Transcript Highlights:

• We're not robbing Peter to pay Paul.
• We provide daily care for the individuals you see in front of you.
• And the insurers focus on paying for claims and paying for services.
• Who ends up paying for that?
• Speaking, they don't pay a fee to DHCS. Is that your question?

Keywords: 988, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Front because they can see it.
• You pay at the pump. You know, I used to argue that I didn't like the invention of pay at the pump.
• Pay how you choose. It is your choice.
• No restaurant can understand what it is they're paying, or if it's even what they agreed to pay.
• And everybody pays for it, whether you pay for it with a credit card or not.

Bills: SB231, SB584, SB600, SB668, SB841, SB986, SB1003, SB1244, SB1625, SB1960, SB1963, SB1964, SB2026, SB2056, SB2368

Keywords: temporary emergency electric energy facility, temporary generation, emergency power, backup generation, mobile generator, portable generator, grid resilience, power outage restoration, transmission and distribution utility, TDU, Public Utility Commission of Texas, PUCT, Utilities Code Section 39.918, competitive bidding, lease authorization, emergency procurement, bulk power system, locational marginal pricing, reliability model, black start

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm proud that you're standing here in front of us today telling your story.
• For minimal coverage, we're paying 45% more than the national average.
• Senator Burke, again, I don’t have the APRN practice act in front of me. This bill is...
• I don’t have the APRN practice act in front of me. This bill has no language that speaks to that.
• But a gentleman just walked up to the front door and said, 'Hey, I want to talk to Senator Simon.'

Summary: The committee took up a long agenda of bills, beginning with CS/SB 678, which would allow pawnbroker transaction forms to be printed or digital; it drew support from a business representative and was reported favorably. Members then heard several bills by Senator Leak, including SB 466 to designate St. Johns County as the site of the Florida Museum of Black History and create a board to work with the museum foundation and Florida Memorial University; the bill drew supportive testimony about preserving accurate Black history and the significance of the site, and it passed favorably. Leak’s CS/SB 578 would let Florida wineries use recyclable inserts and other alternative containers for larger wine sales, and it also passed favorably. SB 582 would increase penalties for unlawful demolition of historic buildings and structures, limiting the higher penalties to certain nationally or internationally recognized historic properties; it was supported by preservation advocates and reported favorably. CS/SB 1168 would create an aggravated offense for installing or using tracking devices or apps in furtherance of crimes such as murder, domestic violence, or robbery, and it passed favorably after a brief discussion about stalking and violent crimes. CS/SB 806 would make the Florida Attorney General the exclusive public official with standing to enforce Florida charitable trusts, limiting out-of-state attorneys general from suing over Florida-administered trusts; members debated whether this would burden out-of-state beneficiaries, but the bill was reported favorably. SB 1228 would advance spring restoration efforts for Ichetucknee Springs and Santa Fe spring flows and allow a utility compliance plan amendment to deliver reclaimed water to replenish the aquifer; it passed favorably. CS/CS/SB 304 would require a qualified medical opinion in child protective investigations involving infants and young children with possible genetic or medical conditions that can mimic abuse, and it drew emotional support from parents and advocates before passing favorably. SB 1286 would clarify that ordinary unsupervised childhood activities like biking or playing outside do not constitute neglect absent reckless endangerment, and it was reported favorably. SB 1318, the hands-free driving bill, generated the most extensive debate: it renames the texting-while-driving law, expands the prohibition to handheld device use, and adds penalties in work zones and school zones; supporters cited fatal crash statistics and personal loss, while opponents raised concerns about enforcement, civil liberties, racial disparities in traffic stops, and the need for broader distracted-driving and insurance reforms. Despite those concerns, the bill was reported favorably after amendments. The committee also approved two claims bills, SB 14 for the estate of Penao-Hanvier against Miami Beach and SB 20 for J.N. against Hillsborough County, both settled claims recommended favorably by the special master. Finally, CS/SB 68 would modernize health facilities authority financing for private not-for-profit health systems, and CS/SB 172 would restrict misuse of health care specialty titles while preserving titles authorized under existing practice acts; both were discussed with questions about doctors, optometrists, and CRNAs, and both were reported favorably after amendment and debate.

