Transcript Highlights:

• 35.720><c> typec><00:15:35.920><c> ofc><00:15:36.079><c> granteec><00:15:36.720><c> toc><00:15
• :37.000><c> helpc><00:15:37.279><c> agenciesc> each type of grantee to help agencies each type of
• c><00:49:04.400><c> sitsc><00:49:04.760><c> squarelyc> type of type of work which sits squarely
• type of type of work which sits squarely in<00:49:05.559><c> thec><00:49:05.760><c> internalc><00
• :15:09.280><c> thatc><01:15:09.480><c> typec><01:15:09.639><c> ofc><01:15:09.800><c> thingc><

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• thatc><00:16:14.079><c> typec><00:16:14.240><c> ofc><00:16:14.399><c> stuffc><00:16:14.720><
• c> asc><00:16:14.959><c> thatc><00:16:15.199><c> goesc><00:16:15.920><c> upc> And that type of
• <c> anyc><00:18:35.200><c> softc><00:18:35.520><c> skillsc><00:18:36.000><c> typec> >>
• at all<00:50:39.920><c> costsc><00:50:40.240><c> typec><00:50:40.480><c> ofc><00:50:40.640><c>
• schools,c><00:50:41.280><c> butc><00:50:41.520><c> atc><00:50:41.760><c> thec> all costs type

Keywords: Meeting Start 00:00:00 Call to Order and Roll Call 00:00:28 Kentucky Recovery Vocational: Workforce Reimagined 00:01:31 Update on College Athletics and 25RS SB 3 00:24:39 Goodwill Kentucky Excel Center 01:09:53, 958, all

Summary: The committee first heard a presentation from Kentucky Recovery Vocational Workforce and Re-entry Incorporated, led by Executive Director Jerick D'vor, on its vocational training model for people in recovery and formerly incarcerated individuals. He said the nonprofit operates in Russell Springs and serves students from across Kentucky, offering manufacturing and welding training tied to recovery services through Spark Recovery. D'vor emphasized that the program combines treatment, soft-skills coaching, job placement, and continued support after employment, arguing that training should begin around 90 days into recovery rather than earlier. He reported strong outcomes, including 292 students served, 259 certificates earned, and 250 job placements, with many participants placed in manufacturing jobs and 17 welders trained and placed through the new welding academy. Members praised the program but asked about funding, retention, and employability barriers. D'vor said the pilot was supported by opioid abatement grant funding, and the program now relies mainly on donor contributions and Spark Recovery’s investment in clients, with possible future support from additional opioid abatement funds or 1915(i) mechanisms. He said participants are not charged tuition and that the organization provides soft-skills training and job coaches. In response to questions about long-term outcomes, he said the program does not yet have a full alumni tracking system but is exploring technology options and continues to provide post-employment support for 90 days. After approving the committee minutes, members received an update on college athletics and Senate Bill 3 from University of Louisville Athletic Director Josh Heird and University of Kentucky Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart. They said Kentucky’s NIL framework and reporting requirements are working reasonably well and praised the state for not trying to create a competitive advantage in the evolving college sports environment. Heird reported that 521 student-athletes have signed up for NILGO and about 240 deals have been approved through the system, while noting the need to ensure NIL agreements are legitimate marketplace deals rather than artificial payments. The discussion also touched on the House settlement, the $600 approval threshold, and broader federal changes affecting college athletics.

Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:10:02.560><c> Soc><00:10:02.959><c> thankc><00:10:03.120><c> youc><00:10:03.200><c> for
• c> wec><00:10:37.600><c> hearc><00:10:37.839><c> fromc><00:10:38.399><c> umc><00:10:38.560><c
• be receiving different types<00:22:19.840><c> ofc> types of types of >> Yes.<00:22:20.960><c>
• typesc><00:40:42.079><c> ofc><00:40:42.240><c> offenses.
• c><00:40:42.880><c> However,c><00:40:43.280><c> thec> these types of offenses.

