Video & Transcript DataContr Research : 'cost of living adjustment'
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TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Higher Education Apr 1st, 2025 at 08:00 am
House Higher Education Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- I lived here in Austin for 20 years, and I worked for the Office of Attorney General.
- Furthermore, due to cost, most students don't apply to multiple schools, even if some of those schools
- to its importance in the transformation of the lives of former foster youth.
- , as well as in the lives of others.
- Texas has been a national leader in improving the lives of youth with a foster care history through higher
Bills:
HB173, HB184, HB484, HB678, HB1211, HB1507, HB1705, HB1868, HB2290, HB2851, HB2856, HB3041, HB3204
Keywords:
foreign donations, higher education, public institutions, national security, funding, higher education, foreign donations, prohibition, national security, Texas law, healthcare, insurance, affordability, access, public health, higher education, foreign donations, national security, foreign influence, education policy
Summary:
The committee meeting largely centered around three significant bills: HB3204, HB173, and HB1507. HB3204 aims to address the workforce skills gap in Texas by modernizing vocational training and establishing what is now referred to as the Polytechnic College. Representative Metcalfe emphasized the need for relevant workforce training programs aligned with today's job market, which led to discussions about the new certificate programs that will be introduced. Additionally, public institutions will benefit from enhanced support for those who may not meet traditional entrance requirements.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Congressional Redistricting, Select Aug 2nd, 2025 at 09:08 am
Transcript Highlights:
- Act of 1965.
- we do of our citizens?"
- And they teach school, some of them.
- I'm going to go off of exactly what the author of the bill...
- At the dawn of America, a black person was worth three-fifths of a white one.
Keywords:
redistricting, HB4, congressional representation, discrimination, minority districts, public testimony, Civic engagement
Summary:
The House Select Committee on Congressional Registration convened to discuss and vote on HB4, a congressional redistricting bill. During the meeting, Representative Turner expressed strong opposition, labeling the bill as discriminatory and racially motivated, claiming it intended to dismantle historically minority districts. Overall, there was a significant public outcry regarding the process, with many constituents unable to voice their concerns effectively. Despite the strong backlash, the bill was moved forward without amendments, reflecting broader tensions in the committee regarding representation and civic engagement.
Members voiced their concerns about the bill's implications on minority communities and how the redistricting process appeared opaque. Emotional testimonies highlighted the potential disenfranchisement of historically marginalized groups, with representatives stressing the importance of community representation in Congress. Although the bill was passed along party lines, it sparked a commitment among members to continue advocating for fairness and transparency in future legislative processes.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Apr 9th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Homeland Security, Public Safety & Veterans' Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Thousands of men and women dedicate their lives to protect Texas residents and their communities.
- And yes, would that be at the cost of the retiree, or how does that work?
- Accepting a digital ID will reduce the cost of verification checks, including call-outs to paid services
The new cost of training here in the Cards and workshops
- , truly experience trauma that will affect them for the rest of their lives.
Bills:
HB2034, HB2436, HB3010, HB3033, HB3138, HB3177, HB3426, HB3686, HB3858, HB4176, HB4257, HB4264, HB4804, HCR98
Keywords:
groundwater, foreign ownership, national security, water permits, environmental health, deadly conduct, firearm, recklessness, peace officer, prosecution, Penal Code, Texas laws, disaster recovery, infrastructure, rural communities, grants, state funding, emergency management, firearms regulation, local government
Summary:
The meeting of the Committee covered various bills with a notable focus on HB3426, which aims to modernize how Texans access and present their driver's license by introducing a digital option. Testimonies from proponents highlighted the convenience and necessity of making identification more accessible in a digital age, while security and privacy concerns around the potential for data mishandling were also addressed. Additional discussions included HB3033, which proposes a donation mechanism for non-profits supporting Department of Public Safety employees, reinforcing community support for those in service.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the nominations of Peter Hoekstra, of Michigan, to be Ambassador to Canada, George Glass, of Oregon, to be Ambassador to Japan, and Ronald Johnson, of Florida, to be Ambassador to the United Mexican States, all of the Department o Mar 13th, 2025 at 09:30 am
Senate Foreign Relations Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Specifically, it was the Canadians that liberated the parts of the Netherlands where my parents lived
- -Japan relationship even stronger than I found it, with the added blessing of being able to live together
- millions of dollars of soybeans.
