Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'DPS'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections May 15th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • And as DPS has testified before this committee repeatedly, it has done so.
  • It also directs the Secretary of State to work with DPS and the Department of Information Resources to
  • ...do this through the Department of Public Safety (DPS)
  • of which have been heard in this committee before, either through the Department of Public Safety (DPS
  • data-time="6120">Well, right now we don't get an original signature from the Department of Public Safety (DPS
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Elections covered several significant bills, particularly focusing on election integrity and voter registration processes. Notable discussions included the challenges posed by election irregularities and the introduction of electronic voter registration aimed at enhancing efficiency and security. Representative Swanson presented SB 505, which would strengthen oversight in election irregularities, while HB 311, discussed in detail, proposed an electronic voter registration system modeled after successful implementations in other states. Both bills sparked robust discussions among committee members and witnesses, highlighting various perspectives on improving electoral processes. The members indicated a shared goal of maintaining transparency and accountability in Texas elections, though differing opinions on specific measures were apparent throughout the meeting. The meeting adjourned with many bills left pending, awaiting further consideration as the committee seeks a consensus.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 14th, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • In order to operate a motor vehicle, DPS must establish a system
  • That's 60,000 visits to the DPS that would be eliminated

  • span marker="46" data-time="270">It also creates the authorization for the revocation of authority by DPS
  • ...registry created by Texas last session, which empowers DPS
  • After consultation with DPS and TxDOT, both parties have
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Transportation Committee included crucial discussions surrounding various bills pertaining to transportation and public safety. Notably, House Bill 647 was presented to streamline the process for individuals who have undergone corrective eye surgery, allowing them to update their driver's licenses without needing to visit the Department of Public Safety in person. This bill was celebrated for potentially decreasing traffic at DMV offices and optimizing resources, with members expressing general support and a positive sentiment surrounding its passage. Additionally, public testimony was gathered for House Bill 2003, concerning high-speed rail projects, where witnesses voiced differing opinions, emphasizing the bill's relevance to current transit challenges and community impacts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • the DPS employees.
  • supporting DPS communities.
  • So the DPS Foundation was founded in 2011.
  • Richard is Gayatri Vasan Qasim, testifying on behalf of DPS.
  • I'm with the Driver License Division at Texas DPS.
Summary: The meeting of the Committee covered various bills with a notable focus on HB3426, which aims to modernize how Texans access and present their driver's license by introducing a digital option. Testimonies from proponents highlighted the convenience and necessity of making identification more accessible in a digital age, while security and privacy concerns around the potential for data mishandling were also addressed. Additional discussions included HB3033, which proposes a donation mechanism for non-profits supporting Department of Public Safety employees, reinforcing community support for those in service.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V Feb 26th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V

Transcript Highlights:
  • Item 2 discusses DPS facility.

