Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'housing services'
Page 19 of 60
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
S/C on Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health Mar 27th, 2025 at 08:00 am
House S/C on Disease Prevention & Women's & Children's Health
Transcript Highlights:
- I'm here in support of House Bill 1782.
- I urge you to support this House Bill.
- But the chair lays out House Bill.
- If there's no objection, House Bill 1027 is left pending.
- House Bill 1027 is left pending.
Keywords:
Medicaid, child health, express lane option, income verification, supplemental nutrition assistance, telepharmacy, healthcare access, remote dispensing, rural clinics, pharmacy regulations, health literacy, state health plan, health care, patient outcomes, public health, economic impact, Medicaid, healthcare, breast cancer, cervical cancer
Summary:
In this committee meeting, members engaged in extensive discussions regarding several bills aimed at enhancing public health initiatives in Texas. Notably, House Bill 1295 was introduced to tackle the pressing issue of health literacy, highlighting its critical importance for improving health outcomes and reducing costs within the state's healthcare system. Vice Chair Busey presented House Bill 321, which aims to streamline the enrollment process for Medicaid and CHIP by utilizing data from the SNAP application to ensure that eligible children can access necessary healthcare coverage. Both bills received public testimonies that emphasized the need for better health education and access to health insurance, particularly for children and vulnerable populations in Texas. Witnesses spoke on the societal importance of nurturing a health-conscious generation, thereby laying a moral obligation on policymakers to support such legislative endeavors.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Thank you all so much for your service, and including you for your service with your husband, because
- House Bill 3717 is left pending. Thank you.
- The chair lays out House Bill 2038.
- The chair lays out House Bill 3801.
- I'm opposed to House Bill 1431.
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 Regular
Health and Human Services (Part I) Apr 9th, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Inadvertently, hospice services, assistance services, and habilitation services were left out.
- So you do have these when you talk about some of these services.
- there can be a multitude of services.
- This bill, obviously, is expanding their scope and their licensure to outpatient services past ER services
- Department of Health and Human Services,...
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 Health and Human Services Committee covered a variety of bills focused on improving health care access, patient protections, and enhancing oversight of health-related services. Key discussions were held around SB1640, which aims to broaden the scope of criminal history checks for Medicaid providers to enhance accountability and prevent fraud. Senator Hagenbooth explained the committee substitute, emphasizing the necessity of strengthening vetting processes within Medicaid programs. Additionally, SB1784 was introduced, which seeks to protect patients from unexpected medical debt collection practices by mandating advance written notices before debt collection actions are initiated. Discussion around this bill reflected a collective concern for transparency in medical billing and the financial wellbeing of patients.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- The Chair moves that House Bill 39 as substituted be reported favorably to the full House with a recommendation
- The Chair recalls House Bill 2143.
- So, House Bill 2029.
- Thank you for your service and thank you for your time.
- If I may, on for or against House Bill 2486.
Bills:
HB1583, HB1775, HB1832, HB1836, HB1837, HB1866, HB1983, HB2029, HB2217, HB2318, HB2363, HB2486
Keywords:
mental health, emergency detention, peace officer, mental illness, prevention of harm, border security, private landowners, study and report, General Land Office, participation, controlled substances, opioid antagonists, law enforcement training, substance abuse prevention, Texas-Mexico border, criminal justice, public safety, law enforcement, National Park Service, peace officer
Summary:
The meeting of the committee involved extensive discussions around several pieces of legislation aimed at improving law enforcement and addressing social issues in Texas. Notable among the bills was HB2217, introduced by Representative Wharton, which seeks to establish a grant program for equipping law enforcement vehicles with bullet-resistant components to enhance officer safety. The bill received support from multiple members who acknowledged the rising violence against law enforcement. Additionally, HB1775, which focuses on the transparency of the rape kit backlog, was also discussed, highlighting the importance of timely evidence collection in sexual assault cases. The committee heard testimonies both in support of and against various bills, showcasing a vibrant exchange of views on public safety measures and law enforcement accountability.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services Mar 18th, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services will come to order.
