Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'freedom of speech'

Page 59 of 63
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance May 25th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Members, we are going to take up a couple of items of pending

  • I'm going to say I want some of that.

  • First, it extends the length of the initial term from 16 years to 20 years.
  • I remember the split was 80-20; I'd kind of landed at 60-40.
  • the duration of a state of disaster declared under Chapter 418.
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.
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:
  • It's a topic of interest to members on both sides of the aisle.
  • several global debates, particularly concerning the growing influence of China and Russia.
  • Indeed, much of the history of our nation was formed

  • part of 14 states, many of which are represented on this committee today.
  • The acquisition of Greenland is not about military force; it's about diplomacy and negotiation.
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

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

89th Legislative Session - First Called Session Jul 30th, 2025 at 09:07 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • the districts for the election of members of the United States House of Representatives from the State
  • of Texas.
  • In front of the Committee on Congressional Redistricting

  • :

    Select HB5 by Vandever, relating to the regulation of

  • to prosecute criminal offenses prescribed by the election laws of the State.
Summary: During the meeting, the committee addressed several key pieces of legislation, including discussions about HB4, which pertains to the congressional redistricting process, and HB5, focusing on the regulation of hemp products. Other bills, such as HB11 and HB13, were also introduced, with members expressing varying levels of support and concerns regarding their implications. Public testimony was not featured heavily during this session, but the members engaged in thorough discussions about the potential impacts of the proposed bills, especially in terms of public safety and environmental concerns. The session concluded with the committee preparing to reconvene later in the day to continue their deliberations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • This bill is about the proof of the identity of a child's parents in a suit affecting the parent-child
  • He's the Senator of the Committee Substitute. Wow.
  • This is one additional judgeship to each of the First and Eleventh Divisions.
  • That's the end of a long day. Yes, sir.
  • And I'm thankful to each member of their teams.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on multiple bills, with notable discussions occurring primarily around HB1916, HB1973, HB2524, HB2530, and HB3180. Each bill was moved forward favorably to the full Senate, reflecting a collaborative spirit among committee members. Senator Johnson took the lead on several bills, advocating for their passage and ensuring that proper substitutes were adopted where necessary. The meeting witnessed a smooth flow of discussions, with all proposed bills being approved without significant opposition. Additionally, there was a sense of urgency as members sought to clear the agenda efficiently.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • span>

    Senator Gillibrand raises a point about the implications of

  • In fact, if we do our jobs here, the problems we worry about today will be solved long before any of
  • The government of Communist China has chosen to be America's enemy. Unfortunately, that is true.
  • Chinese Communist Party, you are at risk of losing every dollar.
  • China, Alibaba, and Baidu are still listed on American exchanges in clear violation of U.S. law.
Summary: The meeting primarily addressed concerns regarding the impact of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) on American investments and the financial security of retirees. The chair discussed legislation aimed at ensuring the protection of American investors against the risks posed by Chinese companies. There was a consensus among the members regarding the necessity to enforce existing policies that require compliance from foreign companies wishing to trade on American exchanges. The discussion included testimony from various stakeholders highlighting the urgent need to limit exposure to the CCP in retirement portfolios. Additionally, there were calls for increased accountability of regulatory bodies such as the SEC to better shield American investors from potential loss.
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 dereliction of basic sovereignty left the Coast Guard in an impossible position.
  • Just last week, it offloaded 37,000 pounds of seized cocaine worth $279 million.
  • I'm so sorry for your loss of your son Jake. You are such a brave advocate, and thank you.
  • Of the 10 states with the highest number of drug-related

  • Chairman, the jurisdiction of our committee to have oversight over transportation security.
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 Regular

Local Government Mar 13th, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Water districts receive millions and billions of dollars, and they have...
  • It's a matter of compliance.
  • ...billions of dollars.
  • The chair lays out Senate Bill 1025 as a matter of pending business.
  • I'd like to be shown voting in favor of Senate Bill 1106.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Local Government focused on the examination and recommendation of various bills, most notably Senate Bills 15, 65, 241, 304, 402, and 850. Senator Bettencourt, the committee chair, guided discussions through a series of motions for the recommendation of these bills, with many passing without objection. Key topics included financial compliance for local governments in relation to state-funded loans and the implementation of uniform timelines for property tax refunds. Senators Middleton and Nicholls each made contributions regarding changes to various bills, illustrating collaborative efforts to refine the legislative proposals.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Finance Aug 15th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It's a combination of the elimination of the STAR test and the Texas A through F accountability system
  • The beginning of the year, middle of the year, and end of the
  • Madam Chair and members, Senate Bill 15, the same bill we passed out of the body.
  • All right, any questions of Senator West?

