Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'healthcare policy'
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TX
Transcript Highlights:
- As the Insurance Committee, you all probably know how dysfunctional our healthcare market is.
- Clifford Porter, Texas Public Policy Foundation, in support.
- ...Policy Foundation, representing myself.
- At the end of the day, it should help drive the cost of healthcare down potentially.
- Price in healthcare is determined by market strength. That's it.
Keywords:
advanced practice registered nurse, health maintenance organization, preferred provider, insurance, healthcare access, healthcare, insurance, provider ranking, cost-sharing, fiduciary duty, patient choice, insurance, annuities, health coverage, trade practices, rebates, inducements, health promotion, wellness programs, insurance
Summary:
The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance was a significant gathering that focused on various health-related bills, including HB138, AB388, HB1942, and others. The committee heard testimony from multiple stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Medical Association, who emphasized the importance of health insurance transparency and compliance. Notably, HB1818 garnered attention as it aims to enhance the oversight of utilization review processes, which has previously faced challenges from both insurers and healthcare providers. The committee also discussed measures to improve the prescribed burning insurance under HB2563, a critical topic due to the increasing risk of wildfires in Texas. Several witnesses provided insights into the urgent need for a robust insurance framework to support prescribed burn managers, highlighting the current limitations and risks posed by the lack of coverage in the market.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services (Part II) Apr 23rd, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Give them a way to grow their careers throughout their whole entire lifetimes as healthcare professionals
- We learned about a significant number of entry-level healthcare professionals that most of you may not
- I'm the public policy specialist with CASA, and I'm in support of Senate Bill 640 by Senator Johnson.
- Ibogaine must be supervised by a licensed physician and a hospital or licensed healthcare facility.
- We require healthcare providers to complete the training
Bills:
SB128, SB640, SB672, SB904, SB1141, SB1263, SB1525, SB1528, SB2041, SB2306, SB2308, SB2357, SB2446, SB2583, SB2695, SB2857, SB2891
Keywords:
hospital reporting, child abuse, neglect, administrative penalty, medical ethics, child protection, hearing instruments, licensing, continuing education, patient protection, medical evaluations, parent-child relationship, Department of Family and Protective Services, adversary hearing, protected rights, legal custody, prescription drugs, prior authorization, neurodegenerative diseases, health benefits
Summary:
During this meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services, significant attention was given to various bills aimed at enhancing healthcare provisions and improving processes within the health sector. Notable discussions included the presentation of Senate Bill 547 by Senator Menendez, which seeks to streamline provider notice requirements for healthcare professionals by proposing a centralized database managed by the Texas Department of Insurance. The bill was favorably reported and moved forward with recommendations for local and uncontested calendars. Additionally, a committee substitute for Senate Bill 2308 was introduced, focusing on innovative mental health treatments for veterans, particularly regarding ibogaine as a treatment for opioid use disorder. This proposal received strong support due to its potential to lead the nation in mental health care advancements.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- That's Heather Vesic, and you're with Oceans Healthcare and Arcadia Healthcare, and you're for the bill
- I'm here on behalf of Oceans Healthcare.
- I have you registered as a policy analyst for the Texas Public Policy Foundation, and you are testifying
- Texas Public Policy Foundation.
- of doctors, that we were the cause of healthcare costs.
