Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'digital divide'

Page 1 of 27
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband May 2nd, 2025 at 08:05 am

House S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband

Transcript Highlights:
  • broadband, and it reflects the growing need of consumers for faster speeds to participate in the digital
Summary: The committee meeting focused on two primary bills: HB2838 and SB924. House Bill 2838 aimed to modernize broadband speed standards in line with FCC definitions, aiming to enhance access and reduce tax burdens on Internet services. Chairman Ashby explained the bill's intent to clarify requirements for the Broadband Development Office and included provisions for tax relief to support broadband expansion. Public testimonies presented both neutral and supportive views, emphasizing the importance of aligning state regulations with federal standards, especially for underserved areas. Senators questioned the bill's implications for service equity and federal funding eligibility.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband May 2nd, 2025 at 09:05 am

House S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband

Summary: The meeting of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Broadband included significant discussions surrounding Senate Bill 924, which addresses cable service providers and their financial obligations related to franchise fees. Council Member Julian Ramirez opposed the bill, emphasizing its potential fiscal impact on cities like Houston and Austin by restricting franchise fee collections, thus threatening vital public services funded by these fees. Public testimony supported his stance, highlighting the financial realities these cities face, particularly in maintaining public safety and infrastructure.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Delivery of Government Efficiency Apr 23rd, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The state has a required notice in cases of digital security
  • This bill is about treating digital assets as a financial asset.
  • It is, in many ways, digital Texas.
  • The future of finance is digital, and Texas must lead.
  • House Bill 5195 establishes the state agency website modernization and digital...
Summary: The meeting of the committee was marked by discussions surrounding multiple bills, including HB3719, which concerns the public disclosure of dates of birth, and HB5196, aimed at allowing state agencies to approve telework plans for employees. The chair moved for HB3719 to be reported favorably to the full house, which passed with a vote of 10 in favor and one against. Similarly, HB5196 was favorably reported without objections. A significant focus was placed on increasing digital modernization for state agencies, as illustrated by HB5195, which aims to improve the digital accessibility and functionality of agency websites to enhance small business interactions with the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...state government functions to the digital age.
  • Senate Bill 215 creates a digital identification program

  • which allows for the issuance of digital identification and access to various services, specifically
  • Furthermore, the digital ID solution that is deployed

  • be an authentication and verification process for wireless communication devices used to present digital
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee focused extensively on several bills, including discussions surrounding public safety and road management in Texas. A notable bill discussed was SB1351, which aims to designate a section of U.S. Highway 281 in honor of a fallen Border Patrol agent. Hearing emotional testimonies from family members highlighted the community's support for this tribute. Additionally, the committee progressed through multiple bills including SB2589 and SB2707, both addressing local governance issues and emergency response improvements, with discussions on operational practices and compliance with safety standards involving transportation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce (Part II) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • As digital assets become increasingly integrated into regular financial activities, it is necessary to
  • ...about digital replication rights and the voice and visual
  • It prohibits unauthorized digital replicas from being produced or commercially...
  • It's very single-digit. There is a commission up soon. Yes, sorry about that.
  • So small businesses operate on a small, many times very single-digit margins.
Summary: The meeting focused on several important legislative proposals, with significant discussions around AI regulation and copyright protections in light of emerging technologies. Notably, Senate Bill 1964, aimed at promoting ethical AI adoption within government bodies, was presented by Senator Parker. The bill received support from witnesses who emphasized the need for transparency and a regulatory framework that safeguards civil rights while fostering innovation. Conversely, concerns were raised about potential overreach and the implications for accountability in AI implementation. Additionally, Senate Bill 1960 sparked a passionate debate concerning the protection of individuals' digital likenesses from unauthorized use, highlighting the rising stakes as digital content increasingly intersects with personal rights.
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:
  • Okay, you said at section 526.1033B, where it says digital identification.
  • And then, they could add on to the digital for other purposes.
  • We offer a secure digital wallet as a service to our users.
  • With a digital ID, you're always presented with a consent sheet.
  • But using a digital ID...
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.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine big fixes for big tech. Apr 1st, 2025 at 01:30 pm

