Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Texas Trial Lawyers Association'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Mar 28th, 2025 at 09:00 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • of Texas they represented in the body.
  • I served in the Texas House from Austin, Texas, Travis County, from 1975 to 1985, and then from 1985
  • I'm from Eagle Lake, Texas, Colorado County.
  • I appreciate what you do for Texas.
  • to the great state of Texas.
Summary: The meeting of the legislative committee was marked by extensive discussions on a variety of critical issues including budget allocations, public health policies, and education funding. Members engaged in a robust debate regarding the impacts of proposed tax reforms, with several representatives expressing concerns over the potential effects on lower-income families. Public testimony was a significant feature of the meeting, providing the committee with diverse perspectives from community leaders and experts. The atmosphere was generally collaborative, with a stated intent to refine proposed bills in response to public input.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Currently, the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association policyholders can pay their premiums using premiums
  • The Texas Fair Plan Association pays premium and maintenance
  • Texas Windstorm and the Texas Fair Plan Association.
  • Okay, we show you Jennifer Collie from the Texas Association of Life...
  • I am a past president of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association.
Summary: The committee meeting addressed several key bills, with significant discussions surrounding HB778, which focuses on insurance coverage for individuals undergoing gender transition and those wishing to detransition. During the presentations, the bill's author, Chairman Leach, emphasized the importance of ensuring coverage for potential adverse effects from gender transition procedures. However, concerns were raised by various witnesses regarding the potential implications of limiting coverage for transgender care, leading to heated debates and a range of testimonies from both supporters and opponents of the bill. HB2517 and HB2213 also received attention, with discussions centered on insurance premiums and board eligibility for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, respectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 2nd, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We show you registered as Trey Summers, Texas Association of Builders.
  • My name is John Summers, and I'm a representative with the Texas Association of Builders.
  • David Durden, GM, Texas Wind and Storm Insurance Association.
  • David Durden, General Manager, Texas Windstorm Insurance Association.
  • I'm the Associate General Counsel for Texas New Mexico Power Company.
Summary: The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance revolved around discussions primarily focused on the intricacies of multiple proposed bills aimed at reforming insurance regulations, particularly in the context of windstorm insurance. Chairman Hunter introduced HB3689, which seeks to create a more equitable funding system for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association by eliminating costly debt financing options. Multiple testimonies from representatives of the insurance industry highlighted collaboration efforts that have resulted in more affordable coverage options for residents in coastal regions. Key stakeholders, including insurance experts and affected constituents, expressed overwhelming support for the proposed changes, emphasizing the urgent need for reform to combat the rising costs that have burdened homeowners over the years. Additionally, discussions around HB1576 focused on incentivizing homeowners to improve the resilience of their properties against weather-related damage through a proposed grant program administered by the Department of Insurance. This proposal was deemed a significant step toward stabilizing insurance costs and encouraging safer construction practices.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice (Part II) Feb 12th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • My name is Crystal Gomez and I'm here representing the Texas chapter of the American Immigration Lawyers
  • Association.
  • I've been an immigration attorney in Texas.
  • I would take Texas down the wrong path by undermining Texas's fundamental right to pre-trial liberty
  • Texas is like my husband, who's...
Summary: The Senate Committee for Criminal Justice convened to discuss several significant pieces of legislation, including SB999, SB1047, SB40, SJR1, and SJR5. Notably, SJR5 sparked a robust debate among committee members and witnesses regarding its potential implications on pre-trial detention practices. Witnesses expressed concerns about the risks of pre-emptive detention outlined in the bill and the associated human costs, particularly for those who are innocent. Testimonies highlighted the disparity in how such legislation could disproportionately affect marginalized communities and lead to increased incarceration rates without addressing the root causes of crime. Overall, the committee displayed a commitment to ensuring public safety while wrestling with the balance of due process rights for individuals.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Below that, a first-year associate in Texas' major law firms
  • Charlie, again, Charlie, I've got you here on behalf of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association and yourself
  • For that reason, TTLA, the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, is for the bill, and we appreciate you bringing
  • I see Texas Trial Lawyers Association, two groups that would normally be considered opposites.
  • You're here on behalf of the Texas District and County Attorneys Association, registered on the bill,
Summary: The meeting focused on discussions surrounding judicial reform, specifically addressing issues such as judicial accountability, compensation, and the backlog of cases. Members expressed concerns over the lack of sufficient compensation for judges, which has hindered their ability to attract qualified candidates to the bench. Witness testimonies highlighted the significant workload judges face and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on court operations. There was a concerted effort among committee members to ensure judges are held accountable while also providing them with fair compensation and resources to effectively manage their caseloads. The gathering concluded with commitments to further discuss proposed legislation and its potential effects on the judicial system in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Jim Perdue, Jr., Houston, Texas, for the Texas Trial Lawyers Association on the bill.
  • It's the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, correct?
  • the Texas Trial Lawyers Association?
  • Craig Allen, Texas Trial Lawyers Association.
  • I am the president of the Texas Trial Lawyers Association.
Summary: In the recent meeting, the Judiciary and Cellular Disturbance Committee convened to discuss several critical issues, highlighted by the testimony surrounding HB1761. The committee chair emphasized the importance of the bill, gathering a panel consisting of key witnesses who offered various perspectives. Notably, Kathy Ward from the State Commission on Judicial Conduct voiced concerns regarding potential pitfalls of imposing sanctions on false complaints, advocating for a more inclusive process that considers mental health perspectives. Jacob Putnam, a District Attorney, echoed the sentiments, highlighting the bill's implications for public service recruitment and the necessity for competitive pay in public positions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development May 21st, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We show you registered as Kelsey Struffert on behalf of the Texas Restaurant Association testifying.
  • Again, Kelsey Struffert from the Texas Restaurant Association in support of SB 1361.
  • Lindy McGee testifying on behalf of the Texas Medical Association and Texas Pediatric Society, and yourself
  • Lindy McGee, I'm a pediatrician in Houston, Texas, and I'm here representing the Texas Medical Association
  • No, they're run locally, but in order, we're all a member of our Texas Association, which is.
Summary: The meeting of the Economic Development Committee was marked by a series of important discussions surrounding a range of bills, including SB315, SB584, and SB7105. SB2670, which aims to protect businesses from misleading solicitations, was highlighted during the session, where its provisions were debated among committee members. Additionally, SB2637 was presented to tackle misinformation disseminated on social media platforms. Witnesses provided insights into the implications of these bills, specifically focusing on consumer protection and the balance between technological advancement and public safety. The chair urged thoughtful consideration of the bills in the context of their impact on both businesses and residents of the state. The meeting concluded with a call for further analysis of several key bills that were left pending, indicating strong interest in ensuring that legislations align with public interests while addressing modern challenges posed by technology and misleading practices. Attendance was robust, with committee members actively engaging with witnesses and each other to ensure comprehensive discussions were had. Notable commentary emphasized the need for regulations to adapt to the evolving digital landscape and protect citizens from dishonest business practices.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce May 15th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm with the Texas Municipal Police Association, and we are in support of this bill.
  • We've worked with the Texas Association of Life and Health Insurers on the bill and the substitute in
  • The Chair calls Jennifer Cauley, Texas Association

