Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'tiered funding system'

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TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Public Education Mar 4th, 2025 at 02:30 pm

House Public Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Data from school districts for a pilot study will inform the new special education funding system.
  • the implementation of a new funding system for special education.
  • TEA's goal was to report back to the legislature this spring with more details about what a tiered system
  • It is necessary to adequately fund special education now, however, while the new system
  • Refine the tiered funding model as much as possible within the bill to address Bills: HB2
Summary: The meeting focused on House Bill 2, which aims to reform funding for special education in Texas. Various stakeholders, including educators and administrators, testified on the importance of the bill, highlighting current funding gaps and the need for increased resources to adequately support students with disabilities. Testimony revealed that many school districts are experiencing a significant funding shortfall, forcing them to seek additional local funding sources to cover the costs of necessary services. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for a new tiered funding system, which was met with cautious support due to the ambiguities surrounding its implementation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 23rd, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • , as opposed to asking the pension plan to look for funds within the trust fund itself to finance those
  • legacy payment to pre-fund these benefits and not add...
  • I hope they'll be able to keep that fund in there.
  • the overall wealth of the Teacher Retirement System?
  • Unfortunately, it's the retirement system and the members of the trust fund that are subsidizing that
Summary: During the meeting, the committee discussed several important bills focused on state employee pensions, the education sector, and consumer credit resources. One of the main topics was HB886, which proposes a 13th check for state retirees to help alleviate financial challenges faced by those who have not seen any pension adjustments for over a decade. The bill received support from various stakeholders who emphasized its necessity given the rising costs of living and inflation. Additionally, HB3221 was examined, addressing unequal pension contributions between traditional school districts and charter schools, which has placed undue financial burdens on charter schools since 2019. The bill aims to unify the contribution rates to ensure fairness and retain essential funding for education.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 23rd, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Firefighters Retirement Fund is stable and funded as quickly and reliably as possible, while maintaining
  • retiree from the fund.
  • , or ADEC funding model.
  • I think that typically systems are always looking to see what our funding status is and whether we can
  • We have seven tiers now in the TRS system since it has been
Summary: The meeting was focused on a range of significant legislation including discussions on retirement benefits for public safety officers and specific bills aimed at addressing current challenges in the pension systems. Representative Busey introduced HB2802, aimed at stabilizing the Austin Firefighters Retirement Fund, which received support from various stakeholders including Mayor Kirk Watson, reflecting months of collaborative effort. Testimony emphasized the need for proactive changes to prevent future financial crises in the fund. Additionally, HB4029, proposed by Chairman Guillen, generated appeals from various members about the necessity of addressing retirement needs for peace officers in public schools, linking it directly to their recruitment and retention challenges in the current environment. Issues regarding recruitment and the financial sustainability of the Houston Fire Department were also highlighted with HB2688, enabling timely action on pressing pension reform to retain skilled personnel.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Senate Committee on Education K-16 Apr 3rd, 2025 at 09:00 am