  • DPS is always on the front line of every one of those that I just mentioned.
  • The training academy at Florence was really a critical need for DPS.
  • We have DPS employees all over San Antonio.
  • What has DPS done to ensure that that doesn't happen again?
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on the operations and budgetary recommendations for the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). Key discussions included addressing the backlog of driver's licenses, recruitment challenges within the department, and strategies to enhance public safety amidst rising crime rates and border security issues. Representatives discussed specific budget requests aimed at improving infrastructure, recruiting more officers, and enhancing technological capabilities to better handle crime data and public safety operations. The urgency of training law enforcement personnel and the need for modernized facilities were also highlighted as critical issues. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to reviewing the impacts of the recent data breach involving driver's licenses and the measures installed post-incident to protect personal data. Public comments reflected support and concerns about the ongoing challenges DPS faces in managing resources and expectations related to law enforcement and public service. The meeting concluded with plans to reconvene for further discussions on the proposed initiatives.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • We worked with DPS on what it would look like.
  • This is specifically for DPS.
  • All right, moving forward to DPS.
  • So we worked with DPS on what it would look like.
  • This is specifically for DPS.
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee focused primarily on discussions surrounding the details of HB1, along with recommendations regarding law enforcement stipends. Several members expressed their concerns about updating the stipends to address discrepancies with local law enforcement agencies and enhance competitiveness. The conversation also touched on the technical adjustments and modifications needed for the current funding proposals, affirming a collaborative approach to managing the agency's budget and needs. Members expressed appreciation for each other's hard work and laid out future meeting plans to review riders and finalize recommendations for the chairman.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs May 7th, 2025 at 10:05 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Is DPS going to be administering the program?
  • It seems like it's not a DPS function, so I'm just curious why it's coming from DPS.
  • So, Chairman, DPS, as you know, probably has...
  • is not abnormal for DPS to do that.
  • This bill would allow DPS to begin re-centralizing its maintenance and bringing it back under DPS and
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on the discussion and voting of various bills, with significant attention given to HB2082, which addresses the definition of short barrel firearms, and HB5528, related to the establishment of the Texas Law Enforcement Crisis Prevention Task Force. Chairman Heffner led the meeting, facilitating discussions that included debates on several bills and their implications. Notably, HB3626 concerning coroners' state benefits saw a unanimous vote supporting its passage. Public testimony highlighted the impacts of these legislative efforts, particularly in relation to law enforcement's operational effectiveness and community safety initiatives.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security (Part II) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • maintenance and bring it back under DPS and one roof.
  • DPS spends $2.7 million, Mr. Chairman, annually.

