available by
- span marker="22" data-time="126">Through this bill, we prioritize small, rural, and failing utilities by
It enhances legislative oversight by streamlining and
- I first want to start by thanking the chairman and his team for their ongoing leadership during this
Bills:
SB7
Keywords:
water infrastructure, financial assistance, Texas Water Development Board, water supply, environmental sustainability, Senate Bill 7, water infrastructure, testimony, flood infrastructure, water reuse, legislative oversight, environmental sustainability
Summary:
The committee meeting primarily focused on Senate Bill 7, which aims to enhance Texas's water infrastructure amid growing population and environmental challenges. Various stakeholders, including representatives from engineering firms, environmental organizations, and water associations, testified in support of the bill, emphasizing its potential to address pressing water supply issues and improve infrastructure reliability. Key topics of discussion included water reuse, flood infrastructure funding, and the need for legislative oversight to ensure effective management of financial resources. The testimony underscored the importance of adapting to aging water systems while promoting innovative solutions for sustainability.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- four programs, only two—the air cut loan program and the completion bonus program—have been set up by
- "37" data-time="216"> Turning to page 6, items 2 pertain to an overview of exceptional items funded by
- by Governor Abbott in August 2023.
- statute and by our rules.
- We are required by statute to perform those reviews, and the MPDB queries assist...
Bills:
SB1
Keywords:
appropriations, budget, state funding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, Senate Committee on Finance, Public Utility Commission, Texas Energy Fund, budget recommendations, state energy needs, increased staffing, regulatory oversight
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Finance focused on reviewing budget recommendations from various agencies, particularly the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Significant discussions included the authorization of an additional $5 billion for the Texas Energy Fund, which was noted as a critical component for managing the state's energy needs. Chairman Thomas Gleason highlighted the importance of funding for regulatory and oversight roles, ensuring that the PUC continues to effectively manage Texas's growing electricity and water demands. Additionally, representatives from various agencies presented their specific funding requests, emphasizing the need for increased staff to handle rising workloads and maintain efficiency.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Senate Bill 2847 by Senator Hagen-Buch.
By reducing the barriers to completion and allowing core
- marker="49" data-time="288"> institutions which annually reject thousands of credit hours submitted by
- to the cost of taking all of these duplicative, or I won't say wasteful, these extra core resources by
- And I'd like to get something by Monday of next week in terms of exactly what the progress has been.
Keywords:
higher education, transfer students, education transparency, academic credit, institutional reporting, Senate Committee on Education, SB2846, SB2847, higher education, curricula flexibility, workforce alignment, student transfer
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
Health and Human Services (Part II) Apr 9th, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- span marker="31" data-time="180"> The anesthesia is a medical procedure, which is usually performed by
- Parents in the room, okay, that's kind of gone by the wayside also.
- The posting of criminal activity should also assist residents by making them aware of activity where
- We appreciate this careful approach adopted by the committee.
- I appreciate the work by Senator Parker.
Bills:
SB227, SB269, SB407, SB463, SB527, SB547, SB1283, SB1380, SB1383, SB1511, SB1640, SB1784, SB2069
Keywords:
school funding, education reform, state budget, property taxes, equity in education, healthcare policy, vaccines, exemptions, religious beliefs, public health, workplace violence, healthcare facilities, definition expansion, safety regulations, health and safety code, health insurance, anesthesia, pediatric dental services, coverage, medical necessity
Summary:
The meeting of the committee covered critical discussions focused on several key bills aimed at enhancing safety and improving healthcare access for vulnerable populations, particularly seniors and pediatric patients. The members heard testimony in support of SB1283, with Lieutenant Jonathan Blanchard from the Dallas Police Department advocating for the bill as a means to ensure safer environments in senior facilities by instituting criminal history checks for employees. Carmen Tilton from the Texas Assisted Living Association also highlighted the bill's balance between safety and privacy, showing strong support from various stakeholders. Additionally, the committee discussed SB527, which addresses the challenges of obtaining insurance coverage for general anesthesia required for pediatric dental procedures. Experts testified about the urgent need for reform to prevent potential health crises in children and to streamline care access for parents.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband Mar 24th, 2025 at 10:03 am
House S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband
Transcript Highlights:
- and across our state, especially in rural, remote, and underserved areas, are significantly affected by
- agenda today in order for us to get level set, and I want to begin, before we go into our witnesses, by
- So let's begin by calling our first guest, and the chair calls
- It actually still exists and is used by a very small percentage here in Texas and in other rural areas
- just overall network quality that are often referred to by
Keywords:
broadband access, telecommunications, Texas, rural connectivity, infrastructure, public testimony
Summary:
The Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Broadband convened for its inaugural meeting, focusing on the critical issue of broadband access in Texas. The committee aimed to understand the current landscape of broadband provision, identify barriers to connectivity, and discuss how state and federal programs can facilitate access across all demographics, particularly in rural and underserved areas. The chair emphasized that high-speed internet is now a necessity for constituents rather than a luxury, as it supports various sectors including small businesses and healthcare systems. The meeting featured testimonies from twelve witnesses who provided insights on the broadband situation and potential solutions to the challenges faced.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Mar 17th, 2025 at 10:00 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- It was found that these crimes were being committed by the same group or individuals.
