Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'economic growth'
Page 26 of 45
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Delivery of Government Efficiency Mar 5th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Delivery of Government Efficiency Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- We will expose bloated government, dismantle outdated regulations that stifle economic growth, and eradicate
- Regulations that stifle economic growth and eradicate fraud
- On slide 32, you'll see the growth in the number of students.
- Growth in Texas stopped when COVID hit.
- We've seen a 38 percent population growth since...
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.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Mar 24th, 2025 at 10:03 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Growth, and they needed to build a new fire station, that
- 1422"> ...curbs financial flexibility for issuers to manage their jurisdictions and how to manage growth
- data-time="2106"> country's 16 critical infrastructure sectors that are essential to the ongoing economic
- We continue to experience continual growth, and by further reducing our local financing mechanism and
- And when you look at the economics literature, one thing that's very clear is the fact that governments
Keywords:
local governments, anticipation notes, certificates of obligation, public works, flood control, local governments, anticipation notes, certificates of obligation, public works, flood control, financial management, local government, anticipation notes, certificates of obligation, municipal financing, public works, private activity bonds, closing definition, real estate finance, bond issuance
Summary:
The meeting of the committee involved discussions surrounding multiple bills focusing on financial legislation, including crucial developments related to certificates of obligation (COs). Representative Tepper presented HB1453, which aimed to increase voter input regarding local government debt issuance and address growing concerns about financial accountability. The discussions highlighted the recent trends in CO debt, particularly in areas like El Paso, which has seen a dramatic rise in local government debt without direct voter approval. Several members voiced their support and concerns regarding the bill's implications for taxpayer rights and community involvement in financial decision-making.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Environmental Regulation May 8th, 2025 at 10:05 am
House Environmental Regulation Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- So we can't just focus on economic growth at the expense of human health and...
- "> ...our environment, and there's a way to balance these things: human health, environment, and economic
- growth.
I serve as the economic development director for the
- We spread it on land as opposed to disposing of it some other way because it's more economical to do
Keywords:
hydrogen sulfide, public health, environmental regulation, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, ground level concentrations, emissions limit, hydrogen sulfide, public health, environmental regulation, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, emissions limits, ground-level concentrations, hydrogen sulfide, public health, air quality, environmental regulation, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, PFAS, agriculture, environmental protection
Summary:
The committee meeting primarily focused on the discussion of various environmental legislative bills, notably HB1341, which sets maximum allowable ground level concentrations of hydrogen sulfide, and HB1674 regarding PFAS regulations in biosolids. Representative Reynolds presented HB1341, emphasizing the health risks associated with hydrogen sulfide and the need for clear regulatory standards to protect communities near industrial operations. This received support from health advocates and oversight bodies, highlighting the urgent need for regulations to safeguard public health. Meanwhile, HB1674 faced significant opposition, particularly from environmental organizations which argued that the bill's provisions could disrupt biosolid disposal processes and increase costs significantly. Many testimony segments reflected concerns regarding the adequacy of scientific understanding related to PFAS and its implications for agricultural safety and water quality.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- I think the package of these bills will be transformative for the future of Texas economically.
- growth.
- As an economic powerhouse in Texas, we have been lagging the restaurant industry...
- I just wanted to share a little bit of the economics of that $418.14 times ten restaurants.
- With that growth, we are seeing...
Bills:
SB264, SB542, SB924, SB1008, SB1029, SB1036, SB1057, SB1058, SB1185, SB1202, SB1358, SB1364, SB1376, SB1569, SB1664, SB1697, SJR50
Keywords:
property owners' association, water conservation, residential watering restriction, fines, drought management, video services, regulation, public right-of-way, franchise authority, telecommunications, food safety, regulations, permitting, local authority, food service industry, used vehicles, advertising regulations, dealerships, consumer protection, vehicle identification
Summary:
The committee meeting was marked by a series of discussions regarding several bills aimed at improving local regulations, particularly around food service operations. Members discussed the challenges of regulatory inconsistencies affecting restaurants and the food industry, emphasizing how Senate Bill 1008 could alleviate some financial burdens. Various stakeholders, including representatives from the Texas Restaurant Association, testified in support of this bill, highlighting the need for clearer and more predictable regulations. The discussions included provisions that would cap local permit fees, preventing duplicate charges that hinder small businesses' operations. Notably, there was strong bipartisan support demonstrated as numerous bills were reported favorably with unanimous votes.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Culture, Recreation & Tourism May 1st, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Your colleagues in the Senate Economic Development Committee considering an identical bill, SB 317, passed
- It will also include the directors of the Texas Economic
- It's not just about throwing a celebration; it's about honoring 200 years of grit, growth,...
