Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'quorum break'
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TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Are you familiar with the quorum break in 1870?
- These are individuals that raise money while they're breaking quorum.
- We prohibit legislators from financially benefiting from breaking quorum.
- But it's saying that if you break quorum.
- breaking quorum during a special.
Bills:
HB18
Keywords:
political contributions, legislature, civil penalty, quorum-breaking, Texas Ethics Commission, HB18, quorum break, financial benefit, legislative integrity, constituent concerns, penalties, fundraising, Texas legislature
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on the discussions surrounding HB18, which aims to prevent legislators from financially benefiting when they break quorum. Chairman Shaheen emphasized that this bill addresses the integrity of the Texas legislature and responds to constituent concerns about lawmakers being absent and raising funds simultaneously. Throughout the meeting, members discussed the implications of enforcing penalties for breaking quorum and the balance between legislative strategy and financial transparency. Various representatives expressed their views, with some supporting the bill for enhancing accountability, while others argued that it imposes unfair restrictions on a constitutional tactic historically used by minority factions.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
House Administration Sep 1st, 2025 at 06:09 pm
House Administration Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- There is a quorum.
The chair lays out H.R. 128.
- break.
- So in eight days of a quorum break, I would be at zero seniority.
This last quorum break was 14.
- I've broken quorum. I've also chosen not to break quorum.
Keywords:
HR128, quorum break, sanctioning provisions, seniority recalculation, due process, penalties, Texas Constitution, committee meeting
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused primarily on the passage of HR128, a resolution which revises the sanctioning provisions for quorum breaks. Mr. Moody provided an overview of the changes proposed in the resolution, emphasizing that no retroactive fines would be applied and detailing the recalculation of seniority among members. The discussion highlighted potential penalties for those breaking quorum, including increased fines and the automatic rescission of certain appointments. Concerns were raised regarding the vagueness of new penalties and the need for due process in these matters, particularly relating to the Texas Constitution. After deliberations, the resolution was passed with a vote of six in favor and two against.
Public commentary was invited but limited, indicating a streamlined process during this session. The environment was professional, with members expressing gratitude for attendance despite the complexities of the topics discussed. The meeting concluded with remarks from the chair and a summary of future discussions, ensuring that all members were informed of the next steps regarding the resolution.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- to break quorum.
- bill, and then now we have this recent quorum break.
- a right to quorum break fundraising.
- This bill does not compel members to break a quorum.
- Love to break quorum.
Bills:
HB18
Keywords:
political contributions, legislature, civil penalty, quorum-breaking, Texas Ethics Commission, fundraising, quorum, HB18, legislative process, financial gain, special session, political contributions
Summary:
In the meeting, the primary focus was on HB18, which aims to prohibit legislators from fundraising while breaking quorum without an excused absence. The bill sparked a lively discussion among committee members, highlighting concerns regarding the financial benefits that legislators may receive while hindering the legislative process. Members debated the implications of enacting such a law, with some arguing that it could unfairly penalize minority parties exercising their constitutional rights. Notably, testimony was heard from constituents who expressed their discontent with fundraising efforts that coincided with quorum breaks, presenting a strong case for the necessity of the bill. The committee ultimately chose to leave the bill pending for further discussion.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on County & Regional Government Apr 21st, 2025 at 01:04 pm
House S/C on County & Regional Government
Transcript Highlights:
A quorum is present.
- House Bill 240 aims to address this gap by reinstating the universal quorum requirement.
- This bill merely seeks to restore the quorum requirement that stood for over a century.
- quorum and stop a budget from being adopted.
- ; it just requires a quorum.
