Transcript Highlights:

• I'm here on behalf of the Bay Area Council, one of the bill's supporters and sponsors.
• Don Kepke, on behalf of the California Council for Environmental and Economic Balance, and in respectful
• Today I have with me, Justine Chu Griffith, on behalf of the California Association of Student Councils
• My name is Justine Chu Griffith, serving with the California Association of Student Councils.
• I am here today in strong... ...serving with the California Association of Student Councils.

Summary: The Assembly Environmental Safety and Toxic Materials Committee heard three bills after beginning without a quorum and later establishing one. SB 328 would cap DTSC hazardous waste generation and handling fees for infill housing and master development projects and set response timelines for cleanup reviews. Supporters said the current fee structure has made some housing and remediation projects infeasible, while opponents warned that capping fees for one sector could shift costs to other hazardous waste generators. The committee discussed the need for broader DTSC fee reform, and SB 328 was approved on a 7-0 vote and sent to the Committee on Revenue and Taxation. SB 754 would require manufacturers of disposable menstrual products to test for and disclose concentrations of certain contaminants, with DTSC able to verify results and publish them. Supporters framed the bill as a transparency and public health measure, citing recent studies finding toxic metals in tampons and emphasizing consumer right-to-know. Opponents, including manufacturers and hygiene product groups, argued the bill adds duplicative testing, vague requirements, and public disclosure that could be misinterpreted, and urged amendments. The committee members generally supported the goal of transparency, and the bill passed 5-2 with not voting members, moving to Appropriations. SB 466 would provide temporary legal protections for public water systems that are complying with approved chromium-6 compliance plans while they work toward the new drinking water standard. Supporters from Los Banos, Coachella Valley Water District, and other water agencies said the measure would help avoid costly litigation during a lengthy and expensive compliance period, especially for systems dealing with naturally occurring chromium-6. Committee members raised concerns about limiting recourse for harmed individuals and discussed possible alternative language, but the author said the bill would not affect state enforcement authority. SB 466 passed 7-0 and was sent to the Committee on Judiciary. The committee also adopted a consent calendar of additional measures by voice vote.

Transcript Highlights:

• Third, families of individuals with developmental disabilities who sit on local care councils across
• care councils, ensuring that their recommendations inform state-level decision-makers.
• This was the key takeaway from the Family Care Council Area 4 Connecting the Dots Conference in December
• My Area 15 Council holds annual information sessions to the developmentally disabled community every
• So to hear those stories, and I know the councils you've set up are going to help, you know, facilitate

Summary: The committee met with a quorum present and heard six bills, all of which were reported favorably. HB 1567, relating to insulin administration by direct support professionals, was amended to clarify the type of insulin that may be administered and to allow supervision of self-administration of an insulin pen. Supporters described the bill as a way to keep people with developmental disabilities in group homes rather than forcing institutional placement; the amendment and bill both passed unanimously, 17-0. PCS for HB 1103, on services for persons with disabilities, would expand the APD managed care pilot statewide in phases, require more transparency on waitlist data, create a statewide family care council, and address transition services for young adults leaving foster care. Testimony was mixed: supporters emphasized the long APD waitlist and the need for a voluntary option, while some witnesses and members raised concerns about the accelerated rollout, limited data, and preserving consumer-directed care. The committee adopted the bill 17-0. CS for HB 127, on exceptional student education, would create micro-credentials and coordinate with the Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities and OSHA to support students with disabilities transitioning to work; it passed 17-0 after testimony from a parent and advocates. HB 989, concerning licensure of family foster homes, was amended to streamline license transfers for foster parents moving within Florida while maintaining oversight and directing DCF rulemaking. A teacher and other supporters said the bill would reduce bureaucracy and help children remain in stable homes; it passed 17-0. PCS for HB 1091, on substance abuse and mental health care, updates processes related to the 988 crisis line, methadone treatment needs assessments, and forensic evaluators, and adds data/reporting requirements for DCF managing entities. After one amendment and testimony from supporters and one opponent, it passed 16-0. Finally, HB 633, on behavioral health managing entities, was amended and then approved 17-0; it requires more structured data and reporting from managing entities to increase accountability and transparency in the behavioral health system.

Transcript Highlights:

• We don't have anybody on the town council. We don't have on the county council. That ain't right.
• We don't have anybody on the town council. We don't have on the county council. That ain't right.
• We don't have anybody on the town council. We don't have on the county council. That ain't right.
• We don't have anybody on the town council. We don't have on the county council. That ain't right.
• We don't have anybody on the town council. We don't have on the county council. That ain't right.

