Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'Tax Policy'
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TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Land & Resource Management Apr 17th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Land & Resource Management Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- is currently receiving service from an emergency services district, remove that area from the ESD's tax
- Additionally, House Bill 5437 does not create a new taxing
Bills:
HB447, HB897, HB993, HB2673, HB3671, HB3680, HB3897, HB4506, HB4753, HB4812, HB4894, HB5148, HB5437, HB5650, HB5652, HB5654, HB5656, HB5661, HB5665
Keywords:
traffic impact studies, municipal utility district, bonds, road projects, eminent domain, building permits, municipal government, application processing, time limits, local government regulations, cemeteries, municipalities, regulation, health and safety, local governance, municipal utility district, dissolution, local governance, Tarrant County, environmental quality
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on a variety of bills, with notable discussions surrounding the challenges faced by municipalities in managing growth and public safety. Bills such as HB447 and HB3897 sparked conversations on the impact of Municipal Utility Districts in high-density areas and the necessity of thorough traffic impact assessments before approving new developments. Representative Cook highlighted concerns over a specific project related to HB3671, which aimed to dissolve a municipal district due to contradictory prior agreements. Public testimonies included concerns from residents, signaling the tension between development needs and public safety requirements.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I'm the Director of Policy for Texas Values, and I'm testifying in favor of SB2043.
- California serves as a case study for the severe consequences of policies like this.
- This bill is a lifeline for students who are silently suffering under school policy.
- I'm the policy coordinator for TENT, the transgender...
- It's not protecting anyone; it's cruelty pretending to be policy.
Keywords:
biological sex, gender identity, public facilities, civil penalties, local government, alcohol sales, racing events, mixed beverage permit, temporary sale, Texas legislation, healthcare provider, retaliation, civil remedy, whistleblower protection, equal protection, impeachment, public officers, disqualification, procedural reform, removal from office
Summary:
The committee meeting primarily focused on Senate Bill 2043, aiming to provide protections for healthcare professionals against retaliation for reporting unethical practices. Chairman Hughes initiated the discussion, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding medical practitioners' rights. Testimonies from various witnesses highlighted real-life implications of the bill, with some expressing personal experiences of facing significant backlash for whistleblowing on unethical practices within healthcare facilities. Supporters of the bill touted it as a crucial step towards ensuring transparency and accountability in the medical field, particularly concerning the treatment of minors in gender transition procedures.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- As was stated, the Texas Education Code outlines a policy for schools to administer OTC meds if a parent
- I'm the director of public policy for the Baptist General Convention of Texas Christian Life Commission
- This policy helps destigmatize mental health issues.
Keywords:
epinephrine, auto-injectors, school health, public school policy, emergency medical response, nonprescription medication, school health, healthcare provider, liability immunity, student welfare, adoption, parenting, education, family law, health curriculum, respiratory distress, school health, medication training, public education, student safety
Summary:
The Senate Education Committee convened to discuss multiple bills, primarily focusing on SB1619 and SB6019. Senator Dean Zaffirini presented SB1619, and the discussion revolved around modernizing the state's approach to epinephrine delivery devices. The highlighted importance of addressing anaphylaxis treatments in schools, particularly focusing on ensuring that both current and future delivery methods are adequately represented in the legislation was prominent. Participation from public testimony was also anticipated, allowing for community engagement.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 19th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Andrew, I've got you on behalf of the Texas Public Policy Foundation registered for HDR.
- I'm the vice president of policy with the Texas Public Policy Foundation, and I oversee our work on child
- and family policy.
- I'm also the Legislative and Policy Director of the FAMI.
- They're trying to invoke insurance policies and are trying to invoke deep pockets.