Bills: HB1546

Keywords: Medicaid, health insurance, healthcare access, insurance subsidies, pilot program, affordable care, preventive services, low-income, community engagement, 910, house, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on HB 2083, which would add homeless shelters to Hawaii’s drug-free/safe-zone protections. The City and County prosecutor’s office strongly supported the bill, saying service providers asked for the change because drug activity near shelters can undermine recovery efforts. The Office of the Public Defender opposed the measure, focusing on a possible notice problem because many shelters are not readily identifiable and the bill’s 750-foot distance requirement could be difficult to apply. The Drug Policy Forum of Hawaii also opposed the bill, arguing it would expand criminalization of poverty and drug use and that drug-free zone laws are ineffective and disproportionately harmful. The prosecutor’s office said it would do more research on the notice concern. The committee then moved on without taking a vote in the transcript provided. The committee next discussed HB 2087, which would change the treatment of abuse of family or household member cases by ending the deferred-acceptance pilot and returning to the prior statute. The prosecutor’s office supported the bill, saying the pilot had not reduced backlog as intended and that domestic violence cases should remain petty misdemeanors without deferral. The Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence and the Public Defender’s Office both opposed HB 2087, instead urging extension of the pilot for another five years so the legislature can better evaluate how deferred acceptance is working. They said deferrals can be a useful incentive for behavior change and that more data is needed before ending the program. Committee members questioned the prosecutor about why Hawaii should differ from other counties and whether repeat offenders could keep receiving deferrals; the prosecutor said the deferral is available only once and reiterated support for returning to the old statute. The committee then heard HB 2096 on aggravated circumstances in child protective proceedings. The family court and Attorney General’s Office supported the bill, saying current law limits aggravated-circumstances findings to the early return hearing, which can prevent findings in the most serious abuse cases when key evidence is not yet available. They said the bill would allow such findings later in the case and, with proposed amendments, would let the court consolidate aggravated-circumstances and termination-of-parental-rights hearings to reduce delay and appeals. The Libertarian Party of Hawaii opposed the measure, arguing it would expand state power in family matters and could worsen outcomes for parents and children. Committee questions focused on the amended language, including what “another court of competent jurisdiction” means and whether a charge alone would be enough; the judiciary responded that criminal courts are included, but a hearing and opportunity to defend would still be required. Finally, the committee took up HB 1959, another domestic violence measure. The Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence, the Public Defender’s Office, the Crime Victim Compensation Commission, the Hawaii State Commission on the Status of Women, and county prosecuting offices testified in support. Supporters said the bill would extend the pilot program while keeping deferred acceptance of guilty pleas in place, giving more time to evaluate whether the program is working and whether a more formal diversion model should be developed. The coalition also suggested technical fixes to ensure judiciary data reporting continues and that the deferred-acceptance statute is not inadvertently repealed. No vote or final action was taken in the transcript before the committee moved on to the next bill.

Transcript Highlights:

• <c> Ic><00:05:10.000><c> thinkc><00:05:10.160><c> wec><00:05:10.400><c> ranc><00:05:10.720><c
• :15:01.519><c> typec><00:15:01.760><c> ofc> that type of that type of um<00:15:03.600><c> revenue
• > typec> but they may have also have another type but they may have also have another type of<00:53
• > fuelc><01:10:14.560><c> types.
• c> and all fuel types.

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• /c><00:28:10.960><c> differentc><00:28:11.200><c> typesc><00:28:11.520><c> ofc> We offer a number
• of different types of We offer a number of different types of services<00:28:12.320><c> suchc><00:
• ><c> thec><00:46:03.040><c> differentc><00:46:03.280><c> typesc><00:46:03.520><c> ofc><00:46:
• 59:40.799><c> thec><00:59:41.040><c> thec><00:59:41.440><c> typec><00:59:41.599><c> ofc><00:59
• :41.839><c> reviewc><00:59:42.240><c> wec><00:59:42.480><c> havec> awards, the the type of review

Keywords: 1183, house

Summary: The Education Finance Committee met on March 3, 2026, approved the minutes from February 26, and then held a lengthy informational hearing on the Minnesota Department of Education’s funding and internal allocation of resources. House fiscal staff walked members through several spreadsheets showing federal, non-general fund, and general fund administrative spending, noting the data was filtered from SWIFT and was not exact. The chair said the discussion was intended to help members understand how MDE is funded and how those funds are used internally, in advance of later budget decisions and a separate upcoming hearing on the Perpich Center. Commissioner Willie Jett opened by describing MDE’s mission, statewide reach, and FY 2026 budget of about $14.1 billion, most of which flows directly to districts and charter schools for instruction, special education, transportation, nutrition, and operations. He emphasized transparency, accountability, and the department’s role in implementing laws, distributing aid, and supporting schools and students across urban, suburban, and rural communities. He also noted the department serves more than 873,000 pre-K through 12 students in 2,264 schools. Deputy Commissioner Maren Holden outlined the Office of American Indian Education, the Office of General Counsel, and the Office of Inspector General, highlighting support for American Indian students, legal and rulemaking work, special education dispute resolution, fraud prevention, and student maltreatment investigations. Assistant Commissioner Dr. McCari Traum described the Office of Equity and Engagement, including equity and inclusion training, safe and supportive schools work, public engagement, family outreach, and fraud-prevention coordination. Assistant Commissioner Darren Cordy reviewed nutrition programs, special education services, and the charter center, including free school meals, commodity food distribution, IDEA compliance, and charter school support. Assistant Commissioner Bobby Bernham then described the Office of Teaching and Learning, including early education, academic standards, instruction and assessment, state library services, expanded learning, and literacy work. He highlighted early childhood alignment efforts, standards development across core subjects, professional learning, and library grants. No votes were taken beyond approval of the prior minutes, and the meeting remained informational, with members expected to ask questions after the presentations.