  • DPS getting parts a lot quicker and utilizing the current contracts.
  • Thank you for the Texas DPS aircraft operations.
  • ...maintained by Texas DPS employees.
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around several significant legislative proposals, notably focusing on SB2201, which aims to enhance intelligence databases to tackle organized crime, including street gangs and terrorist organizations. Senator Birdwell led the discussions by emphasizing the need for strong measures to adapt to the evolving landscape of criminal activity in Texas and proposed key amendments designed to strengthen accountability for law enforcement. Members engaged in detailed conversations with testimonies supporting the bill's intention to safeguard civil liberties while bolstering law enforcement's ability to manage public safety concerns effectively. Additionally, SB2200 and SB2199 were discussed and subsequently passed favorably to the full Senate following committee substitutions that addressed minor drafting corrections and compliance with federal standards.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security (Part I) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I want to thank all of our incredible men and women at DPS.
  • The men and women in DPS are heroes and do an amazing job.
  • And I know that DPS has concerns about this. Can you explain a little bit more?
  • We, of course, take DPS seriously. Any private sector entity that we contract with...
  • What standards is DPS looking into to protect Texas citizens' privacy?
Bills: SB36, SB2202
Summary: The Senate Committee on Border Security convened to discuss SB36, which aims to establish a Homeland Security Division within the Department of Public Safety. Senator Parker presented the bill, highlighting its intent to consolidate various homeland security operations to enhance coordination across federal, state, and local levels. Notable discussions revolved around the bill's focus on border security, critical infrastructure protection, and emergency preparedness. Testimonies from law enforcement officials and security experts emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration and the integration of advanced technologies in ensuring Texas’ safety against transnational threats and local criminal activity.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources May 12th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • At this time, the Chair will call Colonel Freeman from Texas DPS. Colonel, welcome.
  • Omar Bittler-Real, DPS.
  • Major, how often does DPS encounter trucks operating off the permit?
  • I'm very educational, listening to the DPS.
  • like that the DPS gentlemen were describing.
Bills: SB290, SB2949
Summary: The meeting featured robust discussions surrounding several bills, particularly focusing on HB2 and SB2949, which aim to establish better regulations for gas facilities and address concerns over fuel transportation. Representative Rosenthal introduced HB2, explaining its intent to improve protocols for gas installations, and shared a personal account of safety concerns that arose from similar incidents in his area. SB2949 was discussed with emphasis on curbing illegal fuel operations while protecting legitimate trade across the Texas-Mexico border. The bill drew attention due to a rise in fuel-related crimes and the need for effective tracking of fuel movements. Both bills left pending, highlighting the committee's commitment to revisiting and refining the proposed measures.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Mar 19th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We had one last week right next to the DPS office here in Austin.
  • It's just that Texas DPS, I don't know.
  • One of my duties with DPS...
  • It reigns in a little bit of the DPS overreach that we see year on year.
  • Is DPS just going to ignore it, and what recourse do I have?
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Homeland Security and Public Safety involved a range of discussions surrounding significant bills aimed at enhancing public safety measures, particularly in response to issues highlighted by past events. Notable was the discussion on HB33, proposed by Representative McLaughlin, which sought to overhaul school safety and establish a statewide emergency response protocol for active shooter situations. This bill emphasizes the importance of coordinated training among law enforcement and school officials to ensure a swift and effective response in emergencies, aiming to prevent delays seen in past incidents. The discussions also included input from law enforcement officials who acknowledged the necessity of improving communication and coordination between agencies, which was a highlighted failure in previous responses to crises.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Mar 6th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • that we engage with DPS on are efficient and accurate.
  • One is transactions through the Department of Public Safety (DPS).
  • That is why we have confidence in the data that DPS is providing.
  • So, five to six million Texans have used the DPS portal to register.
  • So, five to six million Texans have used the DPS portal to register.
Summary: The House Committee on Elections convened a session to evaluate recent legislative changes and their implications on the electoral process. A key focus was on enhancing election integrity and procedures, including discussions about Senate Bill 924, which aims to address challenges related to polling locations and worker recruitment in Texas counties. Various members acknowledged the crucial role local election officials play in implementing reforms and managing elections amidst growing scrutiny and challenges such as natural disasters and security threats. The session highlighted the resilience and coordination efforts of election officials across the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs May 14th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm Matt Hicks with Texas DPS, testifying as a resource witness here.
  • They would be required to take the training that DPS provides.
  • Oftentimes, they will call Texas DPS. They'll ask us, hey...
  • DPS also keeps a database. The military does not.
  • In 2017, DPS had 35 reports on reporting drones. And today, DPS has as many as 50,000 reports.
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered on several critical pieces of legislation concerning public safety and foreign influence. A significant focus was placed on SB659, which addresses the prosecution of smuggling offenses using government resources, with witnesses presenting varying perspectives on the implications of the bill. Supporters highlighted the necessity to combat cartels and foreign terrorist organizations effectively, while opponents raised concerns about potential overreach impacting humanitarian aid efforts. The discussion around SB2201 aimed to enhance law enforcement capabilities by improving intelligence database criteria, which sparked debates on privacy and civil liberties safeguards. Throughout the proceedings, multiple bills were moved favorably for further consideration in the legislature.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security (Part I) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Probably we better let the DPS or Comptroller's Office answer the question because...
  • Do you want DPS and, okay.

  • Border Patrol, and Texas DPS.
  • When DPS cracked down, a lot of that moved to our port.
  • I'd rather let DPS give the granularity of the question.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Border Security convened to discuss SB2949, focusing on the regulation of transportation for motor fuels and hazardous materials. Chairman Birdwell highlighted the urgent need for oversight due to recent increases in fuel-related crimes along the Texas-Mexico border, including theft, illegal documentation, and the operation of unregulated fuel depots. The committee received testimony from several experts, including representatives from the Comptroller's office and law enforcement, who elaborated on the environmental and safety risks posed by the current unregulated fuel transport practices. The discussion centered around how SB2949 aims to tighten regulations and enhance penalties for illegal hauling activities to safeguard public safety and compliance with state laws.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • The DPS conducts at least one scheduled inspection of our facility per month, with additional surprise
  • All products must be pre-approved by the DPS before