Keywords:
civil liability, self-defense, force, deadly force, legal immunity, attorney's fees, criminal justice, firearms, liability, veterans, gun ownership, immunity, firearm hold agreement, civil liability, sexual abuse, nondisclosure, confidentiality, public policy, Trey's Law, parental rights
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on various legislative proposals, with significant discussions surrounding bills aimed at enhancing legal protections for citizens and jury privacy. Notably, House Bill 1110, presented by Chairman Shaheen, addresses safeguards for citizens reporting suspicious activities, ensuring they are protected from legal repercussions when acting in good faith. There was unanimous support for HB 349, which relates to civil liabilities associated with removing individuals from vehicles, illustrating the committee's commitment to providing social protections amid rising concerns around public safety.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Public Education Mar 18th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Public Education Committee
Keywords:
mental health, telehealth, public schools, discipline management, behavioral interventions, financial literacy, high school education, curriculum requirements, economics, personal finance, vendor contracts, school district, criminal offense, conflict of interest, educational governance, school safety, security measures, mental health, emergency response, funding for schools
Summary:
This meeting of the committee featured extensive discussions surrounding the bill HB222, aimed at altering certain regulations. The conversations were robust, with notable input from various committee members who raised concerns and suggestions regarding the bill's implications on local governance. Public testimonies were provided, showcasing both support and opposition to the proposed changes, thus highlighting the community's engagement with the legislative process. Overall, the meeting was characterized by a thorough examination of the implications of the bill, with committee members expressing a balanced perspective on its potential impact.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Apr 8th, 2025 at 10:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- For too long, this has been the policy of this state.
- 10278">Information about abuse is information the state of Texas should decide, as a matter of public policy
Keywords:
open meetings, public notice, transparency, government efficiency, taxpayer impact, water infrastructure, bonds, economically distressed areas, financial assistance, water supply, public information, government transparency, civil penalty, recordkeeping, election reports, prosecutor salary, state funding, judicial district, government employees, salary cap
Summary:
During this committee meeting, a range of bills were discussed, focusing primarily on public safety and community health issues. There were significant conversations surrounding HB3159, where members raised concerns about its implications for local law enforcement practices. The bill drew various opinions from committee members, with some supporting its approach to funding police training, while others questioned its efficacy in addressing community needs. Additionally, there was an emphasis on testimony from community representatives, who expressed both support and opposition, enriching the discourse around the proposed legislation.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- If you have one and two, and an auto policy for their company, they don't cover punitive damages.
- On safety and saying they didn't follow this policy, they
- They co-admitted that they didn't enforce their no cell phone policy.
- Our son could still be alive today had they enforced their policies. We're very close. My wife.
- of upholding policy and safety.
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
Local Government (Part I) May 26th, 2025
Senate Local Government Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- like property taxes.
- an ad valorem tax.
- As I said, similar to a MUD, a MUD has taxing as well as levying fees. Does that include sales tax?
- into it, but any sales tax... it could levy a sales tax.
- And Senator Middleton, we have a taxing jurisdiction that doesn't get to levy a tax.
Keywords:
Lake Houston, dredging, maintenance district, flood control, environment, public works, industrial development, county development districts, bonds, economic incentives, sales tax, human trafficking, hotel regulation, occupancy certificate, municipal authority, law enforcement, human trafficking, municipal powers, House Bill 5509, due process
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Local Government convened to discuss various important bills, primarily focusing on housing and local governance issues. Significant discussions included House Bill 5509, aimed at enhancing municipal powers against human trafficking by allowing the suspension of hotel occupancy certificates when crimes are suspected. The committee thoroughly reviewed the proposed committee substitutes for several bills, stressing stakeholder input and the importance of due process in legislative changes. Additionally, public testimony highlighted community support for the new amendments designed to ensure safety and welfare, particularly concerning vulnerable populations. House Bill 5663, addressing vital infrastructure needs and associated funding, also received a favorable recommendation from the committee, advancing its path through legislative scrutiny.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- And you do, and the people you're serving are already paying taxes that pay you.
- rate following the tax year in which the penalty was imposed.
- rate or voter approval tax rate as determined under section 26.04 for the new tax year.
- I know you worry about property taxes, but they didn't; they used the surplus money.
- Raised taxes by 8% in Harris County.
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, public safety, infrastructure, toll road authority
Summary:
The meeting involved significant discussions around several bills focused on public safety and infrastructure, particularly involving the Texas Toll Road Authority. A prominent topic was SB2722 and its implications for funding essential services at the local level. Various members expressed concerns that the bill could undermine local budgets and infrastructure projects, potentially redirecting funds intended for critical transport services to cover emergency responses without proper oversight. Fire and police representatives emphasized the importance of toll revenue being used for its intended purposes rather than being diverted to address fiscal mismanagement within the city.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- This is a common sense policy.
- And they said, "Well, they had a bathroom policy change."
- They just got up and made policy.
- They never voted on their policy at Round Rock ISD.
- This is a common sense policy.
