Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'beneficial use'
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TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Energy Resources Mar 24th, 2025 at 11:00 am
House Energy Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- ...put produced water to beneficial use is very important
- This is a really good way for the state to unleash the beneficial use of produced water.
- As you've heard, there are many beneficial uses.
- that type of beneficial use?
- And I understand the beneficial use and why we need it in this state.
Keywords:
oil waste, gas waste, liability, treatment processes, environmental safety, beneficial use, oil and gas, infrastructure protection, natural disasters, cybersecurity, emergency preparedness, interstate compact, liquefied natural gas, energy resources, Gulf Coast, regulatory coordination, liquefied natural gas, export regulations, geothermal injection wells, energy infrastructure security
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on the discussion and advancement of several key bills, notably HB1285, HB2890, HB1971, and HB1169. Chairman Darby opened the session by presenting HB2890, addressing the economic impact of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, particularly in light of recent federal pauses on LNG projects which have affected Texas significantly. The committee heard testimonies regarding the necessity of increasing communication between Gulf states to protect the industry, illustrating the importance of unified action against federal regulations that may harm Texas's LNG sector.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources (Part I) May 21st, 2025
Senate Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- use.
- An actual beneficial use test for biomass accumulations is
- But in practice, we are in a good place towards produced water use for beneficial purposes.
- Thank you for joining us today.
- facility or some other beneficial use of that waste.
Keywords:
oil waste, gas waste, liability, treatment processes, environmental safety, beneficial use, motor vehicle, air quality, energy source, engine, state implementation plan, construction, wildlife impact, height restrictions, national wildlife refuge, environmental regulations, surface estate, well plugging, Railroad Commission, landowner rights
Summary:
The committee meeting covered several significant bills with a focus on environmental concerns and public health implications. Notably, House Bill 2440 was discussed, which aims to prevent state agencies from restricting vehicle ownership based on energy sources, ensuring Texans can choose the vehicles that suit their needs. Representative Curry presented the bill, emphasizing the need for consumer choice and the protection of personal freedoms in transportation policies. The bill left the floor pending after no public testimony was provided.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session May 9th, 2025 at 10:05 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- and direct us.
- The hate that is against us is the same, and the way they treat us is the same.
- not stop us.
- a non-conforming use.
- that use federal...
Bills:
HJR175, HJR88, HB21, HB49, HB216, HB346, HB573, HB565, HB954, HB1953, HB2686, HB1441, HB2734, HB1650, HB3161, HB2876, HB3185, HB3388, HB2761, HB3233, HB1186, HB1534, HB5506, HB5129, HB3619, HB778, HB2867, HB3221, HB3672, HB2434, HB4903, HB3687, HB3675, HB4609, HB4582, HB4921, HB3866, HB3901, HB4534, HB2446, HB3984, HB700, HB4012, HB4491, HB4088, HB229, HB4234, HB722, HB4136, HB4105, HB4413, HB170, HB551, HB2858, HB3053, HB3142, HB3180, HB3722, HB2200, HB1794, HB1784, HB1581, HB2530, HB4308, HB1896, HB2974, HB3359, HB4580, HB2458, HB2215, HB3332, HB2278, HB3015, HB3151, HB1368, HCR9, HCR40, HB5138, SB17, HB4944, HB2284, HB3421, SB1569, SB2420, SB1968, SB2351, SB2544, SB1490, SB1349, SB1568, SB2776, HB3531, HB2149, HB4327, HB3158, HB3717, HB4520, SB888, SB552, HB3138, HB3704, HB2921, HB4853, HB4506, HB3892, HJR161, HJR175, HJR88, HB1937, HB3334, HB5444, HB5137, HB361, HB321, HB5447, HB464, HB678, HB2294, HB4172, HB3225, HB1769, HB5394, HB1837, HB1787, HB2271, HB2440, HB5134, HB5149, HB2151, HB2073, HB2186, HB2025, HB1936, HB1777, HB1663, HB1306, HB1290, HB1527, HB4802, HB3462, HB2963, HB2462, HB2560, HB644, HB2725, HB2621, HB2588, HB1443, HB1403, HB3032, HB1557, HB1664, HB2811, HB2088, HB2598, HB3062, HB3134, HB3940, HB4027, HB4097, HB4862, HB4170, HB4157, HB4205, HB4279, HB4377, HB4838, HB5424, HB5294, HB4870, HB