Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'cost transparency'

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US

Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session

Hearings to examine the President's 2025 trade policy agenda. Apr 8th, 2025 at 09:00 am

Senate Finance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • data-time="384"> We need to think strategically about tariff policy, including how to minimize unnecessary costs
  • span>

    I also recognize that although it is easy to see the costs

  • arising from tariffs, it's also far more difficult to assess the cost of denied market access opportunities
  • But for families, higher costs are a serious burden.
  • Higher costs are going to hurt.
Summary: The meeting focused on various significant topics concerning the recent tariff policies and their wide-ranging implications on the American economy. Members expressed their concerns regarding the negative impact of increased tariffs as proposed by the Trump administration, with specific emphasis on how families might suffer from higher costs and market access issues. The discussion was lively, with members questioning the clarity of the tariff plan and raising concerns about its potential effects on small businesses and American exports.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Juvenile Justice Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House S/C on Juvenile Justice

Transcript Highlights:
  • than the cost of the adult system.
  • Placement costs would be significant.
  • people don't factor in is the cost to that family, and the cost...
  • So when we talk about the cost of it, what is it costing? It's costing...
  • It's costing families, it's costing people a chance to live
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on discussions surrounding HB2234, which aims to raise the age of criminal responsibility in Texas. There was a strong consensus among witnesses advocating for the change, citing the psychological and social implications of prosecuting 17-year-olds as adults. Several testimonies highlighted the damages inflicted by adult incarceration on youth, recommending a shift towards juvenile systems that provide rehabilitative support tailored for younger individuals. Chairman Dutton acknowledged the historical significance of this session's discussion, emphasizing the need for legislative change to align Texas with national trends and prioritize youth rehabilitation over punishment. The committee remains engaged in discussions on how to effectively implement this legislation, considering fiscal impacts and community needs. The meeting concluded with the bill left pending due to ongoing concerns regarding the financial implications for counties and the judicial system. A diverse panel of advocates, including youth service organizations and legal professionals, reinforced the argument that raising the age is not merely a matter of policy but an essential aspect of ensuring fair treatment and rehabilitation for young individuals in the justice system.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 16th, 2025

Senate Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • At the cost that they cost, and so this is about job creation
  • It is a cost on all of us in many different respects.
  • Recognizing it as a cost—it's a cost being imposed on us,
  • It melts down easier and is more cost-effective. Thank you.
  • The cost of recycling is the biggest issue.
Summary: The committee meeting focused primarily on several significant legislative proposals, particularly detailing the plans for the Gulf Coast Protection District and various recycling initiatives. Notable discussions were led by Senator Alvarado regarding SB795, which is aimed at establishing a dedicated Gulf Coast Protection Account to secure funding for coastal infrastructure projects critical for flood protection. Stakeholders expressed gratitude for ongoing legislative support, emphasizing the potential for this project to become the largest civil works project in U.S. history. Additionally, testimony was heard on recycling bills including SB2689, which seeks to improve Texas's recycling infrastructure without imposing fees, and SB410 which manages the Gulf Coast Protection District’s operations to ensure safety and navigability within Houston's waterways. Public and expert witnesses contributed insights that highlighted the economic implications and community benefits of these initiatives, demonstrating the state's commitment to sustainable development.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Natural Resources Apr 23rd, 2025 at 10:04 am

House Natural Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • So it's the cost of the project. It's cost prohibitive. Incredibly cost prohibitive.
  • So it's the cost of the project. It's cost prohibitive. Incredibly cost prohibitive.
  • So it's the cost of the project. It's cost prohibitive. Incredibly cost prohibitive.
  • So it's the cost of the project. It's cost prohibitive. Incredibly cost prohibitive.
  • So it's the cost of the project. It's cost prohibitive. Incredibly cost prohibitive.
Summary: The meeting addressed critical water management issues in Texas, with significant discussions revolving around House Bill 5188 and House Bill 2109. Representative Lopez presented HB 5188, focusing on addressing the statewide water crisis, emphasizing the urgent need for managing water supplies effectively. The bill aims to facilitate the development of brackish groundwater sources as alternative water supplies while reducing the regulatory burden associated with it. Members engaged in a thorough debate regarding the implications of the bill, particularly its environmental impacts and the benefits it brings to various communities, especially those facing severe water shortages.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Transportation Funding Apr 28th, 2025 at 10:04 am