Keywords:
biological sex, gender identity, public facilities, civil penalties, local government, alcohol sales, racing events, mixed beverage permit, temporary sale, Texas legislation, healthcare provider, retaliation, civil remedy, whistleblower protection, equal protection, impeachment, public officers, disqualification, procedural reform, removal from office
Summary:
The committee meeting featured significant discussions regarding various bills, particularly focusing on Senate Bill 240, which aims to address safety and privacy concerns for women and children in public restrooms. Numerous testimonies were heard both in support of and against the bill, highlighting the emotional and polarized nature of the discussions. Proponents argued for its necessity in safeguarding women's rights, while opponents raised concerns about the potential harms and discrimination it may perpetuate against transgender individuals. The atmosphere was tense but respectful, evidence of the deeply personal stakes involved in such legislation.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Hunt called the life insurance policy. Mr.
- Hunt called the insurance company and was told that the beneficiary of the life insurance policy had
- eligible to be the beneficiary of their life insurance policy
- Hey, this is a change in the law, so if anyone does have a life insurance policy or something you're
- Leroy had a $50,000 life insurance policy purchased in 2009
Keywords:
deaf-blind, co-navigation services, communication accessibility, assistive services, Texas Health and Human Services Commission, advocacy, insurable interest, individuals with disabilities, life insurance, care providers, insurance regulations, child protection, neglect, parent-child relationship, Family Code, Department of Family and Protective Services, healthcare decisions, low-THC cannabis, immunization, nonviolent misdemeanors
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on three significant bills: HB1151, HB1155, and HB1041. A notable discussion arose surrounding HB1151, which aims to protect parental rights regarding medical decisions for children, especially in foster care settings. Supporters highlighted concerns about coercive practices by Child Protective Services that could label parents as neglectful for refusing certain medical treatments. Several witnesses testified in favor of the bill, emphasizing the need for parents to retain autonomy over their children's medical care. There was also a compelling narrative shared regarding a family's struggle with the complexities of health decisions under CPS supervision, further underscoring the importance of this legislation.
The committee also reviewed HB1155, aimed at providing temporary financial assistance to economically disadvantaged families who have completed their service plans for the reunification of children removed by the Department of Family and Protective Services. The sentiment in favor of this bill echoed the challenges faced by families trying to navigate the system while meeting their basic needs. Furthermore, HB1041 was discussed, which seeks to prevent non-family caregivers from being named beneficiaries on life insurance policies of individuals under their care, highlighting a moral obligation to protect vulnerable populations.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- that he was talking about is that we have a sales tax that's
Keywords:
military status, vehicle registration, veterans, Texas transportation, state records, military status, discrimination, employment rights, veterans, spouses of service members, labor code, veterans, housing assistance, manufactured homes, state funding, tax revenue, down payment assistance, veterans, mental health, grant program
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Veteran Affairs focused on multiple bills aimed at improving services and protections for veterans in Texas. Discussion centered on Senate Bill 2926, which transfers the administration of veterans' mental health initiatives to the Texas Veterans Commission to enhance efficiency and service delivery. Public testimony was heard both for and against the bill, but ultimately it will be left pending. Other notable discussions included Senate Bill 2938, addressing the mental health challenges faced by justice-impacted veterans, aiming to better connect them with necessary resources. Additionally, Senate Bill 2543 and Senate Bill 2545 aimed to expand veteran cemetery locations and housing assistance for veterans, respectively, highlighting the increasing demand for support services in these areas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- span marker="169" data-time="1008"> to amend the Internal Revenue Code to make spaceports eligible for tax-exempt
- to tax-exempt private activity bonds.
Currently, the IRS permits tax-exempt private activity
Keywords:
cowboy culture, Bandera, cultural heritage, historical significance, Texas identity, Birding Capital, Matagorda County, wildlife, conservation, Texas Legislature, statutory revision, code corrections, laws omitted, Texas Legislature, legislative updates, spaceports, tax-exempt bonds, aerospace investment, Texas space economy, Federal legislation
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Administration convened to discuss several important bills, notably SCR30, SB2375, HCR35, and HCR64. Senator Cook presented SB2375, which is related to non-substantive codification of laws and ensures that existing codes are accurately maintained without substantive changes. The committee reported favorably on this bill, recognizing the significant cleanup it provides within the statute. Furthermore, SCR30 was discussed, aiming to designate Matagorda County as the Birding Capital of Texas, emphasizing the area's rich ecological diversity and the promotion of ecotourism. Public testimony supported the designation, highlighting local pride and environmental conservation efforts.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Mar 19th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- span> Yes, UT Health, Rice University Baker Institute of Public Policy
- marker="439" data-time="2628"> to decide that those types of agreements are void as against public policy
- as against public policy.
