Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'marriage equality'
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TX
Transcript Highlights:
- In this case, one workday is equal to a day of work.
- House Bill 2513 clarifies that a workday for a firefighter equals a 24-hour or 48-hour shift.
Keywords:
veterans, mental health, Texas Veterans Commission, peer support, suicide prevention, community mental health, grant program, veterans, cemetery, General Land Office, burial plot, Texas Veterans Commission, veterans, remembrance, monthly designation, honoring military, Texas legislation, mental health, veterans, peer support
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several key pieces of legislation aimed at improving services and support for veterans in the state. Notable discussions included House Bill 114, which proposes to transfer veterans' mental health initiatives to the Texas Veterans Commission, emphasizing the need for enhanced mental health resources. This bill received supportive testimony from various stakeholders who advocated for the importance of community-based mental health services for veterans. Additionally, House Bill 1965 was highlighted, seeking to expand the Military Veteran Peer Network to better serve rural communities and address increasing mental health needs. Testimonies reflected a strong commitment to reducing veteran suicides through peer support systems.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Public Education Feb 25th, 2025 at 10:00 am
House Public Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- To put it in perspective, this amount equals roughly four and a half months of learning.
To have roughly equalized levels of resources for
- kids based upon equal levels of taxing effort.
- level of funding because that would probably take 10 times the whole state budget to equalize up to
- What we have heard from employers is that not all these credentials are equal.
Keywords:
public education, funding, teacher retention, deficit budgets, legislative changes, Texas Education Agency, educational landscape, workforce development
Summary:
The House Committee on Public Education convened a comprehensive meeting focused on critical issues impacting education in Texas. Chairman Buckley emphasized the committee's commitment to providing the largest public education investment in the state’s history while addressing pressing concerns such as funding disparities, teacher retention, and legislative changes impacting the educational landscape. Notably, Commissioner Mike Morath presented an extensive report detailing the current state of public education, highlighting a pressing need for adequate funding aligned with student needs and the challenges posed by deficit budgets in various school districts stemming from overreliance on temporary federal funding sources.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- This bill applies equally to all jurisdictions and includes multiple safeguards against arbitrary enforcement
- Transparency and equal application across political and geographic boundaries.
- 5652"> While this bill is framed as protecting freedom of speech, it does not uphold that principle equally
- This is not equality under the law; it is a state-sanctioned
Bills:
SB38, SB287, SB291, SB292, SB508, SB618, SB901, SB1436, SB1494, SB1626, SB1719, SB1999, SB1333
Keywords:
evictions, property law, tenant rights, landlord responsibilities, justice court, court rules, eminent domain, property acquisition, landowner's rights, public use, condemnation procedure, election procedures, civil penalty, public officials, voter rights, election integrity, elections, local governance, political subdivisions, general elections
Summary:
During this meeting of the Senate Committee on State Affairs, significant discussions revolved around Senate Bill 618, which seeks to establish civil penalties for election officials who fail to adhere to the Texas election laws. Proponents, including Dr. Laura Pesce from True Texas Elections, passionately advocated for the bill, emphasizing the need for accountability and integrity in the electoral process. The committee heard testimonies underscoring the importance of consistent application of election laws and the necessity to deter violations that undermine public trust in the elections. Many witnesses detailed personal experiences with administrative overreach and violations of election law that directly affect voters and candidates alike.
In addition to SB 618, the committee also reviewed Senate Bill 1999. This bill was met with considerable opposition, particularly from advocates arguing that it would promote discrimination against transgender students and exacerbate bullying within schools. Testimonies portrayed stark contrasts between supporters who claimed it would uphold religious freedom and critics who argued it would harm vulnerable youth by legitimizing discrimination based on gender identity. Ultimately, the meeting evidenced the varied views on legislative intent and societal implications surrounding these bills.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- This would result from ensuring that all eligible contractors have an equal opportunity to submit bids
- But just as equally as growing our people is important, so is having the opportunity...
- They provide equal access.