House S/C on Transportation Funding

Transcript Highlights:
  • The recipient must provide at least 10% of the total project cost from sources other than state funds
  • These figures, however, don't account for the hidden costs, including the billions in economic impact
  • last week in the Transportation Committee, or health costs from air pollution, which kills even more
  • Simply providing socialized roads without assigning costs to users, especially in booming metro areas
  • , is a recipe for endless traffic and spiraling public costs.
Summary: The meeting focused primarily on discussions surrounding several notable bills, particularly concerning toll roads in Texas. Chairman Metcalf introduced HB5346, which aims to establish clear mandates for the cessation of tolling once a project's financial obligations have been satisfied. This bill sparked considerable debate, with proponents arguing for taxpayer fairness and control, while opponents raised concerns about potential perpetual tolls disguised as public votes every five years. Witnesses voiced strong opinions both for and against the measures, highlighting the ongoing tensions over infrastructure funding and user fees.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • And as the witnesses today know better than most, ratepayers will bear the brunt of those costs.
  • The prescriptive 49% or 50% subsidy creates problems when actual construction costs come in and differ
  • The cost of removal is extraordinary, but the cost of not
  • Similarly, the cost of getting all the lead out is

  • When we started in Michigan, I think the average cost was $5,000 to remove a lead service line.
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.
US
Transcript Highlights:
  • Feed costs are a concern.
  • That is exactly what our farmers have to do every year with all of their input costs.
  • The FDA to help cover these delivery costs have not kept
  • For example, a cotton picker costs $1.5 million.

  • What I can say is that it is challenging with costs being...
Summary: The meeting of the agricultural committee focused on significant concerns regarding the current state of America's rural economy, highlighting the need for a strong five-year farm bill to address the challenges faced by farmers, particularly young and beginning farmers. Key testimony was given by multiple stakeholders including agricultural leaders and young farmers, emphasizing issues related to crop insurance, access to credit, and the adverse impact of recent USDA funding freezes. Various members discussed the necessity of risk management tools that farmers rely on to secure financing, which is crucial for sustaining agricultural operations and supporting rural communities. The importance of timely legislative action was underscored, as many farmers reported struggles in the current economic climate, raising urgency for reforms within the Farm Bill framework.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Finance (Part I) Jan 28th, 2025

Transcript Highlights:
  • They're just going to—any time they get a federal dollar, they will lapse the cost.
  • **General Paxton**: As far as costs.
  • We didn't have the money to pay the experts, so they front all the costs.
  • They had to fund ongoing costs. We didn't fund any of that.
  • They had to fund ongoing costs. We didn't fund any of that.
Summary: The meeting focused on the budget recommendations for the Office of the Attorney General (OAG), where key issues included the proposed decrease of $163.9 million for the 2024-25 biennium and various methodology swaps for funding. Attorney General Paxton discussed ongoing litigation expenditures and emphasized the need for continued investments in agency staffing to address rising demands within law enforcement. Notably, he requested a 6% salary increase for 2026 and 2027 to retain talented personnel amidst competitive job markets. Public testimony highlighted community awareness challenges regarding the Landowner's Compensation Program, indicating a need for enhanced outreach efforts.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Energy Resources Mar 17th, 2025 at 11:00 am

House Energy Resources Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • That would also include the cost of a ticket management system, the cost of hiring 38 extra staff members
  • You mentioned an estimated cost of $7 million.
  • However, we have not estimated the cost.
  • It would cost about $4,000, and that's if TRWA...
  • That is an 8-1-1 cost to us if when we go out and locate that. When you say the cost to you?
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

Insurance Apr 2nd, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Insurance Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • With that, the total insurance cost was going to be $168,000.
  • This money could have gone directly into paying claims and reducing the cost of reinsurance.
  • You can't do a cost-benefit analysis of a policy by considering only the benefits.
  • back, but that costs would become too high so that coverage would lapse.
  • I don't have those costs with me. I don't think we know what they are.
Summary: The committee meeting addressed several key bills, with significant discussions surrounding HB778, which focuses on insurance coverage for individuals undergoing gender transition and those wishing to detransition. During the presentations, the bill's author, Chairman Leach, emphasized the importance of ensuring coverage for potential adverse effects from gender transition procedures. However, concerns were raised by various witnesses regarding the potential implications of limiting coverage for transgender care, leading to heated debates and a range of testimonies from both supporters and opponents of the bill. HB2517 and HB2213 also received attention, with discussions centered on insurance premiums and board eligibility for the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, respectively.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Appropriations - S/C on Article III Feb 27th, 2025 at 10:30 am

House Appropriations - S/C on Article III

Transcript Highlights:
  • , and IT costs.
  • We hear a lot about increasing costs.

