Transcript Highlights:

• One that has supported students and communities across St.
• In many places across our country, and and support.
• Further testimony in support of House Bill 2933.
• Further, testimony and support of House Bill 2933.
• For what we should do to support our kids.

Committee: House General Laws

Summary: The committee first met in executive session on House Bill 3070, a firearms-related bill. Representative Koslow argued the bill was not truly Second Amendment friendly, saying it could block return of stolen firearms, expose taxpayers to large payouts, and harm firearm dealers. Representative Greg said local law enforcement did not support it. The committee then voted 3 ayes and 9 noes, and HB 3070 failed to be reported do pass. The committee then held a public hearing on House Bill 2904, which would expand animal mistreatment law to include starvation and add a House committee substitute addressing false reports of animal abuse. Representative Don Mayhew said the bill responds to cases of animals left chained and neglected, and supporters from the Animal Legal Defense Fund, Humane World for Animals, and the Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation backed the measure. No opposition testimony was offered. The bulk of the meeting focused on House Bill 2933, which would allow school districts in St. Louis County to withdraw from the Special School District of St. Louis County through board action and a local vote. The sponsor and supporters, including Lindbergh officials, parents, and an attorney, said the current SSD structure is too rigid, lacks accountability, and can fail to meet students’ individualized needs; they cited service delays, litigation, and concerns raised by families. Opponents, including SSD administrators, superintendents, parents, and advocates, said SSD provides specialized services that many districts could not replicate, warned the bill could fragment services and create instability, and pointed to the countywide history and existing review mechanisms for SSD. The hearing ended without a vote on HB 2933.

Transcript Highlights:

• There were people online that signed up: 16 in support, 179 opposed. All set.
• </c><00:38:06.240><c> 179</c> signed up 16 in support 179 signed up 16 in support 179 opposed<00:38:09.920
• There's the disabled veterans credit.
• 100% disabled veterans.
• </c><01:00:59.280><c> our</c> um obviously we want to support our um obviously we want to support our

Committee: Senate Election Law and Municipal Affairs

Transcript Highlights:

• I TOTALLY SUPPORT THE IDEA OF ADDING THE FAITH-BASED SECTION TO IT.
• I ENCOURAGE EVERY MEMBER OF THIS COMMITTEE TO SUPPORT SENATE BILL 894.
• OF THIS BILL BECAUSE WE DO SUPPORT RELIGIOUS LIBERTIES.
• FAITH BASED ORGANIZATION HAVE BEEN IN SUPPORT OF OUR AMERICAN SOCIETY.
• FLORIDA FAMILY VOICE ARE IN STRONG SUPPORT OF SB 894 WHICH IS A STRAIGHTFORWARD AND URGENT CORRECTION

Transcript Highlights:

• ,</c> side of a caring community of support, side of a caring community of support, building<00:03:50.640
• </c> of hope and support. of hope and support.
• ,</c><00:24:25.039><c> sexual</c> sex, religion, disability, sexual sex, religion, disability, sexual
• ,</c> ethnicity, sex, religion, disability, ethnicity, sex, religion, disability, sexual<00:26:16.320
• ,</c><00:30:39.600><c> sexual</c> sex, religion, disability, sexual sex, religion, disability, sexual

Transcript Highlights:

• goal ought to be to make sure that we have the capacity to build and the utilities and all the other support
• goal ought to be to make sure that we have the capacity to build and the utilities and all the other support
• to notice regarding the rent increase exemption for low-income elderly persons and persons with disabilities
• The bill is supported. And now we are ready to adjourn.
• The bill is supported. And now we are ready to adjourn.