Senate Competition Policy, Antitrust, and Consumer Rights Subcommittee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Jason Kent is the CEO of Digital Content Next.
  • I'm Jason Kent, CEO of Digital Content Next, a trade association representing premium publishers.
  • I've spent my entire career in digital media, first building media businesses in the early days of the
  • Tell me what some of the challenges digital publishers face in navigating today's digital advertising
  • Among competing digital platforms?
Summary: The meeting, titled 'Big Fixes, Big Tech', marked the first hearing of the Senate antitrust competition policy and consumer rights subcommittee in the 119th Congress. Chairman Lee opened the session focusing on the urgent need for effective solutions regarding anti-competitive behavior among major tech firms like Google and Facebook, highlighting several ongoing court cases regarding monopolistic practices in the digital advertising and search markets. Key discussions included the limitations imposed on small businesses and innovation due to the dominance of these tech giants, with many testimonies advocating for stronger legislative measures, including the America Act. The act aims to disrupt the monopolistic capabilities of these firms and restore competitive integrity in the marketplace, which has suffered under their oppressive market control.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • By far the easiest, cheapest way to address our e-waste problem is to keep our electronics and digital
  • I want to share a quick story with you about a digital filmmaker customer and a small business owner.
  • I do not know why we would allow this in the digital world.
  • I'm passionate about the protection of our children, especially in this highly digital age.
  • And in-person, digital platforms have no visual cues.
Summary: The meeting held by the Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development involved a variety of discussions centered around multiple bills aimed at improving workforce development and addressing contemporary challenges in digital spaces, particularly concerning youth and technology. A notable point in the meeting was the presentation of HB 4196, which aims to modernize Texas's manufacturing sector through digital integration and automation, enhancing job creation and addressing barriers to innovation. Committee members engaged in extensive dialogue with witnesses advocating for and against various bills, with many emphasizing the importance of balancing innovation with the protection of consumer rights, particularly in the realm of children's safety online. Committee Chairwoman Button guided the discussions and maintained an efficient pace to cover a considerable number of bills. Several bills passed with bipartisan support, showcasing a collective interest in fostering economic growth through strategic legislative measures. Public testimonies were incorporated into the proceedings, with representatives from various sectors, including education and technology, providing their insights, which enriched the discussions and highlighted community concerns.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Apr 15th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Consumers of digital equipment, hereafter referred to as consumers, have been forced into...
  • I want to share a quick story with you about a digital filmmaker customer and a small business owner.
  • Schneider Electric is a leader in digital energy management and automation, with over 4,000 employees
  • I do not know why we would allow this in the digital world.
  • I'm passionate about the protection of our children, especially in this highly digital age.
Summary: The committee meeting covered a wide array of bills focusing primarily on workforce development, manufacturing improvements, and online safety for children. Notably, provisions were discussed under HB4196, aimed at modernizing the manufacturing sector through increased digital integration and automation strategies. Witnesses from various sectors, including manufacturing companies and educational representatives, offered their perspectives on the importance of creating a skilled workforce able to adapt to new technologies. Additional discussion highlighted the pressing need for legislation that protects minors in the digital landscape, with testimonies emphasizing the adverse effects of unfiltered online content on children’s mental health, as encapsulated in HB4901.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine bipartisan legislative frameworks for digital assets. Feb 26th, 2025 at 01:30 pm

Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Subcommittee on Digital Assets

