Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'legislative proposals'
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TX
Transcript Highlights:
- We are here in support of this legislation.
- These projects have become quite large, with some proposed at 1.8 or 1.9 billion dollars.
- As their legislative chairman, I am a...
- The statute is unclear, and so this piece of legislation would clarify that point.
- John Esparza, President of the Texas Trucking Association, in support of this legislation.
Keywords:
county roads, abandonment, public nuisance, safety hazard, transportation, transportation, design-build contracts, Senate Bill 35, public safety, infrastructure, Texas Department of Transportation, Texas Trucking Association
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on various legislative proposals, particularly those related to transportation and public safety. A significant point of discussion was Senate Bill 35, which seeks to limit the Texas Department of Transportation's ability to utilize design-build contracts for infrastructure projects. Advocates for the bill expressed concerns over financial implications and the efficiency of project delivery, while opponents emphasized the need for flexibility and innovation in addressing Texas's growing infrastructure needs. Several stakeholders, including the Texas Trucking Association, engaged in debates over the impacts of the proposed limitations.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Senate Special Committee on Congressional Redistricting Jul 28th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- However, I will ask Legislative Council to research that for us.
- The current proposal to redraw maps is an affront to that integrity.
- Legislators are in non-white majority districts.
- Texas has a multitude of problems that require legislative...
- It's not acceptable that we have not even seen your proposed maps.
Keywords:
redistricting, congressional districts, DOJ letter, voter suppression, gerrymandering, public testimony, community representation
Summary:
The Senate special committee convened to address issues related to congressional redistricting, particularly focusing on the implications of a recent DOJ letter concerning majority-minority districts. Various senators expressed strong concerns about the motivations behind the proposed redistricting efforts, asserting that they may infringe on the rights of black and brown communities across Texas. Numerous members of the public provided passionate testimony, voicing their fears over potential voter suppression and gerrymandering, while others pushed for greater representation of underrepresented communities in the redistricting process. The committee aims to gather this public input as part of its overall redistricting considerations during the special session.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
AG 4432 by Dean proposes changes to the Board of Directors
HCR 182 by Patterson proposes a constitutional amendment
HCR 184 by Reynolds proposes a constitutional amendment.
HGR 181 by Perez of El Paso proposes...
HCR 184 by Reynolds proposes...
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
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Energy Resources Mar 17th, 2025 at 11:00 am
House Energy Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- And yet, legislator in concert with the Legislative and Conservation Director?
- I know some of the opposition to this piece of legislation is...
- Unfortunately, none of the proposed language or any...
Some of the proposed language that I proposed in
- I'm the Legislative Chair for the National Utility Contractors Association.
Keywords:
pipeline, construction, cash bond, county authority, local government, education, funding, school district, teacher support, classroom resources, underground facility, safety, excavation, regulations, utility operators, underground facilities, construction safety, excavation, utilities, marker regulations
Summary:
The meeting focused on various legislative discussions, prominently featuring HB1285 and HJR107, which aimed to address significant issues around energy production and damage prevention. Key discussions involved providing the Railroad Commission with additional tools for inspection and responding to incidents, as articulated by proponents emphasizing the benefits for public safety and efficiency. Members voiced their concerns about balancing energy production with environmental protection, highlighting the ongoing tension between economic development and ecological sustainability. Testimonies from industry experts and environmental advocates framed the debate, with strong support for maintaining Texas's status as a leader in energy while ensuring public health is not compromised.
Throughout the meeting, several members expressed their intent to refine policies surrounding utility damage prevention and excavation standards, as current laws have reportedly not evolved to address modern challenges. There was a clear acknowledgment of the technological advancements that necessitate an update to existing regulations. The atmosphere was charged with a mix of optimism for proactive legislation and apprehension regarding potential impacts of energy-related developments. As discussions drew to a close, there was a commitment to revisit these topics in future sessions to ensure thorough consideration of both industry and community perspectives.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Higher Education May 6th, 2025 at 10:05 am
House Higher Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- The work proposes a reorientation on.
- We do not need more legislation.
- It's a legislative council for ITC. Thank you.
- That's what this piece of legislation does.
- In other words, did they want this legislation in the first place?