Keywords:
cremation, natural organic reduction, health and safety, environmental concerns, funeral services, medical licensing, physician graduates, healthcare access, occupational licensing, foreign medical graduates, cell-cultured protein, food safety, human consumption, agriculture, food labeling, healthcare workforce, advisory board, Texas Workforce Commission, resource guide, education collaboration
Summary:
The meeting of the public health committee focused on the pressing issue of opioid addiction in Texas, with a particular emphasis on House Bill 3717. Chairman Harris detailed the bill's intent to fund a grant program for Ibogaine clinical trials, framing it as a critical response to the ongoing opioid crisis. He shared poignant testimonies highlighting the struggles of families and veterans battling addiction and mental health issues. The conversation underscored the necessity of innovative treatments, like Ibogaine, which showed promising results in studies for reducing symptoms of withdrawal and PTSD.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Health and Human ServicesAudio only. Aug 27th, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
Expanding rural healthcare coverage is a goal worthy
Bills:
HB25
Keywords:
ivermectin, pharmacist authority, prescription-free, healthcare regulation, patient access, health committee, House Bill 25, ivermectin, pharmacists, medical freedom, public health, rural healthcare
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services predominantly focused on discussions surrounding House Bill 25, which proposes allowing pharmacists to dispense ivermectin over the counter. Senator Hall, the bill's sponsor, outlined the potential benefits of increased access to ivermectin, particularly for rural Texans who may struggle to get timely medical care. The discussions included various perspectives on the safety and efficacy of ivermectin as a treatment for viral infections, with witnesses providing testimonials on its use. Senator Hall emphasized that the bill would promote medical freedom by enabling pharmacists to dispense the drug without a prescription, yet concerns were raised regarding the off-label use of such drugs and the responsibilities of pharmacists under this bill.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Over 6.1 million Texans live in healthcare deserts.
- go get healthcare.
- whether people will actually seek healthcare.
- They're valued and appreciated as a member of the healthcare community.
- Healthcare is, y'all, we're the best.
Keywords:
Maverick County, recognition, economic development, Texas Senate, community celebration, SB911, Heal Texans Act, healthcare access, nurse practitioners, health crisis, rural healthcare, Texas legislature
Summary:
The committee meeting centered around the discussion of SB911, the Heal Texans Act, aimed at improving access to healthcare in underserved areas of Texas. Senator Cesar Blanco opened the discussion by highlighting the healthcare crisis affecting millions of Texans, emphasizing the need for immediate reform to allow nurse practitioners (APRNs) to deliver essential services without cumbersome regulations. The senator expressed gratitude towards his colleagues, including Vice Chair Charles Perry, for their joint efforts in advocating for this critical legislation. The need for SB911 was reiterated by several speakers, including healthcare advocates and those impacted by the lack of accessible care, underscoring personal stories that illustrated the dire situation faced by many rural residents who cannot easily reach medical care.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Not all healthcare professionals or healthcare lawyers had the expertise.
- Texas has the ability to determine policy for our own citizens.
- That's not my policy area. I understand.
- The goal of this is an important policy discussion.
- If we look at communities that don't have access to healthcare resources, we have healthcare deserts
Keywords:
cremation, natural organic reduction, health and safety, environmental concerns, funeral services, medical licensing, physician graduates, healthcare access, occupational licensing, foreign medical graduates, cell-cultured protein, food safety, human consumption, agriculture, food labeling, healthcare workforce, advisory board, Texas Workforce Commission, resource guide, education collaboration
Summary:
The meeting convened to discuss multiple bills, with a significant focus on HB44, which addresses medical exceptions in abortion law following the recent Dobbs decision. Lawmaker discussions highlighted concerns around the clarity of existing statutes, with several members expressing the need for a unified legal standard to protect both patients and medical professionals. The committee heard compelling testimonies from various industry experts advocating for the bill, emphasizing its importance in preventing confusion that could lead to detrimental health outcomes for women. Another noteworthy action was the committee's favorable recommendation for HB220, aimed at providing emergency contraception to survivors of sexual violence, reflecting the committee's commitment to addressing vulnerable communities' health needs. Additionally, discussions included the passage of HB499, which mandates social media warnings regarding mental health consequences, showcasing the diverse array of issues tackled in this session.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- How bad are those healthcare outcomes, if they are?
- for the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
- Let's expand healthcare access.
- Someone in real healthcare could go to real healthcare right now. We know that there's a certain...
- In healthcare, that is not the case.