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • into the Texas A&M system.
  • I'm James Hallmark with the Texas A&M University System.
  • systems, and student information systems.
  • , but the UH System and A&M System are engaged in discussions to allow the continued use of existing
  • Additionally, this provides the legislature the opportunity to allocate funding to address funding losses
Summary: The meeting focused on significant education reform, particularly the transition of the University of Houston-Victoria into the Texas A&M system. Senator Kohlkorst led the discussions, highlighting the historical context of the partnership and the challenges ahead in transitioning governance, especially regarding accreditation and technical support. Community leaders expressed their support, emphasizing the need for alignment with regional industry needs to enhance educational programs that would ultimately benefit both students and the local economy. Notably, testimony from James Hallmark and Dwayne Crocker highlighted both the potential growth for the region and the collaborative spirit of the involved institutions in implementing this transition.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • to the Texas A&M system.
  • into the Texas A&M system.
  • to the A&M System.
  • systems.
  • systems.
Summary: The Senate Committee on Education convened to discuss several important bills, prominently featuring Senate Bill 2361, which proposes the transition of the University of Houston-Victoria into the Texas A&M University System. Testimonies from community leaders such as Mayor Dwayne Crocker highlighted the significant positive implications this shift could have for local education and economic development. The consensus was that the integration would not only elevate educational opportunities but also enhance the region's workforce alignment with industry needs, particularly in fields like engineering and agriculture. Additionally, SB 530 was introduced, focusing on removing restrictions on which accrediting bodies universities can engage for accreditation, a move that aims to modernize Texas educational regulations to align with recent federal changes.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Apr 3rd, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • , with the Higher Education Fund (HEF) capped at 2.2%.
  • and the available Workforce Education Fund will be established as special funds in the state treasury
  • TSTC operates on an outcomes-based funding model known as...
  • Additionally, this provides the legislature the opportunity to allocate funding to address funding losses
  • and the Texas University Fund.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Education covered various significant bills focused primarily on improving educational accessibility and accountability in Texas. Notably, Senate Bill 2252, aimed at supporting kindergarten readiness and early literacy, received a commendable endorsement from the committee, showcasing a unifying approach towards enhancing foundational education. Additionally, Senate Bill 1962, concerning public school accountability, stirred proactive discussions about the challenges faced by school systems, further bringing forth various stakeholder insights during public testimony. The atmosphere remained engaged as committee members debated the efficacy and implications of each proposal, reflecting a strong commitment to enhancing educational standards across the state. As the meeting progressed, various senators championed their respective bills, emphasizing the importance of flexibility in standardized college entrance exams as highlighted in Senate Bill 1241. The bill proposes to expand acceptable exams beyond the traditional SAT and ACT, reflecting a modernized approach to student assessments. Senators and representatives from key educational organizations contributed testimony, solidifying support for such measures while advocating for the continuous dialogue on educational reforms. With multiple bills reported favorably to the full Senate, the session exemplified a dedicated effort towards fostering educational advancements 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:
  • To date, we have provided over $3.4 billion in funding.
  • It's a voluntary system.
  • It's an elegant system. It's open to all Texans.
  • Because the banking system and the global payment system are interconnected.
  • The system would have to be changed so that at the point of sale, the system would look at the acquirer's
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

S/C on Transportation Funding Apr 28th, 2025 at 11:04 am

House S/C on Transportation Funding

Transcript Highlights:
  • to fund a veterans discount program for those utilizing SH
  • This instructs the Transportation Commission to create a new funding

  • ...funds to attract a big box retailer.
  • This shift would create instability in our long-term planning and funding.
  • We have built a system that reinvests in our communities.
Summary: The meeting focused on the consideration of three main bills: HB3643, HB3821, and HB3849. Representative Troxler presented HB3643, which aims to allow municipalities like Lago Vista to withdraw from a transit authority with more reasonable exit fees. The bill faced strong support from local officials who argued that the current financial obligations are burdensome for smaller cities, and as a result, they cannot negotiate better service conditions with the transit authority. Public testimony was provided, with several community leaders advocating for the bill, highlighting the frustrations of Lago Vista residents who have been underserved by the transit agency. Conversely, there was opposition from CapMetro, who raised concerns about the potential destabilization of the transit system due to increased risks of municipalities opting out.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Transportation Funding Apr 28th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House S/C on Transportation Funding

Transcript Highlights:
  • Funding to all those wishing to testify in person today.

  • Currently, when the legislature allocates funding for local airports, recipients are often required to
  • contribute additional matching funds, resources they typically do not have, especially in sports.
  • However, 76 of these are only eligible for state funding and not federal funds.
  • However, 76 of these are only eligible for state funding and not federal funds.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on discussions surrounding several notable bills, particularly concerning toll roads in Texas. Chairman Metcalf introduced HB5346, which aims to establish clear mandates for the cessation of tolling once a project's financial obligations have been satisfied. This bill sparked considerable debate, with proponents arguing for taxpayer fairness and control, while opponents raised concerns about potential perpetual tolls disguised as public votes every five years. Witnesses voiced strong opinions both for and against the measures, highlighting the ongoing tensions over infrastructure funding and user fees.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) Apr 1st, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Sarah Delano: In this bill, there's a PrEP allotment that includes targeted funding for school systems
  • We have to have a public accountability system for our public school system.
  • tier, leading to funding shortfalls for adult high schools.
  • of funding.
  • There's no local funding.
Summary: The committee meeting primarily addressed several education-related bills, notably focusing on strengthening teacher certification pathways and accountability measures within the Texas school system. Notable discussions revolved around Senate Bills 2252 and 2253, which aim to enhance early education and teacher preparation programs. Participants included various committee members who debated the merits of each bill and carefully considered public testimony that presented both support and concerns regarding the implications of the proposed legislation.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance Apr 23rd, 2025

