Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'criminal prosecution'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 26th, 2025 at 10:08 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • Currently, criminal fraud and title theft are prosecuted under existing laws in Texas, but existing law
  • election-related criminal offenses.
  • violations can be prosecuted.
  • Reset reason: connection termination has no authority to independently identify and prosecute criminal
  • or should not be prosecuted.
Bills: HB8, HB12, SB3, HJR1, SB11, SB16, SB14
Summary: In this meeting, significant discussions revolved around several key bills, including SB3, SB11, SB14, SB16, and HB8. SB3, concerning outdoor warning sirens, was emphasized for improving flood safety with community input and grants. SB11 proposed defenses for victims of human trafficking, affirmatively recognizing their coerced actions. Meanwhile, SB14 incentivized water conservation efforts by allowing political subdivisions to credit fees to developers for conservation projects. Each of these bills received robust debate and support from members. HB8, proposed by Buckley, aimed at reforming public school assessments, ultimately emphasizing accountability and transparency in educational measures, generating considerable discussion around reducing testing pressures on students and improving educational outcomes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

State Affairs Jul 22nd, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • some criminal things go through there.
  • Because in pursuing a criminal prosecution, you don't have to show intent. So they knew.
  • , and that we'll be able to prosecute.
  • Arresting, prosecuting, and sending people to jail, saddling them with criminal records for the possession
  • That's turning them into criminals.
Bills: SB5, SB11, SB12
Summary: The committee meeting focused on discussions surrounding public safety and health, particularly in relation to the regulation of THC products through Senate Bills 5, 11, and 12. A significant point of contention was Senate Bill 5, which sought to regulate THC products to prioritize child safety, with law enforcement officials arguing that existing regulations have failed to protect youth adequately. The committee heard several testimonies from both supporters and opponents of the legislation, emphasizing a deep divide on the efficacy of regulation versus prohibition. Lawmakers debated the implications of these bills, with some members advocating for a complete ban while others called for more moderate, regulated approaches to address the concerns surrounding THC consumption and its impact on mental health. Notably, the meeting concluded with a series of votes indicating a strong push towards tightening regulations on THC products to ensure public safety.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Mar 13th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • This act by the ATF criminalizes approximately 60,000

Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding Senate Bills 1505 and 1596. The session began with an overview of SB1505, related to the Compassionate Use Program, which was moved favorably to the full Senate following extensive testimony. This bill garnered a positive reception among committee members, showcasing a unanimous vote for its advancement. Notably, public testimony highlighted various perspectives on the effectiveness and necessity of the Compassionate Use Program, contributing significantly to the discussions later in the meeting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Mar 25th, 2025 at 02:03 pm

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm here representing Dallas County Criminal District Attorney John Cruz.
  • This is now a criminal offense." He's going to say, "that child's not in Gansbill."
  • of a criminal case.
  • But we all want these cases prosecuted.
  • I mean, again, I don't defend or prosecute these types of cases.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on a range of bills addressing important topics such as artificial intelligence and sexual exploitation laws. Notably, House Bill 235, which aims to add civil and criminal liability for the use of AI-generated deepfake materials, garnered discussion from multiple members and witnesses, including Adrian Shelley from Public Citizen who expressed support for the bill. Concerns about ensuring the legislation's clarity and enforcement were raised. Additionally, House Bill 207 was presented, which seeks to expand definitions within sexual offense laws to include representations involving anatomically correct dolls, eliciting varied perspectives from representatives during the debate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Mar 25th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence will come to order, and the

Summary: In this meeting of the Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence, the members convened to discuss various legislative matters, primarily focusing on House Bill 305, introduced by Representative Hayes. There was a call for all members to be present for the vote on this bill, which indicates its importance within the agenda. The chair also announced the formation of a subcommittee tasked with evaluating new offenses and changes in penalties, emphasizing the need to ensure that new laws do not conflict with existing legislation. This initiative reflects the committee's commitment to maintaining legal consistency and appropriateness in penalty assignment for offenses.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice Mar 4th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice will come to order.