Keywords:
grand jury, jury qualifications, jury wheel, small counties, Texas legislation, age verification, obscene devices, online sales, juvenile protection, penalties, antitrust, attorney general, Texas Free Enterprise, business regulations, legal confidentiality, personal identifying information, data brokers, judicial safety, civil rights, data privacy
Summary:
The Committee on State Affairs meeting featured in-depth discussions primarily centered around Senate Bills 2459 and 3055. SB 2459, presented by Senator Birdwell, aims to protect the personal information of judicial officials to reduce security risks associated with data brokers. This bill brought significant public testimony, with supporters highlighting the need for enhanced safety for judges and court personnel, given the increasing threats and incidents reported. The committee also considered amendments to further refine the bill's implementation process, ensuring the effective removal of personal data upon request.
Senate Bill 3055 addressed the scope of practice for advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) in rural Texas, promoting greater healthcare access amidst ongoing shortages of providers. Advocates for the bill, including several nurse practitioners, voiced the necessity for legislative changes that would empower APRNs to practice more independently. Opposing testimony raised concerns regarding patient safety and the need for physician oversight. The meeting concluded with a commitment to review these bills further, reflecting the broader challenges of healthcare access and safety regulations in Texas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- We heard previously that it relates to certain policies and procedures for health care.
- span> I'm sure my team's looking at it right now, the law and policy
- I know we turn it over, so I need to make sure of what law, what policy, and we'll absolutely...
- I already clarified their usual and customary policies in
Bills:
HB741, HB1199, HB2070, HB2402, HB2542, HB2665, HB2789, HB3096, HB3396, HB3595, HB3747, HB4116, HB4127
Keywords:
child welfare, relative caregiver, monetary assistance, Department of Family and Protective Services, child custody, family law, emergency power, nursing facilities, assisted living, generator requirements, health and safety, emergency generators, nursing facilities, assisted living, power outage, health and safety, emergency generator, nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, power source
Summary:
The meeting convened with Chair Hull overseeing the discussions, and a quorum was confirmed with all members present. The primary focus was on voting several bills that had been discussed in previous hearings. Notable among them was HB1155, which relates to monetary assistance from the DFPS to certain parents. The committee adopted a substitute for the bill without objection and subsequently moved it forward with recommendations for favorable approval to the full House. Another significant topic was HB136, which aimed to include lactation consultation in Medicaid coverage, which also passed out of committee with a substitute.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- expansion bill if the net effect is that more people lose healthcare than gain it.
- However, when trans people pursue the same care, that healthcare is scrutinized.
- Everyone deserves access to the healthcare they need.
- Great public policy. We're closed. Okay, great, thank you. The chair will leave House Bill...
- Hours is a misguided policy change.
Bills:
HB1239, HB1990, HB1748, HB1749, HB2578, HB2986, HB1970, HB3163, HB2733, HB1922, HB113, HB1088, HB1938, HB3004, HB2637, HB2960
Keywords:
public health, access to healthcare, insurance reforms, medical expenses, healthcare providers, mental health, protective custody, preliminary examination, detention period, emergency circumstances, mental health, protective custody, detention period, emergency detention, legal framework, mental health, protective custody, detention, healthcare, emergency detention
Summary:
During the meeting, the committee engaged in substantial discussions surrounding several key pieces of legislation, particularly focusing on HB3004 which aims to enhance safety standards around high voltage power lines. Testimonies revealed concerns about the historical inadequacies of existing safety protocols, with multiple stakeholders advocating for strengthening provisions to avoid incidents of electrocution. Additionally, HB1088 was addressed, with debates regarding its potential implications on healthcare access, especially concerning transgender youth. There were conflicting opinions expressed regarding the necessity and impact of these legislative changes, highlighting the broader societal debates occurring around health and safety regulations.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services May 14th, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- The agency does not advise them on the policy, so they are an independent body and help to facilitate
- My name is Stephanie Battaglia, and I'm the public policy specialist with Texas CASA.