Transcript Highlights:

• :39.120><c> typec><00:21:39.360><c> ofc> favorable administration to this type of favorable administration
• to this type of project.<00:21:40.240><c> Two,c><00:21:40.640><c> we'vec><00:21:40.880><c> got
• ><c> ac><01:10:07.120><c> standardizedc><01:10:07.840><c> typec><01:10:08.239><c> questionnaire
• :19:29.040><c> eitherc><01:19:29.360><c> inc><01:19:30.159><c> somec><01:19:30.400><c> typec>
• <01:19:30.640><c> ofc> of this body either in some type of of this body either in some type of forest

Keywords: 916, all

Transcript Highlights:

• that this would exempt a<00:41:32.000><c> certainc><00:41:32.400><c> typec><00:41:32.640><c> of<
• 59:05.520><c> allc><00:59:05.680><c> thec><00:59:05.839><c> providerc><00:59:06.240><c> types
• c><00:59:06.480><c> thatc><00:59:06.640><c> arec> for all the provider types that are for all the
• provider types that are subject<00:59:06.960><c> toc><00:59:07.119><c> thesec><00:59:07.359><c>
• c><02:00:22.560><c> Evenc><02:00:22.880><c> then,c><02:00:23.199><c> thec> type of remediation

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:47:24.000><c> that'sc><00:47:24.160><c> thec><00:47:24.319><c> typec><00:47:24.480><c>
• > carec><00:51:32.800><c> uhc><00:51:33.040><c> otherc><00:51:33.599><c> typesc><00:51:33.839
• ><c> ofc> provided by other care uh other types of provided by other care uh other types of healthcare
• surgery, that are some of these other<00:51:56.000><c> typesc><00:51:56.240><c> ofc><00:51:56.319
• types of benefits to help manage other types of benefits to help manage their<00:51:57.520><c> pain<

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The committee first heard testimony on House Bill 1042, which would increase the BFA contingent credit limit. State Treasurer Monica Misipelli explained that under RSA 66, state debt capacity is tied to unrestricted revenue and that guaranteed debt counts in the calculation even though it is contingent rather than direct debt. She said the state currently has about 4.2% to 4.3% debt-to-revenue ratio, about $120 million in additional capacity, and that approving the bill’s proposed increase would reduce available capacity for future state borrowing, including capital budgets. She noted the BFA has a long history of using guarantees without a state payout, but said the legislature should consider whether the full additional $250 million is needed and whether unused guarantee authorizations, such as one for the Pease Development Authority, should be reviewed in the future. Committee members asked whether guarantees have the same effect as actual debt for bonding capacity, and the treasurer confirmed that they do for purposes of the formula. Members also asked about the usual level of debt relative to the statutory 10% cap, and she said the state generally stays well below that limit. BFA Executive Director James Key Wallace then testified that the request was driven by rising project costs, inflation, and the need for more runway so the agency does not have to return to the legislature in an emergency. He said the BFA is self-supported, has never had a guarantee paid out by the state, requires collateral and reserves, and believes the appropriate range is closer to $400 million to $450 million; he also said a Senate bill would raise the limit to $400 million. He added that the BFA’s pipeline includes projects from about $15 million to $100 million and that housing availability is an important factor in business location decisions. After closing the work session on House Bill 1042, the committee opened House Bill 241, a bill on health insurance coverage for pain management services for chronic pain. Representative Dave Nagel, the prime sponsor, gave extensive background on his long career in pain medicine and said the bill is intended to improve access to non-opioid therapies and evidence-based pain management. He described the broad population affected by chronic pain and opioid use disorder, and said the proposal has long had bipartisan and stakeholder support. No vote or final action was taken on House Bill 241 in the portion of the meeting provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:05:09.320><c> typesc><00:05:09.640><c> ofc><00:05:09.760><c> data,c> they collect certain types
• To<00:32:16.400><c> engagec><00:32:16.720><c> inc><00:32:16.800><c> thec><00:32:16.880><c> type
• c><00:32:17.120><c> ofc><00:32:17.200><c> surveillancec> To engage in the type of surveillance
• To engage in the type of surveillance pricing<00:32:18.360><c> andc><00:32:18.560><c> real-timec>
• ><01:34:13.040><c> algorithmicc><01:34:13.520><c> pricingc><01:34:13.920><c> withoutc> types of

Bills: HF3794, HF3408

Keywords: surveillance, price discrimination, wage discrimination, automated decision systems, consumer protections, data privacy, biometrics, consumer protection, price setting, biometric data, retail, privacy, 1183, house

