MINUTES

SENATE COMMITTEE ON FINANCE

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

10:00 AM

Capitol Extension, Room E1.036

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Pursuant to a notice posted in accordance with Senate Rule 11.10 and 11.18, a public hearing of the Senate Committee on Finance was held on Wednesday, August 29, 2012, in the Capitol Extension, Room E1.036, at Austin, Texas.

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MEMBERS PRESENT:		MEMBERS ABSENT:
Senator Tommy Williams, Chair		Senator Bob Deuell
Senator Juan Hinojosa, Vice Chair		Senator Jane Nelson
Senator Robert Duncan		Senator Dan Patrick
Senator Kevin Eltife		Senator Kel Seliger
Senator Craig Estes
Senator Eddie Lucio, Jr.
Senator Steve Ogden
Senator Florence Shapiro
Senator Royce West
Senator John Whitmire
Senator Judith Zaffirini

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The chair called the meeting to order at 10:03 AM. The clerk called roll. There being a quorum present, the following business was transacted:

The chair gave opening remarks and recognized Senator Ogden for his work on the Senate Finance Committee throughout the years.

The Committee heard invited and public testimony on the following interim charges:

Review the state’s current spending limits and determine if statutory changes are needed to continue restraint of spending growth below the rate of inflation plus population growth.

Monitor the implementation of legislation addressed by the Senate Committee on Finance, 82^nd Legislature, Regular and Called Sessions, and make recommendations for any legislation needed to improve, enhance, and/or complete implementation. Specifically, monitor the following:

- Receipts from major state taxes, and include a review of tax equity among industry groups and the impact on job creation and economic growth.

Review current funding sources for regional law enforcement training and retention of law enforcement officers. Make recommendations to meet funding needs over the long-term and ensure the physical safety of law enforcement officers and all Texans.

- Federal, state and local options for supporting Internet Crimes Against Children Task

Forces (ICACs).

Witnesses testifying and registering on the interim charges are shown on the attached list.

There being no further business, at 1:34 PM Senator Williams moved that the Committee stand recessed subject to the call of the chair. Without objection, it was so ordered.

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Senator Tommy Williams, Chair

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Stephanie Hoover, Clerk