Committee: Senate Housing, Construction, and Community Development

Summary: The Senate Standing Committee on Housing, Construction and Community Development met to open the 2006 session and discussed the governor’s executive budget, housing affordability, housing supply, and barriers to construction. Chair Brian Kavanaugh emphasized efforts to lower barriers to building housing and expand rental assistance and SCRIE/DRIE-related eligibility, while Ranking Member Jack Martins called for rolling back regulations that impede housing production. Senator Helming stressed that, especially in upstate New York, lack of electrical capacity is a major obstacle to new housing and urged attention to utility infrastructure; the chair responded that the budget includes a $3.75 billion proposal for water and sewer capacity and noted that electrical transmission and generation issues fall outside the committee’s direct jurisdiction. The committee also noted a joint Senate-Assembly budget hearing on housing scheduled for February 25. The committee then took up a 10-bill agenda, largely consisting of measures previously reported by the committee and many of which had passed the Senate in prior sessions. Bills addressed tenant registration statements for LLCs (S.119), leasing to business and other entities (S.240), notice requirements for SCRIE/DRIE rent increase exemptions (S.561), housing production reporting to the Department of State (S.919A), creation of a New York Main Street Development Center (S.1851), retroactive benefit calculations for SCRIE/DRIE (S.2534), a common application and web portal for housing funding and incentives (S.2707), tenant access to complete rent histories (S.3569), continuation of SCRIE benefits after temporary income increases (S.4252), and eligibility requirements for disability rent increase exemptions (S.6510). Several members raised questions or comments on specific bills, including the absence of an Assembly sponsor on S.2707 and the need for technical alignment with Assembly versions. All ten bills were reported out of committee, with some advanced to the floor and others to the Finance Committee. Senator Walchick voted in the negative on several measures, while Senators Helming and Martins occasionally voted “without recommendation” on selected bills. No bill was defeated, and the meeting adjourned with notice that another housing committee meeting was expected the following week.

Transcript Highlights:

• We also found that LCB's data system does not support a data-driven approach to regulation.
• And our next report is a proposed final report, and that's Developmental Disabilities Administration
• The legislative auditor's conclusion is that the Developmental Disabilities Administration...
• It helps people who have developmental disabilities access services in their community.
• Developmental disability is defined in state law.

Summary: At the May 14, 2025 JLARC meeting, members approved the January 9 minutes and adopted the 2025–27 biennial work plan with a minor typo correction. Staff reviewed the new work plan studies, including a drug take-back program fee/expenditure review due in December 2025 and a state energy performance standard compliance review due in June 2027, and noted JLARC’s recent session activity, including several bills passed related to JLARC work and recommendations. The committee then heard a preliminary cannabis market study showing Washington businesses likely produced two to three times more cannabis than retailers sold in 2023. Staff and RAND said LCB’s data systems are incomplete and unreliable, limiting regulation, tax verification, and diversion tracking; they recommended that LCB submit a plan by year-end for collecting accurate data by the end of 2026. Members and LCB discussed the long timeline for a new traceability system, the causes of missing sales and weight data, overproduction, diversion, and the social equity program’s effect on producer licenses. JLARC also presented a preliminary hospital oversight report concluding that the Department of Health is late on many hospital inspections, does not verify third-party inspection standards, does not review adverse health event correction plans, and could make hospital data more accessible. The committee discussed fee funding, language access, and inspection timing, and DOH said it would work on a strategic plan and continue coordinating with JLARC. Members also heard a preliminary report on the public records survivor exemption, which found agencies are using it but need more guidance; JLARC recommended keeping the exemption and having the Attorney General provide additional training. Finally, the committee approved the DDA processes and staffing final report for distribution, which recommended performance metrics, stronger data quality controls, and workforce planning; DDA concurred. JLARC also introduced proposed study questions for a future DCYF juvenile rehabilitation review focused on safety, security, programs, staffing, education, and contraband, and the meeting adjourned after members asked about scope and facility conditions.

Transcript Highlights:

• We can support parental rights while protecting kids' safety.
• from the disability community.
• I believe that the ADE in Arizona could do a much better job of supporting families with disabilities
• that may be tied to an undiagnosed disability.
• Would that be something that you would be supportive of? That's doable.