4763, HB5639, HB4112, HB2275, HB1677, HB5014, HB3848, HB3797, HB3727, HB3709, HB3177, HB3057, HB4176, HB4202, HB2180, HB3528, HB3658, HB21, HB49, HB216, HB346, HB573, HB565, HB954, HB1953, HB2686, HB1441, HB2734, HB1650, HB3161, HB2876, HB3185, HB3388, HB2761, HB3233, HB1186, HB1534, HB5506, HB5129, HB3619, HB778, HB2867, HB3221, HB3672, HB2434, HB4903, HB3687, HB3675, HB4609, HB4582, HB4921, HB3866, HB3901, HB4534, HB2446, HB3984, HB700, HB4012, HB4491, HB4088, HB229, HB4234, HB722, HB4136, HB4105, HB4413, HB170, HB551, HB2858, HB3053, HB3142, HB3180, HB3722, HB2200, HB1794, HB1784, HB1581, HB2530, HB4308, HB1896, HB2974, HB3359, HB4580, HB2458, HB2215, HB3332, HB2278, HB3015, HB3151, HB1368, HCR76, HCR127, HCR9, HCR40
Keywords:
constitutional amendment, medium of exchange, currency rights, digital currency, financial autonomy, tax exemption, rainwater harvesting, graywater system, local government, ad valorem taxation, housing finance, multifamily residential, low income, tax exemption, audit requirements, affordable housing, local government, development bonds, oil waste, gas waste
Summary:
The committee meeting covered a diverse range of bills, with a focus on public assistance program reforms and DNA collection practices regarding children in foster care. A particularly notable discussion arose surrounding HB5149, which seeks to restrict the use of DNA samples collected from minors under the oversight of the Department of Family and Protective Services. Representatives expressed significant concern about the ethical implications and previous practices of retaining DNA samples without proper consent. The bill passed with notable bipartisan support, reflecting a shared commitment to protecting the rights of vulnerable populations. The session also highlighted the passing of HB2440, aimed at maintaining vehicle choice against mandates related to emissions and environmental regulations, igniting a lively debate about the balance between environmental stewardship and personal liberties.
Additionally, the meeting saw the passage of several bills addressing legal reforms in civil procedure, aiming to curb frivolous litigation and increase protections for individuals facing legal challenges. The committee's discussion was characterized by vigorous debate and collaborative efforts among members, making it an impactful session in shaping legislative priorities. Overall, the meeting concluded positively, with multiple bills set to advance in the legislative process.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on County & Regional Government Mar 24th, 2025 at 10:03 am
House S/C on County & Regional Government
Transcript Highlights:
1978 used to be the record.
- Chairman, and thank you, members, for giving us this opportunity to speak on behalf of Harris.
- So, again, thank you all for having us here to speak on behalf of Harris Health.
- I also want to thank Representative Jones for giving us this opportunity. Thank you.
- Chairman and members, thank you for having us here today.
Keywords:
family leave, leave pool, county employee, sick leave, vacation leave, family care, pandemic, guardianship, fencing, reservoirs, local government, regulation, land use, conservation capacity, fencing, reservoirs, local government, land use, conservation capacity, property regulation
Summary:
During this meeting, significant discussions revolved around essential bills, including HB1646, HB605, HB2379, and HB2115. HB1646, aimed at amending the Health and Safety Code, was presented as a means to enhance the operational efficiency of emergency service districts by raising the expenditure threshold for board approval from $2,000 to $50,000. Testimonies from emergency service officials were notably in favor of the bill, highlighting the improved response times and operational flexibility it would provide. On the other hand, HB605 sought to grant the Harris County Hospital District the authority to employ and commission its peace officers, tackling the increasing concerns of workplace violence in healthcare settings, which was addressed with urgency as it aimed at improving safety for both staff and patients. The bill was left pending to allow further considerations.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management Mar 27th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- You have heard how this statute was used to stop Austin's comprehensive land use...
- My focus is on land-use law.
- Give us a minute.
- , get us occupancy limits, get us occupancy limits."
- We locals kind of use it.