  • And it passed out of the Senate unanimously.
Bills: SB2, SB3, SB5, SB9, SB10, SB14, SB16, SB34, SB18
Summary: The committee meeting covered multiple bills, primarily focusing on flood relief initiatives and education reforms. Senator Bettencourt presented SB3, detailing updates to the state's flood warning system. He expressed that the bill's objective is to enhance early warning systems funded through the governor's office. Public testimony was opened but no individuals expressed their opinion, leading to a smooth progression as the bill was reported favorably to the Senate. Additionally, Senator Perry discussed SB14, which aims to provide impact fee credits to cities to encourage innovative water conservation efforts. This bill mirrored previous legislation passed last session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Session Jan 22nd, 2025

Texas Senate Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • upon those in our state who are dealing with the challenges of the weather.
  • We ask for your hand of protection across our state for

  • presence of the Senate.
  • of the Senate.
  • certain items of historical value to administration.
Bills: SJR36, SB1, SJR36, SB1
Summary: This meeting of the Senate included the introduction and discussion of several key legislative items, notably SJR36, which proposes a constitutional amendment pertaining to the preservation of historical items, and SB1, the general appropriations act for financing. The session was notably affected by inclement weather, as members were advised about travel conditions and attendance was impacted as a result. There were specific discussions led by Senator Hall regarding the significance of the proposed amendment, with emphasis on the importance of historical conservation in the state.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • character during this whole period of time.
  • I have plenty of examples to show what's wrong with the FBI.
  • Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation hid.
  • Patel was attacked by the media and the Department of Justice.
  • One of my colleagues suggested that Mr.
Bills: SB331
Summary: In this committee meeting, the primary focus was on the nomination of Kash Patel for the position of director of the FBI, which had sparked considerable debate over the past week. Members discussed the extensive vetting process Patel underwent, including a lengthy hearing where he addressed numerous questions, which emphasized his qualifications and the support he received from various law enforcement organizations. The meeting included significant arguments from both sides, reflecting the polarized nature of the nomination, especially regarding the allegations made against Patel by some committee members. As discussions continued, the committee decided to hold off on the Fentanyl Act, listed as S331, until the next meeting, indicating a prioritization of the nomination vote over new legislative measures at this time.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • marker="1" data-time="0"> We care for children with remarkable needs, and we are the only facility of
  • our kind in the state of Texas and one of very few nationwide.
  • A greater portion of Truman's revenue comes from Medicaid.
  • However, thanks to the efforts of the legislature, Truman

  • I'm a small business owner, and I own Angel's at Home and of Course Canada Tech.
Summary: The meeting of the committee included extensive discussions regarding the sustainability of health facilities serving vulnerable populations, particularly focusing on reimbursement rates for services provided. The testimony highlighted the challenges faced by providers due to past inadequacies in Medicaid reimbursement methodologies, which have resulted in financial strains on their operations. Members of the committee engaged with the testimonies, seeking clarification on the implications of proposed adjustments to reimbursement rates and the potential impacts on service quality for the most fragile Texans.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • And it's not going to be the Secretary of Labor, it's not going to be the Secretary of the Food and Drug
  • half of it.
  • Musk has ordered HHS, the Department of Labor, and the Department of Education to fire employees, hand
  • Labor, and how many of those are veterans?
  • He requests the Department of Labor's Office of Assistant
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on various executive nominations and their implications on labor and health affairs. Significant discussions surrounded the nomination of Mr. Sonderling as the Deputy Secretary of Labor, with members expressing concerns about workforce cuts affecting veterans and Social Security employees. There was also a debate led by a member regarding the authority and influence of private individuals, specifically citing Elon Musk's involvement in government decisions. Such discussions raised questions about transparency and accountability within governmental agencies, leading to a proposal for Mr. Musk to provide testimony before the committee.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural ResourcesAudio only. Apr 9th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Senator Sparks moves adoption of the committee substitute

  • The Chair lays out as a matter of pending business Senate

  • their facility to inform the public of the applicant's intent to obtain a permit.
  • the public participation permit portion of the current requirements of a standard permit.
  • Are there questions of the author?

Summary: The Senate Committee on Natural Resources meeting addressed several key bills, including SB1150, SB2122, SB1757, and SB2050. A notable discussion involved the adoption of a committee substitute for SB1757 led by Senator Bergamot, focusing on improving public meeting regulations associated with permit applications. This modification aims to enhance transparency by replacing 'public hearing' with 'public meeting' and ensuring residents are informed through posted signs. The committee also emphasized the importance of public comment periods remaining open longer, thus increasing public engagement in the permitting process. Overall, the tone was collaborative, with members working together to refine legislation based on stakeholder feedback.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Economic DevelopmentAudio only. Apr 15th, 2025

Senate Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That is a matter of pending business.