- The economic impact, the chance to educate Texans, past and
- data-time="4050"> From a wider perspective, the Rosenwald School Program helped foster educational growth
Bills:
HB370, HB738, HB2935, HB3227, HB4103, HB5259, SB519, SB1350, SB1247, SB1248, SB2112, HCR81, HCR83, HCR84, HCR59, HCR109, HCR111, HCR135, SCR6
Keywords:
Rosenwald Schools, historical preservation, community learning centers, Texas Historical Commission, cultural heritage, Julia C. Hester House, state park, Houston, land acquisition, community center, historic site, Texas Historical Commission, administration, funding, Nacogdoches, heritage preservation, wildlife corridor, Parks and Wildlife Department, driver safety, habitat connectivity
Summary:
The committee meeting extensively discussed SB1350, which aims to establish a commission for the Bicentennial Anniversary of Texas Independence in 2036. Several witnesses, including Lacey Finley and Russell Molina, testified in support of the bill, emphasizing the importance of extensive planning and community engagement for this significant celebration. They argued that the bicentennial should encompass the diverse history and culture of Texas and encouraged the committee to include a non-profit structure to facilitate fund-raising and coordination efforts. Furthermore, HB738 was debated, focusing on the preservation of Rosenwald schools and their potential use as community learning centers, with members advocating for support to maintain this integral part of Texas's educational heritage.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- It's a trillion dollars, actually, per year in economic impact with the Houston Ship Channel.
- In economics, there are no solutions, only trade-offs, and
- or recent population growth in a given service area.
Secondly, we de-link it from population growth and
- 1291" data-time="7740"> Last week at the House State Affairs meeting, ERCOT noted that Texas load growth
Keywords:
real property, Texas State Library, leases, capital improvements, public accessibility, combative sports, licensing, regulation, criminal offense, event approval, advisory boards, Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, public members, occupational regulations, professional standards, fraudulent financing, secured transactions, business regulation, lending institutions, affidavit process
Summary:
The meeting of the Senate Committee featured extensive discussions centered around numerous bills, with a particular focus on Senate Bill 1705 concerning virtual currency kiosks. During this discussion, members expressed concerns regarding the potential for fraud and the need for regulation surrounding cryptocurrency exchanges. Testimonies from law enforcement emphasized the increase in fraud cases associated with these kiosks, leading to a consensus on the need for consumer protection measures. The committee favorably reported several other bills with unanimous votes, showcasing a collaborative effort amongst senators to address various legislative concerns effectively.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Senate Special Committee on Congressional Redistricting Jul 28th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- It's a great economic engine for the Ninth Congressional District, and my regret is...
- Everyone knew that 95% of Texas' population growth was driven by people of color, growth that had us
- Let's be clear, non-white Texans have driven nearly all the state's population growth.
- Communities of color have driven Texas's growth and success, yet our political power is always under
- They cannot foster free market capitalism as their economic foundation.
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
Transcript Highlights:
- span marker="709" data-time="4248">The compression percentage is calculated based upon the overall growth
- I mean, I think these are all just sort of economic efficiency trade-offs for how to ensure educational
- Primarily due to the economically disadvantaged number.
- In Austin, instead of the projected 6% growth in property value, TCAT is now estimating only 1%, and
- data-time="7596"> If there's a higher concentration of charter schools, but there's also not much growth
Summary:
The meeting covered various topics, but specific discussions and bills were not detailed in the available transcript. Despite the lack of documented debates or acknowledgments, it was noted that committee members were present, and there may have been attempts to address crucial legislative matters. The dynamics of the meeting suggested a standard procedural gathering where routine insights were likely shared among the attendees.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 2nd C.S.
Senate Special Committee on Congressional Redistricting Aug 21st, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
A review of the map, again, we're talking about HB 4 and growth
- data-time="2052"> Can also be a water basin; they can be a transportation district; they can be an economic
- Their economic driver is the same for most of the district.