- I serve as the Public Policy Director for NAMI Texas.
- So we'll continue to work through this and come up with what we feel is a good policy here.
- Access is more than just a policy change. For Texans with ALS, it's a lifeline.
Bills:
HB107, HB742, HB1639, HB1700, HB2071, HB2187, HB2402, HB2516, HB3211, HB4529, HB5342, HB694, HB923, HB4655
Keywords:
sickle cell disease, registry, health data, confidentiality, healthcare access, human trafficking, first responders, health care, training, reporting, protection, cancer, female firefighters, health study, state health services, fire protection, telemedicine, teledentistry, telehealth, health records
Summary:
The meeting of the committee featured a series of discussions primarily focusing on various bills aimed at enhancing accountability and safety in the healthcare sector. Notable highlights included the passage of HB694, which aims to promote transparency in the operations of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) by shortening the notification timeline for significant events from ten days to 48 hours. This bill received unanimous support from all members present, underscoring a strong consensus on improving communication with parents and stakeholders involved in the child welfare system.
Another significant topic was the introduction of HB2187, which seeks to amend and update the existing nursing staffing laws to address emerging challenges faced by healthcare professionals, particularly stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill was presented as a response to the increased burnout rates among nurses and aims to provide a more stable working environment to retain talent in the healthcare sector. The committee took testimony from several experts and stakeholders, highlighting the urgency and importance of these legislative changes.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- The healthcare professionals...
- and healthcare consolidation.
- of Healthcare Consolidation."
- I'm a policy scholar at the Texas Public Policy Foundation, and I'm testifying on HB 4408, which would
- I'm the Director of Healthcare Policy at the Goldwater Institute.
Bills:
HB5141, HB4638, HB2264, HB2035, HB4813, HB4408, HB2684, HB1621, HB2300, HB216, HB3829, HB4466, HB1747, HB2284, HB3614, HB2587, HB3219, HB3318, HB5147, HB4014
Keywords:
lease, state property, public purpose, Travis County, Health and Human Services, pharmaceutical initiative, drug distribution, healthcare services, generic drugs, advanced pharmaceuticals, cost savings, mental health, patient discharge, medical records, health care professionals, substance use, family involvement, chemical dependency, treatment facilities, minor admissions
Summary:
The Committee on Public Health convened to discuss various bills related to mental health, public health initiatives, and animal care. Notably, representatives presented House Bill 2264, which aims to facilitate communication between mental health patients and their families, allowing family members to provide important medical information during emergencies. The bill sparked a substantial discussion, with advocates from the National Alliance on Mental Illness supporting its intention to improve patient outcomes. Other significant bills included HB 1747, introduced to create a council for mental health and substance use, fostering collaboration among affected systems, and HB 2684, which focuses on palliative care options for parents facing life-limiting diagnoses for their unborn children. Public testimonies supported these measures, highlighting their importance in enhancing care and support for vulnerable populations.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health Apr 17th, 2025 at 09:04 am
House S/C on Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health
Transcript Highlights:
- When Texans become obese, their healthcare costs tend to go up.
- Absolutely, their healthcare costs go up. You know, obesity is the underlying cause of...
- We've worked with these healthcare providers to develop training in obesity management for them.
- I hope that Texas can take a critical step toward improving health outcomes, reducing healthcare costs
- We have not been able to validate any kind of systemic policy.
Keywords:
food access, food deserts, communities of color, health disparities, socioeconomic impact, nutritious food, food deserts, communities of color, food access, health effects, socioeconomic disparities, legislative recommendations, food deserts, communities of color, nutrition, health disparities, legislative recommendations, food deserts, nutrition, health disparities
Summary:
The committee meeting engaged in comprehensive discussions surrounding various health-focused bills aimed at improving community services and mental health care access. Notably, House Bill 475 was refiled by Representative Johnson, highlighting the deficiencies in Texas Medicaid regarding community-based care for youth at risk for criminal behavior. The committee examined the merits of the bill, emphasizing the need for evidence-based intervention programs. Meanwhile, House Bill 2060 received attention for its focus on ensuring automatic Medicaid coverage for infants, addressing gaps in access highlighted by a report indicating a significant number of newborns missed enrollment at birth. Members expressed strong support for this initiative, delineating the critical nature of health coverage for Texas’ youngest citizens.