Bills:
HB240, HB2097, HB2731, HB3087, HB3234, HB3319, HB3394, HB3687, HB4105, HB4205, HB4350, HB4462, HB4642, HB4801, HB5403
Keywords:
quorum, tax levy, county governance, local government, population regulations, quorum requirement, tax levy, Texas counties, local government, population threshold, tax levy, quorum requirement, local government, population threshold, county governance, deputy sheriff, civil service, law enforcement, appeals process, sheriff's department
Summary:
The meeting primarily focused on the discussion of various bills addressing public safety, administrative efficiency, and regulatory frameworks affecting counties in Texas. Notably, Representative Kerwin introduced HB3087 aimed at establishing child safety zones and was met with mixed reactions, including strong opposition from advocates who argued it would unfairly restrict residents' rights. Additionally, bills like HB3234 were discussed, which seeks to reduce bureaucratic hurdles for county construction projects, aiming to streamline processes and save costs for rapidly growing counties like Bexar and Travis. Public testimony played a crucial role in the debates, with numerous witnesses voicing their support or concerns over the proposed legislation, showcasing the vibrant community interest in these measures.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
89th Legislative Session - First Called Session Aug 14th, 2025 at 11:08 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
It is evident to the Chair that a quorum is not present
Summary:
During this meeting, the participants discussed important legislative updates and the implications of newly proposed bills. The committee chair acknowledged the lack of quorum at the beginning, which led to an early adjournment. However, prior to the conclusion, members engaged in substantive discussions regarding key issues affecting the community, including budget allocations and public safety initiatives. Notable emphasis was placed on community feedback, with several representatives sharing insights gathered from their constituents.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and CommerceAudio only. Apr 23rd, 2025
Senate Business & Commerce Committee
Transcript Highlights:
As a matter of record, there being 10 present, the quorum
Keywords:
Senate, Committee on Business and Commerce, Senate Bill 324, quorum, vote, legislation, Senator Colquhart, business agenda
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce was convened to discuss and vote on Senate Bill 324. After calling the roll and establishing a quorum, the committee discussed the bill's implications. Senator Colquhart moved that Senate Bill 324 be reported favorably to the full Senate, leading to a vote where there were 4 ayes and 2 nays. The bill was ultimately reported to the full Senate for further consideration. Chair Lee facilitated the meeting, ensuring all members had the opportunity to voice their opinions on the legislation. Following the bill's passage, the meeting was adjourned with discussions on potential upcoming business from the committee.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
89th Legislative Session - First Called Session Aug 8th, 2025 at 01:08 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- 31" data-time="180"> There being 95 members present, a quorum
The meeting has been called, and a quorum has not been
- quorum will no longer have their paycheck or per diem deposited electronically.
- "> Section 3 of House Rules, which authorizes fines for members absent without leave. 30% of each quorum-breaking
- We are continuing to explore new avenues to compel a quorum and we'll keep pressing forward until the
Bills:
HB4
Keywords:
redistricting, congressional districts, Texas Legislature, elections, 2020 Census, quorum, attendance, administrative policies, civil arrest, flood recovery, infrastructure funding, legislation
Summary:
In this meeting, key discussions revolved around the enactment of new measures to manage member attendance and address quorum issues. The chairman addressed the ongoing challenges presented by absent members and introduced administrative policies impacting pay and expenses for those not present. He emphasized the need for all members to return expeditiously, or face consequences, including potential civil arrest for those evading attendance. The significance of HB3, a priority legislation concerning flood recovery and infrastructure funding, was highlighted as essential for restoring communities affected by recent flooding, following extensive testimonies from impacted citizens.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
In the past, legislators have used quorum breaks to raise
- Article 3, Section 10 of the Texas Constitution has been interpreted to allow for quorum-breaking.
- financially benefit from quorum-breaking absences and helps
- or restrict any of that constitutional right for them to break quorum if they so choose.
- that we've experienced, and when there was a quorum break,
Bills:
HB18
Keywords:
political contributions, political expenditures, legislative rules, absence penalties, government ethics, HB18, quorum, legislative process, penalties, transparency, accountability, fundraising restrictions
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on House Bill 18, which aims to establish penalties for lawmakers who intentionally break quorum to obstruct legislative processes. Senator Hinojosa presented the bill, explaining that it prohibits absent legislators from fundraising and incurs civil penalties for violations. Public testimony was taken, with supporters emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency among legislators. Discussions among committee members highlighted the bill's implications and raised questions about its efficacy in preventing planned quorum breaks.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
89th Legislative Session - First Called Session Aug 4th, 2025 at 03:08 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
Members, a quorum is not present.
- The roll has been called and a quorum has not been established
- >
As Speaker, I will do everything in my power to establish a quorum
Bills:
HB4
Keywords:
redistricting, congressional districts, Texas Legislature, elections, 2020 Census, quorum, disaster recovery, human trafficking, legislation, Speaker's warning, Texas families, absent members
Summary:
The meeting focused on significant legislative issues and the need for prompt actions regarding disaster recovery, human trafficking, and local governance. Speaker raised concerns about the absence of several members, which hindered the establishment of a quorum and delayed critical discussions. Emphasis was placed on the responsibilities of elected officials to their constituents, with a stern warning that their absence would lead to necessary actions being taken to ensure their return to fulfill their duties. The Speaker highlighted the urgency of addressing pressing issues faced by Texas families and cited the growing cost of inaction.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
89th Legislative Session - First Called Session Aug 5th, 2025 at 01:08 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- There being 94 members present, a quorum is not present.