The Port of Corpus Christi was an economic driver you
Keywords:
redistricting, HB4, SB4, congressional districts, public testimony, Senate committee, political implications
Summary:
The meeting of the special committee on congressional redistricting was convened to discuss and vote on HB4, a key bill aimed at revising congressional district maps in Texas. Chairman King presented the bill, which is a companion to SB4 that had already passed out of the Senate. The discussion focused on minor differences between HB4 and SB4, primarily revolving around the political implications of the proposed changes. Several senators highlighted concerns over the lack of public testimony for the amendments, raising questions about the inclusiveness of the redistricting process. The committee ultimately voted to report HB4 favorably to the Senate, with a narrow vote of 5 to 3. This spirited debate underscored the contentious nature of redistricting and its impact on electoral outcomes.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- Senate Bill 629 would slow the growth of child support arrears
- We saw a dampening of the slope of arrears growth.
- Illness or economic hardship with a 6% balance spirals.
Keywords:
child support, interest accrual, family law, delinquency, financial judgment, Jurisprudence Committee, Senate Bill 2501, legal representation, indigent families, Senate Bill 629, child support reform, interest rate reduction, public testimony
Summary:
The meeting conducted by the Jurisprudence Committee featured significant discussions surrounding several bills focused on improving legal representation for indigent families and reforming the child support system in Texas. Notably, Senate Bill 2501 was presented to enhance access to legal counsel for families involved with the Child Protective Services, allowing them to choose their own attorneys. The bill was well-received with various testimonies supporting its potential positive impact on legal outcomes for families. Additionally, Senate Bill 629 aimed at reducing the interest rates on child support arrears was highlighted, with studies presented that indicated a decrease in non-custodial parents’ debt burden would lead to increased compliance in payments and better support for families.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Higher Education Apr 29th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Higher Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- fiscally responsible sum in our state, especially given the return, expanded access to justice, and economic
- growth.
- It will strengthen our legal workforce in a part of the state that drives economic growth.
- Texas didn't become the economic powerhouse by being timid.
- I think we said we conducted the economic study at the end and found that production takes on an additional
Bills:
HB1784, HB2088, HB3062, HB3475, HB3741, HB4279, HB4763, HB5154, HB5294, HB5508, SB1401, HB232
Keywords:
students, homeless, foster care, higher education, liaison officer, housing assistance, transition support, law school, higher education, Rio Grande Valley, legal education, public university, accreditation, fentanyl prevention, drug poisoning awareness, higher education, mental health resources, substance abuse education, law school, higher education
Summary:
The meeting primarily focused on various House Bills related to higher education and public safety, with notable discussions surrounding House Bill 1234 concerning credentialing at public institutions. Representative Perez highlighted the importance of this bill in ensuring that institutions encourage the earning of credentials of value. Additionally, the committee reviewed House Bill 1233 and House Bill 1527, both of which received favorable recommendations for passage, showcasing a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for specific groups, including peace officers. The discussions were lively, with support and challenges presented on various bills, indicating a thorough examination of proposed legislation.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services Apr 15th, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- It requires grant recipients to provide biannual anticipated timelines on the realization of economic
- It sets out the economic benefit to the state from CPRIT's growth and the grants that are made, including
- We always have these economic impact statements, and they're built around a lot of fuzzy math, if you
- It's the cost of cancer to Texas, but then also the benefits, the economic benefits.
- I'm saying we're not looking to hit an economic home run necessarily as the state of Texas.
Keywords:
pharmacist, vaccine administration, COVID-19, exclusive authority, healthcare, Medicaid, provider enrollment, credentialing, healthcare, administrative burden, Texas Health and Human Services, senior retirement communities, emergency response, residential safety, contract provisions, health and safety regulations, medical staff privileges, hospital administration, healthcare regulation, Texas Health and Safety Code
Summary:
The committee meeting showcased extensive discussions surrounding multiple bills, predominantly focusing on the health sector and legislative processes. Senator Cook presented Senate Bill 1310, emphasizing the need for independent living facilities to develop disaster response plans to better protect vulnerable residents during emergencies. This bill sparked discussions on the importance of balancing regulatory oversight with compliance implementation, showcasing testimonies from stakeholders who supported the proactive measures outlined in the bill. Together, the members evaluated the relevance of continuing legislation aimed at strengthening emergency preparedness for Texas' senior population, illustrating a palpable concern for their welfare and safety.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Apr 7th, 2025 at 03:00 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- interests under the Uniform Commercial Code, is referred to the Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic
- interests under the Uniform Commercial Code, is referred to the Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic
- interests under the Uniform Commercial Code, is referred to the Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic
- of children including child development, child growth, child
- HB5390 relates to the cooperation of economic development
Keywords:
HCR65, HCR119, resolutions, memorial, veterans, legislative business, committees, recognition, honor, ceremonial
Summary:
The committee meeting addressed significant topics, including two resolutions, HCR65 and HCR119. HCR65 commemorated the life of Tracy Lee Vincent from Longview, while HCR119 also addressed another memorial. These discussions involved motions for deferring other bills’ readings and the scheduling of a congratulatory memorial resolutions calendar. The meeting included formal recognitions of important individuals, including veterans and milestones in their contributions, illustrating the dignity of the proceedings and the respect given to public service. Additionally, the committee conducted motions to allow for committee meetings during session hours, ensuring legislative business continued smoothly despite scheduling challenges.