Keywords: House streaming session for Saturday, April 11, 2026, 957, house, all

Summary: The House convened with 122 members present, heard a prayer, and the Speaker urged members to remain respectful as difficult bills were expected later in the day. The chamber then moved through several ceremonial floor presentations honoring retiring members, including Delegate Barry S. Celebrity and Delegate Pam Queen, with resolutions read congratulating each on their years of service and lasting impact. The House also recognized an “interim birthday caucus” with a lighthearted resolution celebrating members born outside the session, followed by remarks and thanks from the Speaker and members. After the presentations, the House turned to business, including concurrence and nonconcurrence actions on Senate amendments. The chamber refused to concur in Senate amendments to House Bill 339 and House Bill 512, while House Bill 512 was then concurred in, read for final passage, and passed with 118 votes in favor and none opposed. The House also received messages indicating conference committees for several bills, including House Bills 107, 153, 769, 1063, and 1118. The House adopted favorable committee reports on a series of bills, sending many to third reading. These included measures on earned wage access, security guard certification renewal, county board and alcohol licensing matters, animal regulation, veteran status notation, procurement transparency, Public Information Act divorce records, election board qualifications, and a local sourcing database. During discussion of the local sourcing database bill, the minority whip asked whether business groups that had opposed the bill remained opposed after amendments; the floor leader explained the amended bill would require the Department of Commerce to create a searchable Maryland Local Sourcing Portal to connect businesses with local sources of tariff-impacted goods and services.

Transcript Highlights:

• And inspired me to run for city council.
• for advice when I was on city council for advice when I was on city council she<02:50:39.439>
• Was it from Westminster City Council.
• council person, councilwoman, counselor? council person, councilwoman, counselor?
• Uh, but council at that point in time.

Keywords: 981, all

Summary: The Senate opened with roll call, approval of the February 12, 2026 journal, and reports that several bills were correctly printed or engrossed. Committee reports then moved Senate Bills 7 and 31 from Health and Human Services, Senate Bills 53 and 54 from Local Government and Housing, and Senate Bill 43 from State, Veterans, and Military Affairs to the Committee of the Whole, with some measures recommended for the consent calendar. The chamber also announced substitute prime sponsors for Senate Bills 260008 and 2631 following Senator Michaelson Jenet’s resignation. The Senate then recessed to hold a memorial for former Senator Faith Winter and later voted to proceed out of order for memorials. Senate Joint Memorial 001, honoring Winter, was read at length and adopted. The memorial described her work on transportation, climate, paid family and medical leave, environmental justice, rural health care, and bipartisan legislation, and it was ordered sent to her family members. The Senate also suspended Rule 31A by a two-thirds vote so current and former House members could address the chamber from the well. Several members and family representatives offered remarks remembering Winter as a mentor, organizer, and coalition-builder. Speakers highlighted her advocacy for paid family leave, transportation funding, cleaner air, women’s leadership, and workplace accountability, as well as her personal warmth and support for colleagues and family. No additional legislative votes or bill actions were taken beyond the memorial adoption and procedural motions.

Transcript Highlights:

• all not wishing to speak, supporting Senate Bill 947: Emily Smith from the Michigan Environmental Council
• Conservation Voters; Jillian Latta from Ann Arbor; Abigail Hawley from the Tip of the Mitt Watershed Council
• all not wishing to speak in support of Senate Bill 627: Emily Smith from the Michigan Environmental Council
• In support of Senate Bill 627: Emily Smith from the Michigan Environmental Council; Dave Stevenson from
• to speak supporting the bill: Tony Massesso from ITC, Emily Smith from the Michigan Environmental Council

Summary: The Senate Committee on Energy and Environment met with 13 members present, approved the June 4, 2026 minutes, and took up Senate Bill 947, which concerns dam registration, inspections, and related enforcement. The committee discussed a substitute that made technical changes and implementation adjustments, including lower registration fees for counties with multiple dams, extending registration validity from five to ten years, allowing conditional permits, giving EGLE flexibility to modify deficiency schedules, and adding provisions related to inspection reports and low-hazard dam evaluations. Members also raised an unresolved issue involving FERC preemption and hydroelectric dams; the chair and EGLE said that issue would continue to be worked on, likely through the floor process. Public testimony cards were read in support from a range of environmental and policy groups and individuals. The committee adopted the S-1 substitute 13-0 and then reported SB 947 to the floor on an 8-3 vote with two passes. The committee then considered Senate Bill 627, which also had been heard previously. No additional questions were raised, and testimony cards were read in support from several organizations, including the Michigan Environmental Council, Sierra Club, the Michigan Conservative Energy Forum, and the Michigan League of Conservation Voters. The committee voted to report SB 627 to the floor with the recommendation that it pass, and the bill was reported on an 11-1 vote with one pass. Finally, the committee took testimony only on House Bill 4361, sponsored by Representative Green, which would direct the Public Service Commission to create a rule allowing utilities broader vegetation management within rights-of-way to improve grid reliability. Representative Green and Thumb Electric Cooperative’s Kevin Mazur testified that the bill would reduce outages, improve safety, and align statutory standards with existing utility practices. Several senators raised concerns that the language was too broad and could allow extensive tree removal, harming property owners, local control, tree canopy, and environmental and health interests; others said utilities already have similar authority and emphasized reliability and homeowner coordination. The committee did not take action on HB 4361 and adjourned after reading in testimony cards from utilities, environmental groups, and others both supporting and opposing the bill.