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:
- Well, I think you have local control, but you also have legislation that is good legislation that protects
- I think it's good legislation. Thank you.
- And if this legislation was passed, you're...
- And you are testifying neutral on this proposal?
- , and voters rejected the proposed higher rate.
Bills:
HB19, HB30, HB851, HB1663, HB1681, HB1769, HB1937, HB1979, HB2428, HB2433, HB2825, HB3159, HB3424, HB3486, HB3487, HB3504, HB3605, HB3879, HB3994, HB4382, HB4752, HB5444, HB5446, HB5447, HB3199, HB4847
Keywords:
disaster relief, tax rates, local government, voter-approval tax rate, emergency services, homesteads, tax benefits, appraisal district, property taxes, reporting requirements, diesel fuel, tax credit, auxiliary power units, power take-off equipment, vehicle emissions, tax refund, sales tax, marketplace provider, payment processing, electronic transactions
Summary:
The committee meeting focused heavily on evaluating a series of bills aimed at improving fiscal responsibility and transparency in local government borrowing. A significant discussion centered around HB19, which proposes reforms to debt issuance by local governments. Members expressed concerns that some provisions could hinder local government operations. Some stakeholders acknowledged positive aspects of the proposed reforms but highlighted potential impacts on public safety and ongoing projects due to stricter debt limits. Throughout the meeting, various representatives voiced differing opinions, contributing to a robust dialogue on improving taxpayer protections while ensuring local governments can meet community needs.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local Government (Part II) Apr 7th, 2025
Senate Local Government Committee
Transcript Highlights:
SB1927 proposes that should a private.
- With that, I ask the committee to favorably look on this legislation.
- There is a proposed committee substitute, Senator Nicholson.
- So if there's a proposed change, it's saying ...
- That being said, whenever a city council or a property owner proposes a zoning change to help combat
Bills:
SB434, SB844, SB898, SB1177, SB1214, SB1454, SB1920, SB1927, SB1935, SB1965, SB2010, SB2046, SB2068, SB2073, SB2183, SB2260, SB3034, SB907
Keywords:
housing authorities, tax exemptions, local government code, multifamily residential development, municipal housing authority, municipal regulation, tree removal, Ashe juniper, military base, property protection, property owners' association, board governance, homeowner regulation, declarant control, assessment limits, guaranteed income, financial assistance, local government, public funds, employment programs
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Local Government convened to discuss significant bills, primarily focusing on SB844, which seeks to reform zoning petition processes to enhance property rights and facilitate housing development. Senator Hughes, the bill's author, advocated that current laws overly empower a minority of landowners to block necessary housing advancements, asserting that such regulations hurt overall housing affordability. Concerns were raised about balancing individual property rights against community needs, with testimonies from builders and housing advocates supporting the bill's aims to streamline zoning decisions and reduce impediments to development.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs Apr 28th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Originally filed, there are no changes; it's just a legislative
- The goal of this bill is to promote prudent groundwater management by ensuring that all proposed uses
- I'm here today to express strong support for the legislation that would enable Medina County to pursue
This legislation would allow for an aquifer storage
This legislation would allow us to use that water more
Keywords:
water management, environmental regulations, migrant housing, labor standards, wastewater treatment, utility rates
Summary:
The meeting was convened to discuss several pivotal bills primarily relating to water management, environmental regulations, and labor standards. Amongst key discussions, SB243 aimed to reform migrant housing penalties, transforming the flat fee structure into a more compelling model that could incite improvements in living conditions for migrant workers. Furthermore, the committee deliberated on SB2159 and SB2568, both significant for addressing water resource management in Medina County, with testimonies from local water authority representatives emphasizing the urgent need for updated legislative support amid local growth pressures. Other bills discussed included SB1891 and SB1442, which prompted lively debates regarding utility rate adjustments and environmental compliance procedures for wastewater facilities.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I just want to mention that prior to the 2019 legislation, the voter approval tax.
- What I would propose is an amendment to...
- I'll normally do legislation.
- Does this legislation put those larger counties at a disadvantage in terms of...
- There are tons of legislation that we pass to help support...