- of my appointment and being kind of the tip of the spear on this.
- ...Should there be a case where the lives of U.S. citizens
Keywords:
U.S. foreign policy, Mexico relations, Japan relations, border security, trade agreements, drug trafficking, ambassadorial nominations, intergovernmental communication
Summary:
The meeting of the committee focused on critical discussions concerning U.S. foreign policy, particularly relationships with Mexico and Japan. Notable attention was given to border security, trade agreements, and implications of drug trafficking. Ambassadorial nominees discussed their strategies to strengthen ties with these nations, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in addressing mutual challenges, particularly concerning security and trade. The committee engaged in extensive dialogue, highlighting the urgency of improving intergovernmental communications to deter drug trafficking and support democratic governance.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the nomination of Lieutenant General John D. Caine (Retired), to be general and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Department of Defense. Apr 1st, 2025 at 08:30 am
Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel
Transcript Highlights:
- the position of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
- We live in the most dangerous national security moment since World War II—an axis of aggressors led by
- I think of it in terms of a business.
- Now the lives of our service members and the future of our national security depend...
- their nation with them into the next chapter of their lives.
Keywords:
national security, military readiness, Kane nomination, defense budget, China threats, Russia, collaboration, modernization
Summary:
The meeting centered on the nomination of retired Lieutenant General Dan Kane for Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, delving into various security concerns and the strategic environment facing the U.S. today. Testimonies highlighted the growing threats from adversaries such as China and Russia, with discussions around the necessity of maintaining and modernizing military capabilities to address these challenges. The need for agility in military operations and enhancing collaboration among various defense agencies was underscored. Further, concerns were raised regarding the defense budget and the importance of a strong national defense strategy were prevalent throughout the discussions. The committee members collectively emphasized the need for superior readiness and modernization to keep pace with global threats.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Pensions, Investments & Financial Services May 19th, 2025 at 08:05 am
House Pensions, Investments & Financial Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
So, maybe they overestimated the cost of the bonds, or
Then you have the additional cost of having to go out
- But if you're trying to get a quick rough estimate of the finance cost...
- I mean, they're given the principal, but they're not given the interest or the total cost of the package
- a complete understanding of the cost and consequences of any proposal.
Keywords:
school funding, bonds, education, finance, Texas Education Code, public banks, bond proceeds, voter transparency, Texas legislation, Senate Bill 621, Senate Bill 414
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on several key bills impacting public funds, particularly regarding the use of unspent bond proceeds and mandated transparency during bond elections. Notably, Senate Bill 621 was discussed, which seeks to prohibit political subdivisions from establishing public banks, emphasizing core governmental functions and preventing taxpayer exposure to financial risks. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted concerns about the appropriateness of using public funds for non-essential projects, which led to vigorous debate amongst committee members. Additionally, Senate Bill 414 was addressed, which requires clear disclosures about estimated interest costs in bond proposals, aiming to enhance voter awareness and accountability.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine the nomination of Rodney Scott, of Oklahoma, to be Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Department of Homeland Security. Apr 30th, 2025 at 09:00 am
Senate Finance Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Scott in the chain of command. As chief of the Border Patrol, Mr.
- The Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice declined.