  • Teasdale Association of Mutual Insurance, and Zach Stevenson from Texas Electric Cooperatives.
  • I'm an Austin lawyer representing the Texas Association of Life and...
Summary: The Senate Committee on Business and Commerce convened to discuss a wide range of bills, including key pieces of legislation such as HB1922 and HB145, which address utilities' wildfire mitigation efforts. There was a notable emphasis on the importance of strengthening Texas' approach to dealing with electric utility liabilities and improving operational strategies in the event of wildfires. Public testimony was heard, with various stakeholders advocating for and expressing concerns about elements of the proposed regulations, highlighting the nuanced positions citizens and organizations hold regarding energy management and environmental safety. Additionally, several bills were reported favorably to the full Senate, indicating a smooth legislative progress during the meeting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • , the Texas Association of Realtors is a private professional association.
  • In Texas, the State Association of Texas Realtors, we handle the process of all efficacy.
  • So if this bill passes, then the Texas Association of Realtors
  • My name is Gretchen Pruitt, and I am the president of the Texas Libraries Association.
  • Library of the Year by the Texas Library Association, that this will be an undue burden on...
Summary: The meeting saw significant discussions centered around several Senate bills, notably SB2487, SB1698, and SB2101. Senator Parker introduced and advocated for SB2487, which aims to enhance crisis service models for mental health interventions, receiving feedback from various stakeholders during formal testimony. The committee adopted the substitute version of this bill, which emphasizes local governance, expands service options, and tightens clinical timelines, responding to concerns from communities about service accessibility. Furthermore, the bill successfully passed from the committee with unanimous support, moving forward to the full Senate for consideration. In addition to SB2487, the committee reviewed SB1698, focusing on regulatory changes surrounding e-cigarette products. The committee recognized the importance of aligning state law with federal guidelines while ensuring strong consumer protections. Public testimonies included insights from enforcement officials and industry participants, highlighting the newly proposed measures aimed at preventing youth access to e-cigarettes. Lastly, SB2101, which addresses the regulation of sexually explicit materials in public libraries to ensure safe environments for minors, generated mix responses, with testimonies reflecting concerns over censorship and parental rights. The meeting concluded with the passage of SB2819 as well, which addresses political activities of county election administrators.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 28th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm here to say that I believe Texas can strengthen professional associations in general by addressing
  • Associations exert influence over doctors, lawyers, and other
  • I wish there was a Texas Realtor Association person

