Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'dental workforce'
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TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Mar 11th, 2025 at 02:00 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- employees who leave the workplace due to sexual harassment, referred to the Committee on Trade, Workforce
- beef products, and pork products, providing a civil penalty, referred to the Committee on Trade, Workforce
- Of a private passenger vehicle rental company, this bill is referred to the Committee on Trade, Workforce
- This bill is referred to the Committee on Trade, Workforce and Economic Development.
- This bill is referred to the Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development.
Summary:
The committee meeting featured a thorough examination of several bills, including discussions on SB4 and HB2214. Members expressed varied opinions on the implications of these bills, with particular focus on land management and environmental concerns. The chair facilitated an active dialogue among members, highlighting both support and opposition from various stakeholders. Notably, public testimonies were also heard, contributing to the committee's understanding of community impacts related to the legislation. The meeting reflected a commitment to transparency and thorough consideration of each bill's potential effects.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Public Education Mar 6th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Public Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- we talk about investing in teacher preparation, we are talking about investing in Texas' future workforce
- for tutoring hasn't supported teacher workforce development
- , and teacher workforce funding hasn't been adequate.
- We're seeing a declining educated workforce.
- Investing in public education at the state level strengthens our workforce.
Bills:
HB2
Keywords:
public education, teacher compensation, certification, funding, school finance, educator rights, education funding, charter schools, staff compensation, state aid, retention allotment, educational funding, HB2, special education, mental health services, charter schools, public testimony
Summary:
The meeting focused primarily on legislation related to educational funding and support for students with disabilities. Testimonies were heard regarding HB2, which aims to enhance special education funding and improve the overall educational environment for students. Advocates stressed the importance of investing in mental health services within schools, emphasizing that a holistic approach to student welfare is essential for fostering a safe learning environment. Concerns were raised about charter school funding and the lack of accountability in financial expenditures related to such institutions. Additional discussions highlighted the urgent need for updated policies that reflect current economic realities in education, especially regarding the basic allotment for school funding.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Mar 24th, 2025 at 02:03 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- sources of dogs and cats sold at pet stores, providing a civil penalty for the Committee on Trade, Workforce
- Environmental Quality for the storage, taking, or diversion of state water, for the Committee on Trade, Workforce
- relates to the wages paid to certain workers with disabilities, referred to the Subcommittee on Workforce
- tenant or prospective tenant in connection with the residential lease for the Committee on Trade, Workforce
- increasing criminal penalties and authorizing a fee for offenses, referred to the Committee on Trade, Workforce
Summary:
In the recent committee meeting, a wide array of bills were discussed, including significant topics such as education reforms, public health initiatives, and environmental regulations. Members engaged in a robust discussion regarding HB3478, which relates to definitions of child abuse and neglect, where concerns were raised about the implications for vulnerable children. Additionally, HB3487 sparked debate over tax collection practices that affect restaurant owners involved in oyster shell recycling programs, highlighting the balance between environmental sustainability and business concerns.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- "> and private sector who report certain activities or violations of law for the subcommittee on workforce
- For the Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development
- explicit materials on electronic devices, providing a civil penalty for the Committee on Trade, Workforce
- the authority to issue bonds and impose assessments, fees, or taxes for the Committee on Trade, Workforce
- ...Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development
Keywords:
occupation tax, securities, financial regulation, tax exemption, legislative amendment, school district, ad valorem tax, local revenue, tax collection, education funding, emergency communication, infrastructure, first responders, grant program, interoperability, Texas Interoperability Council, local governments, sales tax exemption, exotic animals, game animals
Summary:
The meeting focused primarily on H.J.R. 4, a proposed constitutional amendment that aims to prohibit taxes on securities transactions and occupation taxes on securities market operators. Representative Meyer introduced the resolution, explaining its intention to prevent the state legislature from imposing such taxes indefinitely. The proposal received unanimous support from the Ways and Means Committee but faced scrutiny from other members concerned about its implications for equity and taxation in Texas. Key discussions highlighted the potential long-term consequences of locking in tax breaks for wealthier entities, particularly amid rising living costs for ordinary Texans.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- And that's the quip at NCI, the workforce. So in the old days, 20 years ago,...
- They're delivering the workforce of the future.
- truly want to strengthen our workforce.
- individuals do not have experience in the workforce.
- As you know, the teacher workforce has a high turnover rate, and it's a mess.
