Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'opioid epidemic'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health May 5th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Public Health Committee

Summary: The committee meeting included a range of discussions on various bills, notably focusing on mental health and public safety. Senate Bill 528, aiming to improve accountability in mental health treatment for individuals found incompetent to stand trial, received significant support from public testimonies. Witnesses emphasized the need for better coordination and transparency in service provisions, shedding light on the backlog of individuals requiring forensic mental health services in Texas. Additionally, Senate Bill 1388 was discussed as a means to enhance the Thriving Texas Families Program which supports women and families facing unplanned pregnancies, garnering both endorsements and concerns about its implementation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Article III Feb 26th, 2025 at 09:02 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Article III

Transcript Highlights:
  • best-in-the-world expertise in developing highly effective pain therapies that do not use addictive opioids
  • marker="424" data-time="2538">This work will go a long way to eliminating the horrific national epidemic
  • of opioid addiction and death.
  • And as I mentioned, we have epidemic rates of...
  • Texas Epidemic Public Health Institute, the Behavioral

Summary: The meeting focused on various initiatives related to health, education, and technological advancements. Notably, the Fentanyl Detection Initiative was presented, highlighting the urgency as five Texans die daily from fentanyl poisoning. Researchers at UT Dallas are developing portable detectors to accurately quantify fentanyl, facilitating faster medical responses by first responders. Additionally, funding requests for the Center for Advanced Pain Studies, aimed at developing effective pain therapies without addictive opioids, were discussed, which emphasize the need to address the opioid crisis. The conversation also covered funding allocations to support various health-related programs.
US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine combating the opioid epidemic. Feb 26th, 2025 at 02:30 pm

Senate Aging (Special) Committee

Summary: The meeting convened to address the dire opioid crisis affecting communities nationwide, with a particular focus on the alarming rise of opioid use disorder among older adults. Key testimonies highlighted the critical need for a comprehensive approach that encompasses prevention, treatment, and strict law enforcement actions against drug traffickers. Sheriff Dennis Lima from Seminole County outlined successful strategies implemented in Florida, including increased access to naloxone and legislative changes to hold drug dealers accountable for overdoses. Various members expressed a united front on tackling this multifaceted issue, advocating for the expansion of Medicaid and better access to treatment as essential steps to curbing the epidemic.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Feb 6th, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Epidemic Public Health Institute, which has really been
  • best-in-the-world expertise in developing highly effective pain therapies that do not use addictive opioids
  • This work goes a long way to eliminate the horrific national epidemic of opioid addiction and death.
Bills: SB1
Summary: The meeting of the committee was primarily focused on budget requests and legislative priorities from various educational institutions. Each institution expressed the need for increased funding to support academic programs, STEM education, and critical health initiatives. For instance, representatives from UT Dallas highlighted the importance of their Fentanyl Protection Initiative and advances in pain therapy, reaffirming their commitment to combat the opioid crisis in Texas. Other notable discussions included the need for updates to campus infrastructure and the request for new programs aimed at enhancing workforce development across various fields, particularly healthcare and technology. Topics such as the restoration of Institutional Enhancement Funds and the increase of appropriations for research initiatives were also extensively discussed. The meeting concluded with a call for collaboration among universities to strengthen Texas's overall higher education landscape.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services May 13th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • As co-chair of the Dallas Opioid Strike Force, we brought together stakeholders in our city, county,
  • school district, and non-profits to address the opioid epidemic that our communities are facing.
  • Our opioid response plan in Dallas is based on good data,
  • promote transparency, accountability, and strategic planning, which is so important for combating opioid
  • overdoses through statewide opioid antagonistic distribution strategies.
Summary: The committee meeting centered on several significant bills regarding public health and safety, particularly focusing on healthcare access, transparency, and opioid crisis response. Notably, House Bill 4783 sparked considerable discussion as it aims to enhance the state's approach to prevent opioid overdoses by directing the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to prepare biannual reports on opiate antagonist programs. The testimony from public officials like Dallas City Council's Paula Blackman, who spoke passionately about the ongoing fentanyl epidemic, highlighted the urgent necessity of improved access to life-saving medications. In addition, House Bill 1314 drew attention for addressing hospital pricing transparency, attempting to ease financial burdens on patients by mandating accurate upfront estimates for healthcare costs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health Apr 7th, 2025 at 03:30 pm