- But at the ports of entry, the immediate result of slowing down that flow of illegal aliens has put 600
- I believe it's a point that a secure border will save all of America a ton of money and a ton of lives
Hours of operation of our ports of entry were significantly
Keywords:
Customs and Border Protection, Rodney Scott, border security, asylum, transparency, Hernandez Rojas, migrant treatment, public testimony
Summary:
The meeting centered on the nomination of Rodney Scott to serve as the Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Throughout the session, various senators expressed concerns regarding CBP's recent practices, including issues related to border security and the treatment of migrants. Questions were raised about Scott's involvement in previous incidents, particularly surrounding the controversial death of Mr. Hernandez Rojas while in custody, which sparked a heated discussion about accountability and transparency in current border policies. Senators emphasized the importance of balancing efficient border security with humane treatment of individuals seeking asylum.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Environmental Regulation Apr 24th, 2025 at 10:04 am
House Environmental Regulation Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- of Texas and that you are in favor of the bill.
- I also go by the name of "Trash Man of Buffalo Bayou."
- of yourself, and that you are in favor of the bill.
- system, I'd like to bring up the costs of littered beverage containers to municipalities, tourism, and
- In Corpus Christi, where I live, drink containers make up much of the litter.
Bills:
HB1730, HB1823, HB2048, HB2266, HB2440, HB3333, HB4086, HB4271, HB4413, HB4839, HB4841, HB5151
Keywords:
concrete crushing, hospital safety, environmental regulation, construction industry, permitting process, recycling, beverage containers, environmental protection, refund program, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, rock crushing, concrete, permit processing, environmental regulation, priority applications, motor vehicle, air quality, energy source, engine, state implementation plan
Summary:
The committee meeting was focused on several key legislative matters, including the discussion of HB1904 concerning littering associated with balloon releases, which was presented favorably and passed unanimously. Additionally, the elimination of the Motor Vehicle Emissions Inspection and Maintenance Program was discussed within the context of HB5033, with a substitute motion adopted and passed. The meeting featured public testimony, allowing interested parties to share their views during a structured testimony period, ensuring all voices were heard within the limited timeframe. Overall, the members expressed a cooperative spirit aimed at addressing community concerns through legislation.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine perspectives from the field, focusing on farmer and rancher views on the agricultural economy. Feb 26th, 2025 at 09:30 am
Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- our pork producers to spend millions of dollars retrofitting their barns, while costing California consumers
- the needs of the people of this nation.
- All of this will be important.
- We simply have a great committee of a lot of outstanding individuals.
- Brett, who serves as chair of the U.S., lives in the Rio
Keywords:
agriculture, avian flu, bipartisan farm bill, economic challenges, poultry, dairy, specialty crops
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on crucial discussions surrounding the challenges faced by the agriculture sector, particularly concerning avian flu and its impact on poultry and dairy producers. Members provided insights into the economic struggles within the industry, emphasizing the need for a new bipartisan farm bill that addresses the diverse needs of specialty crop and livestock producers. Witnesses from various agricultural sectors spoke about their experiences, illustrating the high costs, regulatory burdens, and emerging diseases that threaten their operations. The meeting underscored a commitment to exploring solutions that will help maintain market stability and ensure food security.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Local Government (Part II) Apr 24th, 2025
Senate Local Government Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- municipal city limits with the agreement of the governing body of each political subdivision for which
- today as the board president of the Texas Affiliation of Affordable Housing Providers.
- In fact, we do 60 to 70% of every home built in the city of
- We're very proud of that, and we're proud of the relationship that we have with the city of Fort Worth
- Chairman, Ryan Skowarczyk, Director of Intergovernmental Relations for the City of Corpus Christi.
Bills:
SB208, SB628, SB777, SB1042, SB2354, SB2477, SB2521, SB2523, SB2608, SB2703, SB2778, SB2835, SB2965, SB2367, SB3044
Keywords:
workforce housing, capital investment fund, affordable housing, housing development, Texas housing laws, loan programs, community development, workforce housing, capital investment fund, affordable housing, housing development, Texas housing, zero-interest loans, workforce housing, capital investment fund, low-income housing, housing development, nonprofit organizations, construction, economic stability
Summary:
The meeting of the local government committee covered several important bills, notably Senate Bill 1454, Senate Bill 1237, and Senate Bill 2520. Senator Betancourt presided over the proceedings, guiding the discussion on the multiple committee substitutes proposed for each of these bills. SB1454 focused on tax exemptions for housing authorities, with amendments that included stricter compliance measures for municipalities. The committee unanimously recommended that the bill proceed to the full Senate without objection.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Culture, Recreation & Tourism Apr 15th, 2025 at 08:04 am
House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee
Transcript Highlights:
What's the average cost of a ticket to attend?