Keywords:
property tax, taxing units, enrollment growth, inflation rate, notice requirements, nonprofit, ad valorem tax, agriculture, youth support, educational support, Texas legislation, voter-approval, tax rate, taxing units, property tax, local government, property tax, HB17, SB10, taxpayer transparency
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several significant bills, particularly HB17 and SB10, both of which address property tax regulations in Texas. HB17 aims to enhance transparency and accountability in taxpayer notifications regarding property tax rate changes, requiring taxing entities to provide detailed information in notices. The bill received mixed reactions, with some supporting its intention to empower taxpayers while others criticized it as an unfunded mandate. Meanwhile, SB10 proposes to lower the voter approval tax rate for larger municipalities from 3.5% to 2.5%, sparking debates about its potential impact on public safety funding and local governments' financial flexibility. The discussions delved into the challenges posed by budget constraints and the need for efficient local governance in the face of rising costs and public safety demands. Overall, the meeting was well-attended, featuring robust discussions and a variety of perspectives around key legislative initiatives affecting Texas residents.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services May 12th, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
However, the legislation does not impact the ability
- voters overwhelmingly rejected the proposal put forward by
- Let's just say, for example, that under what we were talking about, a bond proposal fails.
So what is your objection to the legislation?
- Well, currently, we're limited by legislation as to how much debt we can have.
Keywords:
money transmission, public finance, certificates of obligation, tax anticipation notes, consumer protection, First Amendment, voter will
Summary:
The meeting focused on the discussion of two significant pieces of legislation: SB512 and SB1024. SB512 aims to protect users of money transmission services by preventing penalties imposed by service providers for violating terms of service. Representative Hayes explained that this bill responds to troubling practices observed among money service businesses. Public testimonies were presented both in support and opposition to the bill, highlighting concerns over First Amendment rights and the implications for consumer protection. The committee ultimately left the bill pending for further consideration.
In contrast, SB1024 addresses public finance issues, specifically the misuse of voter-rejected projects through certificates of obligation and tax anticipation notes. Senator Betancourt described instances where municipalities have circumvented voter will by issuing debt for projects previously rejected in elections. The committee heard extensive public testimony critiquing the proposed restrictions in the bill, with arguments centered around the potential unintended consequences for local governments and necessary infrastructure projects. Both bills generated lively discussions among committee members, leading to wider considerations of public finance ethics and the relationship between voters and local governments.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Feb 27th, 2025 at 10:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- >
We pray for this legislature and the things that they will legislate
H.J.R. 1 by Meyer proposes a constitutional amendment
H.J.R. 2 by Garen proposes a constitutional amendment
H.J.R. 4 by Meyer proposes a constitutional amendment
- She has chaired the Eagle Ford Shale Legislative Caucus.
Keywords:
Senator Judith Zaffirini, Texas Senate, public service, education, legislation, honor, mentorship
Summary:
The meeting focused on honoring Senator Judith Zaffirini for her exceptional service to the state of Texas, marking her as the first female dean of the Texas Senate. Various members spoke of her achievements, highlighting her dedication to public service and her significant impact on the community and education, particularly for students with disabilities. The atmosphere was filled with camaraderie and deep respect, as colleagues shared personal anecdotes and affirmed her role as a mentor and leader.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Energy Resources Mar 24th, 2025 at 11:00 am
House Energy Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Previous legislation.
- So, we support this piece of legislation.
- I appreciate, you know, Chairman Langgraf also proposing this piece of legislation, and I appreciate—I
- The legislative intent is important for interpreting legislation
- This piece of legislation, coupled with, let's say, Landgraf's legislation on the TCEQ produced water
Keywords:
oil waste, gas waste, liability, treatment processes, environmental safety, beneficial use, oil and gas, infrastructure protection, natural disasters, cybersecurity, emergency preparedness, interstate compact, liquefied natural gas, energy resources, Gulf Coast, regulatory coordination, liquefied natural gas, export regulations, geothermal injection wells, energy infrastructure security
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on the discussion and advancement of several key bills, notably HB1285, HB2890, HB1971, and HB1169. Chairman Darby opened the session by presenting HB2890, addressing the economic impact of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, particularly in light of recent federal pauses on LNG projects which have affected Texas significantly. The committee heard testimonies regarding the necessity of increasing communication between Gulf states to protect the industry, illustrating the importance of unified action against federal regulations that may harm Texas's LNG sector.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Finance (Part I) Jan 28th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- I ask this committee to support the proposed rider.