  • , but then the Texas Association also adopted the same thing.
  • Chairman, I think it's ridiculous that Texas was not represented here by the Realtors Association.
Summary: The meeting focused on several legislative measures concerning alcoholic beverages, ethics, and the protection of free speech. Notable discussions included the presentation of Senate Bill 2633, which aims to modernize the framework for alcohol sales in local communities and allow local option elections within designated zones. Additionally, Senate Bill 2713 garnered significant attention, addressing ideological discrimination in professional associations based on political beliefs, urging a need for greater protection of free speech in Texas. Public witnesses provided testimony, with a mix of support and concerns regarding various bills, indicating a vibrant discourse among committee members and the public.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce (Part I) Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • is critical to adding commercial nuclear to Texas.
  • Why should Texas be putting their foot into this?
  • If it's built in Texas, it goes to Texas.
  • Fred Wilsh is in general counsel for the Texas Construction Association, testifying in favor of Senate
  • My name is Jennifer Fagan, and I'm with the Texas Construction Association.
Summary: In this committee meeting, a wide range of topics were addressed, notably the advancement of nuclear energy in Texas. The committee discussed Senate Bill 2967, aimed at exploring innovative energy technologies and the role of nuclear power in ensuring energy security. Several expert testimonies were heard, including insights from former PUC Commissioner Doug Robinson, who emphasized the potential of modular reactors and necessary state support to navigate the financial challenges commonly faced by nuclear energy projects. The committee's focus was on understanding current nuclear technology stages, determining required state incentives, and assessing the overall energy landscape in Texas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
  • And John Esparza with the Texas Trucking Association.

  • And I’m very happy to have the partnership with Bob's House of Hope and the Texas Trucking Association
  • First ever campaign with the Texas Trucking Association and
  • And we’ve got the Texas Packaging Association here, so we're excited to get something going with them
  • And we've got the Texas Packaging Association here.
Bills: SJR36, SB2, SR9, SR10, SR16
Summary: The meeting focused on the critical issue of human trafficking in Texas, particularly highlighting the trafficking of boys and young men. Several legislators, including Senator Parker, emphasized the necessity of raising awareness about the misconception that trafficking predominantly affects women and girls. The introduction of the first-ever safe house for young male victims was a significant point of discussion, with various stakeholders, including the Texas Trucking Association, collaborating to promote awareness campaigns. Senator Parker and Representative Baumgartner expressed their commitment to eradicate this issue and highlighted the urgency due to its prevalence within communities across Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce (Part II) Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It removes the requirement that factors outside of Texas

  • What are we going to do for our Texas exceptionalism?
  • I represent the Texas Coalition for Affordable.
  • What happens on the coast impacts Texas and the Texas economy.
  • I'm the Executive Director of the Insurance Council of Texas
Summary: The committee meeting revolved around important discussions regarding two significant bills, SB2530 and SB2571, intended to address the funding challenges faced by the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA). Senator Milton highlighted the need for reforms due to escalating reinsurance costs that have risen to over 60% of premiums. A notable focus was the proposed dynamic funding model, which aims to reduce reliance on fixed assessments and public securities tied to the current Probable Maximum Loss (PML) structure, allowing funding to adjust based on actual needs. Both bills received mixed responses, with public testimonies citing the potential for increased financial burdens on insurance companies if the assessments were restructured without careful consideration of market conditions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part II) May 21st, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • plans, Texas Medical Association, Texas Nurse Practitioners
  • I represent the Texas Nurses Association. We are for the bill.
  • I'm with the Texas Association of Community Health Centers.
  • No one at the Texas Environmental Health Association

  • However, TEHA, or the Texas Environmental Health Association, must respectfully oppose the engrossed
Summary: The committee meeting featured extensive discussions surrounding various bills, notably focusing on HB3284, which aims to establish a commission to promote marriage and family stability while addressing the needs of vulnerable children in the Texas foster care system. Witnesses provided diverse perspectives, with some expressing support for the bill's goal of strengthening family units, while others raised concerns about the potential discrimination against single-parent households and LGBTQ+ families. Additional highlights included debates on HB1106 regarding the treatment of transgender youth and HB4638, which sought to streamline the state's engagement with developers and capacity builders, addressing concerns over administrative efficiencies and child welfare.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part I) May 21st, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm the president of the Texas Association of Family