- Reimbursement of some of our expenses is critical as we enter the disruption of three years without the
- Reimbursement of some of our expenses is critical as we enter the disruption of three years without the
- I'm President of the Austin Chamber of Commerce, and I'm here to speak in favor of House Bill 4811.
- of Austin.
Bills:
HB2385, HB3349, HB3962, HB3883, HB4396, HB4811, HB5088, HB4588, HB4867, HB4895, HB5398, HB5616
Keywords:
NRA, funding, major events reimbursement, annual meetings, exhibits, events trust fund, Pan American Games, Olympic Games, motor sports racing, funding, local control, event support contract, INDYCAR, funding, major events reimbursement, Arlington, tourism, major events reimbursement, funding eligibility, sporting events
Summary:
The meeting convened by Chair Metcalfe was characterized by the passage of multiple bills aimed at designating various regions in Texas for specific cultural or recreational significance, such as HCR 71 establishing LaSalle County as the Wild Hog Capital and HCR 86 naming Denton as the Halloween Capital of Texas. All bills discussed received unanimous support in the committee, signaling a cooperative atmosphere among committee members. Representative Flores brought forth House Bill 3883 which focuses on an important economic tool to spur Texas' competitive edge in hosting major events. The committee's voting process was efficient, as all motions to report the bills favorably passed without any opposition.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Environmental Regulation May 19th, 2025 at 10:05 am
House Environmental Regulation Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- a panel on one of the pending items of business.
- of herself.
- and the lives of nearby community members at risk.
- It will cost me a lot of money in changing out filters and filtration, but it's not existential.
- I can't probably emphasize the severity of the operational cost.
Keywords:
rock crushing, permits, air quality, environmental monitoring, aggregate production, seismicity, public meeting, land use, environmental regulation, SB2203, SB1898, PFAS, semiconductor industry, aggregate production, public testimony, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
Summary:
The Committee on Environmental Regulation convened to discuss several bills relating to environmental issues and industry regulations. Notable discussions revolved around SB2203, which focuses on the certification of discovery issues related to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, and SB1898, which addresses the regulation of PFAS or 'forever chemicals.' The committee heard testimony from various stakeholders, including representatives from the semiconductor industry and environmental advocates, particularly regarding concerns over the impact of aggregate production on local ecosystems and industries. The meeting highlighted the need for careful consideration of regulations that balance industrial growth with environmental protection.
US
Us Congress 2025-2026 Regular Session
Hearings to examine children's safety in the digital era, focusing on strengthening protections and addressing legal gaps. Feb 19th, 2025 at 09:15 am
Senate Judiciary Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- rise of non-consensual AI-generated pornographic fakes, or the tragic stories of kids losing their lives
- on legislation, we just let them run wild at the expense of our kids' lives.
- For them, it's the cost of doing business, right?
- Can we agree that social media has lowered the cost of being an a-hole?
- To me, it is absolutely disgusting that they devalue the lives of young people in this manner.
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on the pressing issues surrounding child safety online, with a particular emphasis on recent legislative efforts aimed at curbing child sexual exploitation and harmful content accessible through social media platforms. Senators engaged in a heated discussion regarding the implications of Big Tech's lobbying efforts against vital bills such as the Stop CSAM Act and the Kids Online Safety Act. Noteworthy testimonies highlighted real-life impacts of online dangers, including tragic cases of child exploitation and drug-related fatalities linked to social media interactions. The bipartisan nature of the committee's commitment to address these issues showcased a collective determination to make the digital environment safer for the younger generation.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- The great city of Edinburg was one of them.