Committee: House House Education Committee of Reference

Summary: The committee began with brief announcements, including an invitation from Chad Heinrich of the University of Phoenix to an upcoming lunch-and-learn on artificial intelligence and education, and then members and staff exchanged end-of-session धन्यवाद and appreciation. The committee then took up several education-related bills, hearing sponsor presentations, public testimony, and member questions before voting on each measure. SB 1497 would require larger school districts that operate self-insurance programs to obtain quotes for coverage and services at least every four years and to receive certain information from providers in advance. Supporters said the bill would increase competition, transparency, and cost savings for school employee health benefits; it passed 10-0. SB 1711 would direct the State Board of Education and ADE to compile and post age-appropriate resources on preventing and recognizing inappropriate contact, and to make those resources available to schools and families. Supporters framed it as a voluntary, parent-facing safety tool, while opponents argued it should include stronger evidence-based and trauma-informed requirements; it passed 7-3. SB 1798 would create a FAFSA awareness program recognizing schools that designate a FAFSA point person and promote financial aid completion. Supporters said it would help students access postsecondary funding, especially given Arizona’s low FAFSA completion rate and unclaimed federal aid; it passed 8-2. SB 1143 would require schools and districts to submit federal civil rights data to ADE and would require ADE to publish an annual school safety report. Supporters said it would improve transparency for parents, while opponents called it duplicative and raised privacy and scope concerns; it passed 7-3. SB 1684, as amended, would create a private cause of action against public schools for serious physical injury caused by bullying after a prior report and school negligence, with an amendment limiting the claim to bullying on school property or at school events and requiring written reports. The committee adopted the amendment and then passed the bill 6-3, after debate over litigation risk, school discipline, and whether the bill should also cover private schools. The committee also passed SB 1754, which would require ADE’s special education division to help complete incomplete complaints, post redacted complaint reports, and adopt related procedures; members emphasized transparency and privacy protections, and the bill passed 9-0 after an amendment extending the posting timeline and clarifying report contents. SB 1423, continuing the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education until 2036, passed 8-1, with one member objecting to the long sunset extension. Finally, SB 1763, dealing with school district “additional monies” funds and financial reporting, was discussed with an amendment to remove unemployment-compensation transfers and require board approval for expenditures, but the transcript cuts off before the final vote on that bill.

Transcript Highlights:

• your support of it because tell<00:48:39.280><c> you</c><00:48:39.359><c> what,</c><00:48:39.520><c>
• These funds could be used to support public education and advocacy about midwifery care and scope of
• </c> These funds could be used to support These funds could be used to support public<00:53:40.880><c
• </c><01:52:08.239><c> veteran</c> just because you're a disabled veteran just because you're a disabled
• We got some wealthy disabled taxes.

Transcript Highlights:

• And I'm asking you to join me, please, in supporting this bill.
• This committee already supported this bill last year, and I urge you to support it again.
• Please support HB 2594. Thank you, Jonas.
• And we support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including helping families navigate
• We support this bill and we urge its passage.

Bills: HB1796

Committee: Senate Early Learning & K-12 Education

Keywords: school construction, contract indebtedness, school districts, bonding authority, education funding

Transcript Highlights:

• Liaison support hospital staff by reviewing service plans and schedules in our aging and disability system
• and receive support.
• Are they in support? Association to support this because of the stuck people. Are they in support?
• Our mission is to provide home- and community-based support so that older adults and people with disabilities
• I am here to testify in support of H... I am here to testify in support of HB 1369 and S. 475.

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several aging-related bills, with most speakers focusing on housing stability, home-based services, and care transitions. Representative Badger and a commissioner testified in support of H4039, which would create a universal breakfast and lunch program at senior centers funded through a new Senior Breakfast and Lunch Fund, arguing it would reduce food insecurity and social isolation among older adults. Representative Lipper-Garabedian and multiple providers then supported H780/S495, the hospital-to-home partnership program, describing how embedded aging-services liaisons help older patients transition safely from hospitals to home, reduce readmissions, and avoid nursing facility placement; witnesses from Mystic Valley Elder Services and Mass Aging Access cited pilot results, including hundreds of patients served and examples of substantial cost savings and successful discharge planning. The committee also took testimony on S478, which would require continuing care retirement communities to disclose entrance-fee refund policies more clearly at enrollment. Senator Lovely and LeadingAge Massachusetts said the bill would improve transparency for residents and families, while a consumer witness said her family experienced delays and confusion in getting a refund after her mother left a CCRC. Members noted the issue is also being examined by a special commission on CCRCs. A large portion of the hearing focused on S475, a statewide bridge subsidy program for older adults facing housing instability. Advocates from the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless, Western Massachusetts, Somerville, Northampton, East Hampton, Old Colony Elder Services, and Somerville’s Office of Housing Stability described rising senior homelessness, long waitlists for subsidized housing, and cases where short-term rental assistance kept older adults housed while they waited for permanent housing. Somerville witnesses said the pilot program helped nine households remain housed and that some participants have since moved into permanent housing. Members asked about wait times, program design, and how to prioritize applicants; witnesses emphasized flexibility, emergency risk, and the need for a statewide expansion. The hearing also included testimony on S465, an ALS bill that would expand home care access regardless of age and bar the use of quality-adjusted life-year metrics in coverage decisions, with the sponsor and ALS Association arguing the measure would reduce discriminatory treatment and better center patient care. No votes were taken during the hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• I certainly fully support funding our Judiciary. Thank you. Support funding our Judiciary.
• support funding our Judiciary thank you support funding our Judiciary thank you Mr<00:39:18.400><c> sherber
• </c><01:21:16.760><c> of</c><01:21:16.960><c> the</c> investment and support of the investment and support
• <01:25:08.080><c> Community</c><01:25:08.719><c> Minnesota</c> disability Community Minnesota disability
• </c> to all of us and your continued support to all of us and your continued support and<01:33:06.480