- Health and Human Services.
- It's also on medical services; is there a gag clause?
- utilizers of health care services.
- It's a wonderful extension of the efforts on House Bill 711 from last session.
Keywords:
immunization, written informed consent, civil liability, health care provider, vaccine compensation, administrative penalty, health care, licensing, complaint procedure, disciplinary action, law enforcement, conscience protection, health care services, civil remedy, disciplinary action, health care providers, patient access, hospital safety, emergency room, bollards
Summary:
The meeting of the committee was focused predominantly on various bills concerning healthcare and insurance policies, reflecting significant discussions on how these laws impact the community. Notably, Senate Bill 660 was introduced to enhance safety measures at healthcare facilities, discussing the necessity for bollards to prevent unauthorized vehicular access, highlighting a bipartisan understanding of public safety. Senator West emphasized the importance of these regulations, citing real-world incidents that necessitate such actions. Public testimonies complimented this discussion, providing insight into community needs for enhanced security in hospitals.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- favorably to the full House.
- House Bill 44.
- We strongly support House Bill 44.
- Vote for House Bill 44. Thank you.
- House Bill 44 is left pending.
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:
- It's the companion to House Bill 1638 by Morales of Maverick.
- House Bill 3909.
- I appreciate the opportunity to lay out House Bill 1968. As a former...
- But if they're doing it just to get out of jury service, it's a problem.
- However, sometimes the poll watcher is removed from service.
Keywords:
election services, contracting, political subdivisions, county elections, election code, voter registration, citizenship status, election law, cancellation, disqualification, Texas Election Code, voter identification, registration, election integrity, identification documents, Texas Election Code, election, watcher, polling place, removal
Summary:
The meeting of the committee saw significant discussions revolving around several bills focused primarily on election laws and voter regulations. Chair Shaheen led the session, where the committee debated House Bill 3909, which proposed to amend the election code regarding the use of wireless communication devices near voting stations. Concerns were raised about the practicality of the existing regulations and the potential implications for electoral integrity. Additionally, House Bill 4253 drew attention due to fears of voter suppression, particularly how it might disproportionately affect communities of color. Testimony from members of the public highlighted the tension between maintaining election security and protecting citizens' voting rights.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Higher Education May 6th, 2025 at 10:05 am
House Higher Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- My mom was a foreign service officer and public diplomat.
- Thanks for your service and thanks for the opportunity to speak to you tonight.
- The House is better than the Senate.
- There's that House and Senate thing again.
- Vice Chair Howard moves that House Bill 4848 as substituted be reported favorably to the full House with
Keywords:
living expenses, higher education, student support, homeless students, financial aid, grant program, baccalaureate degrees, higher education, junior colleges, workforce development, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, competency-based education, baccalaureate degree, higher education, cost of attendance, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, dual credit, computer science, higher education, course credit
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on heated discussions surrounding SB37 and HB4848, with numerous testimonies given by concerned citizens, educators, and students. Advocates for SB37 emphasized the need for educational reform, arguing that current higher education standards are overly influenced by political ideologies and do not adequately prepare students for the workforce. Opponents voiced strong concerns about the bill's potential to undermine academic freedom and lead to the removal of essential courses from the curriculum, which would diminish the quality of education in Texas. The meeting highlighted a clear divide on the future of educational policies and governance in universities, reflecting broader social and political tensions.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
House Committee on Insurance will come to order.
- House Bill 1680 offers a pragmatic solution.
- Though the House already passed House Bill 50, providing for opt-out HIV testing as part of an STI testing
- Okay, the Chair lays out House Bill 3569 and recognizes.
- House Bill 4635 gives Texans that knowledge.