- of the character and the type of people who live in Mission.
- The city and improve the lives of people across the nation
- course, reducing the cost of hospitalization.
- Of the cost, it's just under $2,000 per year.
Keywords:
bail denial, illegal aliens, felony offenses, constitutional amendment, law enforcement, bail reform, defendants, pretrial detention, public safety, criminal justice, charitable bail organizations, bail bonds, public funds, political subdivision, injunctive relief, taxpayer rights, bail denial, illegal aliens, felony offenses, constitutional amendment
Summary:
During the latest committee meeting, a range of resolutions and bills were introduced and discussed, including significant recognitions for various organizations and communities. Notably, several resolutions were adopted to honor Alabama Coushatta Tribe of Texas Day and to recognize key contributions from the manufacturing sector in Texas. Senators shared personal anecdotes and expressed gratitude towards the tireless efforts of Texas game wardens who play a critical role in community safety and environmental conservation.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Health and Human Services Apr 16th, 2025
Senate Health & Human Services Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- Strangers poked and prodded his body like a live game of Operation.
- land below the cost of transportation.
- In our case, the cost of transportation is 280.
- We must treat the remains of all human beings, no matter how long they lived or how they died.
- Our respect for the dignity of the dead is an extension of our respect for the dignity of the living.
Keywords:
body donation, medical science, forensic science, willed body program, informed consent, physician health, regulation, surcharges, occupational licensing, national practitioner data bank, unclaimed bodies, anatomical donations, regulations, public testimony, ethical treatment
Summary:
The Senate meeting featured extensive discussions on significant legislative proposals, primarily focusing on the ethical treatment and regulation of unclaimed bodies in Texas. The committee addressed concerns raised by Senator Parker regarding the alarming misuse of unclaimed remains, urging the necessity for stricter guidelines and accountability for organizations involved in anatomical donations. Public testimonies illustrated harrowing experiences of families affected by these practices, prompting legislators to consider more robust regulatory measures, including possible criminal penalties for bad actors in the industry. The committee exhibited a unified stance in advocating for enhanced protections that would ensure the dignity of deceased individuals is respected.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th 1st C.S.
Culture, Recreation & Tourism Aug 6th, 2025 at 10:08 am
House Culture, Recreation & Tourism Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- of those issues.
- Some of those camps might not be operating by the end of the season when we have availability of inspectors
- All of these are parts of the inspection.
- periods of time.
- You've probably had generations of those kinds of people helping you.
Keywords:
emergency preparedness, natural disasters, Texas floods, first responders, youth camps, Texas Parks and Wildlife, Texas Historical Commission, safety protocols
Summary:
The meeting held by the Cultural, Recreation, and Tourism Committee focused primarily on emergency preparedness and responses to natural disasters, notably in the context of the recent floods that occurred in Texas on July 4th. The committee expressed deep sympathy for the affected communities and acknowledged the impressive efforts of first responders during the calamity. Testimonies were provided by representatives from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the Texas Historical Commission, and various youth camps, focusing on the challenges faced during these emergencies and the steps taken to ensure visitor safety and habitat preservation.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Natural Resources Mar 26th, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Natural Resources Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- against the cost of these efforts going forward compared to
- the overall cost of large-scale water projects.
- Cost, what's the value of that water that was lost?
- I'd like to know what that number is because when you consider the cost of loans.
- efficiency perspective and the ability of people who live in the district to be engaged and understand
Keywords:
groundwater, export fees, conservation district, interlocal contracts, water supply, groundwater, water conservation, permit application, neighboring districts, aquifer, water rates, utility regulation, financial hardship, rate increase cap, Class A utilities, dissolution, special districts, water code, inactive districts, environmental quality
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on addressing several important water-related bills, including HB391, HB420, and HB2626 among others. Representative Bell presented updates on HB391 related to accountability for rural water districts, achieving a consensus for statewide applicability and allowing for virtual meetings. Multiple testimonies were heard, showcasing both support for and concerns regarding the bills, specifically emphasizing the significance of maintaining water resources and addressing community needs amid Texas's growth. Representative Buckley advocated for HB2626 aimed at establishing the Central Texas Water Alliance to ensure sustainable water management across the region, which involves collaboration among various public, private, and state entities.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Criminal Jurisprudence Apr 1st, 2025 at 10:30 am
House Criminal Jurisprudence Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- The right of all citizens to live safely and securely.
