The House Committee on State Affairs

84th Legislature

April 28, 2016

10:00 a.m.

E2.028

Pursuant to a notice posted on February 9, 2016, revised on April 18, 2016, the House Committee on State Affairs met in a public hearing and was called to order by the chair, Representative Cook, at 10:00 a.m.

The initial quorum call was answered as follows: Representatives Cook; Farney; Geren; Harless; Huberty; Kuempel; and Minjarez.

A quorum was present.

The committee met to address the following interim charges:

Study the policies used by research and medical entities to adhere to the highest ethical standards for acquiring human fetal tissue for medical and scientific purposes. Specifically, review compliance to ensure informed consent and that all state and federal laws sufficiently respect the dignity of the human body. Study criteria for which persons have standing when giving consent for the use of fetal remains and to investigate potential violations of state laws regulating organ/tissue donation. Determine whether additional disclosure and reporting requirements are necessary to ensure moral and ethical research practices. Review practices and statutes in other states regarding fetal tissue harvesting.

Determine if the state has sufficient authority and the tools to ensure continued operation of the state's government and economy under existing budgetary and statutory authority. Make contingency recommendations to prevent collapse in the event of an economic disaster.

Study if the state's infrastructure is adequately prepared for disasters, whether man-made or natural. Include preparedness assessments of the maintenance and recovery of vital infrastructure such as transportation and utility systems.

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

(Representative Farrar now present.)

(Representative Giddings now present.)

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

(Representative Smithee now present.)

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

(Representative Oliveira now present.)

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

(Representative Giddings in chair.)

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

(Representative Cook in chair.)

Testimony taken/registration recorded.  (See attached witness list.)

At 1:52 p.m., on the motion of the chair and without objection, the meeting was adjourned subject to the call of the chair.

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Rep. Cook, Chair

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Toni Barcellona, Clerk