  • side for the prosecution of bad actors.
  • I think you want to keep the bill the way it is to make sure it's prosecutable.
  • We want to be able to prosecute for both.
  • Every library PAC categorizes this bill as criminalization of librarianship.
Bills: SB20, SB1621, SB412, SB441, SB442
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice focused on legislative measures aimed at enhancing the protection of minors against the evolving threats posed by artificial intelligence and technology in the realm of child exploitation. Multiple bills, including SB20 and SB1621, were introduced to address child sexual abuse material (CSAM), particularly concerning AI-generated content and deep fakes. During the session, committee members highlighted the importance of these initiatives, emphasizing that the current legal framework must adapt to the rapidly changing technological landscape. The discussions emphasized the commitment of the committee members to protect children and the integrity of these legislative efforts. Public testimony brought forth a sense of urgency from both law enforcement and advocacy groups highlighting widespread concerns about the misuse of technology to exploit children.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.

Business and Commerce Aug 1st, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • We are prosecuting and creating a method to be able to prosecute
  • Right now, all deed fraud is prosecuted under traditional theft statutes.
  • One, it provides a very clear road map for prosecution to go after this crime.
  • I prosecute these cases, a lot of these cases, all of the ones in Dallas County, in fact.
  • Are y'all prosecuting the notaries also?
Bills: SB15
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce focused primarily on the discussions surrounding SB15 and SB2611, which address the significant issues of property fraud and deed theft. Senator Kolkhorst led the meeting, emphasizing the integration of these bills to effectively tackle the criminal aspects of deed fraud. Numerous testimonies were heard from affected individuals and stakeholders, highlighting the growing problem of property fraud which has seen a disturbing rise over recent years. Guests shared personal accounts of the devastating impacts of such fraud, stressing the bill’s necessity for safeguarding property rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Where's the number one place that criminals obtain guns? It's from stealing.
  • What would 'consistently refuse or decline to prosecute' mean practically?
  • They were never prosecuted, never even looked at. So all these cases...
  • And I understand, Woomo Howard, you had a successful prosecution.
  • Individuals are not going to be prosecuted. That's the goal here.
Summary: The Committee on State Affairs convened for a detailed examination of SB1065. The session was marked by comprehensive discussions surrounding the potential implications of this legislation. Members engaged in dialogue regarding the bill's objectives, with presentations from the bill's author and various stakeholders, highlighting differing perspectives on its necessity and impact. Public input was also sought, allowing for a range of opinions to be expressed, which enriched the deliberative process. Notably, Senator Haldeman emphasized the importance of the bill for improving community resources and addressing urgent needs in public services.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I have been a Texas lawyer since 2007 and am board certified in criminal law.
  • except as a criminal matter.
  • Sometimes the judge knows, but oftentimes the prosecution doesn't know.
  • Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Association.
  • I'm here on behalf of the Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers.
Summary: The meeting of the Juvenile Justice Committee on March 26th focused on multiple significant bills aimed at enhancing the juvenile justice system. Noteworthy discussions included House Bill 1831, presented by Vice Chair Johnson, which seeks to expand juvenile eligibility for drug court programs with a goal of increasing access to rehabilitative treatment for youth. The bill received strong support, passing with a vote of 9-2, and was recommended for favorable reporting to the full House. Additionally, House Bill 2147, introduced by Chairman Van Dever, allows for remote juvenile depositions and court proceedings to increase access and efficiency in the legal process, also passing unanimously with a vote of 10-1. The committee members engaged in thorough debates regarding the impact of these bills on families and juveniles, emphasizing the importance of rehabilitation over punishment.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Apr 10th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...of the bill is that it creates a criminal offense for
  • Notices of late filings will be sent directly to the campaign filer instead of to the state prosecuting
  • a criminal offense.
  • The committee substitute also increases the criminal penalties.
  • The individual’s not going to be prosecuted; that's the goal here.
Summary: The committee meeting covered numerous bills focusing on election integrity and transparency, alongside various regulatory measures. Senator Middleton presented SB1717, aimed at transferring the regulation of charitable bingo, and it was reported favorably to the Senate. Key discussions also revolved around SB1845 concerning registration for lobbyists engaged in activities on behalf of foreign adversaries, which received unanimous support. Another significant bill was SB2216, which addresses the security of election system equipment; it also passed with no opposition. The session was marked by contributions from various senators, emphasizing accountability and the integrity of the electoral process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part II) Mar 20th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • There are serious criminal penalties.
  • I want to highlight one serious concern: we continue to criminalize the work of election workers in this
  • ...prosecution based on faulty data on the state side.
  • However, we don't want to criminalize someone who didn't know they were accepting a check from a foreign
  • Suddenly, a bill that is supposed to criminalize foreign interference in Texas elections is criminalizing
Summary: The meeting focused on significant discussions regarding several bills, particularly SB396 and SB827. Public testimonies were heard against SB396, expressing concerns over government overreach regarding voter registrations. Various witnesses highlighted potential disenfranchisement of eligible voters and the inefficiencies of the proposed residency confirmations. SB827 was another bill of interest, with discussions centered around the methods of election monitoring and concerns regarding the accuracy and cost-effectiveness of hand-counted audits.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs (Part I) Mar 20th, 2025