Keywords:
autism, health insurance, coverage, medical treatment, health benefit plan, HIV prevention, prescription drug, prior authorization, health benefits, insurance coverage, insurance, contract termination, property and casualty, insurance agents, discrimination, insurance, appraiser, umpire, licensing requirements, continuing education
Summary:
The meeting of the House Committee on Insurance centered around numerous healthcare-related bills, focusing heavily on issues such as artificial intelligence (AI) in medical determinations, autism insurance coverage, and HIV prevention. Representative Garcia Hernandez presented HB4635, aiming to ensure transparency in the use of AI in medical claim denials, which has become increasingly prevalent. The bill introduces mandates for disclosures on AI algorithms used in decisions, enhancing patient rights and keeping the Texas Department of Insurance informed of potential denials. Public testimony supported the bill as essential for safeguarding Texans from unintended biases in AI applications. Additionally, HB813, presented by Representative Goodwin, garnered attention for its effort to update autism-related insurance mandates, removing outdated age restrictions for therapy coverage. This legislation is seen as a crucial step in accommodating the needs of all individuals on the autism spectrum, regardless of the timing of their diagnosis.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- The chair moves that House Bill 229, without amendment, be reported favorably to the full House with
- House Bill 2308.
- House Bill 2858.
- , such as House Bill 3069 by...
- House Bill 1378 is left pending.
Bills:
HB551, HB1281, HB1378, HB1617, HB2868, HB2881, HB3374, HB4439, HB4726, HB4732, HB4878, HB4914, HB4921, HB4958, HB5200, HB5318, HB5360, HB5402, HB5568, HB5573, HB5623, HJR218
Keywords:
political contributions, address privacy, Texas Ethics Commission, election transparency, campaign finance, international organizations, World Health Organization, jurisdiction, state law, enforcement, United Nations, World Economic Forum, attorney general, international organizations, jurisdiction, World Health Organization, United Nations, World Economic Forum, state law, enforcement
Summary:
The committee meeting covered a wide range of bills, highlighting legislative efforts to address energy efficiency, border security, and public safety. Notably, the discussions surrounding HB3824 focused on establishing fire safety standards for battery energy storage systems, inciting concerns about their proximity to schools and hospitals. Members expressed varying opinions on the technology while considering public safety and infrastructure requirements. The meeting also saw the passage of multiple bills, including HB1554, which prohibits the use of public funds for legal services for unlawfully present individuals, showcasing a strong political consensus on border-related issues. Overall, the session was marked by substantial public engagement and the intent to address critical legislative priorities effectively.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Apr 10th, 2025 at 09:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- House Bill 1099.
- Raymond on the floor of the House? Mr. Raymond's on the floor of the House.
- How are we not reducing services if we're cutting $70 million from those two services?
- Wu on the floor of the House?
- House Bill 500.
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:
- To House Bill 3636 by Representative Will Metcalf.
House Bill 1666 would require the Texas Department of
- This will help ensure safe working conditions for those who enforce Texas law and provide emergency services
Bills:
SB127, SB456, SB482, SB659, SB739, SB816, SB1234, SB1666, SB1886, SB1980, SB2580, SB2611, SB2693, SB2776
Keywords:
child abuse, reporting obligation, statute of limitations, negligence, legal professionals, human organs, criminal penalties, physician license, medical ethics, illegal trade, smuggling, human trafficking, criminal penalties, felony offenses, law enforcement, restitution, victims, criminal justice, unclaimed property, court payments
Summary:
During the meeting, several critical bills were discussed with emphasis on public safety and ethical legislation. Notably, SB456 aimed to increase penalties for illegal organ purchases and trafficking was presented and discussed thoroughly, where members raised concerns about the current low-level misdemeanor classification of such offenses. Public testimony was sought, with support and opposition being voiced, highlighting the bill's relevance in addressing urgent ethical issues surrounding organ trade. Furthermore, SB476 focused on legislative measures that enhance officer safety amid rising incidents of violence against law enforcement in Texas, drawing passionate support from various stakeholders, including local police representatives. These topics underscored a broader commitment to reforming policies for public safety and ethical enforcement in the Lone Star State.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Just like, you know, federal has their Fair Housing Act, Texas has their Fair Housing Act.