Transcript Highlights:

• likely complement and collaborate with the more private sector oriented Texas Artificial Intelligence Council
• This is the product of the Texas AI Council, which comprehensively studied AI technologies for potential
• Uh, R Repriglione and Senator Parker helped co-lead that council where the benefits of AI use in Texas
• Um, this bill, um, was kind of generated because of the AI advisory Council and the House Select Committee
• on Artificial intelligence, but more so the council.

Transcript Highlights:

• legislation, which passed in 2025, would add a critical responsibility to the State Senior Center Council
• In addition to their current duties, the council will be required to engage in statewide planning of
• This legislation is supported by the Statewide Senior Action Council and Livable New York.
• This legislation is supported by the Statewide Senior Action Council and Livable New York.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Aging Committee met on March 10, 2026, with a quorum present and considered 10 bills focused on services and supports for older New Yorkers. The agenda included measures on dementia information access through New York Connects (S.118A), expanded informal caregiver training (S.903), elder abuse prevention training (S.3180), creation of an Office of Older Adult Workforce Development (S.3750), state handling of income verification for the senior citizen tax exemption (S.4805), a filing extension for the enhanced STAR exemption (S.5069), language access services for senior and disability-related tax abatement programs (S.5280), and sustainability planning for senior centers (S.7160). Committee members and sponsors described these bills as recurring priorities that had passed in prior years, with several aimed at improving access, administration, and outreach. The committee also advanced S.9091, which would establish a state master plan on aging dashboard to improve transparency, accountability, and public tracking of implementation; supporters cited backing from the Statewide Senior Action Council and Livable New York. The final bill, S.9165, would require the Office for the Aging to issue an annual report on budget expenditures for the senior population, with the sponsor saying it would help identify whether resources are adequately reaching older adults across agencies. Several bills were noted as having previously passed the committee and/or floor, and one was described as having been vetoed in prior years despite agreement on the policy goal. All 10 bills were approved by the committee, with most reported to the floor and S.3750 reported to the Finance Committee. No opposition or substantive amendments were recorded during the meeting.

Transcript Highlights:

• Chair, I would, uh, make the motion to, uh, move the oral amendment as described by council.
• This amendment creates three dedicated funds, each guided by an advisory council.
• These councils serve as a dynamic, powerful advisory bridge.
• > you,<00:58:24.760> will These councils, working with you, will These councils, working
• Decision-making through councils.

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Uh, I've done some work over the years on MNC council reform.
• <00:29:19.200> We've<00:29:19.440> had years on mech council reform.
• We've had years on mech council reform.
• Um there is actually a advisory council.
• recent uh technical advisory council recent uh technical advisory council report<00:47:05.839>

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: The committee took up Senate File 856, a bill to create a statewide Office of Inspector General to combat fraud. Representative Norris presented a delete-everything amendment that would keep most of the Senate bill but add more emphasis on fraud prevention, fully fund the office, avoid duplicating work already done by the BCA’s financial crimes division, and preserve subject-matter expertise by keeping some existing inspectors general in their agencies. He said the amendment would retain strong investigative powers, including subpoenas, while using the BCA for arrests, and he acknowledged his original version was likely too broad, so he planned to offer smaller amendments if needed. Chair Nash and other members challenged the DE on both process and substance. Nash said the amendment had not been shared with key stakeholders, noted that the Senate author had publicly distanced herself from it, and pointed to a governor’s office document saying the administration wanted a different approach than the Senate bill. He argued the Senate bill was a bipartisan, bicameral product and said the committee should be careful about accuracy and process. Representative Davis questioned Norris about the claim that the Senate bill was underfunded and about the governor’s role in selecting the inspector general, arguing that the governor should not have broad control over the office. Norris responded that the Senate bill’s fiscal note estimated roughly $12 million for the biennium, but the bill appropriated less than that amount, and he said the Constitution requires the governor to appoint the inspector general if the office is in the executive branch. He said the DE tried to preserve independence through a bipartisan advisory commission, Senate confirmation, a five-year term, restrictions on partisan activity, and removal only for cause with a public hearing. After debate from several members, the committee held a roll call and the DE failed on a 7-7 tie, so it was not adopted.