Transcript Highlights:
  • What is a digital asset? What is a stablecoin?
  • Digital assets are a fast-evolving sector, and the United States must lead in this space.
  • We must ensure that digital assets are not.
  • Today's regulatory framework for digital assets is insufficient, in my opinion.
  • ...involving the use of digital assets.
Summary: The inaugural meeting of the Digital Assets Subcommittee brought a wave of excitement and anticipation regarding the future of digital assets, including Bitcoin and stablecoins. Chair Lummis expressed gratitude towards Senator Scott for establishing the subcommittee, indicating a commitment to promote responsible innovation while safeguarding consumers. Members discussed the necessity for a bipartisan legislative framework to regulate digital asset markets effectively while outlining the potential benefits such legislation could have on enhancing financial inclusion and streamlining payments. The meeting featured expert testimonies from key figures in the digital asset industry, highlighting the importance of creating clear regulatory guidance for digital assets to foster innovation without compromising consumer protections.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Elections Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Elections Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • last 30 days is the end, and that's when you really start seeing the impact: an influx of mailers, digital
Summary: The committee meeting focused on several key legislative bills relating to election integrity and voter registration. Notable discussions were held around HB817, HB1478, and HB1661, which addressed issues such as the termination of majority votes, compliance with voter registration laws, and penalties related to election supplies. Throughout the meeting, various representatives vocalized their opinions, alongside public testimonies that provided diverse perspectives on the bills being considered. The chair led the proceedings efficiently, allowing for a balance of viewpoints while ensuring that legislative business was conducted promptly. Overall, the atmosphere was characterized by active engagement from members of the committee, with many bills being reported favorably to the full House for consideration.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Jurisprudence (Part I) May 14th, 2025

Senate Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • expands the definition of barratry and the legal solicitation of professional services to incorporate digital
  • legislation would bring the Texas Penal Code into line with the state bar's regulations, targeting similar digital
  • between the Texas Penal Code and the state bar's guidelines reinforces legal protections against digital
Summary: The committee meeting included a thorough examination of several bills, notably HB2733, HB3104, HB4325, and HB2495, each addressing significant legal and procedural issues in Texas law. HB2733, presented by Representative Canuccio, sought to modernize existing definitions related to barratry to include digital solicitation methods, and it received no public testimony for or against, suggesting a general consensus on the need for this update. Conversely, HB3104 by Representative McLaughlin focused on the appointment and salary provisions for bailiffs in Webb County, addressing concerns over discrepancies across district courts, while HB2495 clarified the rights of sole managing conservators regarding their children's school enrollment, which generated testimony from family law professionals in support of the bill.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Culture, Recreation & Tourism May 14th, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee

Bills: SB2801, SB2232, SCR18
Summary: The committee meeting primarily focused on reviewing several bills, including SB217, which establishes the historic Friedman Cemetery program, and SB2232, which seeks to designate October 21st as Unplugged Texas Day. The latter bill sparked notable discussions regarding the importance of reducing screen time and encouraging outdoor activities among Texans. Chairperson Metcalfe initiated the agenda, and the public testimony featured passionate arguments for the need for outdoor engagement, emphasizing mental well-being and community bonding. Overall, the bills were met with unanimous support within the committee, advancing toward favorable recommendations for full house votes. Additionally, members voiced concerns about regulations surrounding field trials, as presented in SB2801, which proposes changes to the requirement for hunting licenses during dog field trials. Testimony from various stakeholders showcased a strong desire to facilitate participation in these events while raising awareness of the associated challenges. The meeting concluded with several bills advancing for further considerations, demonstrating a collaborative effort toward legislation that supports both cultural and outdoor initiatives in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 14th, 2025 at 09:04 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • contractually and lawfully bound from abusing the rights of Texans now and in the future through digital
  • the previous witness addressed, Central Bank Digital Currency
  • This bill was designed to make sure that if Central Bank Digital Currency is implemented, we all have
  • can't track us and control us the way the Central Bank Digital
  • And it's almost always in triple digits, sometimes as high
Summary: The meeting involved extensive discussions around several house bills, with notable emphasis on HB700, which aims to increase transparency in the merchant cash advance (MCA) sector. Representative McQueen provided a detailed explanation of the issues small business owners face due to aggressive tactics and lack of regulation in this area. The committee also examined HB4609, which focuses on updating the Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) benefits to provide clearer options for cities regarding cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), allowing cities to offer retirement benefits in a more flexible and informed manner. Additionally, the meeting featured a strong public testimony segment, where witnesses voiced their support and concerns, especially regarding the implications of digital currencies framed in HB703.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Administration Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Administration Committee

Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Administration commenced with a quorum established, led by Chairman Hall. The committee discussed and voted on several bills, including SB2232 which promotes an annual 'Unplug Texas Day' aimed at encouraging outdoor activities and community interactions among Texans. Senator Hinojosa presented the bill, highlighting its potential health benefits and community strengthening. Testimonies were invited but none were provided, leading to a smooth passage of the bill to the full Senate.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 7th, 2025 at 10:00 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • asset service providers—companies that custody or transmit digital currencies and other digital assets
  • asset industry by mandating that digital asset service providers...
  • What is a digital asset service provider?
  • You can deposit your digital assets on that platform.
  • You can use your digital assets...
Summary: The meeting of the Pensions, Investments and Financial Services Committee involved detailed discussions surrounding several key bills aimed at enhancing regulatory frameworks and consumer protections. Notably, House Bill 4233, presented by Chairman Capriglione, seeks to modernize regulations for digital asset service providers by addressing earlier ambiguities in reporting requirements while enhancing accountability for the businesses involved. The testimonies from industry stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Blockchain Council, emphasized the need for clarity and streamlined obligations that align with consumer needs. The bill passed favorably without challenges, reflecting strong support from committee members. Moreover, bills such as House Bill 3014 and House Bill 3474 were discussed, with both successfully moving forward to the full House. HB3014 focuses on fraudulent use of gift cards, while HB3474 deals with public retirement systems' investment reporting practices. The meeting noted several supportive public testimonies and demonstrated the committee's commitment to refining legislation that impacts Texas' financial landscape. Overall, the meeting was productive, indicating a collaborative effort toward regulatory updates in important sectors.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence May 21st, 2025 at 09:05 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The day I can create a digital replica of an artist's

  • It acknowledges a digital exclusive right; it can be

  • ...to get the unauthorized digital replicas taken down without
  • member studios have worked very hard to earn our reputation as responsible users of the kinds of digital
  • marker="118" data-time="702"> and complexities that online services have to consider in managing digital
Summary: During this meeting of the Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence Committee, several significant bills were discussed, particularly focusing on Senate Bill 1960, which aims to protect Texans from unauthorized use of their voices or likenesses in the age of artificial intelligence. Chairman Hunter led the presentation, highlighting the importance of preserving artistic integrity while ensuring that First Amendment rights are respected. The committee welcomed public testimony, receiving support for the bill from representatives of the music industry, who expressed concerns about the misuse of AI in recreating artists' performances without consent. The discussion included insight from various stakeholders regarding the implications of such legislation on their professional rights.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce May 15th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm trying to figure out what this applies to because my oven has a timer, which is digital.
  • But central bank digital currency has the potential of violating those freedoms.
  • Central digital bank currency.
  • It includes central bank digital currency, yes. CBDC. Sorry.
  • You just heard our central bank digital currency conversation. Absolutely. Thank you.
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 May 9th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Concurrent Resolution 8, which asserts the state of Texas' opposition to the creation of a central bank digital
  • The Federal Reserve is exploring the potential implementation of a central bank digital currency, but
  • A central bank digital currency, or a CBDC, would be a digital form of money, kind of like Bitcoin, that
  • The Texas Legislature strongly opposes the creation of a central bank digital currency and urges federal
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several Senate Concurrent Resolutions and Senate Bills. Notably, SCR8 was introduced to express Texas' strong opposition to the creation of a central bank digital currency, raising concerns about cybersecurity and privacy implications. There was no public testimony for or against, but committee members engaged in dialogue on its potential impact. Another highlight was SCR5, which proposed naming a gymnasium at the Texas School for the Deaf after Robert Rivas, recognizing his significant contributions. This sentiment garnered unanimous support from committee members, highlighting the importance of honoring legacies within the state educational system. In addition, various bills concerning utilities were discussed, particularly SB1566, which clarifies utility connection requirements, and SB1036, aiming to regulate the solar panel sales industry to protect consumers. The discussions reflected a commitment to enhance transparency in utility rate changes and impose stricter regulations on the solar market to prevent consumer fraud. Overall, the meeting showcased a collaborative approach to addressing pressing legislative matters, with an emphasis on consumer protection and legacy recognition.

Research Filters

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