TX
Keywords:
appropriations, budget, state funding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, appropriations, budget, state funding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, Senate, SJR36, SB1, constitutional amendment, historical preservation, appropriations, weather impact, legislative session
Summary:
This meeting of the Senate included the introduction and discussion of several key legislative items, notably SJR36, which proposes a constitutional amendment pertaining to the preservation of historical items, and SB1, the general appropriations act for financing. The session was notably affected by inclement weather, as members were advised about travel conditions and attendance was impacted as a result. There were specific discussions led by Senator Hall regarding the significance of the proposed amendment, with emphasis on the importance of historical conservation in the state.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Apr 10th, 2025 at 09:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- because of the healthcare, because of the proximity to the
- to draw you all back to be unapologetically red, white, and blue and support our veterans through policy
- ...what we do from a tax policy standpoint.
- So it will not be what is in the budget today that constricts what we're able to do with our tax policy
- It provides healthcare for a lot of kids and some adults.
Keywords:
appropriations, budget, state funding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, appropriations, state budget, mental health funding, education funding, infrastructure improvements, public safety, appropriations, budget, state funding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, groundwater, water conservation
Summary:
The committee meeting opened with a recognition of 'Donna Day', celebrating the contributions of the City of Donna to the state, led by various representatives. Significant discussions then shifted towards the budget matters, including the consideration of HB3794 about licensing and regulations concerning Advanced Practice Registered Nurses. Members expressed their support and acknowledged the importance of addressing healthcare provisions within the community. The discussion brought forth various motions aimed at suspending the rules to facilitate the timely deliberation of proposed bills and recommendations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- marker="10" data-time="54">Members, House Bill 4175 expands the requirement for mental health leave policies
One of our members trained nearly 1,000 healthcare
- Additionally, it's collaboration between healthcare and our engineers that drives healthcare innovation
- The rule that was drafted involved TMA and was consistent with TMA policy.
- ...need to use our healthcare resources very wisely.
Keywords:
e-cigarettes, marketing prohibition, youth protection, criminal penalties, public health, school funding, education reform, state budget, property taxes, equity in education, health care, licensing, complaint procedure, disciplinary action, law enforcement, death records, vital statistics, healthcare, trauma facility, Medicaid
Summary:
The meeting of the Committee on Public Health was centered around discussions on several significant bills, including HB4175 and SB2721. HB4175 seeks to expand mental health leave policies to cover a wider range of qualified employees, including peace officers and parole officers. The motion for HB4175 was approved with a roll call vote showing a majority in favor. Conversely, SB2721 sparked extensive dialogue concerning the regulation of anatomical donations. Testimonies revealed public concerns over unclaimed bodies and the necessity for informed consent in body donation practices. The bill underwent substantial scrutiny, highlighting the balance between supporting medical education and protecting family rights.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- This gives the opportunity for this body to set a public policy.