Keywords:
higher education, curriculum review, governing board, faculty council, ombudsman, higher education, faculty governance, decision-making, transparency, public meetings, higher education, governing board, department head, employment approval, public institutions, higher education, governing board, department head, employment approval, institutional oversight
Summary:
The meeting convened with significant discussions centered around higher education legislation in Texas, particularly focusing on research security and curriculum governance. Senator Brian Hughes introduced SB1273, which aims to establish a Higher Education Research Security Council to bolster security practices against potential espionage while promoting collaboration among Texas Tier 1 research institutions. Witness testimony included insights from Dr. Kevin Gamache of Texas A&M University, who underscored the importance of safeguarding academic resources to maintain Texas’s leadership in research. The committee unanimously adopted a substitute for the bill which elevated its scope to include private institutions as well, reflecting a broader approach to research security.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- >HB 4443 by Bojani-Erling relates to the establishment of a Texas Workforce
- pilot program to train workers for careers in energy-efficient technologies for the subcommittee on workforce
- the Texas Real Estate Commission, authorizing administrative penalties for the Committee on Trade, Workforce
- Ninety percent of the workforce holds a high school diploma
- A highly skilled workforce is truly what makes Collin County a leader in job growth.
Bills:
HJR1, HJR2, HB9, HB22, HB908, HB1392, HB195, HB13, HB143, HB135, HJR1, HJR2, HB9, HB22, HB908, HB1392
Keywords:
death tax, inheritance tax, estate tax, property transfer, constitutional amendment, ad valorem taxation, intangible property, tax exemption, property tax reform, economic implications, missing children, law enforcement, national reporting, investigation, public safety, ad valorem taxes, tax collector, delinquency date, tax payment, office closure
Summary:
The committee meeting highlighted significant discussions surrounding several key bills, including HB908, which aims to establish a required reporting protocol for missing children cases. The bill received robust support, with members emphasizing its potential to enhance child safety and streamline law enforcement responses. Another notable piece of legislation discussed was HB1392, which addresses delays in property tax payment due to unforeseen circumstances like natural disasters and other emergencies, ensuring Texans are not penalized for situations beyond their control. The meeting concluded with enthusiastic participation from both committee members and the public, showcasing the community's engagement in the legislative process.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- It's a workforce bill as well, ensuring that Texas builds a stronger and...
- often used as a predictive measure toward the workforce
- You have retired, rehired teachers who are coming back into the workforce.
- The reality is that 70% of people entering the workforce to be a teacher...
- Prepared Texas workforce for years to come.
Keywords:
instructional materials, public schools, Education Code, adoption, rejected materials, local funds, open educational resources, instructional materials, Texas Education Code, rejected materials, school districts, open enrollment charter schools, funding restrictions, environmental regulation, business compliance, local authority, economic development, state preemption, instructional materials, public schools
Summary:
The meeting focused on key legislative measures aimed at enhancing school safety and student communication technology. Senator Nichols discussed SB1262, emphasizing its role as a follow-up cleanup bill on previous measures that improved public school safety through House Bill 3. The committee adopted a committee substitute which includes provisions for the Texas Education Agency to commission peace officers for school safety purposes, thereby enabling better collaboration with local law enforcement in case of emergencies. The discussions were enriched by testimony from resource witnesses, including security professionals from the Texas School Safety Center.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources Mar 5th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
The workforce is aging as we move forward.
- We've got about 30% to 50% of that workforce that will not be with us a decade from now.