Amidst these discussions, members recognized first responders and notable citizens whose actions had significantly impacted their communities. This highlighted the meeting's focus not only on legislative duties but also on honoring the individuals that contribute to societal welfare. The session was characterized by a spirit of collaboration and respect, as well as moments of solemn remembrance, establishing a balanced agenda that combined urgency in legislative work with the ceremonial aspects of governance. By the end of the meeting, a clear path forward was established with several motions ordered and memorials acknowledged.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Transportation May 23rd, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- data-time="1224"> to qualify for state grant loan funding for airports that are located in an economically
- The definition of an economically disadvantaged county.
- The 10% if they're not economically disadvantaged.
- change reflects the legislature's new control over corridor designations and the fact that any new growth
Keywords:
Senate, Transportation Committee, House Bill 1960, specialty license plates, public testimony, Lieutenant Veracendez, Army Rangers, unanimous vote
Summary:
The meeting conducted by the Senate Transportation Committee focused on the evaluation and passage of various bills, including House Bills 1960, 2012, 2686, 3642, 3815, 3928, and 4520. Notably, HB1960 honors the late Lieutenant Milton Gabriel Veracendez for his service, and saw minimal public testimony, indicating broad support. Additionally, HB3815 proposed the creation of specialty license plates for U.S. Army Rangers, eliciting emotional and supportive responses from representatives and witnesses alike. All bills discussed were passed with unanimous votes without opposition, reflecting a cooperative effort among committee members to advance significant legislative initiatives.
During the meeting, the atmosphere was congenial, with committee members commending each other for their collaborative spirit and contributions to public service. The committee declared its intention to adjourn after resolving the current bills, indicating a successful conclusion to the meeting. Public participation was limited, suggesting that stakeholders in the community largely supported the bills.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Feb 11th, 2025 at 02:02 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- and industry, continuing education to the public, and training programs for community and state economic
- Members, as a group of nearly 300 members, the Quero Chamber of Commerce is committed to fostering economic
- growth and maintaining an outstanding quality of life in the city of Quero, Texas.
Keywords:
Texas Legislature, resolutions, community recognition, Miss Texas, local achievements, Bastrop County Day, Tarrant County Day
Summary:
The meeting commenced with a series of resolutions presented by various members, including HR214 honoring Bastrop County on February 11, 2025, and HR206 congratulating Annette Adiobo on her selection as Miss Texas 2024. The members engaged in highlighting local entities and achievements during these resolutions, fostering a sense of community and pride. Additionally, individuals from Tarrant County were acknowledged, and resolutions were adopted without objection.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Business and Commerce (Part II) Apr 8th, 2025
Senate Business & Commerce Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- marker="55" data-time="324">Like the Houston Ship Channel, for example, has a trillion dollars in economic
- The coastal ports produce $450 billion in annual economic activity and 1.8 million jobs. 42% of the nation's
- The desire to secure growth has been significant, and that's another issue that continues to drive this
Keywords:
utility systems, Texas A&M, regents authority, construction, improvement, construction contracts, trust funds, property rights, mechanics lien, contractors, trustee liability, construction contracts, trust funds, mechanic's lien, liability, attorney's fees, windstorm insurance, Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, insurance regulation, administrative penalties
Summary:
The committee meeting revolved around important discussions regarding two significant bills, SB2530 and SB2571, intended to address the funding challenges faced by the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA). Senator Milton highlighted the need for reforms due to escalating reinsurance costs that have risen to over 60% of premiums. A notable focus was the proposed dynamic funding model, which aims to reduce reliance on fixed assessments and public securities tied to the current Probable Maximum Loss (PML) structure, allowing funding to adjust based on actual needs. Both bills received mixed responses, with public testimonies citing the potential for increased financial burdens on insurance companies if the assessments were restructured without careful consideration of market conditions.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Higher Education Apr 29th, 2025 at 10:04 am
House Higher Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- About the economics of this, there isn't necessarily an economic loss to Texas if somebody doesn't achieve
- Let's talk about it economically.