Committee: Senate Judiciary and Public Safety

Transcript Highlights:

• supporting survivors of hate from Asian American, Black, Latinx, LGBTQ, disabled, and religious minority
• supporting survivors of hate from Asian-American, black, Latinx, LGBTQ, disabled, and religious minority
• so that they feel seen, heard, and supported.
• Strong support definitely matters.
• They were able to provide legal support and green card visa replacement fees to support this elderly

Committee: House Human Services

Transcript Highlights:

• We celebrate their advocacy and support for cancer patients in Kentucky.
• </c> more important than ever to support more important than ever to support efforts<00:19:08.640><c>
• Senate Bill 139, an act relating to disabled veterans. Senator Smith.
• </c> 139, an act relating to disabled 139, an act relating to disabled veterans.<00:24:54.159><c> Senator
• Department of Veterans Affairs disability compensation without offset.

Transcript Highlights:

• And so I want to join our senator here in support of SCR 170.
• Yes, I also rise in support.
• I rise in support of SCR 174.
• I rise in support of the resolution.
• I rise in support of the resolution.

Transcript Highlights:

• Chair, I'll be able to hold to waive our time in support. Thank you, waving in support.
• We are in support of SB 420.
• We are in support of SB 420.
• Chair, I would ask for the support.
• I support that.

Committee: Senate Community Affairs

Summary: The committee first heard SB 1134, which would extend the use of qualified private providers in the building permit process to residential solar energy systems and certain single-trade inspections, and would allow computer-based plan review tools. The sponsor said the bill is intended to reduce long solar permitting delays and lower costs. A late amendment clarifying the word “application” was adopted, and after some discussion about local permitting problems and the need to work with municipalities, CS/SB 1134 was reported favorably, with Senator Pizzo voting no. The committee then took up SB 784, dealing with issuance of addresses and parcel identification numbers for plats. The bill sets a 14-day timeframe, and an amendment was adopted that would allow use of a private provider if the deadline is missed and would limit fee collection if verification is not completed. Members discussed whether the bill should include more flexibility and whether private providers are appropriate for this function, but the committee ultimately reported CS/SB 784 favorably. SB 1738, allowing counties that previously opted out of transportation concurrency to opt back in while maintaining current levels of service, was also reported favorably without significant opposition. Next, SB 1080 on local government land regulation was presented as a measure to speed up development permit and order approvals, limit repeated information requests, prevent hearing delays, and impose penalties for noncompliance. Local government testimony argued it would rush planning and weaken public input, while supporters called it common-sense streamlining. After debate, the bill was reported favorably, with several no votes. SB 1260, which clarifies county constitutional officer budget procedures and creates an appeal process for clerks and supervisors of elections similar to that used by sheriffs, was also reported favorably after members raised concerns about county budget timelines. Finally, the committee considered SB 420, as amended by a strike-all, which would prohibit counties and municipalities from adopting or funding DEI-related ordinances, programs, or policies, while carving out compliance with state and federal law and defining DEI-related terms. The amendment removed retroactivity and delayed the effective date, but members from both parties raised concerns about vague definitions, impacts on women- and minority-owned business programs, local commemorations, and the loss of attorney’s fees for prevailing counties. Public testimony was sharply divided, with many speakers opposing the bill as an attack on local control and inclusion, and a few supporting it as a merit-based standard. The amendment was adopted, but the bill drew extensive opposition in debate and was not yet reported in the portion of the transcript provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• If you are permanently disabled, your life will not change.
• IF YOU ARE PERMANENTLY DISABLED&nbsp;&nbsp; 368 YOUR LIFE WILL NOT CHANGE.
• Significant steps to support families caring for medically fragile children in our state.
• TO ENGAGE WITH THEM TO SUPPORT TIMELY REVIEW&nbsp; AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THIS PART OF THE BILL.
• BUT THEY GIVE SUPPORT.&nbsp; 821 &gt;&gt; Chair: REPRESENTATIVE BARTLEMAN. &gt;&gt; Rep.