- marker="46" data-time="270"> Or rule has the authority to convene regardless of whether our body has a quorum
- "> It is evident to the chair that DPS will need some time to work, and we will try again to make quorum
If quorum is then made, we will proceed with the very
Bills:
HB4
Keywords:
redistricting, congressional districts, Texas Legislature, elections, 2020 Census, Texas Department of Public Safety, legislative attendance, Disaster Preparedness Committee, flood legislation, quorum
Summary:
In this meeting, the chair addressed concerns regarding the attendance of certain members who have been evading their legislative duties. The Texas Department of Public Safety is actively working to enforce civil arrest warrants to ensure that these members return to the chamber. This issue is pressing as the Disaster Preparedness Committee is poised to evaluate five crucial pieces of legislation aimed at addressing catastrophic flooding that has severely impacted communities across the state. The emphasis was placed on the urgency and importance of the work undertaken by the committee in these trying times.
The meeting concluded with a plan for the House to reconvene, urging members to ensure their attendance. The chair expressed hope for a quorum to be achieved by the next session, allowing for the continuation of critical discussions. This session saw active participation from members, highlighting the dedication towards serving constituents despite the present challenges faced within the legislature.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
89th Legislative Session - 1st Called Session Aug 11th, 2025 at 01:08 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- A quorum is not present.
The roll has been called and a quorum is not present.
- A quorum is not present.
The roll has been called and a quorum is not present.
- Under Rule 5, Section 3 of the House Rules, those breaking quorum
Bills:
HB4
Keywords:
redistricting, congressional districts, Texas Legislature, elections, 2020 Census, emergency management, disaster response, quorum, Texas Division of Emergency Management, legislation, House Bills, public safety, fraud prevention, local governments
Summary:
The meeting was convened to discuss a number of significant bills, primarily focused on emergency management and disaster response measures, particularly House Bills 1 through 63. The committee emphasized the urgency of passing these bills to enhance the capabilities of the Texas Division of Emergency Management and create essential frameworks for local governments to better coordinate disaster response efforts. Discussions also included legislative actions to impose stricter regulations to guard against fraudulent activities related to disaster relief donations. Notably, the committee discussed the ongoing challenge of achieving a quorum, as several members were absent, leading to the deployment of law enforcement personnel to locate and encourage attendance from missing colleagues.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 25th, 2025 at 09:08 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- number five by Leah Wilson amends the permanent rules of the House of Representatives relating to quorum
- "54">HR number 17 by Money amends the permanent rules of the House of Representatives relating to quorum
- number 18 by Mick Laughlin amends the permanent rules of the House of Representatives relating to quorum
- monetary punishments on Democratic members of the Texas House of Representatives who intentionally broke quorum
Keywords:
property tax, school funding, enrollment changes, inflation adjustment, tax rate notice, groundwater, aquifers, water conservation, Texas Water Development Board, permit moratorium, environmental impact, law enforcement, department file, employee records, misconduct, confidentiality, Texas occupations code, quorum, attendance, resolutions
Summary:
The meeting focused on several resolutions that were referred to various committees, particularly concerning local and consent calendars. Multiple resolutions were read aloud, including HCR2, HCR3 through HCR8, and numerous HR resolutions spanning HR1 through HR72. The discussions highlighted the importance of addressing quorum and attendance rules, suggesting significant amendments to the House's permanent rules. Notably, resolutions by members such as Leo Wilson and Hopper drew attention for their implications on Democratic members breaking quorum during prior sessions.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- address the legality of a quorum break.
- The member must be outside of the state for the purposes of breaking a quorum.
- This does not speak to the ability of a quorum break.
- And a deliberate quorum break.
- But then a third requirement would be for the specific reason of a quorum break.