- The Realtor Association has a mini Fair Housing Act just.
- Professional services to somebody.
- In the filed version, we spoke of a single crisis service center.
- Crisis follow-up services must occur within 48 hours, not 72.
Keywords:
minors, sexually explicit materials, public libraries, age verification, civil penalties, library collection review, alcohol storage, airline permits, beverage regulations, airport, commercial flights, alcoholic beverages, local option election, zoning regulations, municipality control, land use, state law, social media, bot accounts, misinformation
Summary:
The meeting saw significant discussions centered around several Senate bills, notably SB2487, SB1698, and SB2101. Senator Parker introduced and advocated for SB2487, which aims to enhance crisis service models for mental health interventions, receiving feedback from various stakeholders during formal testimony. The committee adopted the substitute version of this bill, which emphasizes local governance, expands service options, and tightens clinical timelines, responding to concerns from communities about service accessibility. Furthermore, the bill successfully passed from the committee with unanimous support, moving forward to the full Senate for consideration.
In addition to SB2487, the committee reviewed SB1698, focusing on regulatory changes surrounding e-cigarette products. The committee recognized the importance of aligning state law with federal guidelines while ensuring strong consumer protections. Public testimonies included insights from enforcement officials and industry participants, highlighting the newly proposed measures aimed at preventing youth access to e-cigarettes. Lastly, SB2101, which addresses the regulation of sexually explicit materials in public libraries to ensure safe environments for minors, generated mix responses, with testimonies reflecting concerns over censorship and parental rights. The meeting concluded with the passage of SB2819 as well, which addresses political activities of county election administrators.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- House.
- to the full House with a recommendation that it do pass and be printed.
- unless their kids run a house.
- They have that service. They get.
- What's the service?
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
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Delivery of Government Efficiency Apr 23rd, 2025 at 10:04 am
House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- I mean, we're the Texas House.
- For example, the Texas House has what we call our house book—a rule of the Texas House—which is probably
- The chair moves that House Bill 3719.
- , be reported favorably to the full house.
- That you've got reserved to buy a house or you're saving money to buy a house or something along those
Keywords:
constitutional amendment, fiscal impact, state budget, ballot measure, transparency in voting, management-to-staff ratio, state agencies, employee regulations, government efficiency, workforce management, public information, governing board, transparency, confidentiality, access rights, privacy, identifying information, state agency, consent, occupational license
Summary:
The meeting of the committee was marked by discussions surrounding multiple bills, including HB3719, which concerns the public disclosure of dates of birth, and HB5196, aimed at allowing state agencies to approve telework plans for employees. The chair moved for HB3719 to be reported favorably to the full house, which passed with a vote of 10 in favor and one against. Similarly, HB5196 was favorably reported without objections. A significant focus was placed on increasing digital modernization for state agencies, as illustrated by HB5195, which aims to improve the digital accessibility and functionality of agency websites to enhance small business interactions with the state.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- , House Bill 27, which passed out of the House Public Education Committee unanimously in the House chamber
- one would consider traditional educational services.
- They have to consider what are the educational services? What are the related services?
- What are these other services?
- of time in the House.
Keywords:
Texas Education Agency, special investigations, transparency, disclosure, education compliance, financial literacy, education, high school curriculum, economic education, Texas education policy, transportation, school fees, education, school district, student services, inspection, special education, residential facilities, day placement, crisis intervention
Summary:
The meeting focused on several bills related to education, showcasing robust discussions on various legislative measures aimed at enhancing educational frameworks in Texas. Notably, Senate Bill 205 was presented as a refile intended to make fetal development instruction a permanent component of junior high health curricula. The bill garnered support from multiple members as they highlighted its significance in educating students about human development. Public testimony was invited, although no significant opposition was noted during this segment.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Higher Education May 6th, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Higher Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- The report further cites rising housing costs and a decline in housing support due to the COVID-19 pandemic
- Housing programs across Texas differ from all other housing
- Texas housing departments provide students with stable housing in the Texas summer heat and the freezing
- So the housing doesn't necessarily...