Summary: The committee first approved the minutes from March 3, 2026, and then received a presentation from the Minnesota Office of the Attorney General on the Minnesota Consumer Data Privacy Act. Assistant Attorney General Caitlin Miko and Deputy Attorney General Jessica Whitney reviewed the law’s scope, consumer rights, business obligations, and enforcement history. They said the law took effect July 31, 2025, gives Minnesotans rights to access, delete, and opt out of sale, profiling, and targeted advertising, and is enforced by the Attorney General with penalties up to $7,500 per violation. They reported more than 200 complaints in the first six months, many warning letters, and a shift from education to active enforcement now that the initial warning-letter period has expired. Committee members asked about how the universal opt-out works, what happens when companies deny deletion or editing requests, how the office determines willful noncompliance, and whether the law could burden small businesses. The AG’s office said the opt-out can be set through privacy-protective browsers or extensions, companies must respond to consumer requests within 45 days, small businesses are exempt as defined by the SBA, and investigations look for patterns and evidence of willful conduct rather than minor technical violations. The office also said it needs additional funding to fully staff enforcement efforts and noted that it has already issued subpoenas and civil investigative demands. The committee then took up House File 3408, the Stop Grocery Surveillance Price Gouging Act. The author explained that the bill would prohibit retail grocers, physical and online, from setting individualized prices based on consumer information, would limit certain uses of facial recognition and electronic shelf labels, and would preserve narrow exceptions for discounts and loyalty programs. Public testimony followed from the Minnesota Farmers Union in support, arguing that grocery consolidation and surveillance pricing could worsen already high food costs and harm fair competition. The Minnesota Grocers Association opposed the premise that grocery stores use surveillance pricing, said shelf prices are generally uniform and set from a single storewide database, and argued electronic shelf labels are efficient and not nefarious. A technology company representative similarly said ESLs do not use personal data or facial recognition, prices are uniform, and a 2025 study found no meaningful price increases after ESL adoption. The bill was laid over for possible further discussion after the testimony.

Transcript Highlights:

• 08.400><c> closec><00:04:08.560><c> itc><00:04:08.720><c> andc><00:04:08.799><c> thatc><00:04
• appreciatedc><01:21:36.159><c> thisc><01:21:36.640><c> typec><01:21:36.880><c> ofc><01:21:36.960
• ><c> ac> people appreciated this type of a people appreciated this type of a schedule<01:21:37.600>
• community and work in these to go in the community and work in these various<01:22:25.120><c> typec
• c><01:22:27.600><c> andc> various type of technical uh skills and various type of technical uh skills

Keywords: 916, all

Transcript Highlights:

• of knowledge against<00:50:47.760><c> thisc><00:50:48.000><c> typec><00:50:48.160><c> ofc><00:
• it up for revenue generation uh<01:26:20.719><c> forc><01:26:20.960><c> anyc><01:26:21.120><c> type
• c> uh for any type of profit or anything uh for any type of profit or anything like<01:26:22.480><c
• 01:26:24.800><c> hands-onc><01:26:25.360><c> typec><01:26:25.520><c> ofc> students with this hands-on
• type of students with this hands-on type of training<01:26:26.159><c> andc><01:26:26.400><c> real<

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committees heard testimony on HB 1872, which would create an early learning apprenticeship grant program to help early childhood providers participate in approved apprenticeship programs, require annual reporting, and appropriate funds. Testifiers in support included the University of Hawaiʻi, the Executive Office on Early Learning, the City and County of Honolulu, Commit to Keiki, the Chamber of Commerce Hawaiʻi, the Commission on the Status of Women, Hawaiʻi Children’s Action Network Speaks, Parents for Public Schools of Hawaiʻi, and Kīʻoka Family Learning Centers. Supporters said the bill would reduce financial barriers, strengthen recruitment and retention, improve compensation and career pathways, and help address child care shortages and workforce instability. The committee then voted to pass HB 1872 with amendments, including an HD1 and a defective date to allow further discussion. The committee next took up HB 2489, which would appropriate funds for the University of Hawaiʻi to establish a bachelor’s degree program in American Sign Language interpretation, with a longer-term plan for a master’s program. Testimony in support came from the Disability Communication Access Board and the University of Hawaiʻi, and members also heard detailed support from DECAP and other advocates describing a statewide shortage of ASL interpreters, long waiting lists for ASL courses, and the need for locally trained interpreters who understand Hawaiʻi’s cultural and community needs. Witnesses said the shortage affects schools, courts, hospitals, emergency services, and other settings, and that the program could be expanded through articulation with other campuses. The committee voted to pass HB 2489 with amendments, again using an HD1 and defective date. After those two measures, the committee moved to HB 441 on campus safety, which would require students, including transfer students, to complete training on federal laws and university policies regarding sexual misconduct before initial registration and would change how often training is provided to students and employees. The University of Hawaiʻi stood on its written testimony, while supporters including IMUA Alliance and other testifiers urged passage, citing survivor experiences, national best practices, and the need for prevention before harm occurs. No vote on HB 441 was reached in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• governorc><00:53:20.520><c> onc><00:53:20.680><c> thisc><00:53:20.880><c> typec><00:53:21.120
• type of thing and<00:53:21.840><c> ifc><00:53:22.000><c> hec><00:53:22.240><c> feelsc><00:53:22.600
• the type of issues we're trying to expedite,<01:28:52.080><c> theyc><01:28:52.280><c> arec><01:28
• > safe um safe um type<01:37:30.240><c> ofc><01:37:30.360><c> cryptocurrencyc><01:37:31.320><c> because
• c><01:37:31.680><c> thec> type of cryptocurrency because the type of cryptocurrency because the genius