Keywords:
sex designation, restroom access, civil penalties, private civil right of action, women's privacy, abortion, healthcare, jurisdiction, civil action, qui tam, prohibition, state law, property tax, school funding, enrollment changes, inflation adjustment, tax rate notice, youth camps, emergency preparedness, child safety
Summary:
The committee meeting primarily focused on the discussion and passage of several significant bills, including HB20, which aims to prevent and reduce fraudulent charitable solicitations during disasters. Representative Perry highlighted the importance of this bill in ensuring that legitimate organizations receive donations while deterring scams that occur in the aftermath of disasters. The bill was passed unanimously with discussions around its necessity and the impact on victims of fraud. Further, House Bill 18 was discussed concerning penalties for legislators attempting to break quorum, a topic that stirred some debate on legislative integrity and rules enforcement. Members voiced varying opinions on the implications of the bill, leading to its eventual passage amid objections from some members who raised concerns about its enforcement mechanisms and potential for misuse.
Overall, the meeting was well-attended, with members actively debating key issues while striving for legislative progress on these critical bills. The audience included public stakeholders who expressed their views, showcasing the engagement between legislators and constituents on pressing matters.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Aug 15th, 2025 at 12:08 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- There being 97 members present, a quorum is not present in
- Father, we pray we have a quorum soon. Please be with those who are traveling back.
- When we do establish quorum, these bills will be immediately referred.
- But those who have refused to make quorum, I'm sure you're missing home.
- break.
Keywords:
redistricting, congressional districts, Texas Legislature, elections, 2020 Census, disaster response, emergency management, mass fatality, justices of the peace, training programs, emergency manager license, volunteer management, disaster response, mass fatality, emergency management, justice of the peace training, volunteer management, criminal history checks, state health services, emergency communication
Summary:
The meeting of the Texas House of Representatives focused on ensuring quorum for the ongoing special session and addressing pressing legislative matters. Speaker called attention to the absence of certain members who had not returned, leading to discussions on maintaining attendance and possibly issuing civil arrest warrants if necessary. The discussions also included emphasis on pro-life legislation and property tax protections, as well as addressing safety concerns highlighted by tragic incidents such as those at Camp Mystic. Notably, House Bill 1 focusing on camp safety and House Bill 25 for over-the-counter ivermectin were among the priorities mentioned for upcoming sessions.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
89th Legislative Session - First Called Session Aug 12th, 2025 at 10:08 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- A quorum is not present.
- Members, the roll has been called, and again a quorum is not
- Since we do not have quorum today, members present are not going to be punished, and they're going to
- to convene with the quorum on Friday so we can address the
If we still do not have quorum on Friday, the House and
Keywords:
disaster response, emergency management, mass fatality, justices of the peace, training programs, emergency manager license, volunteer management, disaster response, mass fatality, emergency management, justice of the peace training, volunteer management, criminal history checks, state health services, emergency communication, interoperability, grant program, first responders, state council, emergency communication
Summary:
In this meeting of the legislative committee, members gathered to discuss pressing issues, including critical flood response legislation that could significantly impact families and communities affected by recent disasters. Despite the efforts to address these urgent matters, a quorum was not present, preventing any formal actions from being taken. The absence of a sufficient number of members meant that discussions were limited and centered around logistics for the upcoming sessions to ensure that necessary votes could be conducted in the near future. The chairman expressed concerns about the operational costs related to these absences and emphasized the continuous tracking of taxpayer dollars being spent in response to the critical situations faced by communities.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
89th Legislative Session - Second Called Session Sep 2nd, 2025 at 12:09 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- If a member breaks quorum and is absent for the purposes of breaking quorum, this legislation would apply
- And people breaking quorum can do what?
- People that are breaking quorum with this step are absolutely sitting breaking quorum.
- I don't think that breaks quorum. The bill says for the purpose of just a break in quorum.
- So if members break the quorum...
Keywords:
political contributions, political expenditures, legislative rules, absence penalties, government ethics, voter registration, change of address, election procedures, Texas Election Code, voting rights, elections, political contributions, voter registration, HB18, SB54
Summary:
The recent committee meeting addressed several significant bills, primarily focused on electoral processes and legislative conduct. Notably, HB18, which regulates political contributions by legislative members during absences, was passed with a notable vote of 86 ayes to 46 nays. Additionally, Senate Bill 54, centered on election procedures regarding the registration of voters with outdated addresses, also advanced successfully through the committee, although not without discussion regarding its implications. The chair emphasized the importance of these legislative measures and their potential impact on voting rights.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Senate Special Committee on Congressional Redistricting Aug 7th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- I'm in full support of the House members and their quorum break. Yes, Mr. Chairman, I went to ball.
- Then we have the quorum, the parliamentary use of quorum breaks in order to stymie the efforts, and then
- I support House members who are breaking quorum to defend our rights.