- Can they take care of their lives?
- "> My testimony today is on the issue of live streaming.
Live streaming via the Internet of sexual assault
- My county is one of those that live stream sexual assault cases.
Keywords:
sexual assault, victim rights, forensic examination, medical care, trauma-informed care, crime victims compensation, evidence retention, child sexual abuse material, child pornography, digital services, reporting requirements, children's protection, sex offender registration, indecent assault, educator-student relationship, criminal justice, legislation, crime victims, compensation fund, information disclosure
Summary:
The meeting of the Juvenile Justice Committee on March 26th focused on multiple significant bills aimed at enhancing the juvenile justice system. Noteworthy discussions included House Bill 1831, presented by Vice Chair Johnson, which seeks to expand juvenile eligibility for drug court programs with a goal of increasing access to rehabilitative treatment for youth. The bill received strong support, passing with a vote of 9-2, and was recommended for favorable reporting to the full House. Additionally, House Bill 2147, introduced by Chairman Van Dever, allows for remote juvenile depositions and court proceedings to increase access and efficiency in the legal process, also passing unanimously with a vote of 10-1. The committee members engaged in thorough debates regarding the impact of these bills on families and juveniles, emphasizing the importance of rehabilitation over punishment.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- It looks at the value of the investment minus the cost of
- the investment divided by the cost of the investment, times 100.
- us dream of and all of us enjoy.
- Now, one of the only regrets of my...
There's a lot of creators that already live here, and
Bills:
SB22
Keywords:
Texas, moving image industry, incentive program, film production, grant funding, job creation, economic development, SB22, Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program, reimbursement grants, economic growth, job creation, film production, taxpayer oversight, rural opportunities
Summary:
The meeting centered around the discussion of SB22, the Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program, which aims to provide reimbursement grants for projects produced in Texas. Senator Huffman presented the bill highlighting its potential to create jobs and grow the state's economy. Several members discussed the advantages of keeping film production within Texas, emphasizing that for every dollar spent in grants, an estimated $4.69 is returned to the state's economy. Additionally, a portion of the discussion focused on the need for careful oversight of taxpayer money utilized in the reimbursement process, ensuring grants are awarded only to those projects that align with the state's values.
TX
Texas 2025 - 89th Regular
Agriculture & Livestock Apr 8th, 2025 at 02:00 pm
House Agriculture & Livestock Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- A lot of the Texas people are in support of this bill as well.
- As a lot of people know, farmers and ranchers don't have a lot of money, but cities don't run out of
- Yet it costs us money every time we go out there to mow easements and right-of-ways.
- The other issue was that we had a lot of homeless people living in some trees that, you know, again it's
- input costs...
Keywords:
property owners associations, chickens, urban farming, land use, homeowner rights, agriculture, municipal regulation, governmental requirements, land use, farm management, agriculture, inspections, border control, trade, state funding, agriculture, trade inspection, cross-border trade, produce, Homeowners Association
Summary:
The meeting of the Agriculture and Livestock Committee mainly centered around discussions regarding three bills: HB4810, HB2013, and HB4163. Notable emphasis was placed on HB4810, which seeks to renew the Trade Agriculture Inspection Grant Program due to its critical role in ensuring the efficient flow of agricultural goods between Texas and Mexico. Testimonies from various stakeholders highlighted the importance of cross-border trade and the economic impact of agricultural imports, which supports thousands of jobs and ensures a reliable food supply. The committee members engaged in thoughtful deliberations about the necessity of maintaining and expanding the program to accommodate rising trade volumes and local agricultural needs.