  • Adoption of the committee substitute?
  • The chair lays it out as a matter of pending business.
  • Now the chair lays out as a matter of pending business, Senate Bill 2448.
  • Is there any objection to the adoption of the committee substitute?
Summary: This meeting of the Senate committee focused on the review and approval of multiple bills, primarily Senate Bill 1143, Senate Bill 1534, and Senate Bill 2448, among others. Senator Sparks led the discussions, presenting committee substitutes to streamline various legislative proposals. The committee adopted several substitutes unanimously, which indicates a strong consensus among committee members regarding the amendments made to the original bills. All bills were favorably reported to the full Senate with recommendations for approval and certification, reflecting a productive session.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II)Audio only. May 5th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • As a matter of pending business, the chair lays out Senate

  • Is there an objection to the adoption of the substitute?
  • As a matter of pending business, full Senate, all right

  • As a matter of pending business, the chair lays out Senate Bill
  • With great thanks to each of you, especially this time of year.

Summary: During the committee meeting, a range of bills were discussed, with several being reported favorably for further consideration by the full Senate. Notably, Senate Bill 2403 was moved by Senator Middleton and adopted without objection. Additionally, Senate Bill 1888, concerning jury selection in certain counties, also gained unanimous approval. The committee expressed clear support for Senator Hagen's Senate Bill 2943 regarding discrimination against occupational license holders, which was substituted and reported favorably. Furthermore, House Bill 1393, proposed by Representative Metcalfe to establish year-round daylight saving time, also received a positive recommendation and was adopted with only a few dissenting votes.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • Utility District Number One, consisting of just under 3,500 acres in Williamson County.
  • of the recommendation to do pass and be printed.
  • affected landowners have signed a letter of support.
  • As a matter of pending business, there is a proposed committee substitute.
  • There was also part of the bill that had statewide impact after testimony.
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on the review and recommendations for several bills concerning utility districts and development projects. Among the key bills discussed was HB5671, which updates the Johnson County Special Utility District's provisions to accommodate rapid county growth. Chairman's call for public testimony on various bills indicated broad community interest, though many bills advanced without opposition. Notably, HB5694, aiming to create the Fannin County Improvement District, illustrated strong legislative support, gaining a swift recommendation to pass without any public testimony against it. Additionally, HB5696 saw a proposed committee substitute that resulted from the feedback regarding its statewide implications, highlighting the committee's responsiveness to community concerns regarding localized impacts.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The purpose of today's hearing is to consider pending business
  • Members, I'm going to try to go kind of quick because I

  • The chair lays out as a matter of pending business Senate Bill 1728.
  • for their importance and none of our ports are unintentionally overlooked.
  • Senator Schwartner moves adoption of the committee substitute.
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.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Local Government Apr 22nd, 2025

Senate Local Government Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We have a couple of members inbound.

  • With the additional homestead exemption of SB 4, this will
  • I am strongly in favor of both of these bills.
  • One of the foundations of the Lincoln Land Institute is targeted tax relief.
  • day, one of you will believe me.
Bills: SB23, SJR85
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee focused on significant property tax legislation, predominantly revolving around SB23 and HJR85, both introduced by Senator Bettencourt. These proposals aim to enhance the homestead exemption for senior and disabled taxpayers, raising it from $10,000 to $60,000. Senator Bettencourt expressed enthusiasm about the potential impact of these bills, which he emphasized as the most significant tax relief measure for seniors in Texas in decades. The discussion included estimated savings of $950 per qualifying homeowner, which drew positive remarks from committee members regarding the importance of making property taxes more manageable for vulnerable populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships May 19th, 2025 at 02:05 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • to appropriately handle confidentiality, attorney-client privilege, and how this original parameters of
  • As a part of this study, it must include an examination

  • of the effects of the supporter's involvement in legal proceedings on attorney-client privilege and
  • of privilege or other existing protections.
  • Are there any questions from the members of the committee?
Bills: SB66
Summary: The meeting focused on Senate Bill 66, which addresses supportive decision-making agreements for individuals with disabilities. The bill aims to provide an alternative to full guardianship, allowing those with the ability to make their own choices the supportive assistance they may need. There was a discussion about the implications of authorizing such a supporter during legal proceedings, especially concerning confidentiality and attorney-client privilege. Some concerns were raised regarding how these agreements would work in practice, prompting the committee to consider conducting a study on these legal and ethical implications before proceeding further.

Research Filters

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