Transcript Highlights:

• , National Panhel Helenic Council, National Panhel Helenic Council, otherwise<00:34:57.920> known
• And this bill idea comes directly from county commissioners, from city councils, from town managers,
• , from town managers, from councils, from town managers, from housing<01:19:14.800> authorities,
• <01:29:43.280> We're better than you, city councils.
• We're better than you, city councils.

Keywords: 981, all

Summary: The Senate convened with a quorum, approved the February 2, 2026 journal, and received committee reports. The Education Committee recommended Senate Bill 19 be amended and sent to the Committee of the Whole with a favorable recommendation, and also recommended confirmation of several appointments, including James JB Holston as Executive Director of the Department of Higher Education and two members of the Private Occupational School Board. The Judiciary Committee recommended Senate Bill 5 be amended and referred to Appropriations with a favorable recommendation. The chamber then moved out of order for resolutions and took up Senate Joint Resolution 7, recognizing February 2026 as Black History Month. The resolution was read at length and included extensive findings on Black history nationally and in Colorado, highlighting figures such as Barney Ford, Clara Brown, early Black legislators, and more recent Black civic and legislative leaders. Senator Exum said there were no additional comments and noted that remarks would be made later in the House. The resolution was adopted on a 33-0 vote, and the current roll call was added as co-sponsors. The Senate also considered Senate Bill 10 on the third-reading consent calendar, a bill clarifying definitions used in agricultural property taxation. It passed unanimously, 33-0. The body then took up Senate Bill 4, which would expand who may petition for an extreme risk protection order. Senator Sullivan and supporters framed it as a public safety measure, while Senator Minority Leader and Senator Zamora Wilson opposed it, arguing it could create administrative burdens, unintended consequences, constitutional concerns, and costs. The debate continued with extended opposition remarks, but the transcript ends before a final vote on SB 4 is shown.

Transcript Highlights:

• We have testimony from the Big Island Substance Abuse Council in support. Brian Baker, Dina Mala.
• Um, Hawaii County Council District 2, Council Member Kagiada in support.
• Um Hawaii County Council District 2, Um Hawaii County Council District 2, Council<01:01:06.319> Member
• <01:01:09.200> Um Council Member Kagiada in support.
• Um Council Member Kagiada in support.

Bills: SB2211, SB2025, SB2038, SB2050, SB2051, SB2090

Keywords: emergency funding, food assistance, healthcare, federal shutdown, Hawaii, DHS, jury duty, advanced practice registered nurses, physician assistants, exemption, patient care, financial hardship, medication abortion, anonymous prescription, pregnancy rights, healthcare privacy, pharmacy regulations, chiropractic education, clinical training, student supervision

Summary: The House Committee on Health held its first hearing of the session and opened with housekeeping notes, introductions of members, and an explanation that the agenda would be taken out of order to accommodate a sign language interpreter. The committee first heard HB 469, relating to parking for disabled persons. Testimony from the Disability and Communications Access Board and the State Council on Developmental Disabilities supported the bill, explaining that a travel placard would help people with disabilities who must travel interisland or to the mainland for medical care. Members asked about emergency travel, misuse prevention, and how to distinguish the travel placard from existing disabled parking placards; witnesses said the bill would need to be tied to administrative rules, and agreed the placard should clearly show an expiration date and likely be a different color. No vote was taken. The committee then heard HB 218, relating to hospital surgical smoke. The Department of Health supported the measure, and the Healthcare Association of Hawaii supported it with amendments, saying hospitals already follow existing standards but that any new policy should account for different procedures and provider safety. A committee member questioned the proposed amendment language and whether it was too flexible; the witness explained the intent was to allow case-by-case application because some procedures generate only brief exposure. Members also asked what surgical smoke is, and the witness explained it is produced when electrical or cauterizing tools are used on tissue and creates vapor or fumes. The bill remained under discussion with no final action reported. The committee next took up HB 814, which would fund a public information campaign and related services on cannabis use among youth. The Department of the Attorney General said the bill should be amended to clarify whether the funding would be used for contracts or grants and to include proper grant standards if grants are intended. The Department of Health supported the bill and said the funds would expand prevention, treatment, recovery, and public education efforts, including social media outreach, PSAs, and school-based youth services. Multiple organizations and individuals testified in support, emphasizing the harms of youth cannabis use and the need for prevention and treatment resources. Members asked what the department currently does, whether it is fulfilling existing law on science-based cannabis information, and what kinds of treatment would be provided; the department said services would mainly be intensive outpatient, outpatient, counseling, and related youth-focused supports. No vote was taken during the hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• and the Southern Ute Tribal Council and in connection therewith appointing a committee to escort the
• and the Southern Ute tribal council and the Southern Ute tribal<01:59:00.800> council<01:59:01.040
• and the Southern Ute Tribal Council on Friday, January 16th.
• Mountain Ute Tribal Council and the Southern Ute Indian Tribal Council on Friday, January 16th.
• Tribal Council and the Southern Ute Tribal Council, and in connection therewith appointing a committee