Transcript Highlights:

• Um, on behalf of a Latina of this proud state of Minnesota, I just want to pay homage to our movements
• It's an unfortunate circumstance in front of us, but it's the right thing to do. Thank you.
• Both my children get on a school bus every morning right in front of our house.
• of<00:52:04.240> you, The motion in front of you, The motion in front of you, members,
• Right now we have opportunity in front Right now we have opportunity in front of<01:19:17.560>

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• Utilities must pay for the RDA.
• Utilities must pay for the RDA.
• I don't mind if they have to pay in more; they have the pocketbooks to pay in more.”
• I don't mind if they have to pay in more; they have the pocketbooks to pay in more.
• more, so that some can pay less, but that we can all pay in some cases a little bit less and some pay

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• This may actually be my last budget hearing in front of you all.
• I have been, to manage the workload that we have in front of us.
• If you're paying $30,000 at 400% of poverty.
• to pay, you know, $30,000 a year.
• I guess I'm trying to figure out we're paying for Peter and stealing over here and paying over here.

Keywords: 996, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Pay those dues. Pay those dues. [laughter] >> All right. Uh, all right. I think that does it.
• Pay those dues. Pay those dues. [laughter] >> All right. Uh, all right. I think that does it.
• . pay. pay.
• Pay those dues. >> All right. Excellent. Pay those dues.
• Pay<00:20:05.760> those<00:20:06.000> dues. Pay those dues. Pay those dues.

Keywords: Senate streaming session for Monday, February 2, 2026, 960, senate, all

Summary: The Senate was called to order on February 2, 2026, with a quorum present. The session opened with an invocation by Rabbi Andrew Bush of Baltimore Hebrew Congregation, who reflected on Tu Bishvat, the 200th anniversary of Maryland’s 1826 legislation granting Jews the right to hold office, and broader lessons about language, imperfect solutions, persistence, and acting for others. His prayer was journalized without objection. The chamber also heard brief remarks recognizing his interfaith work and the significance of Tu Bishvat as an ecological holiday. The Senate then honored Maryland History Day participants and awardees. Students from several schools were introduced and congratulated as finalists in the 2025 National History Day competition, and the chamber adopted a resolution recognizing them. The Senate also recognized Lindsay Matthews of Eastern Middle School as the 2025 Maryland History Day Middle School Teacher of the Year and Sam Mowski of Loyola Blakefield as the 2025 National History Day High School Teacher of the Year, with resolutions adopted for both. Additional introductions included the doctor of the day, several Senate pages, and a personal recognition of Jasmine Miller, a Baltimore Polytechnic student and the niece of a senator. On the legislative calendar, the clerk read Senate Bill 444, Senator Kramer’s bill on certificate of need for intermediate healthcare facilities finance, and a bond initiative for Charles Mount Elementary School sponsored by Senator Sing. These items were ordered to the appropriate committees/subcommittee. No committee reports or substantive floor votes were taken beyond the ceremonial resolutions. The Senate also announced upcoming caucus meetings, reminded members to pay protocol dues, confirmed a quorum of 40 members, and adjourned until Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• Now, I would say, though, that we're not paying them for those days specifically.
• And so in terms of paying the same rate we have, calculated under our current rate methodology, and paying
• therapeutic leave days and hospital leave days from what we pay today.
• therapeutic leave days and hospital leave days from what we pay today.
• Um, we pay the full rate today. I don't know how often, um, or how much.

Keywords: 908, all

Summary: The committee first took up Senate Bill 2399, concerning therapeutic leave days for psychiatric residential treatment facilities (PRTFs). Sarah Aker from the Department of Health and Human Services explained the current Medicaid rate-setting methodology, how occupancy affects rates, and why paying the full rate for leave days would create additional fiscal impact. Members debated whether the bill should pay the full Medicaid rate, a flat reduced rate, or a tiered rate, and discussed whether a cap or department authorization should be used to control use of leave days. The department said it was not supporting the change as it was not in the governor’s budget, though it supported family engagement in care. After discussion, the committee settled on a compromise motion to set therapeutic leave days at a $500 daily rate and require department authorization of the number of leave days. The motion passed 6-2, with Representative Anderson voting no and the rest of the recorded members voting yes. The committee then moved on to Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation budget materials, where Michelle Zander walked through detailed population and rate calculations for women’s and men’s facilities, county holds, deferred admissions, transitional facilities, work release, and proposed reentry, man camp, and Grand Forks-related costs. Members asked about the county jail reimbursement rates and the overall pool of funds, and Zander explained the calculations and noted the proposal was roughly break-even depending on assumptions. The committee also heard an overview of DOCR IT requests from Amy and NDIT staff, including data processing, medical modules, a new client management system, body scanners, data management tools, facility management software, medical software upgrades, college solutions, and body cameras/tasers. Staff explained that the new client management system would likely be a multi-phase project with a wide cost range based on vendor selection and scope, and that the current request was for phase one. Members emphasized the importance of better data tracking, staff safety tools, and information that could help explain programming and release outcomes to the public. The committee planned to continue with Veterans Affairs the next day and then return to Senate Bill 2015.