- policy that people have the opportunity to tell these stories
- > We don't want the state to continue to increase funding and policy
Keywords:
civil liability, self-defense, force, deadly force, legal immunity, attorney's fees, criminal justice, firearms, liability, veterans, gun ownership, immunity, firearm hold agreement, civil liability, sexual abuse, nondisclosure, confidentiality, public policy, Trey's Law, parental rights
Summary:
The committee meeting centered around the discussions of three key bills: HB865, HB1928, and HB748. Notably, HB865, presented by Speaker Moody, received significant attention as it aims to clarify liability protections for federal firearms licensees, emphasizing its importance for supporting veterans' mental health and safety. Testimonies were provided by various stakeholders, including city council members and law enforcement representatives, who underscored the pressing need for legislative support in the wake of alarming suicide rates among veterans. The committee engaged in comprehensive discussions, highlighting the bill’s potential impact on improving public safety and mental health support within the veteran community.
Throughout the session, the committee showed commitment to addressing issues within the statutory probate court system as well, referring HB1928 directly to a relevant subcommittee for further evaluation. The meeting concluded with a strong emphasis on collaboration among committee members and public input, setting the stage for further review and action on these significant legislative proposals. Overall, the meeting was efficient and well-attended, with active participation from both committee members and the public.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and Commerce (Part I) Apr 8th, 2025
Senate Business & Commerce Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- span>
When they do that, they're not charged a retaliatory tax
- when issuing a policy in the state.
- There are also investment tax credits and production tax credits that are out there and are available
- Then you can apply for those investment and production tax credits.
- I just don't think that's probably the right policy for the state.
Keywords:
utility systems, Texas A&M, regents authority, construction, improvement, construction contracts, trust funds, property rights, mechanics lien, contractors, trustee liability, construction contracts, trust funds, mechanic's lien, liability, attorney's fees, windstorm insurance, Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, insurance regulation, administrative penalties
Summary:
In this committee meeting, a wide range of topics were addressed, notably the advancement of nuclear energy in Texas. The committee discussed Senate Bill 2967, aimed at exploring innovative energy technologies and the role of nuclear power in ensuring energy security. Several expert testimonies were heard, including insights from former PUC Commissioner Doug Robinson, who emphasized the potential of modular reactors and necessary state support to navigate the financial challenges commonly faced by nuclear energy projects. The committee's focus was on understanding current nuclear technology stages, determining required state incentives, and assessing the overall energy landscape in Texas.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Public Education Mar 18th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Public Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Texas Public Policy Foundation, testifying for the bills.
- My name is Grayson Gee, and I serve as a technology policy analyst at the Texas Public Policy Foundation
- Texas Public Policy Foundation, and I'm here to speak in favor of HB6.
- I'm her associate director of policy, and I typically...
- personal experience that led me to the policy world.