- I ask this committee to support the proposed rider to restore this funding.
- Then I want to make those proposals effectively well adapted for the state of Texas.
- Every one of us has filed a bill in our past, in our experience, in our legislative tenure.
- So, thank you for these updates, and let's keep pushing for legislative improvements.
Keywords:
Attorney General, budget recommendations, Crime Victims Compensation, method of finance swaps, funding challenges, public safety
Summary:
The meeting of the committee primarily focused on the Office of the Attorney General, where General Ken Paxton and his staff presented budget recommendations, highlighting a proposed decrease of $163.9 million from the 2024-25 biennium budget. Discussions included essential service funding such as the Crime Victims Compensation Program, which is facing challenges due to revenue shortfalls and increased demand. The committee raised concerns regarding the method of finance swaps that impacted the overall budget, leading to a $38 million cut that the Attorney General’s office deemed an error. Representatives from the LBB were also questioned about the implications of these funding changes.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Higher Education May 6th, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Higher Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- It was established by legislative action.
- I'm encouraged to see the current proposed general appropriations.
- very process-oriented piece of legislation, right?
- Again, I try to view this bill as a piece of governance legislation.
- You don't see anything in the legislation.
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
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Congressional Redistricting, Select Jul 28th, 2025 at 05:07 pm
Transcript Highlights:
- This proposal is wrong.
- The proposed changes.
- Are the proposed maps even available?
- I oppose this redistricting proposal.
- This redistricting proposal targets...
Keywords:
redistricting, gerrymandering, public testimony, congressional maps, representation, minority communities, discrimination, voting rights
Summary:
The committee meeting primarily focused on public testimonies regarding the revised congressional redistricting plan. Numerous witnesses presented their concerns about how the proposed changes could potentially dilute representation for minority communities. A consistent theme throughout the testimonies was the fear that the redistricting effort was not aimed at serving constituents but rather at securing power for political parties. Several participants expressed a strong opposition to what they perceived as gerrymandering tactics, claiming they would negatively impact African-American and Hispanic communities in Texas. The meeting revealed a clear public sentiment against the redistricting proposals, with nearly all witnesses speaking out against the changes. The Chair noted an overwhelming number of testimonies opposing the redistricting, indicating a strong community response to the proposed changes and their implications on fair representation.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:00 am
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- To the foundation of our civic life among our legislators and
- Legislative coordinator, Dr. Mary Widmeyer.
- We're working on that type of legislation that will help lift some of those regulations so you...
H.J.R. 164 by Low proposes a constitutional amendment
- legislators to limit the maximum appraised value of a residence homestead for ad valorem tax purposes
Keywords:
healthcare, education, legislation, workforce development, advanced technology, Cancer Prevention, public health
Summary:
The committee meeting highlighted a series of bills focused on various legislative concerns, including healthcare, education, and regulatory measures. The discussion was notably lively, with several members expressing strong support for initiatives aimed at enhancing workforce development in the healthcare sector. Specific bills such as HB3801 and HB3803 were examined, with members detailing the benefits of establishing dedicated councils to improve local health resonating throughout the meeting. Additionally, the incorporation of advanced technologies in the education system was a focal point, particularly in relation to HB3828 regarding the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- You, the legislator, have de-incentivized delinquent taxes.
- ...that Senator Zaffirini proposed.
- I am in favor of the legislation.
- You're not proposing that we raise child support.
- I can't delegate the cost between the two of them because this legislation removes my ability.
Keywords:
business court, civil procedure, litigation, jurisdiction, arbitration, divorce, property division, family law, court jurisdiction, marital assets, parent-child relationship, birth certificate, identity proof, Family Code, court process, family law, attorney fees, court costs, legal expenses, dispute resolution
Summary:
The Committee on State Affairs meeting was predominantly focused on several pivotal bills, including HB3783, HB4213, and HB1916. Notably, the chair initiated discussions on HB3783, which aims to regulate court-ordered counseling practices, particularly targeting what is known as 'reunification therapy.' The bill generated significant attention due to allegations surrounding its misuse, with multiple witnesses providing testimonies both for and against the measure. Concerns were raised about the practices involved, particularly regarding forced separations from custodial parents which many argue could lead to further trauma for children involved in high-conflict situations. The meeting also saw robust discussions regarding HB4213, aimed at revising child support interest rates and improving compliance levels for non-custodial parents, highlighting the financial burdens these families face. Each bill was left pending for further consideration at future meetings, reflecting the complex nature of the topics discussed and the need for deeper examination of possible implications.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- legislation, and we commend the committee for considering
- The City Council has not formalized that proposal; it's just on the table at the moment.