Keywords:
zoning, public notice, local government, residential development, protests, water conservation, municipal utility districts, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, environmental regulation, groundwater management, nonconforming uses, zoning regulations, land use, property rights, municipal authority, recreational vehicle parks, campgrounds, construction standards, safety regulations, fire protection
Summary:
The meeting centered around discussions on land use and zoning regulations, prominently featuring HB24 and HB3172. Representative Orr emphasized the importance of reforming the existing zoning laws to empower property owners and streamlined processes for development. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted the impact of the current supermajority requirements which hinder necessary housing projects, creating frustration among local developers and advocates for affordable housing. Notable support was expressed for these bills, highlighting the necessity for cities to modernize their zoning systems to facilitate growth and adequate housing development.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- continue to develop all around us, it's coming to us, and
- Where it takes us...
- Your staff has been very gracious and worked with us quite a bit on walking us through the bill.
- And so, therefore, us.
- Thank you for joining us today.
Keywords:
affordable housing, land use, zoning, urban planning, community development, housing crisis, mixed-use development, sustainability, municipal utility district, board of directors, qualifications, land ownership, Texas, municipal utility district, board of directors, qualifications, land ownership, taxation, municipal utility district, board of directors
Summary:
The meeting featured public testimonies from various stakeholders, including mayors from small cities who described the difficulties of rapid development with limited staff and resources. They highlighted the importance of balancing property rights and groundwater management while planning for sustainable growth. The discussions were robust, addressing the challenges of infrastructure demands stemming from growth and the necessary partnerships between local governments and developers. Overall, the meeting showcased the committee's engagement with community concerns regarding local governance and sustainable development practices.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management Apr 3rd, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
Not to us.
- full city taxes that they provide us the services.
- When you use the third party, the city's time frame is much different.
- Members, this bill amends amortization and non-conforming land use procedure.
- , and reducing parking minimums for commercial use...
Keywords:
affordable housing, land use, zoning, urban planning, community development, housing crisis, mixed-use development, sustainability, municipal utility district, board of directors, qualifications, land ownership, Texas, municipal utility district, board of directors, qualifications, land ownership, taxation, municipal utility district, board of directors
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several pressing bills concerning housing and municipal regulations. Notably, House Bill 2225, presented by Representative Buckley, aimed to improve transparency regarding impact fees, which have been increasingly burdening homebuyers in Texas. The bill proposes that political subdivisions must present land use plans at least 60 days prior to hearings, giving stakeholders ample time to review. The discussion highlighted the significant effects of rising impact fees on housing affordability, with testimonies from various stakeholders emphasizing the need for accountability and clearer processes. The bill stirred a lively debate, with proponents arguing for increased transparency and opponents expressing concerns about the ramifications of the proposed changes on local governance and infrastructure funding.
House Bill 2304 was another crucial point of discussion, seeking to streamline the approval process for residential backup power systems. The bill faced support from numerous witnesses, including energy industry representatives, who touted its potential to enhance energy resilience and efficiency. The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency for revisiting these issues in future sessions, as committee members and advocates for both bills anticipated more rigorous discussions ahead in light of the housing market challenges in Texas.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Property Tax Appraisals Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am
House S/C on Property Tax Appraisals
Transcript Highlights:
- The state will use the higher.
- Thank you for having us.
- If the local appraisal district uses an appraisal plan or method that differs from the method used by
- us.
- to exclude short-term and rental properties, but not require us to use...
Keywords:
appraisal, property value, residential real estate, tax code, appraisal review board, property owners, appraisal, property value, property tax, tax code, appraisal review board, homeowners, appraisal, property value, residential real estate, tax code, property owner rights, property appraisal, taxation, property value
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several key bills related to property tax appraisals and education funding. Notable discussions included House Bill 2786, which proposed annual reappraisals to ensure property values reflect current market conditions. Representative Turner highlighted concerns around inconsistent appraisals that could adversely affect funding for local schools, particularly in Tarrant County. The session also saw testimony from representatives and concerned citizens advocating for the bill, emphasizing the importance of fair and accurate appraisals for maintaining educational funding and taxpayer equity. The committee members discussed the overall impact of property tax policies on local districts and pushed for a resolution to this ongoing issue.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Agriculture & Livestock Apr 8th, 2025 at 02:00 pm
House Agriculture & Livestock Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Okay, and you showed us some pretty outlandish pictures.
- Well, it would be us mowing it. The city enforced the mowing on us as well.
- We use it for storage.
- They give us a 10-day period to have it done.
- I don't have that, but I used to have hair.