Keywords: 981, all

Summary: The House convened for the opening of the second regular session of the 75th General Assembly of the State of Colorado with ceremonial music, the presentation of colors by the Civil Air Patrol, the national anthem, and the Pledge of Allegiance. The chamber then handled organizational business, including appointing Vanessa Riley as chief clerk temporarily, establishing a quorum, and reading notices of resignations and vacancy appointments. The Committee on Credentials was appointed, met, and reported that Lori Goldstein and Kenny Van Wyn were properly appointed to fill vacancies in House Districts 29 and 33; the House adopted the report and both representatives-elect were sworn in. Afterward, the House appointed committees to notify the Senate and the governor that it was organized and ready for business, and later received those committees’ reports back in chamber. The House also received and read the full list of committee of reference and Joint Budget Committee assignments for the session. These included standing committees such as Appropriations, Education, Finance, Judiciary, Health and Human Services, Transportation, Housing, and Local Government, among others, along with the Joint Budget Committee membership. No substantive bills were debated or voted on in this transcript beyond the organizational motions and adoption of the credentials report. The remainder of the meeting consisted of opening-day remarks from House leadership. The Speaker and other members welcomed new and returning legislators, thanked staff and veterans, and noted recent losses and a moment of silence for those who had passed. The Speaker’s address focused on political violence, the state’s fiscal challenges, affordability, health care, housing, education, public lands, civil rights, and the need to lower costs while protecting prior policy gains. The session was framed as one in which the House would work on budget pressures, affordability, and continued investments in schools, health care, housing, and environmental protections.

Transcript Highlights:

• Chelsea Arnard, on behalf of the Hawaiian Bas of Species Council, um, we submitted testimony offering
• c><00:01:23.560> Bas<00:01:23.759> of<00:01:23.960> species<00:01:24.400> Council
• of the Hawaiian Bas of species Council of the Hawaiian Bas of species Council um<00:01:25.439>
• Um, I just want to highlight that the council was established as an autonomous form with the purpose
• <00:52:15.319> um the Hawaii invasive species Council um the Hawaii invasive species Council

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The joint hearing focused on a bill reorganizing Hawaiʻi’s biosecurity and invasive species framework, including moving or renaming responsibilities within the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity and clarifying the role of the Hawaiʻi Invasive Species Council (HISC). Testimony from the Hawaiian Invasive Species Council, DLNR, Oʻahu and Big Island invasive species committees, the Sierra Club, farmers, and community members generally agreed that invasive species management is critical, but many opposed consolidating HISC or broader biosecurity functions into a single department. Supporters of the existing interagency model emphasized HISC’s statewide coordination role, its links to DLNR and other agencies, and its ability to fill gaps with federal funding and cross-agency collaboration. Several testifiers raised concerns that the bill could weaken existing authority or create unintended legal and operational problems. The Sierra Club and others warned about possible interstate commerce issues, loss of authority to regulate movement of infested material within an island, and the need to preserve HISC as an independent or elevated coordinating body rather than placing it inside one agency. Community testimony described real-world impacts from little fire ants, coqui frogs, and landscaping-related introductions, and argued that the current system has produced service gaps and duplication when funding or responsibilities shift. One testifier also urged removing hemp movement reporting provisions, saying they do not aid biosecurity and should be treated like other crops. DLNR and Department of Agriculture representatives said they support the overall goal of stronger biosecurity but stressed that invasive species work is broader than agriculture alone. They noted that DOA, DLNR, and other partners each have different missions and capabilities, and that staff safety, terrain, and training matter when responding in remote areas. The department said it was recruiting for new positions, with some of the 44 funded positions still being finalized, and that implementation would require phased rulemaking, standards, training, and outreach. Members asked about the bill’s practical impact, staffing needs, and whether inspectors are prohibited from hiking; the department said no blanket prohibition exists, but staff use judgment based on safety and terrain. No vote or final action was taken in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:05:16.240> for from the Metropolitan Council for from the Metropolitan Council for Transit
• Whereas the current allocation, you can see on lines 134 and 135, is 83% Metropolitan Council and 17%
• <00:07:14.599> uh counties and the Metropolitan Council uh counties and the Metropolitan Council
• <00:07:21.520> and<00:07:21.639> 70% 135 um 83% Metropolitan Council and 70% 135 um
• allocation is 74% Metropolitan Council allocation is 74% Metropolitan Council and<00:07:27.720><