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • creation and perpetuation of the opioid epidemic.
  • The American opioid epidemic, now in Texas its 30th year, costs us more than $1.5 billion annually.
  • Since the approval of OxyContin, The opioid epidemic has
  • which are used to treat opioid addiction.
  • the opioid epidemic.
Summary: The meeting of the public health committee focused on the pressing issue of opioid addiction in Texas, with a particular emphasis on House Bill 3717. Chairman Harris detailed the bill's intent to fund a grant program for Ibogaine clinical trials, framing it as a critical response to the ongoing opioid crisis. He shared poignant testimonies highlighting the struggles of families and veterans battling addiction and mental health issues. The conversation underscored the necessity of innovative treatments, like Ibogaine, which showed promising results in studies for reducing symptoms of withdrawal and PTSD.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • prepare officers to safely handle fentanyl and reduce exposure risks, investigate, and properly use opioid
  • In addition to the training program, HB1837 establishes the Lethal Opioid Poison Prevention Task Force
  • enforcement and prosecutorial response, and study ways to increase the production and availability of opioid
  • For example, in 2017, the Texas... sent naloxone, the opioid antagonist, to law enforcement officers.
Summary: The meeting of the committee involved extensive discussions around several pieces of legislation aimed at improving law enforcement and addressing social issues in Texas. Notable among the bills was HB2217, introduced by Representative Wharton, which seeks to establish a grant program for equipping law enforcement vehicles with bullet-resistant components to enhance officer safety. The bill received support from multiple members who acknowledged the rising violence against law enforcement. Additionally, HB1775, which focuses on the transparency of the rape kit backlog, was also discussed, highlighting the importance of timely evidence collection in sexual assault cases. The committee heard testimonies both in support of and against various bills, showcasing a vibrant exchange of views on public safety measures and law enforcement accountability.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part I) Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...or it's not opioids for back pain, because back pain could
  • Especially our IDD clients with mental health needs and clients suffering from chemical dependency, like opioid
  • Many of our LMHA employees working with IDD, mental health, and opioid-dependent clients have lived experience
Summary: The meeting involved focused discussions on several key bills aimed at improving mental health services and regulatory practices within the state. Notably, Senator Sparks introduced SB2446, which aims to enhance transparency in Local Mental Health Authorities (LMHAs) by requiring detailed expenditure reports and reducing the influence of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in decision-making processes. The bill drew mixed reactions, with some members emphasizing the need for more oversight while others raised concerns about potential negative impacts on recruitment and service delivery for vulnerable populations. Public testimony highlighted differing perspectives, underscoring the complexity of mental health policies and their implementation constraints.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services (Part II) Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It'll make all of us more aware of what is an epidemic.
  • And I had no appetite for opioids.
  • The way in which we treat people with opioid dependence is we give them a replacement opioid, things
  • The American opioid epidemic, now in its 30th year, costs us more than $1.5 trillion.
  • Since the approval of OxyContin, the opioid epidemic This
Summary: During this meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services, significant attention was given to various bills aimed at enhancing healthcare provisions and improving processes within the health sector. Notable discussions included the presentation of Senate Bill 547 by Senator Menendez, which seeks to streamline provider notice requirements for healthcare professionals by proposing a centralized database managed by the Texas Department of Insurance. The bill was favorably reported and moved forward with recommendations for local and uncontested calendars. Additionally, a committee substitute for Senate Bill 2308 was introduced, focusing on innovative mental health treatments for veterans, particularly regarding ibogaine as a treatment for opioid use disorder. This proposal received strong support due to its potential to lead the nation in mental health care advancements.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 9th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Insurance Committee