- By age 40, members.
- Thank you for the opportunity to testify in support of HB 618, presented by Representative Wally, which
- data-time="864"> In my personal practice, I was in the role of taking care of women who are pregnant by
- And it's sold by a third party, and it's...
Keywords:
financial crime, card fraud, motor fuel theft, law enforcement, criminal activity, skimmers, prevention, training, credit card fraud, debit card fraud, prosecution, illegal possession, state law, transportation protection agreement, funeral services, insurance exemption, regulation, deceased transportation, mental health, substance use disorders
Summary:
The meeting of the Committee on Pensions, Investments, and Financial Services convened to discuss various bills aimed at enhancing financial governance and protections in Texas. Notably, Representative Perez laid out House Bill 201, which proposes expanding the scope of the Financial Crimes Intelligence Center to combat organized financial crimes, such as motor fuel theft. This bill garnered significant support from witnesses, including Captain Jeff Headley from the Financial Crimes Intelligence Center, who highlighted the urgent need for legislative measures to address increasing thefts that impact both consumers and state revenue. Subsequently, testimony from several members elucidated the impact of these crimes, emphasizing their detrimental effects on Texas' economic stability. The committee members expressed their interest in the advancements in tackling such issues through the proposed legislation.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine opportunities to strengthen water infrastructure programs, focusing on the IIJA's successes. Apr 30th, 2025 at 09:00 am
Senate Environment and Public Works Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- "107" data-time="1272"> Federal funding and oversight are important, but implementation must be led by
- shifted away from that balance that Congress intended between federal support and state leadership by
- /span>
Enacting policies that are not consistently driven by
- Future funding should be accompanied by streamlined federal guidance and simplified reporting.
- I mean, in Michigan, we want to be lead-free by 2037.
Keywords:
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, water infrastructure, lead service lines, federal reauthorization, sustainability, cybersecurity
Summary:
The meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and its implications for local water systems. Various witnesses highlighted the transformative impact of the bipartisan infrastructure law, which has provided an unprecedented amount of funding to help address long-standing issues in drinking water infrastructure, particularly concerning lead service line replacements and sustainability in water management. The discussions emphasized the urgent need for federal reauthorization to continue supporting these initiatives, as many rural and disadvantaged communities still face substantial barriers in upgrading their water systems. Additionally, cybersecurity risks were noted, raising concerns over the vulnerability of water systems across the nation.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Senate Bill 7 by Middleton and Kolkhorst, relating to the designation
State Affairs by Perry, relating to the provision by a
Senate Bill 15 by.
Motion by Senator Zaffirini. Any objection?
Keywords:
biological sex, privacy, civil penalties, public facilities, women's shelters, water conservation, impact fees, reuse projects, builders, developers, law enforcement, employee misconduct, department file, personnel records, confidentiality, real property, recording requirements, county clerk, photo identification, property law
Summary:
The meeting discussed two main bills, SB7 and SB15, focusing on various legislative matters including the designation of spaces according to biological sex and the recording requirements for real property documents. Notable discussions included the implications of SB7 regarding gender-specific facilities which sparked interest among members of the committee. The presentation of both bills prompted questions regarding their impacts on state affairs and real estate processes. The session featured a motion to recess until a later date, indicating the committee's intention to revisit these topics for further deliberation.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
89th Legislative Session - First Called Session Aug 4th, 2025 at 02:08 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- I'm directed by the Senate to introduce into the House SCR number one.
- The clerk will read the bills:
HP number one by King, relating
Select HB number 18 by Bond, relating to the authority
Select HB number 19 by Darby, relating to...
Select HB number 2020 by Darby, relating to certain measures
Bills:
HB4
Keywords:
redistricting, congressional districts, Texas Legislature, elections, 2020 Census, disaster preparedness, emergency communication, flood disaster plans, fraudulent charitable solicitations, legislation, committee meeting
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on key legislative initiatives related to disaster preparedness. Notable discussions included the introduction of HP1, which addresses response training for justices of the peace in mass fatality events, and HB18, which seeks to enhance emergency communication systems funding through the comptroller's authority. Both bills were referred to the committee on disaster preparedness and flooding for further analysis. Additionally, the committee discussed HB19, concerning flood disaster plans for campgrounds, and HB2020, aimed at preventing fraudulent charitable solicitations during disasters by establishing a certification program for relief organizations.
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:
- According to an analysis by Texas A&M, withdrawing from the
- Should the tomato suspension agreement be terminated by the U.S.
- marker="88" data-time="522"> And it is the number one selling snacking tomato in the whole country, by
- Please help Texans by passing this resolution.
- I am humbled by the opportunity to address you this morning regarding HCR.
Keywords:
Tomato Suspension Agreement, trade, Mexico, Texas economy, agriculture, import tariffs, job preservation, Taiwan, U.S. relations, trade, economic cooperation, sister-state, HCR108, HCR127, tomato suspension agreement, Texas economy, food security, trade policy, testimony, public hearings
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.