Student housing, I mean family housing on campus was
Keywords:
living expenses, higher education, student support, homeless students, financial aid, grant program, baccalaureate degrees, higher education, junior colleges, workforce development, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, competency-based education, baccalaureate degree, higher education, cost of attendance, Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, dual credit, computer science, higher education, course credit
Summary:
The meeting focused on several significant bills, with notable discussions surrounding SB37, which aims to overhaul the governance and curriculum oversight of higher education in Texas. Representative Shaheen expressed that the bill is intended to ensure that degrees earned in Texas are valuable and properly aligned with workforce demands. Witnesses presented both support and opposition to the bill, presenting various perspectives on its potential impact on academic freedom and educational quality. One associate professor voiced concerns regarding SB37, arguing it could stifle open discussions and critical thinking in classrooms by imposing political oversight on curricula. The discussion highlighted a divide between representatives who support increased legislative oversight and those who fear it will undermine educational integrity.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
House Bill 272 would align the second bill, House Bill
- House Bill 551 provides the same.
- and passed the full House 135 to 6.
- We will open public testimony on House Bill 4157.
- House Bill 4145 comes to us from Representative Dyson over in the House.
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
Keywords:
dams, reservoirs, erosion control, flood control, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, permit exemption, environmental regulation, permit exemption, erosion control, floodwater management, sediment control, local government, flooding, public safety, outdoor warning sirens, disaster preparedness, emergency response, flood warning, outdoor sirens, disaster preparedness
Summary:
The meeting convened with discussions predominantly focused on legislative motions and updates. There were significant discussions led by various senators, including proceedings on the agenda items with motions for adjournment and future considerations. Notably, two motions were read into the record, and no objections were raised during the adjourning process. Members expressed a willingness to reconvene, emphasizing the importance of receiving committee reports before the next session. The presence of all members and their engagement reflects a strong commitment to legislative responsibilities.
The meeting concluded with a unanimous decision to adjourn until August 12th. This highlights the procedural nature of Senate meetings and the emphasis on maintaining order and structure through established parliamentary procedures. The atmosphere was professional, with all members present and contributing to a constructive environment for decision-making.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and Commerce (Part I) Apr 1st, 2025
Senate Business & Commerce Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Unfortunately, the House just wasn't willing to pass it last session.
- services, energy services, transportation systems, and then
- I mean, the bill lists a bunch of other critical services we do not evaluate.
- Those types of services, healthcare and financial services
- , are outside the grid for ERCOT to evaluate those types of services.
Keywords:
electric generation, reliability, ERCOT, Public Utility Commission, penalties, performance requirements, energy policy, construction contracts, compensatory damages, government delays, contractor, legislation, broadband access, tax reduction, internet service, rural connectivity, infrastructure funding, distributed energy resources, interconnection, ERCOT
Summary:
The Business Commerce Committee meeting was marked by the successful reporting of several bills, notably Senate Bill 783, SB1238, and SB1706, all of which received unanimous support from committee members. The chair facilitated discussions around the potential implications of these bills, with committee members highlighting the necessity for timely updates to current legislation. Public testimonies were heard regarding Senate Bill 1968, emphasizing its efforts to clarify the agent-buyer relationship in real estate transactions through the introduction of written representation agreements. Additionally, concerns were raised about regulations regarding backup generation for energy loads in the Senate Bill 2321 discussion, reflecting ongoing discussions about balancing energy needs with environmental regulations.