Summary: The meeting of the committee included discussions concerning various bills primarily related to insurance policies, their regulations, and procedures. Notably, HB3812 was introduced to further streamline the prior authorization process in healthcare, enhancing the ease for practitioners to receive approvals for common procedures. The committee also deliberated over HB2213, which focused on the restructuring of the board of directors for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, and there was broad consensus to move it forward. Several other bills, such as HB2518, addressing installment premium payment plans for windstorm insurance, were also discussed and moved to be reported favorably without amendments.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 22nd, 2025 at 11:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Summary: The meeting of the committee brought forth significant discussions focused on the legislation surrounding newborn health coverage. Representative Johnson presented HB3940, highlighting the issues with newborns not receiving timely healthcare coverage due to inefficiencies in the enrollment process. The committee engaged in a thorough review, emphasizing the critical impact on health outcomes for infants who were uninsured during vital early checkups. Other members raised questions and concerns, adding to the dialogue on how to improve the automatic enrollment processes currently in place. The intent of the proposed bill is to empower parents with necessary information to prevent the enrollment issues from persisting.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Insurance Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • As a social worker who has personally lost loved ones to opioid use, addiction, and overdose, I know
  • Medicaid-assisted treatment is the gold standard for treating opioid use disorder.
  • in an epidemic in this country.
  • A traditional opioid would be used.
  • We have a crisis in this country of opioid addiction.
Summary: The House Committee on Insurance convened to discuss multiple bills aimed at enhancing consumer protection and improving access to essential services. Notable discussions included HB2528, which seeks to eliminate prior authorization requirements for medications treating substance use disorders, thereby expediting access to crucial treatments for Texans. Representative Boosie laid out HB722, addressing transparency in auto insurance valuation processes, prompting engagement from various witnesses on how current practices potentially exploit consumers. Members voiced concerns about the intersection of bureaucratic delays and the urgency of addiction treatment, emphasizing the bill's potential life-saving implications.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Human Services Apr 22nd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The opioid abatement account will be used to carry out this
  • Members, in Texas, the opioid epidemic claimed nearly

  • ="9054"> This model aims to improve the quality and accessibility of care for pregnant women with opioid
  • span>

    Texas procured funding and launched the Maternal Opioid

  • continue this program for another three years, allowing various agencies to receive funds from the opioid
Summary: The meeting of the committee focused on several key bills related to health care and adoption services, with a significant emphasis on fostering care systems. Vice Chair Emanuel presented bills that aimed to streamline reporting requirements for the HHSC, while Representative Slauson's bill on voluntary adoption registries prompted a discussion on improving access and procedures within the child welfare system. Each bill was generally met with favorable votes, indicating strong bipartisan support for these initiatives. The committee heard testimonies from various stakeholders who voiced the importance of these legislative efforts in enhancing the quality of life for children and families involved in the welfare system. Notably, the committee also tackled the issue of Medicaid services and accessibility for children needing medical equipment like baby helmets, which have been a burden for many low-income families.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 20th, 2025 at 10:05 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • The Opioid Abatement Trust Fund, which organizes Dr.
  • This legislation addresses concerns raised by the Comptroller's Office in regard to the Opioid Abatement
Summary: The committee meeting was marked by dynamic discussions surrounding various legislative bills, notably SB1283 aimed at enhancing security in senior retirement communities following tragic incidents in the past. The bill, presented by Ms. Garcia-Hernandez, outlined essential measures including mandatory background checks for staff and a clear communication policy on criminal activities. The meeting also saw vigorous debates on multiple financial resolutions related to the statewide budget surplus, emphasizing the need for strategic allocation to property tax relief, as voiced by several committee members. Tensions arose as representatives questioned local government spending, reflecting a broader concern over escalating taxes across the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 19th, 2025 at 10:05 am