- So the city manager proposed a budget at the voter...
- In addition to currently chairing the Legislative Council, I've been a member of the Legislative.
- I've been chairing the Legislative Committee.
Bills:
SB9
Keywords:
Senate Bill 9, property tax, voter-approved tax rate, local government, public safety, infrastructure, tax relief, public testimony
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Local Government met to discuss the implications of Senate Bill 9, which focuses on property tax appraisal reforms. The bill's primary goal is to lower the voter-approved tax rate from 3.5% to 2.5%. During the meeting, various stakeholders provided testimony, highlighting concerns about the potential impact of the cap on local governments, especially in rapidly growing areas. Senators engaged in extensive discussions about the balancing act between tax relief and the need for robust public services, emphasizing the need for local flexibility to meet constituents' needs. The bill faced opposition from local officials who argued that the cap could hinder essential services like police and fire departments, as well as infrastructure maintenance.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Any legislation that specifically proposes to amend Section 26.04C or 26.041C of the tax code.
- This legislation...
- The reduced R-value proposed in this legislation, R20 for the unvented attics, can lead to increased
- Anyone can submit a proposal.
- Once that proposal is submitted, the building science experts debate over the merits of the proposal.
Bills:
HB45, HB755, HB1232, HB1555, HB2460, HB2702, HB2973, HB3120, HB3225, HB3314, HB3356, HB3371, HB3634, HB3638, HB4247, HB4283, HB4290, HB4302, HB4503, HB4511, HB4565, HB4581, HB4627, HB4632, HB4660, HB4668, HB4960, HB5042
Keywords:
housing, affordable housing, rent control, landlord-tenant laws, housing rights, lobbying, public entities, expenditures, government code, transparency, lobbying, public entities, transparency, Texas Ethics Commission, government regulation, lobbying restrictions, public entities, government accountability, transparency, taxpayer money
Summary:
The committee convened to discuss several significant pieces of legislation, primarily focusing on energy policies and public safety regulations. Notable discussions included Representative McLaughlin's HB4341, which mandates energy response maps for critical infrastructure, and received unanimous support for its favorable report. Meanwhile, HB3356 faced substantial opposition due to concerns over its potential to increase consumer costs and the undue penalties it imposes on existing generators. The discussions also touched on Representative Kitzman's HB3120 aimed at improving oversight and regulations for facilities housing unaccompanied minors, reflecting the committee's commitment to child welfare and safety in Texas.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- The other thing, I guess the other part of this proposal that is a little bit.
- Additionally, the Texas Strong Defense Fund, proposed through House Joint Resolution 47 and House Bill
- been very deliberate about curating this proposal so that
These would be absolutely untouched by this proposal
- It always helps when you and the rest of the legislative delegation go to TxDOT to ask for that to be
Keywords:
fund allocation, economic stabilization, state highway fund, Grow Texas, infrastructure funding, oil and gas production, Grow Texas fund, economic stabilization, infrastructure, oil and gas, constitutional amendment, severance tax, oil and gas, Texas STRONG defense fund, economic stabilization, funding, public health, workforce development, revenue transfer, infrastructure
Summary:
The meeting primarily centered around significant discussions regarding various bills, including HB188, HB265, HJR35, and HJR47. Members highlighted the pressing need for infrastructure improvements in the energy-producing regions of Texas, particularly focusing on the economic contributions and challenges faced by local communities impacted by the oil and gas industry. The committee witnessed a strong show of support for House Bill 188 from representatives who stressed its importance for reinvesting severance tax revenues back into communities that greatly contribute to the state’s economy. Testimonies from local economic development officials and community leaders reinforced the necessity of these investments for ensuring long-term growth and sustainability.