- So this is about an equal playing field for all companies.
Bills:
HB1951, HB2715, HB3092, HB3237, HB3278, HB3511, HB3592, HB3675, HB3778, HB3782, HB3826, HB3970, HB4016, HB4049, HB4341, HB4344, HB4406, HB4427
Keywords:
collective bargaining, public works, government contracts, labor agreements, state funding, removal from office, political subdivisions, local government, judicial proceedings, administrative judicial region, electric transmission, public convenience, landowner consent, utility regulation, energy infrastructure, energy consumption, higher education, governmental entities, sustainability, electricity reduction
Summary:
The committee meeting centered around several bills, most notably House Bill 1951, which provoked significant debate among members and public witnesses concerning the implications of project labor agreements (PLAs) for public works projects in Texas. Advocates for the bill argued that it aimed to create a more competitive environment for bidding on government contracts, thereby ensuring taxpayer dollars were spent effectively. Opponents, including labor representatives and apprentices, voiced concerns that the removal of PLAs could jeopardize worker safety, fair wages, and job opportunities for local craftsmen, particularly those engaged in union and apprenticeship programs. Testimonies from various workers highlighted the critical role PLAs play in maintaining quality standards and accountability in public infrastructure projects.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources May 14th, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Both are equal to the protocol approved.
- the actual testing of the device, of the backflow prevention device, is the national standard still equal
- And where we have equal standards for testing, equal standards
Keywords:
water filtration, public drinking water, health and safety, well maintenance, water quality, Edwards Aquifer, water conservation, reclaimed water, aquifer storage, environmental protection, public utility agency, dissolution, local government, regulatory framework, municipal authority, Hays Trinity, groundwater conservation, well metering, production fee, agricultural use
Summary:
The Committee on Natural Resources convened to discuss several key bills addressing water management in Texas. Notable among these was SB2660, which aims to equip groundwater districts with improved management tools to handle the growing population's water needs. Support for the bill was voiced by constituents including the Hayes Trinity Groundwater Conservation District, emphasizing the necessity for proper resources to manage the aquifer sustainably. Additionally, discussions around SB1965 and SB1624 focused on enhancing the regulations surrounding water conservation and backflow prevention. There was notable public testimony both for and against these bills, highlighting the concern for public health and safety as well as the vested interests of landowners and water operators in the region.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Property Tax Appraisals Apr 3rd, 2025 at 10:30 am
House S/C on Property Tax Appraisals
Transcript Highlights:
- These uneven practices undermine the principle of uniform and equal
- The effective number of pennies is less than the PVS assigned value and is equal to collections raised
- The appraisal district's job is to assess property in a fair, equal
- >This undermines the constitutional principle of fairness and equal
- The bill states that a resident's homestead appraised value for a tax year must be equal to the lesser
Keywords:
appraisal, property value, residential real estate, tax code, appraisal review board, property owners, appraisal, property value, property tax, tax code, appraisal review board, homeowners, appraisal, property value, residential real estate, tax code, property owner rights, property appraisal, taxation, property value
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several key bills related to property tax appraisals and education funding. Notable discussions included House Bill 2786, which proposed annual reappraisals to ensure property values reflect current market conditions. Representative Turner highlighted concerns around inconsistent appraisals that could adversely affect funding for local schools, particularly in Tarrant County. The session also saw testimony from representatives and concerned citizens advocating for the bill, emphasizing the importance of fair and accurate appraisals for maintaining educational funding and taxpayer equity. The committee members discussed the overall impact of property tax policies on local districts and pushed for a resolution to this ongoing issue.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships May 5th, 2025 at 02:05 pm
House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships
Transcript Highlights:
- intact two-parent households have overall best outcomes, followed shortly thereafter by children in equal
- or near equal households.