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • span marker="3673" data-time="22032"> SB1901 by Huffman relating to the administration of the Texas Opioid
  • Abatement Fund Council and the Texas Opioid Abatement Trust Fund.
  • Concerns were raised by the Comptroller's Office in regard to the Opioid Abatement Fund Council.
  • The funds recovered by the Statewide Opioid Settlement
Summary: The committee's meeting was marked by several key discussions surrounding numerous bills and resolutions. Notably, HCR 9 and HCR 40 were adopted, with representatives urging Congress for reimbursement related to border security under Operation Lone Star. Additionally, HCR 118 showed expressions of support for the warship manufacturing industry, reflecting a strong emphasis on local economic development. Senate Bills 1321, 2143, and 2145 passed various readings, which included provisions regarding law enforcement authority and the adaptability of public improvement districts to conduct meetings virtually. The meeting was well attended and featured numerous votes on significant legislative items, showcasing active participation from both members and the public.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health Apr 14th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That is significantly better than opioids.
  • I have three opioids here. I'm taking Tramadol.
  • On opioids, okay, everything will be checked, checked, checked.
  • Opioid antagonists reverse or reduce the effects of an opioid overdose.
  • State and federal money has been invested in battling opioid overdoses, and the use of opioid antagonists
Summary: The meeting convened to discuss various health-related bills, with significant emphasis placed on addressing substance abuse and the associated healthcare challenges in Texas. Notable discussions revolved around HB5342, which aims to sustain 988 operations to aid individuals in crisis, while HB4454 focuses on updating laws to combat unethical patient brokering within substance use treatment programs. Various witnesses, including healthcare professionals, provided testimony supporting these initiatives, highlighting the impact of substance abuse on public health and the necessity for legislative backing in these areas. The committee heard from several members who articulated the urgency of implementing effective measures to address substance abuse, especially with the rising concerns around opioid-related deaths and treatment accessibility in underserved areas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Health Apr 14th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Public Health Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • , and fentanyl is an opioid.
  • So there's an opioid crisis, and so what was the issue in the background of the opioid crisis?
  • So, one of the granular issues with the opioid crisis.
  • epidemic, where an opioid that is prescribed or utilized illicitly on the streets is actually a narcotic
  • So I think we call it the opioid epidemic, but really this is a narcotic epidemic based on the way that
Summary: The meeting of the Committee on Public Health addressed a range of health-related bills, with significant discussions surrounding House Bill 3717, aimed at establishing a grant program for clinical trials related to Ibogaine as a treatment for opioid use disorder. Representative Harris presented the bill, which received unanimous support from the committee. Other bills, such as House Bill 3800, which seeks to create an advisory group for local workforce partnerships in education and health care, were also approved with committee substitutes, reflecting clarifications made for better implementation. The overall atmosphere was positive with members actively engaging in voting and discussion.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Health and Human Services May 20th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Additionally, the bill allows funds from the opioid abatement account established under the statewide
  • opioid settlement to be appropriated to support the MOM model.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services discussed multiple bills focused on diverse health issues including maternal care, organ transplant eligibility, and child welfare regulations. Notably, HB215, presented by Senator Perry, received attention for its provisions on requiring itemized bills from healthcare providers to enhance transparency. The bill garnered support from various witnesses who emphasized the importance of clearer billing processes for patients. Another significant discussion point was HB4076, which aimed to prevent discrimination against individuals seeking organ transplants based on vaccination status. This bill sparked public testimony highlighting the ethical implications of such mandates on vulnerable patients, especially children. Overall, the committee's deliberations emphasized a commitment to improving health care transparency and patient rights in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session May 31st, 2025 at 02:05 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Summary: The meeting involved extensive discussions around several key bills, with highlights focused on the implications of SB12, which emphasized the Texas Parent Bill of Rights. Members debated its potential impacts on educational practices, particularly concerning diversity and inclusion efforts in schools. Concerns were raised about how the removal of DEI programs could adversely affect students with disabilities, particularly those on the autism spectrum. Additionally, SB1506 was addressed, with a significant change proposed to include stricter regulations regarding fentanyl possession, reflecting ongoing concerns about substance abuse in the community. The meeting was well-attended, featuring participation from multiple representatives expressing opinions regarding these bills. The chair recognized various members to provide input, and all discussions culminated in multiple votes on the proposed conference committee reports. The atmosphere was charged as representatives weighed the consequences of these legislative actions on their constituents. In conclusion, the committee successfully adopted multiple measures and set the stage for further engagement on the legislative agenda ahead.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.

Health and Human ServicesAudio only. Aug 27th, 2025

Senate Health & Human Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • marker="23" data-time="206">I, too, feel as if we have been abjectly failed by big pharma, by the opioid
  • epidemic, and by the vertical integration of health care, and by the perverse incentives of corporate
Bills: HB25
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services predominantly focused on discussions surrounding House Bill 25, which proposes allowing pharmacists to dispense ivermectin over the counter. Senator Hall, the bill's sponsor, outlined the potential benefits of increased access to ivermectin, particularly for rural Texans who may struggle to get timely medical care. The discussions included various perspectives on the safety and efficacy of ivermectin as a treatment for viral infections, with witnesses providing testimonials on its use. Senator Hall emphasized that the bill would promote medical freedom by enabling pharmacists to dispense the drug without a prescription, yet concerns were raised regarding the off-label use of such drugs and the responsibilities of pharmacists under this bill.

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