Keywords:
mental health, telehealth, public schools, discipline management, behavioral interventions, financial literacy, high school education, curriculum requirements, economics, personal finance, vendor contracts, school district, criminal offense, conflict of interest, educational governance, school safety, security measures, mental health, emergency response, funding for schools
Summary:
The committee meeting predominantly focused on educational reform, discussing several bills designed to enhance school safety and address chronic absenteeism. In particular, House Bill 6 was scrutinized for its proposals to modify disciplinary measures within schools, specifically allowing longer in-school suspensions for students who cause significant disruptions. Advocates and experts presented testimonies emphasizing the importance of maintaining a safe learning environment while also addressing behavioral issues in a manner that supports at-risk students. The discourse highlighted the need for balancing discipline with educational support, particularly for students with disabilities who may exhibit challenging behaviors due to their conditions.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and Commerce (Part II) Apr 8th, 2025
Senate Business & Commerce Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- from the insurance premium maintenance tax and fees, which never
- Senator Middleton, thank you and your office for having an open-door policy to talk about some of the
- My name is Sally Bocco, I'm the Director of Policy and Governmental Relations for the City of Galveston
- As TWIA's exposure and policy count increase due to private market contracting along the Gulf Coast,
- /span>
and policy
Keywords:
utility systems, Texas A&M, regents authority, construction, improvement, construction contracts, trust funds, property rights, mechanics lien, contractors, trustee liability, construction contracts, trust funds, mechanic's lien, liability, attorney's fees, windstorm insurance, Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, insurance regulation, administrative penalties
Summary:
The committee meeting revolved around important discussions regarding two significant bills, SB2530 and SB2571, intended to address the funding challenges faced by the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA). Senator Milton highlighted the need for reforms due to escalating reinsurance costs that have risen to over 60% of premiums. A notable focus was the proposed dynamic funding model, which aims to reduce reliance on fixed assessments and public securities tied to the current Probable Maximum Loss (PML) structure, allowing funding to adjust based on actual needs. Both bills received mixed responses, with public testimonies citing the potential for increased financial burdens on insurance companies if the assessments were restructured without careful consideration of market conditions.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Public Education Apr 22nd, 2025 at 11:04 am
House Public Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- The chair lays out as pending business House Bill 2849 by Allen, relating to policies on the recess period
- relating to including anti-Semitism in the definition of bullying for the purpose of school discipline policies
- The subcommittee adds anti-Semitism to the definition of bullying in school district discipline policies
Bills:
HB178, HB1551, HB1939, HB2040, HB2354, HB2674, HB3029, HB3460, HB3631, HB3662, HB5201, HB5381
Keywords:
education funding, school district, attendance credit, financial incentive, public school finance, juvenile justice, education, instructional time, alternative education, Texas Legislature, waiver, charter schools, admission policies, enrollment, educational standards, employment policies, homeschooling, education policy, regulation, Texas Education Agency
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on multiple bills pertaining to educational reforms and initiatives. Notable discussions included the passage of HB824, which aims to expand civics education in Texas high schools, emphasizing the importance of understanding government functions and participation in democracy. The bill received unanimous support from the committee members, reflecting broad consensus on the need for enhanced civic education. Similarly, HB1581 and HB1579 were discussed, aiming to improve bilingual education and establish a state seal of bilingualism and biliteracy for high school students, respectively, thereby emphasizing the educational framework's inclusivity and quality enhancement.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services (Part II) Apr 9th, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- I'm the VP of Public Policy for the Texas Assisted Living
- TALA appreciates that this bill directs senior living communities to have a proactive communications policy
- I'm the VP of Public Policy for the Texas Assisted Living Association.
Bills:
SB227, SB269, SB407, SB463, SB527, SB547, SB1283, SB1380, SB1383, SB1511, SB1640, SB1784, SB2069
Keywords:
school funding, education reform, state budget, property taxes, equity in education, healthcare policy, vaccines, exemptions, religious beliefs, public health, workplace violence, healthcare facilities, definition expansion, safety regulations, health and safety code, health insurance, anesthesia, pediatric dental services, coverage, medical necessity
Summary:
The meeting of the committee covered critical discussions focused on several key bills aimed at enhancing safety and improving healthcare access for vulnerable populations, particularly seniors and pediatric patients. The members heard testimony in support of SB1283, with Lieutenant Jonathan Blanchard from the Dallas Police Department advocating for the bill as a means to ensure safer environments in senior facilities by instituting criminal history checks for employees. Carmen Tilton from the Texas Assisted Living Association also highlighted the bill's balance between safety and privacy, showing strong support from various stakeholders. Additionally, the committee discussed SB527, which addresses the challenges of obtaining insurance coverage for general anesthesia required for pediatric dental procedures. Experts testified about the urgent need for reform to prevent potential health crises in children and to streamline care access for parents.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I'm the Youth Justice Policy Director at the Texas Center for Justice and Equity, and I'm in opposition
- My name is Kasey Wright, and I'm a former public school teacher and a current education policy fellow
- I'm the Director of Public Policy and Advocacy for the Arc of Texas, and I'm here in respectful opposition
- You're with the mental health policy team; you're a mental health policy fellow?
Yes, I'm a mental health policy fellow with Disability
Keywords:
education funding, Texas State Technical College System, constitutional amendment, capital projects, workforce education, mental health, telehealth, public schools, discipline management, behavioral interventions, career readiness, education reform, workforce training, public schools, financial aid, vendor contracts, school district, criminal offense, conflict of interest, educational governance
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.