Keywords: House streaming session for Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 957, house, all

Summary: The House convened with a quorum and then moved through messages from the Senate, introducing several Senate bills and referring them to committees. It then took up multiple third-reading calendars and considered a large number of bills across public health, criminal law, education, estates and trusts, social services, and state government. Most bills passed with broad margins, including measures on fiduciary attorney-client privilege, food labeling and prohibited ingredients, human trafficking awareness training, pharmacy prescriber-pharmacist agreements, provisional social work licensure, structural racism training funding sources, youth delinquency prevention funding, menstrual hygiene product labeling, school resource officer sexual activity prohibitions, nurse licensure enforcement, physician delegation changes, child support income definitions, AI-related child sexual abuse material, trauma-informed care resources, restrictive housing for people with developmental or intellectual disabilities, open movie captioning, autism and dementia police training, gift card fraud, scholarship eligibility, retention proceeds, graduate scholarship eligibility, intercepted communications penalties, benefits for children in custody, juvenile supervision petitions, institutional debt reporting, contraception access reporting, surgical smoke evacuation systems, tax foreclosure notice requirements, special police officer study, child advocacy center standards, victim notification at charging, human trafficking reporting, drug dispensing cost surveys, school board nominating commission changes, the Henrietta Lacks Commission, ID card photograph requirements, and several others. A few bills drew substantive floor discussion. House Bill 963 on appointment of personal representatives was supported as a way to help families and heirs access assets, including in cross-border situations. House Bill 877 on institutional debt reporting prompted debate over whether the bill was useful and whether it would burden colleges; supporters said it would create needed aggregate data and a data dictionary to better understand debt incurred directly from institutions. House Bill 1076 on over-the-counter contraception access and reporting was clarified as a reporting measure that harmonizes prior reporting requirements and does not use taxpayer funds to purchase contraception, though grants had supported vending machine installation. House Bill 288 on extending a state of emergency for schools was explained as applying to natural disasters, civil disasters, public health emergencies, or specific security threats, with one member expressing concern about state involvement and learning loss from prolonged closures. House Bill 746 on the Medicaid/health insurance collaborative care model was briefly delayed by a computer issue, then passed after a short pause. Several members announced vote changes after the roll calls, including corrections on House Bills 65, 771, 769, 900, 1058, 1076, 1490, 1540, and 1554. Final actions on the floor were overwhelmingly favorable to the bills considered, with only a handful of measures drawing notable negative votes, including House Bills 410, 963, 1042, 1058, 1076, 1152, 1540, and 1554. The House also passed a number of local and policy bills with strong bipartisan support, and no amendments or motions to postpone were recorded in the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• :40.800><c> Uh,c><00:02:41.040><c> asc><00:02:41.360><c> notedc><00:02:41.599><c> inc><00:02:
• c><00:03:04.959><c> Uh,c><00:03:05.280><c> nextc><00:03:05.440><c> upc><00:03:05.599><c> is
• c><00:10:36.079><c> toc><00:10:36.320><c> hangc><00:10:36.560><c> onc><00:10:36.720><c> forc>
• c><00:10:38.560><c> Umc><00:10:39.040><c> Ic><00:10:39.360><c> wasc><00:10:40.079><c> pertc
• There's also sort of a um turbo tax<00:52:46.880><c> typec><00:52:47.200><c> ofc><00:52:47.440><c