  • , IT costs, and software subscriptions.
  • That's why 90% of our annual budget supports personnel costs.
  • We've absorbed a lot of the costs of the training in the past.
Summary: The committee convened to discuss critical funding and legislative matters regarding various state initiatives, notably focusing on workforce development, health services, and emergency management. The discussions revealed the heightened importance of supporting community colleges and addressing workforce shortages in healthcare, especially considering the increased demand for veterinary services as pet ownership rose due to the pandemic. Representatives from various organizations presented their requests for funding, emphasizing the necessity of enhancing educational outcomes and preparedness programs.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Transportation Funding Mar 10th, 2025 at 10:03 am

House S/C on Transportation Funding

Transcript Highlights:
  • Since December of 2020, our highway cost index has grown 62%, meaning what?
  • ...Cost us $1 to build in 2020 now costs us $1.62.
  • And so we're fighting the highway cost index that is growing. We're also fighting...
  • those cost increases may be.
  • One of the options that was presented to us included estimated costs.
Summary: The meeting of the Standing Subcommittee on Transportation addressed crucial issues relating to state transportation funding, focusing primarily on Propositions 1 and 7. The discussions, led by Chairman Canales, highlighted the significant contribution these propositions make to Texas's transportation budget and the impending challenges tied to a projected funding shortfall of $15 billion. Mark Williams, Executive Director of TxDOT, along with Stephen Stewart, CFO, emphasized the importance of sustained funding to support Texas’s growing infrastructure needs amidst rising costs and diminishing revenue sources, notably due to changes in vehicle fuel efficiency and increased reliance on electric vehicles. Notable public testimony from Pete Sepulveda from the Cameron County Regional Mobility Authority provided insights into local funding mechanisms and their role in enhancing the regional transportation networks.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband May 2nd, 2025 at 09:05 am

House S/C on Telecommunications & Broadband

Transcript Highlights:
  • would affect customers who pay for streaming services, and I'm sure almost all, if not all, of the costs
  • Effectively, this shifts the cost burden from multinational corporations to local taxpayers because,
  • It has to be repaired, so it's not like the cost goes away just because some folks don't want to pay
  • their fair share of those costs.
  • That's a big part of the cost of all the planning.
Summary: The meeting of the Subcommittee on Telecommunications and Broadband included significant discussions surrounding Senate Bill 924, which addresses cable service providers and their financial obligations related to franchise fees. Council Member Julian Ramirez opposed the bill, emphasizing its potential fiscal impact on cities like Houston and Austin by restricting franchise fee collections, thus threatening vital public services funded by these fees. Public testimony supported his stance, highlighting the financial realities these cities face, particularly in maintaining public safety and infrastructure.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Transportation Mar 6th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Transportation Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • What does that cost? How much room does that take up?
  • What does that cost to store? What does that cost the state to store that?
  • Including 3PL costs, including everything that we've been discussing so far.
  • Estimated cost, what did you tell them?
  • The burden of its excess cost falls on the state of Texas.
Summary: The meeting conducted by the Transportation Committee focused on several key bills addressing transportation infrastructure and policy reforms. Notable discussions included a heated debate over HB1234, where members expressed concerns regarding funding allocations and the environmental impact of proposed projects. Several witnesses were called to provide testimony, balancing arguments both for and against the bill, showcasing the ongoing tensions between development and environmental sustainability. Additionally, SB5678 received broad support with discussions highlighting its potential to enhance public transit efficiency across the state.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Business and Commerce (Part II) Apr 8th, 2025

Senate Business & Commerce Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Encountering right now with TWIA is the reinsurance cost has
  • and reduce the high cost of windstorm insurance.
  • storm insurance costs.
  • We wouldn't be looking at having to increase the PML to cover these costs and these problems.
  • This represents a significant cost savings to TWIA, and I've had some numbers run. Thank you.
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