Keywords: 1183, house

Summary: The Minnesota House Transportation Finance and Policy Committee met on January 22, 2025, for its first meeting and took up House File 5, introduced by Representative Jim Joy and moved to the Tax Committee. Joy said the bill would make Minnesota more affordable by eliminating the Social Security tax, repealing the motor fuels tax inflator, removing the retail delivery fee, and changing vehicle-related taxes and metro-area sales tax allocations. Committee fiscal staff reviewed the bill’s fiscal effects, including impacts on the general fund, the Highway User Tax Distribution Fund, the Transportation Advancement Account, and the split between Metropolitan Council and metropolitan counties. Testimony was largely divided along stakeholder lines. The Minnesota Grocers Association and Minnesota Propane Association supported repealing the retail delivery fee, arguing it creates administrative burdens, requires costly software changes, and raises costs that are passed on to consumers; propane representatives said the fee is especially burdensome because most of their deliveries are exempt but still require tracking and reporting. In contrast, the League of Minnesota Cities, Minnesota Association of Small Cities, Metro Cities, and Minnesota Association of Townships emphasized the need for stable, predictable transportation funding for local roads and said they support the Transportation Advancement Account and related revenue streams, though some were neutral on the exact source of funding. The League and small cities groups said local governments need reliable annual revenue and that past funding has been inconsistent. Committee members asked about who pays the delivery fee, its exemptions, and how much revenue it has generated versus earlier forecasts. Fiscal staff said current estimates for delivery fee revenue are below original projections, and explained the fee’s exemptions and $100 transaction threshold. Representative Joy said his intent was to keep small cities and townships whole as the bill moves forward. No vote was taken in the portion of the meeting provided; the bill was heard and referred as noted at the outset.

Transcript Highlights:

• Judy Yee with the State Building and Construction Trades Council in support. Thank you.
• Judy Yee with the State Building and Construction Traves Council in support. Thank you.
• How does the mayor or council member understand what that means?
• There aren't 36,000 people... ...or a council member understand what that means?
• of Mayors and Council Members, in strong support.

Summary: The committee began as a subcommittee due to the lack of a quorum and heard several privacy- and technology-related measures. The first item was H.R. 117, a resolution urging Congress to reform Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. The author and supporters argued the law is outdated and shields platforms from accountability for harms such as harassment, exploitation, scams, and other online abuse. Witnesses, including a survivor parent and a gender justice advocate, described harms to children, women, and LGBTQ people and urged a two-year sunset to force federal reform. Some members supported the resolution as a call for federal action, while one member said he could not support it because the resolution was too general and lacked specificity about the reforms being sought. No vote was taken because the committee lacked a quorum. The committee then heard SB 898, which would require manufacturers of connected consumer products to disclose how long they will support the software and to notify consumers when products approach end of life. The author said consumers deserve transparency about security updates and continued functionality, and supporters from Consumer Reports and PIRG emphasized cybersecurity risks, consumer confusion, and electronic waste from unsupported devices. Opponents, including business and industry groups, raised concerns about enforcement through the unfair competition law, notice burdens, labeling issues, and compliance challenges, especially for products with long support windows or third-party dependencies. One member expressed support, noting the cybersecurity risks of end-of-life devices, but again no vote was taken because there was no quorum. The committee also heard SB 435, which would narrow the CCPA definition of publicly available information to limit how businesses classify data as public. The author and supporters said the bill would close a loophole that allows data brokers and others to monetize personal information without meaningful consent and could help prevent surveillance and misuse of data, including by government agencies. Opponents argued the bill would upset the balance between privacy and the free flow of information, create compliance uncertainty, and retroactively reclassify information that businesses reasonably believed was public. Some members said they supported the goal of stronger privacy protections, while others said the bill was too broad. The committee again could not vote due to the lack of a quorum. Later, the committee heard SB 923, which would expand Californians’ right to delete personal information to cover data obtained from third parties and require online businesses to offer a web form or similar method for deletion requests. Supporters, including the California Privacy Protection Agency and consumer advocates, said the bill would make deletion rights meaningful and better address data broker practices. Opponents sought an opt-out-of-processing alternative and raised operational and legal concerns, but supporters said deletion is not the same as retention or processing limits. Members largely spoke in favor of the bill’s privacy goals, but no action was taken. The committee also heard SB 947, the “No Robo Bosses Act,” which would require human review for certain automated employment decisions and limit predictive analysis in workplace discipline and termination. Labor groups supported the bill as a safeguard against biased or erroneous AI-driven decisions, while business, public employer, and local government groups opposed it as overbroad and burdensome. Members voiced support for human oversight in employment decisions, but the item was not voted on because the committee still lacked a quorum. Finally, the committee began hearing SB 1114, the SOGI Data Privacy Act, which would restrict disclosure of sexual orientation, gender identity, and intersex data to federal agencies absent a court order or legal requirement; the author and witness framed it as a response to federal efforts to obtain sensitive LGBTQ-related data.