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Judiciary Committee heard testimony on Governor’s Message 767, the nomination of Kanoi AD Jackson to serve as circuit court judge for the Third Circuit. The chair announced that the committee would not vote on the governor’s message or two judge nominations until Tuesday, April 15, but planned to vote that day on two Defender Council items. Testimony on Jackson’s nomination was limited to two minutes per speaker, and the hearing was conducted partly by Zoom. Supporters emphasized Jackson’s qualifications, work ethic, judicial temperament, and community ties. Testifiers included the West Hawaii Bar Association, family members, a retired teacher, retired Judge Robert Kim, and the Hawaii State Bar Association. The West Hawaii Bar Association said Jackson received high marks from its review process and that the Third Circuit needed a permanent judge for stability. Judge Kim and others praised her preparation, intelligence, humility, and experience as a prosecutor and litigator. Jackson also spoke in her own behalf, acknowledging that her background is primarily criminal rather than civil, but saying she is committed to learning the civil docket and serving the community if confirmed. Members questioned the Hawaii State Bar Association about the basis for its support, including how many members responded and whether concerns were raised about Jackson’s lack of civil experience. HSBA said it uses a confidential review process, receives both positive and negative comments, and does not track votes or percentages, but its board voted to support her. Judge Kim responded that judges can learn new areas of law, that civil dockets can be managed with benchbooks and help from other judges, and that Jackson’s trial experience would serve her well. No vote was taken on Jackson’s nomination during this hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• :01:09.880><c> umc><00:01:10.159><c> yeahc><00:01:10.360><c> I'mc><00:01:10.560><c> happyc><00
• ><00:31:57.039><c> anyc><00:31:57.600><c> likec><00:31:58.000><c> typec><00:31:58.159><c> ofc
• > been a liaison or any like type of been a liaison or any like type of support<00:31:58.760><c> staff
• c><01:30:56.719><c> typec><01:30:57.159><c> ofc><01:30:58.480><c> umc><01:30:59.480><c> ofc
• does some type of um of crime so we we does some type of um of crime so we we haven't<01:31:01.480><c

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• c> overseeing,c><00:04:17.120><c> thec><00:04:17.359><c> typec><00:04:17.519><c> ofc> that they
• are overseeing, the type of that they are overseeing, the type of work<00:04:17.840><c> thatc><00:
• 04:18.079><c> getsc><00:04:18.400><c> done,c><00:04:18.880><c> thec><00:04:19.120><c> typec><
• done, the type of funds that<00:04:20.079><c> goc><00:04:20.239><c> outc><00:04:20.400><c> the
• 30:04.000><c> orc><00:30:04.640><c> thisc><00:30:04.799><c> typec><00:30:04.960><c> ofc><00:30

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:

• ><c> publicc><00:00:57.680><c> hearingc><00:00:58.160><c> onc><00:00:58.800><c> Senatec><00:00
• c><00:02:24.440><c> Wec><00:02:24.600><c> wantc><00:02:24.880><c> toc><00:02:25.040><c> doc
• c><00:04:40.400><c> Thatc><00:04:40.560><c> theyc> that type of uh instruction.
• to continue to make<00:54:39.120><c> thosec><00:54:39.360><c> typec><00:54:39.600><c> ofc><00:
• c> make those type of policy calls. make those type of policy calls. Members. Members. Members.

Bills: HB389, HB1166, HB1510, HB1541, HB1605, HB1661, HB1663, HB1678, HB1769, HB1785, HB1801, HB1802, HB1815, HB1824, HB1838, HB1840, HB1853, HB1860, HB1891, HB1952, HB1960, HB1969, HB1970, HB1972, HB1976, HB2050, HB2094, HB2104, HB2158, HB2165, HB2171, HB2208, HB2246, HB2271, HB2300, HB2310, HB2315, HB2319, HB2338, HB2339, HB2343, HB2443, HB2498, HB2551, HB2599, HB2606, SB17, SB83, SB99, SB148, SB411, SB709, SB847, SB874, SB888, SB1032, SB1166, SB2001, SB2014, SB2031, SB2041, SB2050, SB2057, SB2061, SB2074, SB2075, SB2089, SB2095, SB2101, SB2102, SB2108, SB2109, SB2110, SB2125, SB2135, SB2138, SB2140, SB2146, SB2151, SB2152, SB2175, SB2203, SB2239, SB2246, SB2247, SB2253, SB2261, SB2268, SB2271, SB2272, SB2320, SB2340, SB2347, SB2353, SB2363, SB2367, SB2372, SB2376, SB2386

Keywords: HB389, uncrewed aircraft, drone, drones, UAS, unmanned aerial vehicle, misuse of uncrewed aircraft, criminal offense, felony enhancement, drone crime, public safety, police, deputy sheriff, fire department, intoxicated operation, registration number tampering, property damage, bodily injury, Honolulu Prosecuting Attorney Package, Hawaii Revised Statutes

Transcript Highlights:

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• because I asked what type of you didn't because I asked what type of person<01:02:56.720><c> canc><
• I am so prolife that I<01:03:29.760><c> thinkc><01:03:30.000><c> thesec><01:03:30.480><c> types<
• ><c> thesec><01:05:10.960><c> specificc><01:05:11.359><c> typesc><01:05:11.599><c> ofc><01:05
• c><01:05:12.079><c> Ic> about these specific types of issues.