- span marker="373" data-time="2232"> we should work on legislation that reforms child custody, such as equal
Keywords:
judicial bond, guardianship, probate law, county judge, statutory county court, estates, inheritance, representative duties, court authority, personal representative, retroactive child support, parentage, genetic testing, family code, child's conception, guardianship, incapacitated persons, court proceedings, guardianship fees, estate management
Summary:
The meeting of the Subcommittee on Family and Fiduciary Relationships focused on a range of bills concerning child support, child welfare, and probate law. Notable discussions included HB1980, which aims to require fathers to provide financial support from the moment of conception. This bill was presented by Representative Hicklin, who highlighted the economic challenges faced by single mothers and the importance of ensuring paternal responsibility. Public testimonies were received both in favor and against this bill, including criticisms about the fairness of imposing retroactive child support. The committee members expressed varied opinions, leading to a nuanced debate about the implications of the bill on family dynamics and economic responsibilities .
Other bills discussed included SB1923, which allows child support payments to follow the child to non-parent caregivers, thus aiming to better serve children in kinship care situations. This bill was supported by advocates highlighting the financial strain on kinship caregivers without custody. Additionally, HB5642 addressed clouded titles in real estate and the importance of providing clear information to homebuyers regarding estate planning. Overall, the meeting was productive and well-attended, with substantial participation from committee members and the public.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services (Part II) Mar 26th, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- ...four equals nine, seven plus two equals nine, well wait
- , you know, six plus three equals nine, and one plus eight equals nine.
6 plus 3 equals 9; 5 plus 4 equals 9.
Bills:
SB397, SB481, SB596, SB760, SB855, SB1195, SB1196, SB1233, SB1257, SB1318, SB1368, SB1388, SB1398, SB1524, SB1558, SB1589, SB1677, SB1792, SB2034
Keywords:
data privacy, consumer rights, technology, business regulation, cybersecurity, emergency preparedness, nursing facilities, assisted living, resident safety, power outage, voting by mail, assisted living, nursing facilities, legal guardian, electoral process, foster care, medical consent, out-of-network, healthcare access, Medicaid
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services addressed several significant pieces of legislation focused primarily on health and welfare issues in Texas. One of the central topics was SB1233, which aims to provide perinatal palliative care information to families receiving diagnoses of life-threatening conditions. Testimonies highlighted the importance of immediate access to support resources, as speakers shared personal experiences illustrating the emotional and medical implications of these diagnoses. Additionally, SB1368 was discussed, focusing on emergency preparedness within assisted living and nursing facilities, emphasizing the need for actionable contingency plans to protect vulnerable residents during power outages and emergencies. The committee explored how to ensure compliance with new standards while considering the realities faced by these facilities, especially in determining the appropriate levels of emergency power backup requirements.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Criminal Justice (Part I) Feb 12th, 2025
Senate Criminal Justice Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- We want equal treatment. As sad as it is to say, I'm not saying that defenders shouldn't have it.
- The endowment framework, which you will hear from, month and violates the Equal Protection Clause of
- Origin are protected classes entitled to equal protection
- Violent crime through bail reform should be enacted across the board rather than encroaching upon the Equal
- worked closely with border and immigrant communities across the state to ensure they have fair and equal
Keywords:
bail reform, defendants, pretrial detention, public safety, criminal justice, charitable bail organizations, bail reform, criminal procedure, public safety report, victim notification, family violence, bail bonds, public funds, political subdivision, injunction, taxpayer rights, bail reform, violent crimes, sexual offenses, community safety
Summary:
The committee meeting centered around discussions of Senate Bill 9, focusing on bail reform and the recent trends affecting public safety in Texas. Multiple witnesses provided testimony, both in support of and against the bill, highlighting the implications of current bail practices. Supporters argued that the bill would enhance public safety and reduce the release of violent offenders, while opponents raised concerns about due process and the potential negative impact on low-income individuals unable to pay bail. The chair acknowledged the heartfelt testimonies from victims' families, emphasizing the emotional weight of the legislative changes being considered. The meeting was marked by a passionate discourse about balancing public safety with individual rights in the judicial system.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Whereas advancing equal justice is the mission of all judges, the more than 500 Hispanic individuals
- and advocated for the next generation of legal professionals and who have broken down barriers to equal
- our community by advancing equal justice as your mission.