Transcript Highlights:

• And it's ironic because I've seen the news lately with the Quebec councils coming down and meeting.
• these bills, along with the American Chemistry Council and other industry players, showing just how
• I'm in my third term on the Newton City Council.
• I'm speaking here as an individual, not on behalf of the whole City Council, although I am one of 10
• I'm in my third term on the Newton City Council.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight heard testimony on several procurement-related bills. Senator Lovely and steel industry witnesses supported S. 2167/H. 3411, which would require preference for U.S. manufacturers on public construction projects using steel and other materials. They argued that Canadian and other foreign fabricators underbid Massachusetts firms because of exchange rates, subsidies, and different labor-cost structures, causing local job losses and economic leakage. Committee members asked about tariffs, market share, and whether the bill should be folded into broader municipal legislation; the witnesses said public work should stay in Massachusetts and that the bill would help preserve local industry and jobs. The committee also heard strong support for S. 2107, a bill to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities in state and municipal contracting. Work Inc. testified that a preference for contractors employing people with disabilities would expand competitive employment, reduce reliance on public assistance, and generate net savings for taxpayers. Members asked about the estimated savings and whether recent federal changes to benefits would affect the numbers; the witness said the figures may need updating but that the underlying employment opportunity remains important. Another bill, H. 3339/S. 2187, would prohibit state and municipal contracts for new artificial turf fields containing zinc, plastic, or intentionally added PFAS. Sponsors and supporters cited health risks, heat retention, injuries, and PFAS contamination, while committee members discussed local bans, disposal problems, and whether indoor facilities or alternative materials could be used. Inspector General Jeffrey Shapiro testified in favor of H. 12 and H. 13, which would update Chapter 30B procurement thresholds and allow municipalities to bundle snow hauling and removal with plowing contracts. He said the changes would give local governments more flexibility, reduce confusion between school and municipal procurement rules, and make snow contracts more attractive to vendors. Members questioned whether quasi-public agencies and state entities should also be subject to 30B, and Shapiro said many public entities have their own procedures but that transparency and fairness should apply across the board. The committee also heard support for S. 2150, a software licensing bill aimed at preventing vendor lock-in by ensuring state agencies can run purchased software in the infrastructure that best fits their needs; the witness said restrictive licensing can drive up costs and create cybersecurity and modernization problems, and that similar laws have already passed in several other states.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm with the Damage Prevention Council of Texas. representing them as a board member today.
• Our councils bring together a variety of stakeholders. the various stakeholders Mr.
• Texas, West Division of the Damage Prevention Council.
• We also work very closely with the Damage Prevention Council.
• Councils.

Keywords: 1184, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• I spent a lot of time at city council, representative, City Representative: So the beauty of the model
• This is a joint presentation between Council Services staff and LFC staff.
• And we were down for our advisory council meeting in Hobbs.
• This division also supports our Early Childhood Education and Care Advisory Council.
• And the second part is, do any of these council members come with fund development expertise?