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: The House debated Representative Long’s motion to suspend the rules so House File 5084 could be recalled from committee, given second and third readings, and brought to final passage. The bill was described by opponents as an extreme anti-abortion measure that would create a right to life from fertilization, potentially criminalize abortions except in narrow cases, and could affect IVF, miscarriage care, and treatment of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Supporters said the bill was about protecting unborn life and giving Minnesotans the chance to decide the issue themselves through the ballot box. Several members spoke against the motion, arguing that Minnesota has already settled reproductive rights through court decisions and recent legislation, and warning that the bill would put government into deeply personal medical decisions. They cited stories from other states where women were investigated or arrested after miscarriages or self-managed abortions, and said the proposal could treat people as criminals for seeking reproductive care. One member emphasized that the bill could be especially dangerous in cases like ectopic pregnancy, where treatment delays could threaten the pregnant person’s life. Members in favor of the bill framed the issue as one of conscience, democracy, and protection of human life from conception. They said every abortion is an act of violence against a distinct human being and argued that Minnesotans should be allowed to vote on the question. Some speakers also shared personal experiences with miscarriage, infertility, premature birth, or pregnancy loss to explain why they viewed the issue as morally serious and emotionally difficult. The debate became broader and more partisan, with some members criticizing both sides for using the issue as a political weapon rather than focusing on legislative work. The transcript does not include the final vote result, but the motion was clearly under a roll call and the chamber proceeded with extended floor debate over House File 5084.

Transcript Highlights:

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• 54.599><c> typec><00:53:54.760><c> ofc><00:53:55.000><c> coveragec> for that for this type of coverage
• for that for this type of coverage I<00:53:57.200><c> doc><00:53:57.599><c> notc><00:53:58.599><
• funds for funded out of the respective funds for them<01:24:34.960><c> typesc><01:24:35.159><c> of<
• ><c> isc> them types of activities correct that is them types of activities correct that is correct

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The committee approved the January 14 minutes and then considered a large agenda of contracts, including personal services contracts, amendments, memoranda of agreement, and Kentucky Entertainment Incentive Program items. The chair noted the agenda contained 240 items and emphasized the need for transparency in how contract approvals work. Several items were pulled for questions, while the rest were approved without objection. The first major discussion involved seven contingency-fee contracts for the Attorney General’s office. Committee members asked about the apparent $20 million maximum per contract, and staff explained that the amount was a ceiling, not a guarantee, and that under the statutory waterfall in KRS 45A.717 a $20 million fee would require roughly $355 million returned to the Commonwealth. Staff also said the new batch included some new firms, that these contracts are being handled in 6- to 12-month batches, and that no money had yet been spent from the prior cycle. The committee then approved those contracts. Members also questioned a Cabinet for Health and Family Services training contract, which officials said was needed because Finance provides only Kentucky-specific training, while the outside vendor offers broader procurement and federal-funds training; the committee approved that item. A University of Kentucky capital project contract for the State Capitol exterior renovation was approved after questions about the open-ended date, total project cost, and expected completion, with staff saying the overall project is projected for substantial completion by the end of 2026 and final warranty work could extend into 2027. A DCBS amendment for SSI eligibility determinations for children in out-of-home care was explained as an increase caused by a protest, a reissued RFP, and more children entering care; the committee approved it after discussion of the protest and scoring details. The committee also approved a Transportation Cabinet amendment for an I-71 widening and interchange project in Oldham County after staff explained it was a time extension with no additional funds, though the project had evolved due to traffic changes and now includes an eight-lane bridge design. Finally, the committee discussed two Finance Cabinet facilities and support services amendments tied to the Capitol renovation and juvenile justice facility retrofits. Staff said the Capitol project contract covered the full design team, with completion projected around 2029, while the juvenile justice amendments covered additional design work for McCracken and Breathitt facilities, with final bid documents expected in June or July and construction anticipated to begin in the latter half of 2025. Both items were approved.

Transcript Highlights:

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• c><00:09:08.640><c> thosec><00:09:09.040><c> typesc><00:09:09.360><c> ofc><00:09:09.600><c> policy
• c> use of AI and if those types of policy use of AI and if those types of policy policies<00:09:10.720
• c><00:29:47.120><c> thesec><00:29:47.440><c> typec> pharmacists who can prescribe these type pharmacists
• who can prescribe these type of<00:29:47.760><c> drugs?