- That's obviously a good economic benefit as well.
- It is the pathway to economic mobility.
- This has changed the economic landscape of the Rio Grande Valley.
Bills:
HB1784, HB2088, HB3062, HB3475, HB3741, HB4279, HB4763, HB5154, HB5294, HB5508, SB1401, HB232
Keywords:
students, homeless, foster care, higher education, liaison officer, housing assistance, transition support, law school, higher education, Rio Grande Valley, legal education, public university, accreditation, fentanyl prevention, drug poisoning awareness, higher education, mental health resources, substance abuse education, law school, higher education
Summary:
The meeting revolved around discussions on House Bill 232, which seeks to amend the Texas Dream Act regarding in-state tuition for undocumented students. Key testimonies were presented, with numerous advocates opposing the bill, arguing it would harm talented Texas youths by denying them affordable education opportunities. Speakers included community leaders and affected students who shared personal stories illustrating the bill's potential drawbacks, emphasizing the negative economic impact that could result from limiting access to education for Dreamers and the associated societal benefits. The committee also explored House Bill 5154, which updates the Joint Admission Medical Program to improve access for economically disadvantaged students, receiving positive feedback and support from committee members.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
89th Legislative Session Feb 25th, 2025 at 02:00 pm
Texas House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Today, Brazoria County is a leader in the economic miracle
- Port Freeport generates an annual economic impact of $157.3
- marker="544" data-time="3258">As a proud supporter of Baylor, I have watched and participated in their growth
- furthering the education of all the students in the community, with the common goal of furthering the growth
Keywords:
Texas Food and Fuel Association, HR306, healthcare awareness, public participation, legislative resolutions
Summary:
The meeting focused on various resolutions and bills, demonstrating active participation from all members present. Notably, HR309 was adopted, recognizing the contributions of the Texas Food and Fuel Association in supporting the oil and gas industry for over 70 years. Representatives emphasized the organization's role in ensuring the supply and distribution of fuel across Texas and highlighted their commitment to education and professional development within the industry. Other resolutions discussed included HR306, which recognized March 2025 as Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month, illustrating the committee's engagement with healthcare issues.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- business tax on business trusts that could be construed as a capital gains tax, undermining Texas's economic
- Capital gains taxes can discourage investment, slow economic
- growth, and reduce job creation.
- To maintain Texas's status as an economic leader, certainty
- to explicitly prohibit a personal or business capital gains tax to keep Texas at the forefront of economic
Keywords:
school district, ad valorem tax, local revenue, tax collection, education funding, border security, tax exemption, ad valorem, real property, infrastructure, Texas-Mexico border, ad valorem taxation, farm products, livestock, timber, tax exemption, death tax, inheritance tax, estate tax, property transfer
Summary:
The meeting of the committee on ways and means centered on several significant bills aimed at addressing property tax issues, particularly regarding agricultural and border security infrastructure. A committee substitute for HB247 was discussed, emphasizing a voluntary approach with private landowners in light of enhanced border security measures, which reassured many stakeholders previously hesitant about such initiatives. Notably, the bill provides tax exemptions for landowners who allow construction of border security infrastructure, effectively alleviating concerns about increased property values leading to higher taxes. Committee members expressed support for transparency and fairness in how these laws impact stakeholders, especially those along the Texas-Mexico border.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine opportunities to strengthen water infrastructure programs, focusing on the IIJA's successes. Apr 30th, 2025 at 09:00 am
Senate Environment and Public Works Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- We risk ceding our economic and technological dominance to
- To support healthy, thriving communities and global economic leadership, we must come together as we
- clean water infrastructure necessary to protect public health and the water quality on which the economic
It would be more economical for them to connect to
- So it makes it very economically feasible to get those programs in place.
Keywords:
Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, water infrastructure, lead service lines, federal reauthorization, sustainability, cybersecurity
Summary:
The meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and its implications for local water systems. Various witnesses highlighted the transformative impact of the bipartisan infrastructure law, which has provided an unprecedented amount of funding to help address long-standing issues in drinking water infrastructure, particularly concerning lead service line replacements and sustainability in water management. The discussions emphasized the urgent need for federal reauthorization to continue supporting these initiatives, as many rural and disadvantaged communities still face substantial barriers in upgrading their water systems. Additionally, cybersecurity risks were noted, raising concerns over the vulnerability of water systems across the nation.