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...and Firefighter Retirement Fund, based on the Voluntary Funding
  • ...Fund in 2021 and the City of Austin Employee Retirement Fund
  • I'm the Executive Director of the Austin Firefighters Retirement Fund.
  • retirement fund.
  • an actuarially determined employer contribution, or ADEC, funding model.
Bills: SB771, SB2345, HB135
Summary: The Senate Finance Committee meeting covered crucial legislative discussions surrounding several important bills, particularly focused on firefighter pension reforms and tax equity for diesel fuel. Senate Bill 771, presented by Senator Hinojosa, seeks to rectify a gap in state tax law regarding tax credits for diesel fuel used in auxiliary power units. The bill drew support from several witnesses who emphasized its importance for maintaining fairness in tax treatment across fuel types. Additionally, House Bill 135, aimed at providing tax exemptions for exotic game sales, was discussed with fervent support from stakeholders within the industry. Public testimonies highlighted the positive economic impact of the bill on rural communities in Texas. The committee also reviewed Senate Bill 2345, another pension-related bill, which showcased collaboration between the city and the firefighters' association.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Apr 2nd, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • public education system is performing.
  • like wrong way detection systems.
  • This can be seen best in the justice system, workplace, school setting, and in the health care system
  • access and interaction with the legal system, diminishing their trust in our judicial system.
  • It's a systemic problem statewide.
Summary: The Committee on Judiciary and Civil Justice held a meeting focusing on several legislative bills that address implicit bias in the judicial system. A major highlight was House Bill 1363, which seeks to implement mandatory bias training for judges to ensure fairer judicial outcomes and enhance public trust in the system. This discussion included testimony from various stakeholders who articulated the significance of addressing unconscious biases that could affect judicial decisions. There was considerable debate about the effectiveness and required duration of the training, with suggestions for extending the training frequency from two years to annually to ensure continual awareness and education amongst judges.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So basically, it's been pointed out that the system we have is a...
  • We understand that the legal system is complex, and how it works.
  • They trusted the system. Far too many, that trust was betrayed.
  • I'd say I think we're getting exactly what our system incentivizes, which is...
  • the confidence of our public health system in so many ways.
Summary: The committee meeting encompassed a wide range of discussions focusing heavily on various bills aimed at enhancing community safety and legal procedures. Notably, House Bill 2176 was introduced by Chairman Harless as a cleanup bill that seeks to improve courtroom safety. This drew significant attention as witnesses, including Holly Williamson from the Justices of the Peace and Constables Association, testified regarding the alarming increase in security incidents reported in Texas courts, emphasizing the need for reinforced court security measures. The concerns raised about the safety of judges, court personnel, and the public during court proceedings highlighted the gravity of the situation and the necessity for legislative action.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Higher Education May 13th, 2025 at 08:05 am

House Higher Education Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • All public comments submitted through the portal will be posted on the electronic legislative system.
  • ...system known as T-Less and T-Low, as well as on the House
Summary: The Committee on Higher Education convened to discuss several significant pieces of legislation aimed at enhancing educational outcomes and access in Texas. A notable discussion was around SB2431, which seeks to improve access to foreign language courses through study abroad programs, as demand for such skills continues to grow in various industries. Additionally, SB2786 was presented, aimed at exempting certain public officers from assessment requirements under the Texas Success Initiative, to better accommodate their professional training and development needs. The meeting showcased a range of witnesses and testimonies in support of these initiatives, reflecting the committee's commitment to addressing educational barriers for students and professionals alike.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Criminal Justice Apr 15th, 2025