- Workforce is not the focus this session, but it's certainly
A big, big, big challenge we face is the workforce
- Workforce shortages are another major concern, and we've
Keywords:
water management, desalination, Corpus Christi, drought, Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus, state funding, economic impact
Summary:
The meeting focused primarily on water management issues related to the ongoing drought in Texas, particularly concerning the need for new water sources such as seawater desalination. Testimonies highlighted the critical status of local water supplies and the urgency of projects designed to secure future water availability. A noteworthy discussion revolved around the upcoming Inner Harbor Water Treatment Campus and desalination plant in Corpus Christi, which is aiming to become Texas's first municipally owned facility of its kind. Various stakeholders emphasized the importance of timely state support and funding in expediting these projects to mitigate water shortages and their potential economic impacts on the region.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
To receive a closed briefing on Department of Defense cyber operations. Feb 25th, 2025 at 03:00 pm
Senate Cybersecurity Subcommittee
Transcript Highlights:
- Deputy handles the day-to-day operations of the Department, with a primary focus on managing the workforce
- p>
However, I am concerned that the Deputy's primary roles—workforce
- Department probationary employees beginning this week and eventually to reduce 5% to 8% of the entire workforce
- span>
We have the most professional and dedicated defense workforce
Keywords:
Steven Feinberg, Deputy Secretary of Defense, national security, budget cuts, military readiness, global threats, Department of Defense
Summary:
The meeting primarily focused on the nomination of Steven Feinberg as Deputy Secretary of Defense. The committee emphasized the urgent need for strong leadership in response to a complex array of global threats posed by adversarial coalitions, including China, Russia, and Iran. The discussions highlighted concerns regarding budget cuts and personnel reductions within the Department of Defense, showcasing the challenges posed by the current economic context and the pressing need to maintain military readiness and capabilities. Various members expressed their apprehensions about how impending layoffs and budget reductions would impact the defense workforce and national security.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- defines a telephone call for purposes of regulating telephone solicitations for the Committee on Workforce
- ">SB 856 by Flores relates to the use of skills development certificates for the Subcommittee on Workforce
- ">SB 856 by Flores relates to the use of skills development certificates for the Subcommittee on Workforce
- defines a telephone call for purposes of regulating telephone solicitations for the Committee on Workforce
- "> SB 856 by Flores relates to the use of skills development certainties for the Subcommittee on Workforce
Bills:
HJR99, HB1399, HB1400, HB1094, HB365, HB1109, HB647, HCR35, SB14, HB12, HB1522, HB422, HB675, HB204, HB748, HB912, HJR99, HB1399, HB1400, HB1094, HB365, HB1109, HB647, HCR35, HCR123, HCR124, HR57, HR87, HR111, HR228, HR230, HR322, HR624, HR625, HR626, HR627, HR628, HR630, HR631, HR634, HR635, HR636, HR637, HR638, HR639, HR640, HR645, HR646, HR648, HR649, HR651, HR652, HR653, HR654, HR664, HR665, HR668, HR675, HR676, HR678, HR679, HR680, HR683, HR686, HR688, HR689, HR694, HR695, HR697, HR698, HR699, HR472, HR622, HR632, HR633, HR643, HR655, HR657, HR660, HR661, HR662, HR663, HR667, HR670, HR674, HR681, HR682, HR696
Keywords:
animal feed, tax exemption, ad valorem taxation, retail, constitutional amendment, animal feed, ad valorem taxation, tax exemption, retail sale, tangible personal property, Texas tax code, groundwater, water conservation, financial assistance, Texas Water Development Board, innovation fund, local conservation districts, transportation protection agreement, funeral services, insurance exemption
Summary:
In this meeting, significant discussions took place surrounding various bills aimed at improving state operations and addressing public concerns. Notably, HB204 was passed, which deals with the annual salary of certain state prosecutors and was presented by Mr. Tepper. The committee also engaged heavily with HB748, titled Trey's Law, which seeks to end the use of non-disclosure agreements in cases of sexual abuse against minors. The bill received a strong response from the members, reflecting a growing concern for child's rights within the legislature. Furthermore, the committee deliberated on HB912, focused on compensation for renewable generation owners, and moved forward with discussions about infrastructure funding reforms, illustrated by SB14's passage.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Higher Education Apr 22nd, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Higher Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- The Center for Nursing and Workforce Studies, of course, projects severe nursing workforce shortages.
- and similar institutions to continue supplying the workforce
- We talk about workforce a lot and workforce readiness, and we...
- education or workforce readiness.
- Davis that post-secondary education is critical for the workforce needs that we have.
Keywords:
nursing education, clinical sites, health facilities, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, legislative study, healthcare training, tuition, financial assistance, higher education, public institutions, student support, nonresident students, tuition, higher education, Texas Education Code, resident tuition, scholarships, regenerative agriculture, grants, higher education
Summary:
In this meeting of the Committee on Higher Education, various bills were laid out and discussed, with particular emphasis on education and research funding, alongside measures to support Texas's agricultural sector. Notable discussions included House Bill 5339, which aims to establish a program for regenerative agriculture, facilitating long-term research on agricultural practices and aiming to improve soil health and food quality. The committee members engaged in discussions about the implications of such research on local farming communities, stressing the importance of evidence-based practices in addressing modern agricultural challenges. The meeting also included concerns related to the nursing shortage, with House Bill 3032 presented as a measure to identify more clinical training sites for nursing students. Additionally, members touched on issues such as retaining Texas students in state universities, given the rising trends of students leaving for opportunities in other states.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- In the workforce, last year, in fiscal year 2024, 98.49%
- We're recruiting constantly, but we feel like we have to grow our workforce here.
- span> for young men, and so I would like to see the domestic workforce
- Without E-Verify, some employers undermine the legal workforce.