Keywords:
property owners associations, chickens, urban farming, land use, homeowner rights, agriculture, municipal regulation, governmental requirements, land use, farm management, agriculture, inspections, border control, trade, state funding, agriculture, trade inspection, cross-border trade, produce, Homeowners Association
Summary:
The meeting of the Agriculture and Livestock Committee mainly centered around discussions regarding three bills: HB4810, HB2013, and HB4163. Notable emphasis was placed on HB4810, which seeks to renew the Trade Agriculture Inspection Grant Program due to its critical role in ensuring the efficient flow of agricultural goods between Texas and Mexico. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted the importance of cross-border trade and the economic impact of agricultural imports, which supports thousands of jobs and ensures a reliable food supply. The committee members engaged in thoughtful deliberations about the necessity of maintaining and expanding the program to accommodate rising trade volumes and local agricultural needs.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management Apr 24th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- It ensures counties can enforce meaningful infrastructure standards while preventing them from using
- It doesn't surprise any of you, and he's working with us on our concerns. We still have a few.
- What you tell us we can and can't do, we follow your prescriptions. Exactly.
- What used to serve for hauling cotton and cattle and things to market.
- We greatly appreciate him filing this bill for us.
Bills:
SB840, HB2025, HB2512, HB3139, HB3798, HB3892, HB4373, HB4398, HB4582, HB4689, HB5187, HB5658, HB5666
Keywords:
municipality, extraterritorial jurisdiction, residents rights, local governance, petition, Edwards Aquifer, municipal utility district, bond issuance, county authority, water management, Ashe juniper, tree removal, municipal regulation, military base, property rights, environmental impact, county regulation, infrastructure planning, subdivisions, building codes
Summary:
The committee meeting included extensive discussions on various bills, with a notable focus on housing issues. The members deliberated on HB3892, which aims to address ambiguities in local government regulations and improve the accessibility of affordable housing in Texas. Public testimony was received from multiple stakeholders, including city representatives who voiced support for the bill, highlighting its significance in balancing development and local regulations. The chair also laid out additional bills such as HB5437 to establish a new municipal utility district and HB5650 focused on land use optimization, all of which were passed unanimously with zero nays.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management Mar 27th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- the non-conforming use.
- the use, or finally, if the city seeks to amortize the use.
- use.
- It's us.
- That is not lost on us.
Keywords:
zoning, public notice, local government, residential development, protests, water conservation, municipal utility districts, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, environmental regulation, groundwater management, nonconforming uses, zoning regulations, land use, property rights, municipal authority, recreational vehicle parks, campgrounds, construction standards, safety regulations, fire protection
Summary:
The meeting addressed significant bills with a focus on housing and property rights, specifically discussing HB2149 and HB2559. Representative Tepper introduced HB2149, which aims to amend amortization and non-conforming land-use procedures to better protect private property rights. The bill received testimony supporting its intent to maintain a balance between property development and municipal zoning regulations. Furthermore, Representative Patterson discussed HB2559, emphasizing the need for establishing reasonable protections against development moratoriums that affect homeowners and builders, highlighting the necessity for adequate notice and a higher threshold for moratorium approvals. Both discussions prompted vigorous dialogue and engagement among committee members as well as the public, illustrating the complexities involved in balancing growth and regulation in real estate development.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health Apr 3rd, 2025 at 08:00 am
House S/C on Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health
Transcript Highlights:
- The data that we're using to provide you by county.
- This is something that's really important to us.
- It is with us being a separate...
- , and that's what we've been using in our healthcare.
- We've had doctors tell us, we know it, why go through some of that?
Keywords:
education, funding, school district, students, budget, resources, equity, maternal mortality, health policy, healthcare access, perinatal care, pregnancy-related deaths, artificial intelligence, cancer detection, grant program, healthcare facilities, medical imaging, low-THC cannabis, dispensing organization, Texas Compassionate-Use Program
Summary:
During this meeting, the committee engaged in extensive discussions regarding various bills aimed at improving public health and welfare, including chronic kidney disease resources and statewide health literacy initiatives. Chair Guillen presented House Bill 3269, which proposes the creation of a centralized resource center for chronic kidney disease that is tailored to help patients and healthcare providers with information and resources, garnering robust support from the committee. Additionally, House Bill 1295 was discussed, focusing on enhancing statewide health literacy with a long-range coordination plan from the Department of State Health Services, which was also received favorably by committee members.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- can only be used for evaluation purposes.