Senate Criminal Justice Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • ...funding lines and outside funding sources.
  • In Harris County, I have different budgets across four funding lines.
  • ...are funded.
  • They're not really committing or necessarily going through the justice system.
  • An adversarial system is a good system.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Criminal Justice covered a range of legislative measures focusing primarily on the improvement of mental health services and clarifying procedural aspects of emergency detention for individuals experiencing mental illness. Key bills, such as SB1164, which aims to enhance emergency detention procedures, were discussed. Testimonies from both supporters and critics highlighted the need for clear standards in mental health emergencies to ensure that due process is maintained while providing necessary care. The committee also addressed concerns around legislation impacting community supervision and administration, exemplified by SB663, and how it could streamline budget processes for local agencies. Overall, the discussions emphasized balancing public safety with mental health needs and ensuring fair representation in the judicial process.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Apr 14th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • It's a system that's open to all.
  • Any financial institution, big or small, can join in this system and participate.
  • That's not the way the system works at all.
  • So the whole system is designed to accommodate the rate program.
  • These programs are often funded in part by these...
Summary: The meeting exhibited a heated discussion on the implications of House Bills 4124, 4061, and 40. Chairman Darby emphasized the importance of reducing credit card swipe fees that adversely affect small businesses in Texas, presenting HB 4124, which aims to exempt sales tax and gratuities from being subject to these fees. Various witnesses, including representatives from the Texas Retailers Association and the National Restaurant Association, supported HB 4124, arguing that it would alleviate financial burdens on local businesses and promote economic fairness. However, several opposing voices raised concerns regarding potential complications and regulatory hurdles that could complicate the business landscape further.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part II) May 8th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • These young people are already being held accountable through the Juvenile Justice System, which has
  • Schools should not be acting as a second court system, especially.
  • And to the juvenile justice system.
  • ...school discipline systems with court and civil legal systems
  • This funding helps us to do that, and we greatly appreciate everything that you're doing.
Summary: The meeting largely centered on discussions about House Bill 120, which aims to improve career and technical education in Texas, particularly focusing on rural students. The bill was introduced as an innovative approach to enhance educational pathways for high-demand jobs, including programs for military readiness and industry-based certifications. Various stakeholders, including educators and representatives from the Career and Technical Association of Texas, provided testimonies in support of the bill, emphasizing the need for such initiatives to address the workforce requirements of the state. Conversely, concerns regarding the bill's implications were raised by several witnesses, primarily focusing on the potential unintended consequences for students with disabilities and the importance of maintaining a collaborative educational approach rather than a punitive one.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Education K-16 (Part I) May 8th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • The house engrossed version removed TSTC from the Higher Education Assistance Fund, the HEAF Fund.
  • I'm told that currently a court through the federal system can give that order.
  • However, I'm told that it's already allowable in the federal court system today.
  • Number three, are we giving funding to schools for mental health?
  • The first tier is those that you tell him to put his pencil up, and he'll do it.
Summary: The meeting of the Senate Committee on Education, K-16, revolved around multiple bills, notably HB1188, HB2856, HB3126, HJR5, and HB6. Key discussions highlighted the importance of early intervention for families with special needs through HB1188, which aims to provide better resources for parents. Public testimony included compelling narratives that underscored the personal impact of such legislation. Additionally, the committee engaged in important dialogue concerning student discipline, specifically focusing on vaping in schools and its consequences under HB6.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Ways & Means Mar 24th, 2025 at 02:00 pm

House Ways & Means Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • "73" data-time="432"> a full accounting of how bond proceeds are spent and what projects they will fund
  • Why would this be considered as opposed to standing up a new system?
  • data-time="1062">It does not currently capture the ballot language, the list of projects used to be funded
  • bit of added detail, that in a place like Dripping Springs, for a family of four, a full rainwater system
  • of supporting their family and their water uses would require between a 20,000 and 30,000-gallon system
Summary: The meeting of the Ways and Means Committee was marked by significant deliberation on several bills aimed at improving tax policies and supporting community welfare. A noteworthy discussion surrounded HB1256, which proposes tax exemptions for rainwater harvesting systems, reflecting the pressing issue of water conservation amid drought conditions affecting Texas. Representative Zwiener emphasized the necessity of incentivizing families to conserve water, championing the bill as a common-sense solution. The committee also considered HB1632, which aims to make pet food tax-exempt, further engaging legislators in a light-hearted yet crucial dialogue about affordability for pet owners amidst rising living costs. Following these discussions, a series of resolutions and bills were reported favorably out of the committee, including HJR138, which seeks to prohibit a carbon tax in Texas as a precautionary measure against potential economic repercussions. The meeting concluded with clear communication regarding upcoming votes and recommendations for moving these bills forward to the full house. The atmosphere fostered a collaborative spirit as committee members shared their insights on pressing issues, highlighting their commitment to supporting Texas families and communities.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

89th Legislative Session Apr 14th, 2025 at 02:04 pm

Texas House Floor Meeting

Transcript Highlights:
  • They do not take taxpayer funds.
  • fund.
  • fund either after they graduate college or at a certain age where they're responsible.
  • So they're doing well, and they're gonna do well under this system.
  • A parent system like the NIL provides.
Summary: The committee meeting was marked by significant discussions surrounding several House Bills, particularly focusing on topics such as the payment for college athletes and the commemoration of veterans. HB290 was passed with a vote of 115 to 29, while HB300, aimed at updating the Texas Armed Services Scholarship Program, garnered unanimous support with 147 votes in favor. A notable moment came during the discussion of HB2143, which proposed to dedicate a segment of a farm-to-market road in honor of Army Specialist Joey Lenz, eliciting heartfelt responses from members as they recognized his sacrifice and service to the country. Overall, the meeting included both procedural motions and passionate debates on the implications of the proposed legislation.

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