- span marker="976" data-time="5850"> And I've seen firsthand the difference that a qualified legal workforce
Keywords:
E-verify, employment verification, state contracts, immigration, labor compliance, Sunset Review, government accountability, Texas Lottery Commission, Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Texas Ethics Commission, government agencies, regulatory review, regulatory consistency, enforcement, local government compliance, cybersecurity, business protections, public testimony
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee on Business and Commerce centered around critical legislation including SB2858, SB324, and several others pertaining to regulatory consistency and enforcement in local governments. Notably, SB2858 was introduced to address the apparent noncompliance of some cities with state laws by empowering the Attorney General to enforce regulations more effectively. The members deliberated on the implications of this bill, with public testimony highlighting the need for stronger measures against local governments that ignore state mandates. Aside from regulatory discussions, SB2610 was well-received as it aimed to provide cybersecurity protections for small to medium-sized businesses, encouraging compliance with industry standards while simultaneously minimizing potential legal repercussions for companies against data breaches. The committee aimed to strike a balance between ensuring business security and avoiding undue burden on smaller enterprises.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- off of that and keep the focus instead on making sure that we're turning out young people with the workforce
- They're good for great jobs in the future, but also for the workforce
- Workforce development is something that is an area of the institution I'm very interested in.
- Workforce development is humongous for me because of our
- p>
The first thing they look at is the ability to meet the workforce
Keywords:
Senate Committee on Nominations, Brazos River Authority, higher education, environmental management, agricultural runoff, stewardship, legislation, collaboration
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Nominations convened to address various nominee confirmations, highlighting the significance of higher education and environmental management. Discussions centered around the responsibilities of the Brazos River Authority and the need for effective cooperation with the legislature and other state authorities. Several senators raised concerns regarding the agricultural runoff affecting impaired streams leading into the Brazos River. The committee emphasized the importance of stewardship, collaboration, and facilitating a balance between resource utilization and environmental protection.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Currently, there is no dedicated program to develop a skilled workforce for advanced nuclear energy.
- A trained, qualified workforce is important here for two reasons. First, of course, it'll...
- The Advanced Nuclear Energy Workforce Development Program
- On behalf of Texas Workforce Commission, you're neutral on
- We want a well-trained workforce.
Keywords:
county funding, prosecutors' offices, elections, law enforcement, local government, municipal libraries, state funding, gender identity, public events, children's literature, wildfire response, volunteer fire departments, electric grid security, public funding, literacy programs, emergency management, community safety
Summary:
The committee meeting was focused on several critical pieces of legislation, particularly SB34 aimed at enhancing wildfire response capabilities for volunteer fire departments throughout Texas. This bill introduces a statewide database for firefighting equipment and raises the grant cap for rural volunteer fire departments. Various witnesses, including experts and stakeholders, testified in support of the bill by emphasizing the increasing wildfire threats experienced in recent years. The committee spent considerable time addressing the amendments and concerns surrounding ongoing wildfire risks, ensuring that necessary resources are allocated to combat this urgency effectively. Discussion also revolved around SB75, a bill that seeks to codify security measures for the Texas electric grid in response to potential electromagnetic pulse threats and other vulnerabilities, with multiple testimonies highlighting the considerable risks posed to public safety and infrastructure if inaction persists.
In addition to other bills discussed, there were notable debates around SB18 which aims to restrict public funding for libraries hosting certain performances. Critics expressed concerns over the potential limitations on community literacy programs, drawing attention to the overwhelming need for inclusive educational resources to combat literacy issues in Texas. The rigorous dialogue reflected the committee's commitment to not only legislative processes but also the significant impact these decisions hold for the broader Texas community. Overall, the meeting was well-attended, indicating active participation from both members and the public.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- We heard some workforce issues, but what are you hearing from your members? What are the challenges?
- ...and get the workforce programs funded that are working
- Every session we're passing workforce bills, I just feel like we can't ever get ahead of it because the
- The impact can include the workforce that Senator Alvarado
- mentioned—having that available workforce is crucial.
Keywords:
SB786, SB119, SB1186, geothermal injection wells, brine mining, environmental regulations, water management, Texas Railroad Commission, economic growth
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee focused on several key legislative initiatives, including the implementation of new regulations concerning geothermal injection wells as per SB786, and the jurisdiction over brine mining clarified by SB119 and SB1186. Commissioner Christy spoke about the achievements of the Railroad Commission of Texas in regulatory standards and emphasized the importance of updating environmental practices that safeguard groundwater and surface water while facilitating economic growth. Senators expressed their concerns regarding operational impacts on various sectors, highlighting the need for continued collaboration between agencies to address challenges related to water management and environmental compliance.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and Commerce (Part I) Apr 8th, 2025
Senate Business & Commerce Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Effective allocation, workforce development, supply chain
- picked up and passed one of the workforce issues that we
- I also want to thank Senator Zaffirini for picking up and passing one of the workforce issues that we
- My final question is, do we have the workforce needed for this investment?