Bills:
SB26, SJR36, SB26, SB616, SB565, SB384, SB28, SR109, SR122, SR126, SR130, SR136, SR137, SR141, SR142, SCR20
Keywords:
teacher compensation, education funding, public school educators, teacher retention, teacher designation, teacher compensation, education funding, public school educators, teacher retention, teacher designation, aquifer, water management, Edwards Aquifer, sustainability, regulatory framework, hunting license, fishing license, donation, operation game thief fund, wildlife conservation
Summary:
The meeting was marked by significant resolutions recognizing various contributions to Texas and celebrating community initiatives. Key discussions included the adoption of resolutions commemorating Texas Hispanic Judges Day and highlighting the 100th anniversary of Memorial Park. Senators expressed appreciation for the judges' dedication and legacy, with notable mentions of individual judges and their impact on the community and legal landscape in Texas. The Senate also honored students and organizations contributing positively to their communities, showcasing the interconnectedness of public service and the legislative process.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- committee substitute would state that the salary that a business court judge receives from the state is equal
- So, when we talk about this, I don't mean to be too friendly, but it could be considered equalizing salaries
- data-time="2145"> Or in urban counties like Dallas and Harris, that's exactly right; it's more of an equalization
Keywords:
business court, jurisdiction, complex civil litigation, legal proceedings, Texas courts, guardianship, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, training requirements, caregiver support, parent-child relationship, court file transfer, child custody evaluation, legislation, committee meeting
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on several key pieces of legislation including HB1734, HB2340, HB3376, and HB2350. Notably, discussions surrounding HB1734 centered on streamlining the transfer of court files related to parent-child relationships, with testimony suggesting significant support for the changes aimed at promoting efficiency. Meanwhile, HB2340 was discussed to enhance the qualifications and training requirements for child custody evaluators, reflecting a commitment to improving standards in this sensitive area.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- span> To state that it's overvalued, either market value or for equal
- We pride ourselves on loving and serving all students equally.
- ...equal to the amount of the existing homestead exemption
- following: The loss of ad valorem tax revenue must be equal
- Under this bill, local governments, whose amount of lost ad valorem tax revenue is equal to or greater
Bills:
HB511, HB972, HB1035, HB2481, HB2723, HB2742, HB2894, HB2962, HB3077, HB3093, HB3307, HB3684, HJR67, HJR72
Keywords:
ad valorem taxation, caregiver exemption, Medicaid, long-term services, tax relief, assisted living, housing support, property tax exemption, caregiver support, Medicaid, residence homestead, tax relief, long-term services, tax exemption, unpaid caregiver, long-term services, Medicaid, residence homestead, state tax code, tax exemption
Summary:
The meeting of the committee explored various bills with significant discussions centered around House Bills like HB8, HB2723, and HB3093. Members expressed concerns about the financial implications of property tax assessments and the impact of unjust appraisals on local government budgets. Representative Cunningham highlighted the urgency of addressing the discrepancies in property tax laws as they relate to non-profit cemeteries, pointing out historical injustices that have led to the loss of community burial sites. Meanwhile, the discussions on HB3093 revolved around ensuring fair taxation practices to reduce financial uncertainties for local governments, emphasizing the need for realistic revenue calculations in budget projections. The committee actively invited public testimonies, illustrating the widespread interest and implications of these legislative efforts.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- A natural right is distributed equally.
- Children have a natural right to their parents equally.
- They're all equally uncomfortable. It's right over there.