- This is doing the same thing, and it is endorsing the public policy of the state of Texas that children
- The other one, the three strikes policy, that is 794, is not law yet, and so you may not be familiar
Keywords:
low-THC cannabis, dispensing organization, Texas Compassionate-Use Program, medical use, patient access, registration, healthcare, legislation, credit card fraud, debit card fraud, prosecution, illegal possession, state law, political contributions, address privacy, Texas Ethics Commission, election transparency, campaign finance, election supplies, ballots
Summary:
The meeting of the State Affairs Committee focused on several significant bills, notably HB4145, HB2820, and HB4157, which address healthcare billing practices, charitable bingo operations, and protections for employees in the commercial spaceflight industry, respectively. Each bill received attention from members of the committee, with public testimony highlighting both support and concern among stakeholders. For instance, testimony on HB4145 underscored the importance of timely healthcare billing to prevent patient financial distress, while discussions surrounding HB2820 illuminated the challenges charities face in maintaining sufficient reserves amidst outdated regulations.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services (Part I) Mar 26th, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- I serve as Vice President of Policy with the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
TexProtects advocates for policies that strengthen
- Cliff Porter, I'm the senior fellow for health care at the Texas Public Policy Foundation.
- >
Madam Chairman, Members, this bill is not about firearms policy
- This is all about responsible and equitable health care policy.
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 Senate Committee on Health and Human Services convened to discuss various pieces of legislation, addressing critical issues affecting healthcare and social services in Texas. Notable discussions included Senate Bill 481, which mandates backup power provisions for nursing homes and assisted living facilities to ensure the safety of vulnerable residents during outages, and Senate Bill 596, aimed at improving reporting requirements related to child welfare, enhancing the oversight of removals and placements. The committee also reviewed several other bills aimed at supporting healthcare access and enhancing protections for children under various circumstances.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- My name is Alec Mendoza, and I'm the Senior Policy Associate for Health with Texans Care for Children
- We know that this is impacting newborns, and their healthcare providers confirm that newborns are uninsured
- The organization conducted interviews with maternal healthcare
Bills:
HB2646, HB3941, HB5153, HB5155, HB5394, HB1106, HB426, HB4529, HB3984, HB4273, HB1097, HB3940, HB1941, HB4377, HB3153
Keywords:
child care, task force, high-quality care, affordability, prekindergarten partnerships, foster care, transitional living, Medicaid reform, youth assistance, independent living, services for youth, employment training, educational support, mental health services, health care, public health, child health program, reimbursement, local health entities, maternal health
Summary:
The meeting of the committee brought forth significant discussions focused on the legislation surrounding newborn health coverage. Representative Johnson presented HB3940, highlighting the issues with newborns not receiving timely healthcare coverage due to inefficiencies in the enrollment process. The committee engaged in a thorough review, emphasizing the critical impact on health outcomes for infants who were uninsured during vital early checkups. Other members raised questions and concerns, adding to the dialogue on how to improve the automatic enrollment processes currently in place. The intent of the proposed bill is to empower parents with necessary information to prevent the enrollment issues from persisting.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Higher Education Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Higher Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- ...was the product of the Texas healthcare workforce that
- The Texas Healthcare Workforce Fund would directly address this by highly rewarding.
- Well, the same principle applies to graduate-level healthcare workforce degrees.
- of other healthcare disciplines as well.
- healthcare students in Texas and with them.
Bills:
HB1105, HB1527, HB1787, HB1972, HB2081, HB3296, HB3976, HB4071, HB4234, HB4438, HB4701, HB5092, HB5150, HB5180, HB5265, HB5333, HJR203
Keywords:
tuition exemption, paramedics, higher education, laboratory fees, emergency medical services, tuition exemption, peace officers, higher education, criminal justice, law enforcement, degree programs, public institutions, nutrition education, medical curriculum, public health, dietary practices, chronic diseases, intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, higher education
Summary:
During this committee meeting, a range of bills focused on enhancing Texas's healthcare and educational workforce were discussed. Notable discussions included HB1787, which aims to improve cancer prevention through education and vaccination, with concerns raised about its implications on personal choice regarding vaccines. HB5180 addressed diploma designation issues amid institutional mergers, and students provided testimony on the emotional significance of diplomas bearing their attending institution's name. Meanwhile, the committee aggressively pursued initiatives under HB5333 to boost local STEM education and production of doctoral graduates within the state, promoting collaboration between institutions and industries to foster talent development.