Summary: The Health Facilities Subcommittee met to receive implementation updates from the Agency for Health Care Administration on three bills passed in prior sessions. First, Deputy Secretary Brian Meyer reported on the transfer of the Children’s Medical Services managed care plan from the Department of Health to AHCA under HB 1085. He said the move was administrative only, with no change to enrollment, providers, services, or clinical eligibility functions, and that it was intended to create efficiencies by aligning procurement and shifting staff resources between agencies. Members then questioned AHCA about reports of reductions in private duty nursing and therapy services for medically fragile children, including concerns about appeals, provider credentialing, and whether families were losing services or being transitioned appropriately. AHCA said it was reviewing denials, monitoring the plan, and using contractual remedies while focusing on maintaining access for members. The committee also reviewed implementation of a bill creating permanent Medicaid eligibility for individuals with permanent disabilities. AHCA staff explained that the agency had submitted a federal 1115 waiver request after public comment and stakeholder meetings, but CMS had indicated it did not anticipate approving the requested authority. Members pressed AHCA on why the waiver was submitted later than the bill’s directive date and on whether the delay was avoidable. AHCA said the waiver was complex and required review, drafting, and public input, and noted that DCF already has a specialized unit to help with redeterminations while the agencies work on operational changes. The committee discussed the practical impact on families who struggle with annual eligibility renewals and the need for clearer communication and faster follow-up from the agency. Finally, AHCA presented on the home health aide program for medically fragile children and related Medicaid eligibility changes. The agency described the 2023 law that created a family caregiver provider type and the 2025 changes that increased the hourly rate, expanded hours, reduced training requirements, and removed caregiver earnings from Medicaid eligibility calculations, subject to federal approval. AHCA said it had completed state public comment, submitted the waiver amendment to CMS, and was awaiting federal action. Members raised concerns that some families may have enrolled or begun work before the eligibility fix was in place and may have lost benefits, especially in Broward County. AHCA said it would work with affected families and plans, review outreach through DCF and the health plans, and continue rulemaking, system updates, and provider training. The meeting ended with the chair noting that the committee had received the updates and adjourned without objection.

Transcript Highlights:

• me throughout my high that supported me throughout my high school<00:05:22.800><c> journey</c><00:05
• On behalf of all CTE students in Kentucky, I wish to thank you for your ongoing support of Career and
• specific or special learning disability specific or special learning<00:15:21.519><c> disability</c>
• disability specific learning disability<00:15:24.480><c> uh</c><00:15:24.600><c> to</c><00:15:24.800
• </c><00:58:46.760><c> that</c> but all the other data supports that but all the other data supports that

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several education bills and first received a presentation from Paige Cash of Kentucky FFA/Kentucky Association for Career and Technical Education. She described the reach of CTE in Kentucky, saying more than 143,000 secondary students are enrolled in CTE courses, and highlighted work-based learning, dual credit, industry certifications, and student organizations such as FFA, DECA, FCCLA, HOSA, TSA, and SkillsUSA. She said CTE funding has helped update lab equipment, support teacher training, fund field trips, and expand participation in career and technical student organizations. Representative Wilson presented House Bill 132, which would address home hospital instruction reimbursement in cases involving short stays, particularly mental health placements that are often under five days. He said schools continue providing instruction even when they are no longer reimbursed under current rules. The committee advanced the bill unanimously after a motion and second, with the measure passing with an expression of opinion that it should pass. The committee then heard House Bill 272 on dyslexia, sponsored by Representative Heavrin. The bill would require KDE to annually update the dyslexia toolkit, require local boards to adopt policies for identifying and assisting K-3 students with dyslexia, require KDE to report district implementation data to LRC, and require teacher preparation programs to include dyslexia instruction. Members discussed whether the bill would require teacher diagnoses, how it would interact with existing IEP/504 and RTI processes, and concerns about added reporting and district burden. Supporters said many students are falling through the cracks and that earlier identification is needed; Representative Willner noted a shortage of school psychologists. The committee passed HB 272 with a motion and second, though several members voted pass and explained concerns about reporting burdens, red tape, and district costs. Finally, the committee began hearing House Bill 193, a dual credit cleanup bill presented by Joe Carol Ellis of KHEAA. She said the bill would consolidate the statutes governing general education dual credit and CTE/work-ready dual credit scholarships to match current funding practice and reduce confusion for K-12 schools and postsecondary institutions. The presentation was underway when the transcript ended.