Transcript Highlights:

• There are things that are working, and those funding efforts are paying off, and I would encourage you
• And the map in front of you, I don't have it in here.
• I don't have the quantity of schools in front of me right now. Mr.
• This just takes off all of the stigmas as to whether you're a full-pay student or a part-pay student.
• In the past, they would still have to pay for those meals.

Transcript Highlights:

• Um, so there's no co-pays, no deductibles, or anything else like that.
• Would this clearly satisfy your initial, what do you call it, co-pay for the...?
• My understanding was what you typically pay for this service.
• Lots of our members were angry with us because they all took this major pay cut.
• pay a lower rate once we were fully funded.

Bills: HB3015, HB3521, HB5632, HJR182, SJR57

Keywords: healthcare, direct primary care, insurance deductibles, Texas Health Benefit Plans, telemedicine, police retirement, disability pension, municipalities, law enforcement, retirement benefits, retirement, beneficiary, Employees Retirement System of Texas, divorce decree, beneficiary designation, Veterans' Land Board, general obligation bonds, constitutional amendment, veterans, housing assistance

Transcript Highlights:

• What we pay our district judges. That is not good.
• But more and more, it's hard to do that because of what we pay.
• Than a pay raise. But we're not talking about bureaucrats.
• And the bottom line is this: you'll get what you pay for.
• Higher pay means more highly qualified people will apply.

Summary: The House and Senate met in joint session under HCR 5 to hear an address from Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Jimmy Blacklock, with Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick introducing him. The session included recognition of the justices, judges, law enforcement officers, and interpreters present, and it also marked the formal completion of the joint session once the address ended. Chief Justice Blacklock said the state of the judiciary is strong, while paying tribute to former Chief Justice Nathan Hecht and thanking Governor Abbott for his appointment. His remarks focused on judicial administration and public safety, including a call for a 30% increase in district judge salaries, which he argued is needed to attract and retain qualified judges. He also urged support for law enforcement, backed efforts to keep violent offenders in custody pending trial, and said the court is gathering data to identify underperforming judges and use constitutional remedies where necessary. Blacklock emphasized that Texas courts should interpret statutes and the constitution according to text and original meaning, rejecting the “living constitution” approach. He highlighted reforms to improve efficiency and reduce litigation costs, including changes to docketing practices, civil procedure, and the regulation of legal services, and he urged the State Bar to remain politically neutral. He also discussed family law and child welfare, arguing for stronger legal representation for parents and suggesting repeal of Family Code subsection O, which he said can unfairly lead to termination of parental rights. The joint session concluded after his remarks, and the House stood at ease as guests departed.

Transcript Highlights:

• It also allows them to pay whatever they want, which is not consistent with our equal pay for equal work
• It also allows them to pay whatever they want, which is not consistent with our equal pay for equal work
• It also allows them to pay whatever they want, which is not consistent with our equal pay for equal work
• It also allows them to pay whatever they want, which is not consistent with our equal pay for equal work
• It also allows them to pay whatever they want, which is not consistent with our equal pay for equal work

Keywords: 910, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• <01:01:18.880> of and it's sitting right in front of and it's sitting right in front of them
• They don't pay attention to that.
• So like getting what they pay for.
• sure that they are getting what they pay sure that they are getting what they pay for.<02:27:56.560
• they are exempt from, they'll just pay they are exempt from, they'll just pay that<03:57:24.560>

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The hearing began with SB 12, which would let certain veterans who already qualify for a disabled veteran license plate use that VA disability determination to obtain a walking disability placard without having to undergo a second physical or submit additional proof. Senator Waters, the prime sponsor, said the bill was prompted by a constituent and would reduce redundant paperwork. Melinda Sims of United Spinal and Leo Pacquin of the State Veterans Advisory Committee both supported the bill, saying veterans already go through an extensive VA certification process and should not have to repeat it for the state. A DMV representative said the department had no known objection and explained that the change would let the placard travel with the veteran in another vehicle. The hearing on SB 12 was then closed. The committee then took up SB 40, which would allow safe boater education certificates to be completed and tested online, rather than requiring an in-person final exam. Representative Coker and Senator Tim Lang described the bill as a cleanup measure to make a COVID-era online process permanent and said it would improve convenience and keep more revenue in New Hampshire. Tom Praol, representing the vendor, said the state lost significant revenue when the online option ended and argued that online proctoring can verify identity and prevent cheating. The New Hampshire Marine Trades Association supported the bill, saying it would help boaters learn New Hampshire-specific laws and keep dollars in-state. The Department of Safety Marine Patrol was neutral: Captain Tim Dunlvy said the current system includes classroom and online coursework followed by an in-person proctored final exam, and he raised concerns about safety, exam integrity, and lower scores in computer-only testing, while noting New Hampshire’s strong boating safety record. Committee members asked about reciprocity, proctoring methods, costs, and crash data, but no vote was taken in the portion of the transcript provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• The counties were going to pay, the schools were going to pay, and the individuals were going to pay.
• has been reported, we're going to pay has been reported, we're going to pay $48,000<00:11:25.200
• which who pays that? Us, the taxpayers. which who pays that? Us, the taxpayers.
• :34.640> pay,<00:11:35.200> and<00:11:35.519> the schools were going to pay, and
• employees up to the 2024 market pay employees up to the 2024 market pay tables.<00:57:04.880>