- Yes, we would, kind of consistent with our mission, have workforce development.
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
Delivery of Government Efficiency Mar 5th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- The next slide provides a snapshot of our workforce.
- They do checks on the Texas Workforce Commission website.
- Workforce last year after the state workforce experienced
- We're seeing the bottom of our workforce fall out.
- Long-term savings invested by investing in our workforce.
Keywords:
government efficiency, accountability, public hearings, cybersecurity, state agencies, taxpayer dollars, oversight, modernization, legislative proposals
Summary:
The meeting of the House Committee on Delivery of Government Efficiency marked the beginning of a new era focused on holding government agencies accountable and eliminating inefficiencies. Chairman Capriglione emphasized the committee's role in modernizing state government, implementing rigorous oversight, and ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used effectively. The committee plans to address waste, mismanagement, and corruption, aiming for an ambitious agenda over the next 22 months. Discussions included the establishment of public hearings to foster transparency and the development of legislative proposals to drive reform. Several state agencies provided insights into their operations, with a particular focus on how they can better serve the public through increased efficiency and enhanced cybersecurity measures.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine reducing waste, fraud and abuse through innovation, focusing on how AI and data can improve government efficiency. Apr 9th, 2025 at 01:30 pm
Joint Economic Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Heinrich summarized the bill's objectives, adding that it would help align educational pathways with workforce
And third, we must ensure the federal workforce has
- marker="135" data-time="1608"> My final point is that harnessing innovation also requires a federal workforce
- 1632">We are committed to doing so upon a firm foundation of reliable data and a digitally skilled workforce
Keywords:
artificial intelligence, waste reduction, fraud prevention, government efficiency, improper payments, data reliability, oversight
Summary:
The meeting was chaired by Chairman Schweikert and involved a comprehensive discussion on how to utilize artificial intelligence (AI) for reducing waste, fraud, and improper payments within federal programs. Key witnesses, including Mr. Andrew Canarsa from the Council of the Inspectors General, provided insights on the potential of AI in enhancing government efficiency. The committee emphasized the importance of reliable data and thorough examination of AI application to avoid unintended consequences while addressing the estimated $162 billion in improper payments reported by the federal government. Concerns were raised regarding the recent firing of inspectors general and the impacts that could have on oversight and accountability processes.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V Feb 24th, 2025 at 10:00 am
House Appropriations - S/C on Articles I, IV, & V
Transcript Highlights:
- Applications for workforce training grants can include opportunities for some of these public sector
- Applications for workforce training grants are available,
- Our FTE limit was reduced in the filed bill by 251.6 FTEs, which is about 9% of our workforce.
- We've also worked really hard to engage the workforce, both state workforce and higher education, who
- It benefits you, which is a wellness program to try to engage that workforce in their own health.
Summary:
The meeting of the committee was primarily focused on reviewing various bills, with robust conversations surrounding fiscal allocations for upcoming bienniums. Notably, discussions centered around SB22, which relates to salary assistance grants for law enforcement agencies, indicated strong support, with members expressing a consensus on the importance of enhancing financial resources for police departments across Texas. Additionally, the committee examined HB1, which proposed increases to funding to improve tax collection efficiencies and recruitment of professionals in critical roles. The meeting witnessed input from various stakeholders and representatives emphasizing the significance of these initiatives for state operations and public safety.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Mar 3rd, 2025 at 02:03 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- HB514 by Leilani relates to the maternal health workforce campaign
- It is referred to the Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development.
- of sale under the terms of a contract lien on real property, referred to the Committee on Trade, Workforce
- Busey, relating to the notice period for certain evictions, referred to the Committee on Trade, Workforce
Keywords:
constitutional amendments, property tax, ad valorem taxation, environmental rights, public testimony, Texas Legislature, Committee on State Affairs
Summary:
The committee meeting included extensive discussions on numerous proposed constitutional amendments, focusing particularly on issues related to property taxation and environmental rights. Various members, including Representative Metcalfe and Representative Goodwin, brought forward bills addressing the appraised value of residential and commercial properties for ad valorem tax purposes, as well as amendments guaranteeing citizens the right to a clean environment. The conversation was vibrant, with a mix of supportive and opposing views presented by committee members and public witnesses who joined the discussions.