  • Then inventory is randomly selected by the DPS to be tested again by a third-party lab.
  • Have to verify results, which must be registered in a DPS
  • The patient's THC milligrams are logged into a secure registry that is accessible to the DPS and the
Summary: The meeting centered on the Texas Compassionate Use Program (T-CUP) and recent legislative changes, primarily focusing on HB46, which aims to improve accessibility and regulations within the program for medical cannabis. Senator Roland Gutierrez expressed continued support for the T-CUP, underscoring the importance of ensuring safety for minors and regulating the untested hemp products on the market. He highlighted the need for a more robust framework to mitigate risks posed by synthetic cannabinoids and to protect patients relying on the program, particularly veterans and individuals with chronic illnesses. Discussions revealed a bipartisan commitment to enhancing T-CUP, though challenges persist regarding the oversight of hemp production and sales.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence May 13th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Your affirmation shows that you're here in the capacity of Texas DPS crime.
  • My name is Brady Mills, I'm the Chief of the Crime Laboratory Division at DPS.
  • Chief Brady Mills from DPS is here as a resource witness.
  • Mills, once again, you are here in your capacity as Texas DPS...
  • , and if they can't access DPS in time, they'll go through a local municipality that's 200,000...
Summary: The meeting of the committee primarily focused on several legislative bills aimed at enhancing public safety and criminal justice reforms. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 2595, which aims to criminalize acts of concealing identity while committing harassment or intimidation, with provisions for affirmative defenses. Additionally, Senate Bill 1980 was discussed, aiming to increase penalties for assaults on peace officers and extending legal protections to community supervision officers. The meeting featured testimonies from various stakeholders, emphasizing the need for enhanced protections for vulnerable groups, including victims of trafficking.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Border Security (Part II) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Border Security Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Additionally, this bill allows DPS to better coordinate

  • p>Secondly, this committee substitute removes the requirement for DPS
  • The removal of this provision does not mean that DPS is prohibited from such coordination.
  • However, I cannot compel Mexico to cooperate and then hold DPS to account for Mexico.
  • I'm sure that law enforcement, especially DPS, does a great job of collecting evidence in cases.
Bills: SB36, SB2202
Summary: The Senate Committee on Border Security convened to discuss critical issues surrounding border security and violent crime, particularly in relation to SB36 and SB2202. Senator Birdwell opened the discussion emphasizing the rising dangers at the southern border, citing a significant increase in transnational criminal activity, including drugs and weapon smuggling. The committee heard contrasting views on SB2202, which aims to penalize the illegal transfer of firearms to foreign terrorist organizations. Witness testimonies highlighted the challenges law enforcement faces in proving knowledge of such transfers, with several members expressing concerns over the practical application of the legislation. Senator Hinojosa of Nueces moved for the adoption of committee substitutes for SB36, which passed favorably without opposition, moving forward with recommendations to the full Senate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part II) Jan 28th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • Item two discusses DPS facilities.
  • Will DPS be?
  • was given to Texas DPS in 1936.
  • DPS was given to Texas DPS in 1936.

  • We love our DPS officers.
Summary: The meeting of the committee centered around discussions on the budgets for the Texas Department of Public Safety and the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. Significant recommendations included a proposed budget of $3.7 billion for the Department of Public Safety, which reflects a decrease of $199.6 million from the previous cycle. Key topics included customer service enhancements and the increase of staff to improve operations and reduce wait times. Additionally, the Juvenile Justice Department's funding was discussed, including adjustments related to staff salary increases and facility needs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Apr 30th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Operation Lone Star, just DPS.
  • We, as sheriffs, work very closely with DPS; we always have.
  • But we work very closely with DPS.
  • of DPS.
  • So having set this up internally with DPS, I think it's a great move.
Summary: The committee meeting convened to discuss various issues pertinent to recent legislative proposals. Notably, several bills were reviewed and debated, with members expressing differing opinions on their implications and potential impact on the community. Discussions ranged from public safety measures to resource allocation, reflecting the committee's broad mandate and the importance of legislative oversight. Engaging testimonies from citizens and stakeholders underscored the significance of the proposed legislation, bringing personal perspectives and expert opinions into the dialogue.

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