- sophomore student, an advocate, and a transgender male, 16 years old, and a proud Texan who believes in equality
I believe in freedom of expression, equal rights, and
Keywords:
SB8, SB18, LGBTQIA rights, public testimony, discrimination, constitutional rights, drag performances
Summary:
The meeting revolved around significant legislative discussions primarily focused on SB8 and SB18. Notably, the committee addressed public testimonies on SB18, which targeted drag performances and LGBTQIA individuals. Testimonies highlighted the potential discriminatory implications of the bill, raising concerns that it undermines constitutional freedoms. Various members of the public expressed both support and opposition, fostering a heated debate about its impact on community rights and protections.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- We appreciate it when the legislature treats sheriffs equally, from the bigger to the smaller.
- 691" data-time="4140"> The goal should be to protect both public safety and individual rights with equal
- Equal to the state.
- It's necessary for the right to a fair trial, the right to due process, the right to equal protection
- ...is where we're equal. We're not.
Bills:
SB330, SB663, SB1020, SB1152, SB1164, SB1896, SB2111, SB2196, SB2383, SB2581, SB2797, SB2798, SB2371
Keywords:
county funding, prosecutors' offices, elections, law enforcement, local government, community supervision, budget approval, corrections department, strategic plan, judicial oversight, emergency protection, arrest information, victim rights, magistrate duties, criminal procedure, emergency protection, legal order, victim protection, criminal justice, Texas legislation
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
Transcript Highlights:
- **Senator Miles**: And its members' efforts have made an important contribution to the goals of equality
- and social change, and its members' efforts have made an important contribution to the goals of equality
Keywords:
American Public Works Association, public works, infrastructure, Texas, recognition day, local government, municipalities, public works, infrastructure, APWA, Texas Chapter, community development, engineering, professional recognition, community impact, Texas Society of Professional Engineers, Lubbock leadership, engineering, recognition, community impact
Summary:
Additionally, the committee recognized police chiefs from various districts for their dedication to public safety, highlighting their essential role in the community. Senators expressed their gratitude towards law enforcement and emphasized the collaborative efforts needed to enhance community relations. The meeting was marked by a spirit of recognition and celebration, fostering a sense of unity among the members present.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- overview of what we'll be covering: we'll go over the property tax system, the local appraisal, equalization
- marker="535" data-time="3204"> ...year, and we’re broken out into four phases: the appraisal phase, equalization
So we kind of move into the equalization phase, which
- It serves as an indirect equalization mechanism.
- because compression is distributed equally across all value
Keywords:
property tax relief, taxation, budget projections, Comptroller's Office, Legislative Budget Board, financial reforms
Summary:
The House Committee on Ways and Means conducted a productive meeting addressing several key issues related to taxation and budget projections. The meeting opened with invited testimony from representatives of the Comptroller's Office and the Legislative Budget Board, focusing on the biennial revenue estimates and significant funding changes. Members participated actively, posing questions about specific budget allocations and the impact of tax policies on both local governments and residents. A significant discussion revolved around property tax relief, with calls for higher measures of relief to support taxpayers amid growing financial burdens. Furthermore, recommendations for financial reforms were proposed, stressing the importance of sustaining the benefits from previous tax relief efforts.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I believe there are many who are equally qualified and many whom the governor could have chosen for this
- You closed with, "I look forward to helping the court continue to pursue equal justice under the law
- I believe there are many who are equally qualified and many who the governor could have chosen for this
- the process of docket equalization among our courts of appeals
- ...Get ready for trial, all equally deserving of a judge's
Keywords:
Texas Water Fund, water management, infrastructure funding, local governments, workforce development, community colleges, educational programs, sustainability
Summary:
The meeting focused on several crucial issues, including the Texas Water Fund and its implications for development in the state. Various members highlighted the critical need for effective management of water resources, discussing the role of the Water Development Board and their strategies for outreach to local governments. The committee engaged in a thorough examination of funding projects and the sustainable financing necessary for communities facing challenges in meeting their infrastructure needs. Additionally, there was notable discussion regarding promoting workforce development and the alignment of educational programs with the demands of the job market as indicated by recent trends in community colleges.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Don't you think it should be equally dispersed amongst the precincts that all...
- ...them equally dispersed? I'm not—that's his bill.