Senate State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • prosecution, but the person can still be indicted for the crime, excluding prosecution for any offense
  • That's still the province of the Court of Criminal Appeals.
  • law, criminal procedure, and rights in a criminal context.
  • However, when the Court of Criminal Appeals...
  • over all criminal cases.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on State Affairs was marked by significant discussions surrounding several bills, primarily focusing on jurisdictional changes within the Texas Supreme Court and the Court of Criminal Appeals. One of the key bills discussed was SB1210, which aims to clarify the roles and jurisdictions of these two courts, ensuring that when constitutional interpretations are at issue, the Supreme Court serves as the final authority. Testimony was provided by various stakeholders including judges and legal experts, who articulated both support for and concerns about the potential implications of these changes. The conversation highlighted the historical context of the dual court system in Texas, outlining its benefits and drawbacks, particularly in ensuring consistency in the application of constitutional law.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Mar 17th, 2025 at 10:00 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Criminals tamper with the gas pump's metering device

  • data-time="270">The FCIC has tackled these crimes, driving large-scale investigations and mass prosecutions
  • data-time="1782"> credit and debit card information to Subchapter F, Chapter 13A of the Code of Criminal
  • At the FCIC, we've seen firsthand how criminals exploit stolen credit and debit card information.
  • And it's just simply to add this to the Criminal Code of
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Pensions, Investments, and Financial Services convened to discuss various bills aimed at enhancing financial governance and protections in Texas. Notably, Representative Perez laid out House Bill 201, which proposes expanding the scope of the Financial Crimes Intelligence Center to combat organized financial crimes, such as motor fuel theft. This bill garnered significant support from witnesses, including Captain Jeff Headley from the Financial Crimes Intelligence Center, who highlighted the urgent need for legislative measures to address increasing thefts that impact both consumers and state revenue. Subsequently, testimony from several members elucidated the impact of these crimes, emphasizing their detrimental effects on Texas' economic stability. The committee members expressed their interest in the advancements in tackling such issues through the proposed legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Juvenile Justice Apr 14th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House S/C on Juvenile Justice

Transcript Highlights:
  • Juvenile is civil, adult is criminal.
  • 4628 would change that and give young people a fresh start when they turn 17 and enter the adult criminal
  • Criminal justice reform is a focus on locking people up that
  • We need to replace punishment and criminalization with coordinated community responses.
  • This ensures that children who engage in non-criminal behavior are not subjected to inappropriate or
Summary: The meeting was focused on several critical bills concerning juvenile justice in Texas, with particular emphasis on reforms to improve support for young individuals in the juvenile justice system. Notable discussions included House Bill 3882, presented by Dr. Lalani, which aims to expand eligibility for job training grants to youth in juvenile justice facilities, enhancing their opportunities for successful reintegration into society. Witnesses testifying in support illustrated the transformative impact of educational programs on at-risk youth. Additionally, House Bill 4923 was highlighted, with Speaker Moody advocating for a shift away from punitive measures against status offenders, emphasizing the importance of addressing root causes rather than criminalizing conduct associated with running away from home. The meeting included participation from various stakeholders, including local officials and advocates for juvenile justice reform, who underscored the urgent need for these legislative changes. The committee's deliberations showcased a strong commitment to fostering a rehabilitative rather than punitive approach to juvenile justice, reflecting broader national trends and best practices in the field. Many members expressed support for the bills discussed, recognizing their potential to positively impact youth outcomes and community safety. The atmosphere was collaborative, with members actively engaging in discussions about amendments and potential adjustments to strengthen the proposed legislation. As the session wrapped up, several bills moved closer to the full committee for consideration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 22nd, 2025 at 11:04 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I've never tried a criminal jury trial.
  • It's the Court of Criminal Appeals. Is this the Court of Criminal Appeals?
  • My criminal work is...
  • The meat and potatoes of the criminal practice.
  • And I think that as a criminal defense lawyer.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on a range of topics surrounding criminal justice reform, with significant emphasis on House Bills 3166 and 3330. Representative Cook presented HB 3166, which proposed a system for prosecutor-initiated resentencing, allowing courts to adjust the punishment for inmates based on changing circumstances. This bill aims to rectify injustices in cases where new evidence arises. Public testimony included support from various stakeholders, emphasizing the need for a more flexible justice system that can consider circumstances affecting individual cases, particularly for nonviolent offenders. On the contrary, HB 3330 faced opposition from the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops, which argued that it would undermine key protections established by the Michael Morton Act, designed to prevent wrongful convictions for innocent individuals. Testimonies highlighted concerns about the potential for setbacks in protecting the rights and dignity of the accused, creating a heavy atmosphere during discussions on the bill.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 22nd, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence will convene.