  • I'm the Executive Director of the Texas Private Schools Association.
  • I'm a licensed paramedic in the state of Texas.
  • So they are able to happen here in Texas.
  • and then having to go through a Texas adoption process.
Summary: The committee meeting convened to discuss a variety of bills primarily related to healthcare and early childhood education. Notably, the committee reported favorably on several bills including HB721, HB2035, and HB2038, with all receiving unanimous support of 7-0. Senator Perry played a crucial role in moving the bills forward, advocating for their inclusion on the local and uncontested calendars. Furthermore, there was significant discussion surrounding HB3940, which addresses Medicaid eligibility for newborns, emphasizing the necessity for automatic enrollment to avoid gaps in coverage for infants during critical early stages of development. The meeting was characterized by the committee's cohesive efforts to streamline processes and enhance the efficiency of healthcare services for vulnerable populations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development May 7th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The King Steward is testifying on behalf of the Texas Community Association advocates and yourself, that
  • I really appreciate the opportunity to testify on behalf of the Texas Community Association advocates
  • Texas Property Code requires the association to provide a resale certificate containing important information
  • Testifying on behalf of Texas Community Association Advocates
  • Association Advocates.
Summary: The Committee on Trade, Workforce and Economic Development convened to discuss a range of bills addressing workforce policies, business practices, and data privacy issues. A highlight was the presentation of HB5146, aimed at expanding subsidized childcare eligibility to include parents pursuing non-credit workforce training, which drew significant support from both committee members and witnesses. Additionally, SB2121 was introduced to rectify clerical errors within the data broker law, ensuring better consumer protections around the collection and use of personal data. Various other bills saw quick passages with unanimous support, reflecting broad agreement among members regarding workforce development and operational efficiency.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Article III Feb 27th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Article III

Transcript Highlights:
  • So the final special item is actually sponsored, if you will, by the Texas Trucking Association, who
  • Training centers spread across Texas in a strategic pattern
  • The tank battery trucks in West Texas that collect oil and bring
Summary: This committee meeting included extensive discussions on the impact of CDL licensing across Texas, with a strong emphasis on the need to address CDL training facilities. Multiple members expressed the necessity of enhancing accessibility and ensuring uniform quality in CDL education, citing the pressing demand for qualified drivers in various sectors including transportation and logistics. The Texas Trucking Association endorsed the proposed establishment of several training centers, further highlighting the significance of this initiative for economic growth and job creation across the state. The session included testimony from experts in the field who supported the proposal, reinforcing the committee's decision to prioritize this issue.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Feb 25th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...today, so at this time I ask those with the Texas Association
  • For those who don't know, the Texas Association of

  • It honors the Texas Food and Fuel Association (TFFA), with
  • The Texas Food and Fuel Association plays a critical

  • Today marks the Texas Food and Fuel Association Advocacy
Summary: The meeting focused on various resolutions and bills, demonstrating active participation from all members present. Notably, HR309 was adopted, recognizing the contributions of the Texas Food and Fuel Association in supporting the oil and gas industry for over 70 years. Representatives emphasized the organization's role in ensuring the supply and distribution of fuel across Texas and highlighted their commitment to education and professional development within the industry. Other resolutions discussed included HR306, which recognized March 2025 as Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month, illustrating the committee's engagement with healthcare issues.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation May 19th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • John Esparza here on behalf of the Texas Trucking Association

  • I'm here today representing the Texas Automobile Dealers Association, better known as TADA.
  • TADA and the Texas Department of...
  • Leadwell, the Texas DMV.
  • John Esparza, President of the Texas Trucking Association, in support of this legislation.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on various legislative proposals, particularly those related to transportation and public safety. A significant point of discussion was Senate Bill 35, which seeks to limit the Texas Department of Transportation's ability to utilize design-build contracts for infrastructure projects. Advocates for the bill expressed concerns over financial implications and the efficiency of project delivery, while opponents emphasized the need for flexibility and innovation in addressing Texas's growing infrastructure needs. Several stakeholders, including the Texas Trucking Association, engaged in debates over the impacts of the proposed limitations.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 14th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • of Texas, David Courageous from the Texas Credit Union Association, and sales.
  • Retailers Association and Kelsey Struffert from the Texas Restaurant Association sit next to each other
  • I am testifying on behalf of the Texas Credit Union Association.
  • On behalf of the Independent Bankers Association of Texas, you're here to testify.
  • Again, Christopher Williston, Independent Bankers Association of Texas.
Summary: The meeting exhibited a heated discussion on the implications of House Bills 4124, 4061, and 40. Chairman Darby emphasized the importance of reducing credit card swipe fees that adversely affect small businesses in Texas, presenting HB 4124, which aims to exempt sales tax and gratuities from being subject to these fees. Various witnesses, including representatives from the Texas Retailers Association and the National Restaurant Association, supported HB 4124, arguing that it would alleviate financial burdens on local businesses and promote economic fairness. However, several opposing voices raised concerns regarding potential complications and regulatory hurdles that could complicate the business landscape further.

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