Transcript Highlights:

• And so I want to join our senator here in support of SCR 170.
• Yes, I also rise in support. Senator DeVosso. Yes, I also rise in support of the resolution.
• I rise in support of SCR 174.
• I rise in support of the resolution.
• I rise in support of the resolution. Thank you, Mr. President. I rise in support of the resolution.

Summary: The Senate met with a quorum present, opened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, and then spent much of the session on floor privileges and recognitions. Members welcomed a delegation from Catalonia on the 40th anniversary of the California-Catalonia sister-state relationship, Solano Community College’s speech and debate team, and several small business honorees, including Royal Clothiers and Old California Botanicals. The chamber also recognized Tennessee Rep. Justin Jones for his advocacy on democracy and voting rights, with multiple senators speaking in support of his visit. On business, the Senate confirmed Rick Simpson to the Commission on Teacher Credentialing and Laura Ederton Speed as Executive Director of the State Bar, both by unanimous 35-0 votes. The body adopted SCR 163 designating May as California Tourism Month, highlighting tourism’s economic impact, and SCR 170 declaring Firefighter Mental Health Awareness Week, with extensive testimony from senators about the trauma firefighters and first responders face and the need to reduce stigma and expand support. The Senate also adopted SCR 174 marking the 60th anniversary of California’s pilot regional centers for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, emphasizing the system’s role in community-based care. The Senate adopted SR 111 recognizing the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia, and Transphobia after extended debate focused on LGBTQ rights, hate violence, and the need for allies to speak out; the resolution passed 26-0. The chamber then approved a second-day consent calendar of multiple bills by 34-0, moved SCR 116 to the inactive file, granted reconsideration on SR 111 for a later session, and heard motions to adjourn in memory of Carl Anthony and Lupe Estrella. The Senate announced committee hearings and then adjourned to reconvene Monday, May 18, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> early learning early literacy support. early learning early literacy support.
• NHSAA supports early Association. NHSAA supports early childhood<00:52:01.119><c> education.
• </c> support services that are available. support services that are available.
• c> government supported organization government supported organization anyway?
• of support for it.

Summary: The committee heard testimony on SB 69, including a germane amendment about local school boards’ acceptance or rejection of gifts and donations and a non-germane amendment creating a virtual early childhood readiness family engagement program for preschool children not yet in kindergarten. Rep. Cordelli said the early literacy proposal was a modified version of an earlier kindergarten readiness bill, would rely on gifts and donations rather than state appropriations, and would include reporting requirements. Members questioned the shift from a broader technology program to an online-only model, the lack of detailed evaluation metrics, how long children would use the program, and whether it was appropriate for very young children. Cordelli said the change was intended to avoid government dependence and still allow the program to be offered next school year. Several members raised concerns about the gift-acceptance language on the underlying bill, including whether school boards would need to vote on small donations, whether gifts could be handled in blocks or at regular meetings, and how anonymous donations would work under right-to-know laws. Rep. Han noted that some gift discussions might belong in non-public session under RSA 91-A, while Rep. Cornell said acceptance or rejection of gifts could be handled at regular meetings and suggested a dollar threshold could be added later. The New Hampshire School Boards Association said it was not taking a position but wanted clearer guardrails, policy guidance, and clarification on timing, anonymity, and public-meeting requirements. Supporters of the early childhood program, including Waterford.org, said the proposal would provide an evidence-based, adaptive online literacy program with family engagement for four- and five-year-olds, and that it could help close early learning gaps. Waterford said it could work collaboratively with school districts and IEP teams, and that it would provide devices and internet access for families who need them. Committee members pressed on how the program would interact with existing special education services and whether districts could use it as part of an IEP; the response was that it would be supplementary and not an approved special education service. No votes were taken during the hearing; the chair indicated the committee would later executive the bills and try to get reports filed promptly.

Transcript Highlights:

• JRH7 is a joint resolution strongly supporting the existing U.S.
• JR7 joint resolution strongly supporting the existing U.S.
• </c> JR7 joint resolution strongly supporting JR7 joint resolution strongly supporting the<00:03:24.159
• </c> ask the support of the body. ask the support of the body.
• Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Department of Disabilities, Aging, and Independent<00:16:35.440