Education K-16 (Part I) May 15th, 2025

Senate Education K-16 Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • Of those startup costs as they change their profession, they
  • Some of that is just the stress of the cost of gaining that certification.
  • It's because it's a study; it wouldn't add a cost.
  • of school districts on the cost of inflation.
  • This preparation does come with a cost. It's difficult to spend all day in a classroom.
Bills: HB2
Summary: The Senate Education Committee's meeting focused heavily on HB2, which proposes an historic investment of $8 billion into Texas public education. Senator Creighton led the discussion, explaining the components of the committee substitute and emphasizing the importance of increasing funding beyond past measures, highlighting that this package exceeds any previous investment in public education. The committee heard testimonies from public witnesses who expressed strong support for the bill, including educators discussing the positive impacts of the Teacher Incentive Allotment. The meeting adjourned after a vibrant discussion about the various provisions included in HB2, such as adjustments in funding allocations for both traditional and charter schools, and the ongoing issues related to educational equity across districts in Texas.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Land & Resource Management Apr 17th, 2025 at 08:04 am

House Land & Resource Management Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • thousands of dollars due to carried interest costs.
  • There's absolutely no cost to the municipality.
  • Right, and then those holdings and costs carry over and then are percolated down to the homeowner.
  • For our entire development, they can cost anywhere from $35,000 to $75,000 to perform.
  • It's going to raise the cost of housing.
Summary: The committee meeting focused on a variety of bills, with notable discussions surrounding the challenges faced by municipalities in managing growth and public safety. Bills such as HB447 and HB3897 sparked conversations on the impact of Municipal Utility Districts in high-density areas and the necessity of thorough traffic impact assessments before approving new developments. Representative Cook highlighted concerns over a specific project related to HB3671, which aimed to dissolve a municipal district due to contradictory prior agreements. Public testimonies included concerns from residents, signaling the tension between development needs and public safety requirements.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House Trade, Workforce & Economic Development Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • EDF provides competitive, cost-effective financial tools
  • We offer that either for free or at cost. We offer that in English and Spanish.
  • It now costs about...
  • These are real dollar costs.
  • Total claims are down, professional services costs are down 26%, and hospital costs are down 20%.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on the implementation and impacts of the Texas CHIPS Act, aimed at bolstering the semiconductor industry within the state. Legislators praised its potential to create jobs and capital investment. The discussion also highlighted recent international business development missions undertaken by Governor Abbott, including visits to India, the UK, and Taiwan, to foster stronger economic ties and attract foreign investment. Chairwoman Button emphasized the importance of a robust economic development strategy to maintain Texas's leading position in job and economic growth.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

State Affairs Mar 5th, 2025 at 08:00 am

House State Affairs Committee

Transcript Highlights:
  • From the beginning, we benchmarked costs in the original federal or Trump...
  • But also, we need to be cognizant of customer costs.
  • customer costs.
  • in statute, $10,000 is the cost.
  • benefit of that, the costs were just too much and outweighed the benefits.
Summary: The meeting primarily focused on the activities and initiatives of the Public Utility Commission (PUC) since the last legislative session. Key discussions included the implementation of Senate Bill 1929 regarding large crypto miners in Texas, which has led to 12 companies registering with the PUC and a projected demand of around 4,000 megawatts. Additionally, the committee addressed system resiliency plans authorized by HB2555, which allows electric utilities to file these plans to better handle extreme weather events and security threats. The meeting showcased the ongoing efforts to ensure infrastructure can meet growing demands, particularly in the rapidly expanding Permian Basin, and highlighted the need for minimum standards for utility infrastructure design, construction, and maintenance to improve resiliency against adverse conditions.
TX

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships Mar 31st, 2025 at 04:03 pm

House S/C on Family & Fiduciary Relationships

Transcript Highlights:
  • I'm clear in my mind about what attorney's fees are, and I'm very clear on what court costs are.
  • So there are still expenses but would not qualify under the court cost definition.
  • House Bill 1734 will substantially reduce costs for parties
  • The parties will save on costs.
  • Transferring documents costs a dollar a page.
Summary: The meeting of the Family and Judiciary Committee was productive, with in-depth discussions focused on multiple bills that address important aspects of family law. Notable conversations revolved around HB2495, which aims to clarify the rights of parents regarding their children's education amidst existing ambiguities in lower court rulings. Testimony supporting this bill highlighted the necessity for legal clarity to ensure children can be enrolled in school without delays. The committee also discussed HB3181, which seeks to enhance the enforcement of child possession orders by linking repeated contempt findings to custody modifications, reinforcing accountability for parents who violate court orders.

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