  • It creates a criminal offense and increases criminal penalties.
  • House Bill 1713 relates to increasing the criminal penalty for the offense of criminal mischief involving
  • This is a bill we heard last week relating to the venue for the prosecution of criminal conduct involving
  • of certain criminal conduct involving theft.
Summary: The meeting focused on various legislative bills, primarily concerning criminal justice reforms and procedural changes. Notable discussions included House Bill 2151, which pertains to sex offender registration requirements; the bill was reported favorably with unanimous support. Additionally, House Bill 2180 concerning evidence preservation waivers sparked some debate, ultimately passing with a majority vote. There were other bills discussed which included updates to juvenile justice policies and criminal penalties for offenses related to family violence and sex crimes. Several bills were adjourned for further scrutiny, reflecting the committee's commitment to thorough legislative review.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on County & Regional Government Mar 31st, 2025 at 10:03 am

House S/C on County & Regional Government

Summary: During the meeting of the Permanent Standing Subcommittee on County, a range of bills was presented and discussed, primarily concerning local governance and healthcare efficiency. The chair initiated the session by laying out HB2438, which aims to modernize the Concho County Hospital District's governing legislation to better align with current operational realities. Chairman Darby spoke on the importance of updating the statute to address outdated provisions, ensuring the district can continue to provide essential health services. The committee also heard testimony regarding several other bills, including HB2658, which focuses on clarifying the governing laws for the Kimball County Hospital District, and HB1845, which was described as offering flexibility in judicial pay for county judges hearing state cases.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Jurisprudence Mar 26th, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • References to statutes primarily addressing criminal

  • Then, through various references, you eventually land over at Article 26.05 of the Code of Criminal Procedure
  • , which lists rules that are specific for fee schedules in criminal defense.
  • multiple counties don't have a fee schedule for child protection cases, or they have submitted their criminal
  • You know, in criminal cases, under the ACCE standard, they get experts to defend a criminal case, and
Summary: The meeting involved discussions primarily focused on family law and child protection cases, featuring several bills aimed at clarifying legal standards and fee schedules. Notably, Senator Byrd introduced SB2052, which reinforces the parental rights in child custody matters, establishing a presumption that parents act in the best interest of their children. This bill drew support and testimonies from various stakeholders, highlighting the need for clarity in legal proceedings regarding child custody. Additionally, Senator Zaffirini's SB1838 addressed the compensation of attorneys in child protection cases, emphasizing the importance of clear fee schedules to ensure fair compensation. Testimonies from legal experts underscored the existing confusion around attorney fees and the need for standardized procedures. Overall, the committee acknowledged the importance of these bills in protecting children's rights and ensuring fair legal representation for families.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice May 20th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Senate Committee of Criminal Justice has come to order

  • ...and prosecutions of sexual assault.
  • This bill would add criminal negligence to the animal cruelty statute.
  • That would still be prosecuted, even with this bill. So I urge you to support it. Thank you.
  • statute, which criminalizes...
Summary: The Senate Committee on Criminal Justice convened to discuss a wide range of bills, focusing particularly on topics related to sexual assault, victim compensation, and oversight of parole violators. The meeting was characterized by a series of bills being introduced, each accompanied by testimonies from experts and public advocates. Notably, HB2355, which aims to enhance protections for victims of crime, saw extensive discussion, highlighting how the proposed changes intend to close existing loopholes in current law, ensuring that necessary records are kept confidential and victims' details are handled with the utmost privacy. Other significant bills included HB305, which addresses competency restoration for defendants, and HB47, an omnibus bill centered around sexual assault survivors' protections.

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