Transcript Highlights:

• ,<00:28:58.240> Scott Tobacree Hawaii Youth Council, Scott Tobacree Hawaii Youth Council,
• Council Member Yuki Lee Sugura in support. Brian Miamoto, Hawaii Farm Bureau, in support.
• Next, Mental Health Hawaii State Council in support.
• Hawaii State Council on Developmental Disabilities and Support. Thank you very much.
• Council on Mental Health in support. Council on Mental Health in support.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The joint Health, Human Services, and Higher Education hearing took up HB 441 HD2, a measure to increase cigarette taxes and dedicate the revenue to the University of Hawaii Cancer Center. The Department of Taxation said it had no substantive objection but requested an effective date of January 1, 2026 if tax rates change so it can order new stamps. The Department of Health, the Deputy Attorney General/tobacco enforcement, the University of Hawaii Cancer Center, the Hawaii Public Health Institute, the American Cancer Society, the Hawaii Medical Association, and several other health organizations and youth advocates supported the bill, arguing that higher cigarette prices reduce youth initiation, encourage cessation, and help fund cancer research and care. Several supporters asked for a larger increase, including at least $1 per pack, while opponents from retail, wholesale, and tobacco-related groups argued the tax would be regressive, burden low-income smokers, and drive sales to the illicit market. The Tax Foundation and other opponents also criticized reliance on sin taxes and said smoking rates are already at historic lows. After testimony and questions, members discussed how the revenue should be used and whether higher taxes change smoker behavior or push people toward vaping or other alternatives. The chairs announced they would pass HB 441 HD2 with amendments, replacing the contents with SB 528 SD1 except for changes reflecting the Department of Taxation’s request and a provision directing all proceeds from the tax increase to the Hawaii Cancer Center’s debt reduction, with an effective date of December 31, 2025. The House Health, Human Services, and Higher Education committees then voted to adopt the recommendation; the Health, Human Services committee vote was adopted with Chair and several members voting aye and one member voting no in the Higher Education committee vote. The hearing also briefly covered HB 1334 on meat donation, which drew support from the Department of Agriculture, Hawaii Farm Bureau, food industry, and community groups, though no action was taken in the excerpt. The committee then heard HB 1098 on crimes against protective services workers. The Honolulu Prosecutor’s Office and Honolulu Police Department supported the bill, saying assaults on protective services workers can have chilling effects and deserve stronger deterrence; a committee question raised whether the bill should instead be part of a broader, more proactive approach to assault statutes. The Department of Human Services also described safety steps such as panic buttons and phone apps for social workers. The excerpt ends before any final vote on HB 1098.

Transcript Highlights:

• Who will give the direction is the county councils.
• c> who will give the direction is the who will give the direction is the county<00:15:09.880> councils
• so so the way as as you county councils so so the way as as you read<00:15:12.800> it<00:15:13.199
• <00:20:41.360> or<00:20:41.559> the Mayors or the city councils or the Mayors or the
• city councils or the county<00:20:42.240> councils<00:20:43.240> and<00:20:43.480>

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committee reconvened for decision-making on measures previously heard on February 6, 2025. Senate Bill 1513 was deferred indefinitely based on the testimony and issues raised. Senate Bill 786 was also deferred indefinitely and set aside for interim work on a proposed SD1 that could address the concerns discussed and incorporate ongoing federal changes. Senate Bill 1031 was amended and advanced as a Senate WAP 1; the amended version would allow the legislature to adopt non-binding advisory referendum questions only for general obligation bond proposals, require 30 days’ notice, require the legislature to consider the results, and require a written explanation if the final legislative action opposes the majority vote. The committee also set a far-future effective date and noted that any further review should examine opposition concerns and the fiscal, administrative, and legal implications of the proposal. The measure passed on a yes vote from the vice chair and supporting members, with one member excused. In the joint Government Operations and Water and Land hearing, Senate Bill 411, relating to capital improvement projects for boating and ocean recreation, drew support from the Department of Boating and Ocean Recreation and several written supporters, while Budget and Finance opposed it and the Deputy Attorney General warned it could be challenged because it implied funding without an appropriation. The chair recommended moving the bill with amendments and a defective date, and both committees adopted the recommendation to pass SB 411 with amendments. Senate Bill 1103, relating to community districts, generated substantial discussion and was ultimately recommended for deferral. Testimony raised constitutional and special fund concerns, while the Hawaii Community Development Authority supported the concept but suggested major changes, including clearer governance language, a dedicated staff position, and funding. Members debated whether elected boards would undermine county planning authority and whether the concept was more suitable for Oahu or the Neighbor Islands. Senate Bill 1308, relating to plans, was presented as an administration bill and supported by DAGS. The bill would remove outdated filing requirements, update fee schedules, give DAGS more discretion over plan format, and update drawing scales. A member asked whether it could help replace survey monuments lost in the Lahaina wildfire cleanup; DAGS said it would not directly replace monuments but could help with future mapping and surveying. The chair indicated the committee would note the monument issue in the report and work on technical cleanup language, with the measure moving forward subject to those amendments.