- Thank you all for being here and supporting us.
- All right, don't know, but they can tell us later.
- Oh, Senator Cook, thanks so much for joining us.
- Yes, sir, it removes the requirement for IP because I assume people are using VPN.
Bills:
SB2784, HB23, HB247, HB1533, HB2011, HB2013, HB2273, HB2421, HB2464, HB3120, HB3424, HB3575, HB3788, HB4370, HB4809, HB5057, HB5084, HB5534, HB5668, HJR34
Keywords:
Somervell County, hospital district, board of directors, elections, local governance, staggered terms, third-party review, property development, local government, permits, construction inspection, regulatory authority, land development, liability, occupancy certificate, border security, tax exemption, ad valorem, real property, infrastructure
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on a range of bills covering various legislative matters. Notably, bills concerning property rights, environmental sustainability, and public safety were debated prominently. HB2011 was presented and discussed in detail, with supporters highlighting its importance for ensuring property owners can repurchase their land if it has been acquired through eminent domain without due payments of property taxes. Furthermore, Senator Cook emphasized the need for accountability in the process while several senators expressed concerns regarding potential unintended consequences of new laws affecting local jurisdictions and public safety standards. Public testimony was also received from stakeholders both in support and against various bills, reflecting a diverse range of views on the proposed legislation. In addition to HB2011, several other bills, including HB4809 and HB2421, moved forward with recommendations for passage and were set for future calendars.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management May 1st, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Old man can be used when needed to acquire property for public use.
- And that use has been established.
- Our firm focuses on land use and municipal law issues across the state.
- The City of Dallas rezoned our property without us knowing.
- That is, uses that are allowed within their zoning district.
Bills:
HB407, HB871, HB882, HB2011, HB3572, HB3578, HB4038, HB4866, HB4897, HB4978, HB5380, HB5555, HB5668, HB5670, HB5674, HB5676, HB5679, HB5688, SB673
Keywords:
solar energy, residential construction, building code, municipal regulations, energy compliance, solar energy, building codes, residential construction, interconnection, municipal regulations, education, funding, teacher support, student resources, school infrastructure, solar energy, residential construction, building code, municipal requirements, environmental sustainability
Summary:
The meeting of the committee involved in-depth discussions on various bills aimed at addressing community needs and rights pertaining to land use and environmental management. Notably, House Bill 2011 proposed a framework for original property owners to repurchase their land under specific conditions when property taxes are not paid by the acquiring entity. Representative Bell articulated concerns regarding the rights of owners affected by eminent domain, engaging with public testimony on the bill's implications. House Bill 5380, presented by Representative Wally, focused on improving access to parkland and green spaces in unincorporated areas, allowing counties to set criteria for parkland dedication, which sparked debates about urban versus rural development considerations and community planning.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
We used to use...
- If anyone else wishes to, of course, let us know.
- I only use about a gram of flour a day.
- Unfortunately, the use of flour is not included in this bill.
- I've been using it for 50 years.
Keywords:
low-THC cannabis, dispensing organization, Texas Compassionate-Use Program, medical use, patient access, registration, healthcare, legislation, credit card fraud, debit card fraud, prosecution, illegal possession, state law, political contributions, address privacy, Texas Ethics Commission, election transparency, campaign finance, election supplies, ballots
Summary:
The meeting of the State Affairs Committee focused on several significant bills, notably HB4145, HB2820, and HB4157, which address healthcare billing practices, charitable bingo operations, and protections for employees in the commercial spaceflight industry, respectively. Each bill received attention from members of the committee, with public testimony highlighting both support and concern among stakeholders. For instance, testimony on HB4145 underscored the importance of timely healthcare billing to prevent patient financial distress, while discussions surrounding HB2820 illuminated the challenges charities face in maintaining sufficient reserves amidst outdated regulations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- get if we use our funds.
- Is it going to be used for?
- They guided us on the journey.
- I really showed how useful it is.