Keywords: 916, all

Transcript Highlights:

• could you clarify um who currently pays could you clarify um who currently pays the<00:37:56.079
• Case management is an investment on the front end that pays massive dividends on the back end.
• Case management is an investment on the front end that pays massive dividends on the back end.
• And we do want to pay we have to make. And we do want to pay our<01:21:28.640> premiums.
• talking about paying for a vacation. talking about paying for a vacation.

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• that we have in front of us here. here. here.
• <01:24:16.880> attention know if they're going to pay attention know if they're going to pay
• And so Um there's a higher pay rate.
• We don't want to make that front news anymore.
• We want to make that front news anymore.

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Summary: Members met to review a budget bill agreement using a nonpartisan spreadsheet and summary materials. Chairs and members thanked fiscal, research, revisers, and agency staff for the collaborative process, noting the bill had been difficult and that the final product reflected compromise. The chair also said only minor technical changes were expected before final enactment, and the spreadsheet walkthrough was then turned over to fiscal staff. Fiscal staff explained that the agreement met the overall budget target and walked through major human services provisions. Key items included nursing facility payment changes, including a phased PDPM change, APS inflation, modified single-bed incentives, and a CPI-U capped payment cap; a nursing facility surcharge; workforce standards board rule costs; continuation of certain nursing facility property tax rates; regulation of for-profit acquisitions of nursing homes and assisted living facilities; repurposing assisted living special project funds; funding the SEIU self-directed worker agreement; CFSS reimbursement in acute care hospital settings; and multiple disability waiver rate and authorization changes, including CPI-U inflation caps, waiver authorization reforms, and a waiver reimagined advisory task force. The agreement also included family residential service rate increases, a temporary extension of customized living disproportionate share payments, tribal eligibility for targeted case management, positive supports training changes, out-of-home respite modifications, swimming lessons as an allowable service for certain children with disabilities, a provisional EID provider license, and program integrity services funded by licensing fee increases. Additional provisions covered MinnChoices studies and assumed savings, behavioral health fund changes, substance use disorder treatment billing and rate changes, supportive recovery housing, housing support supplemental rates for specific providers, disability determinations, enteral nutrition payment timing, temporary funding for Boundary Waters Care Center, several one-time human services grants, senior nutrition funding, and grant reductions and extensions. No formal vote was described in the transcript; the discussion focused on explaining the agreement and its fiscal effects.

Transcript Highlights:

• Good quality, high-paying jobs for Texans.
• I'm not paying any attention to the cameras. You're paying attention to the cameras.
• I'm paying attention to you, Representative Harrison.
• And the bill that's laid out in front of you right now, uh.
• Makes the website owners and pay.

Transcript Highlights:

• On slide 22, we pay close attention to withholding returns that are due quarterly.
• You've got, I think, a paper copy in front of you, too.
• Big increases in the budget as hospitals pay a new surcharge that will pay for enhanced Medicaid rates
• for hospitals that will bring them up to what commercial payers pay.
• Well, New Mexico, under this budget recommendation, is going to be paying 150%.

Transcript Highlights:

• We just disagree on how to pay for it.
• And then again, they would not have to pay the $0.60.
• They don't have to pay this.
• and we're going to be paying this.
• Senator, thank you for bringing this bill in front of us today.

Transcript Highlights:

• For example, Florida pays $130, while North Carolina pays about $135.
• The average business with a workers' compensation policy will pay $1.02, and a consumer will pay $1.00
• TMB pays 450 experts nearly $1.5 million a year.
• She's had a 30% pay raise over the last four years.
• They need better pay for their employees.

Bills: SB1, SB 1

Keywords: appropriations, budget, state funding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, campground safety, youth camp regulations, flood safety, emergency evacuation, health and safety standards, 1185, senate, all