- Don't you think, Senator Bettencourt, it should be equally dispersed?
- Don't you believe they should be equally dispersed, the surplus?
- ...that money should be equally dispersed throughout the
Keywords:
railroad, train, collision, information disclosure, safety, driver's license, reporting, off-highway vehicles, public land, safety certificate, transportation, Parks and Wildlife Code, tolls, county revenue, civil penalty, ad valorem tax, transportation funding, SB39, HB19, SB2246
Summary:
During the committee meeting, significant discussions revolved around three main bills: SB39, HB19, and SB2246. Senator Bettencourt laid out SB39, aimed at revising the admission rule related to commercial vehicle collision cases. The intention behind this bill is to standardize trial procedures by limiting the evidence admissible in the first phase, ensuring that unnecessary complexity does not cloud the issue of fault. Various stakeholders, including trial lawyers and business representatives, provided insights into the impact of these changes, highlighting concerns over insurance costs and practical implications on litigations. Public testimony reflected a mix of support and opposition, showcasing the contentious nature of the bill's modifications.
Additionally, the committee addressed SB2246 regarding salvage auto dealers and the process of obtaining titles for vehicles that will not return to the road, which was met with relatively little challenge as stakeholders recognized the necessity for clarity and efficiency in this process. The meeting concluded with promises from members to continue discussions on these important legislative measures, indicating an ongoing commitment to addressing the complex issues at hand.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Senate Session (Part II): Joint SessionJoint Session with the House of Representatives; Chief Justice Jimmy Blacklock delivers the biennial State of the Judiciary address. Feb 26th, 2025
Texas Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- We're talking about the constitutional officers of a co-equal branch of government.
- data-time="2538"> ...we have all taken to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution, and to deliver equal
Keywords:
teacher compensation, education funding, public school educators, teacher retention, teacher designation, lottery, gambling, internet gaming, mobile application, criminal offenses, teacher compensation, education funding, public school educators, teacher retention, teacher designation, aquifer, water management, Edwards Aquifer, sustainability, regulatory framework
Summary:
The meeting focused notably on judicial salaries and the importance of retaining qualified judges in Texas. Chief Justice Jimmy Blacklock discussed the need for a significant pay increase for judges, citing that their base salary has not risen since 2013 despite rising inflation. He made a compelling case that increasing judicial salaries would attract better candidates to serve the public as judges. The Chief Justice emphasized that the state's judicial system relies on highly capable individuals to uphold the rule of law and deliver fair justice to Texans, especially in family law cases where outcomes dramatically affect vulnerable populations.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Public Education Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am
House Public Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- This bill provided homeschoolers equal access to UIL activities at the local public school.
- We recently brought HB 547, which provides UIL equal access, to our local school board.
- HB 775 would open the doors to true equal access for these Texas children.
- The state accountability system is supposed to be equal.
- to protect equally every religious denomination.
Bills:
HB4, HB54, HB775, HB850, HB1122, HB1249, HB1405, HB2336, HB2757, HB3372, HB3622, HB4442, HB4687, HB4893, HB5089, HB5515, HB5606, SB10, SB24, HB1573, HB3369
Keywords:
non-human behaviors, education, Texas schools, policy, regulation, education, funding, teacher salaries, school districts, state budget, non-enrolled students, University Interscholastic League, participation, school districts, eligibility standards, non-enrolled students, University Interscholastic League, school participation, academic standards, Texas education
Summary:
The committee meeting was marked by significant discussions surrounding House Bill 4, which aims to reform the Texas public school assessment and accountability system. The bill proposes to eliminate the existing STAAR testing framework and replace it with a nationally norm-referenced assessment that emphasizes growth over year-end testing, promoting a more individualized learning experience for students. This shift was widely supported among educators and stakeholders, with many testifying in favor of creating a system that aligns better with both educational outcomes and community accountability. Notably, there were concerns raised about maintaining adequate oversight and integrity in the assessment process, as well as the timing of implementing these significant changes.