- We truly felt like God gifted us the ability to know you and have you walk with us during a difficult
Bills:
HB5141, HB4638, HB2264, HB2035, HB4813, HB4408, HB2684, HB1621, HB2300, HB216, HB3829, HB4466, HB1747, HB2284, HB3614, HB2587, HB3219, HB3318, HB5147, HB4014
Keywords:
lease, state property, public purpose, Travis County, Health and Human Services, pharmaceutical initiative, drug distribution, healthcare services, generic drugs, advanced pharmaceuticals, cost savings, mental health, patient discharge, medical records, health care professionals, substance use, family involvement, chemical dependency, treatment facilities, minor admissions
Summary:
The Committee on Public Health convened to discuss various bills related to mental health, public health initiatives, and animal care. Notably, representatives presented House Bill 2264, which aims to facilitate communication between mental health patients and their families, allowing family members to provide important medical information during emergencies. The bill sparked a substantial discussion, with advocates from the National Alliance on Mental Illness supporting its intention to improve patient outcomes. Other significant bills included HB 1747, introduced to create a council for mental health and substance use, fostering collaboration among affected systems, and HB 2684, which focuses on palliative care options for parents facing life-limiting diagnoses for their unborn children. Public testimonies supported these measures, highlighting their importance in enhancing care and support for vulnerable populations.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local Government (Part I) Mar 31st, 2025
Senate Local Government Committee
Transcript Highlights:
In the audience with us here today...
- The county will be allowed to use the land.
- Currently, state law does not allow us to shred hard drives before we try to...
- The city doesn't pay for a dime of it, and yet they charge us for...
- the services; just give us the services."
Bills:
SB1079, SB1243, SB1504, SB1579, SB1708, SB1844, SB1851, SB1879, SB1921, SB1951, SB2237, SB2238, SB2406, SB2407
Keywords:
public utility agency, dissolution, local government, regulatory framework, municipal authority, telecommunication, board meetings, Gulf Coast Authority, conference call, videoconference, abandoned property, tax delinquency, urban development, receivership, local governance, disannexation, municipality, services, property owners, jurisdiction
Summary:
The committee meeting on [date] focused on several key pieces of legislation, primarily addressing land use and city governance issues. Prominent discussions included SB1579, which seeks to empower municipalities in El Paso County to manage abandoned properties through a court-appointed receiver process. This bill aims to tackle long-standing challenges posed by undeveloped and neglected land parcels that hinder community growth. Public testimonies highlighted concerns regarding safety, illegal dumping, and the economic potential of reclaiming these properties for housing and development. Notably, Mayor Rudy Cruz Jr. of Socorro expressed strong support for the bill, emphasizing the need for a clear process in handling unoccupied land.
Additionally, SB1851 was discussed, aimed at addressing audit compliance for Texas cities to improve financial transparency and accountability. Senator Nichols presented this bill, arguing for its necessity in ensuring cities cannot raise taxes without adhering to established audit requirements. Public testimonies underscored the experiences of city officials facing obstacles due to outdated audit practices, with calls for legislative action to protect taxpayers while enforcing compliance. The meeting was characterized by substantial participation from public officials, showcasing a collaborative effort to address these pressing issues.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management Apr 24th, 2025 at 10:04 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- bill demonstrates Texas' commitment to addressing affordable housing needs without making any land use
- So the free market would tell us that wherever possible, treat it.
- Bringing this bill to us and running over here.
- But she is the expert on water use instead of me.
- Depends so heavily on what it has given us. Thank you.
Bills:
SB840, HB2025, HB2512, HB3139, HB3798, HB3892, HB4373, HB4398, HB4582, HB4689, HB5187, HB5658, HB5666
Keywords:
municipality, extraterritorial jurisdiction, residents rights, local governance, petition, Edwards Aquifer, municipal utility district, bond issuance, county authority, water management, Ashe juniper, tree removal, municipal regulation, military base, property rights, environmental impact, county regulation, infrastructure planning, subdivisions, building codes
Summary:
The meeting focused heavily on discussions surrounding affordable housing, particularly through the lens of House Bill 4398. Representative Garcia-Hernandez presented the bill, which aims to streamline the permitting process for low-income housing projects, thus reducing the timeline municipalities typically take to approve or deny permits by 50%. This bill is viewed as critical given the pressing issues related to low-income housing availability in Texas. Public testimony included supportive evidence from various stakeholders, highlighting the urgent need for expedited permits to align construction timelines with strict tax credit requirements. Experts from the Texas Affiliation of Affordable Housing Providers also underscored that permitting delays create significant financial risks, complicating the completion of necessary housing units.