- quorum right now.
- You have to break quorum and eventually vote no. This is a time for courage.
Keywords:
redistricting, HB4, SB4, public testimony, Census 2020, flood relief, representation, special session
Summary:
The meeting of the Committee on Congressional Redistricting focused primarily on the discussion of HB4 and SB4, concerning the redistricting process based on the 2020 Census data. Chairman King opened the session, expressing gratitude to the committee members for their attendance and emphasizing the importance of completing redistricting within the special session's 30-day timeframe. Public testimony was a major component, with numerous individuals voicing their opinions both in favor and against the proposed redistricting maps, emphasizing issues of representation and concerns of racial injustices inherent in the process. The majority of witnesses highlighted the need for immediate attention to pressing issues such as flood relief instead of focusing solely on redistricting.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
A few more members coming in to make quorum and roll call
- did not have quorum, which, in one instance, resulted in a budget
And we have our break for the floor in less than 15
- span marker="160" data-time="954"> We're going to go ahead and continue this pause until after our break
Keywords:
higher education, curriculum review, governing board, faculty council, ombudsman, higher education, faculty governance, decision-making, transparency, public meetings, higher education, governing board, department head, employment approval, public institutions, higher education, governing board, department head, employment approval, institutional oversight
Summary:
The committee meeting was marked by significant discussions surrounding various legislative proposals, particularly Senate Bill 1741, which aims to tackle espionage and intellectual property theft within Texas public institutions of higher education. Senator Parker took the floor to present the bill, highlighting its importance in safeguarding the state’s educational institutions from foreign threats. The conversation around this bill was substantive, with public testimonies being invited to gather a range of opinions on the proposed regulations. Another critical aspect discussed was Senate Bill 724, which addresses the attendance of governing board members in person during meetings, a vital issue raised post-COVID due to a lack of quorum in past gatherings. The committee's chair, Senator Kolkhorst, emphasized the necessity for physical presence to maintain the integrity of board meetings and deliberations.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Senate Special Committee on Congressional Redistricting Aug 17th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- There being three present, that does not equate to a quorum for
A quorum will be established as the meeting progresses.
- And that gives us a quorum. That's great.
- quorum to stay in her seat.
I support our Texas Democrats for breaking quorum.
Keywords:
redistricting, Senate Bill 4, public testimony, Texas legislature, partisan gain, minority representation, Senator King
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Special Committee on Congressional Redistricting focused primarily on Senate Bill 4, which has sparked considerable public debate due to its implications on redistricting following the recent census. Senator King laid out the intent and details of SB4, which aims to make significant adjustments that critics argue will disenfranchise minority populations in Texas. Throughout the meeting, concerned citizens shared their testimonies, voicing opposition to the bill primarily on grounds that it manipulates district lines for partisan gain rather than community representation. The emotional testimonies of witnesses highlighted the serious concerns of many about representation in the Texas legislature going forward.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Senate Session (Part III)Note: due to technical difficulties with the microphone system, there is no audio from 2h:15m:17s to 2h:16m:26s. Aug 26th, 2025
Texas Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- specifically for quorum breaks and other events.
- "1141" data-time="6840"> And ultimately now it just disincentivizes special sessions during summer break
- and also only addresses summer quorum breaks.
- marker="1186" data-time="7110"> For the record, when the Senate recessed Friday night for a dinner break
- During the break, it was discovered that a fundraising email
Keywords:
disaster relief, emergency preparedness, flood management, local government grants, meteorological forecasting, state appropriations, school assessment, public education, accountability, transparency, education standards, abortion, civil liability, abortion-inducing drugs, qui tam actions, Texas Citizens Participation Act, Religious Freedom Restoration Act, healthcare regulations, judicial branch, court security
Summary:
The committee meeting led by Senator Perry addressed various legislative measures including discussions around House Bill 23, which clarifies tax exemption for charitable organizations serving agricultural youth in populous counties. The bill was successfully passed with unanimous support after being brought up for expedited consideration. Notably, the discussion around Senate Bill 10 became contentious as Senator Bettencourt moved to not concur with House amendments citing potential tax increases, initiating a discussion about the implications and future direction of the bill. Furthermore, the importance of tax rate transparency was highlighted in the presentation of House Bill 17, aimed at improving communication regarding property tax rates to taxpayers, ensuring broader public engagement in tax matters and hearings as feedback and participation in the past had been low.