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The joint HHS and LBT meeting opened with accessibility concerns, as several blind attendees arrived after the general public had already been seated. The chair apologized and said future hearings would try to seat blind members earlier. The committee also announced the hearing was being streamed on YouTube, testimony would be limited to one minute, and written testimony was available online. The first bill heard was SB 2281, relating to the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare. The Department of Health supported transparency for patients but preferred disclosure through provider websites and office signage rather than a new regulatory program. The Hawaii Medical Association and Healthcare Association of Hawaii generally supported the bill’s intent but raised concerns about administrative burden and suggested a working group or model policies. Hawaii Pacific Health said it already uses AI for note-taking and patient portal functions and worried that written notice requirements could create too much consumer information. In response, the chair emphasized that patients should be informed when AI is used, especially if it affects diagnosis or consequential decisions, and said AI should not be making medical decisions. The committee later voted to recommend SB 2281 pass with amendments, including narrowing the definition of consequential decisions, removing certain language requested by DOH, adding a two-year implementation period, and setting a far-future defective date for further discussion; both committees adopted the recommendation, with the chair voting aye and the vice chair voting with reservations. The second major bill was SB 2852, a civil rights measure focused on digital access for people with disabilities. The Hawaii State Council on Developmental Disabilities, Hawaii Civil Rights Commission, Hawaii Disability Rights Center, and the National Federation of the Blind of Hawaii all supported the bill, arguing that existing law clearly protects physical access but should also make digital access explicit. Blind testifiers described how accessible technology, such as VoiceOver on iPhones, allows them to participate independently in public processes and warned that inaccessible digital systems can create barriers for thousands of blind residents. One testifier, an attorney with disability-law experience, supported the bill’s intent but said the draft had flaws, including no exceptions for archived materials, no distinction between small and large businesses, and concerns about the timing and choice of accessibility standards; he suggested delegating regulatory authority to the Hawaii Civil Rights Commission. The bill’s sponsor said he supported DAB’s proposed amendments, and the committee indicated those amendments would address many of the concerns raised. No final vote on SB 2852 was taken in the portion provided. The committee then took up SB 2751, which defines compounded prescription drugs for workers’ compensation purposes. The Department of Labor and Industrial Relations supported the bill but requested clarifying amendments to keep pharmacists as the primary professionals authorized to compound in licensed pharmacies and to limit any physician compounding authority to the physician’s own patient. Supporters included the Work Injury Medical Association of Hawaii, while Solera Integrated Medical Solutions opposed the measure, arguing the current definition was already broad enough and warning about cost inflation, especially with 503B bulk compounding facilities and physician dispensing. In questioning, members asked about rural access, reimbursement for 503B products, and late testimony suggesting definitions for 503A and 503B facilities, limits on physician dispensing to 30 days post-injury, and pre-approval for non-FDA-approved drugs. DLIR said not every rural community has licensed pharmacists available, that products with a national drug code are reimbursed at 140%, and that 503B facilities raise concerns because they are bulk manufacturers rather than patient-specific compounding operations. The meeting then moved into decision-making on SB 2281; the chair’s pass-with-amendments recommendation was adopted by both committees, with the vice chair voting with reservations.

Transcript Highlights:

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• c> years,c><00:33:16.200><c> thesec><00:33:16.440><c> typesc><00:33:16.760><c> ofc><00:33:16.920
• ><c> waiversc><00:33:17.600><c> orc> prior years, these types of waivers or prior years, these types
• to to implement<00:56:10.880><c> umc><00:56:11.080><c> thisc><00:56:11.320><c> typec><00:56:11.560
• ><c> ofc><00:56:11.720><c> domesticc> implement um this type of domestic implement um this type of

Bills: HB1518, HB1699, HB1747, HB1705, HB1565, HB1801, HB1645, HB2115, HB2114

Keywords: HB1518, Hawaii SNAP, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, food stamps, Department of Human Services, DHS, pre-release SNAP, pre-release application process, incarcerated individuals, prisoner reentry, reentry services, formerly incarcerated, jail release, prison release, recidivism, food security, benefits eligibility, controlled substance felony, drug felony, drug conviction

Summary: The committee opened its first meeting of the 2020 session and heard testimony on several measures, beginning with HB 1518, which would allow people incarcerated and nearing release to apply for SNAP benefits before release. The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation and the Department of Human Services said they support the bill and are already piloting a pre-release application process at two facilities, with plans to expand it. The Attorney General’s Office supported the intent but noted a technical issue: one section of the bill appears to affect TANF as well as SNAP, while the title refers only to SNAP. A wide range of advocates, including Catholic Charities, the Hawaii Public Health Institute, Hawaii Hunger Action Network, Drug Policy Forum of Hawaii, Hawaii Children’s Action Network, ACLU of Hawaii, and others, testified in strong support, emphasizing food insecurity after release, reentry stability, and reduced recidivism. The committee did not take a vote during the hearing. The committee then heard HB 1747, which would direct the Department of Human Services to seek federal waivers or extensions related to restricting certain SNAP purchases, including sugary drinks. DHS said it had already been approved for a narrow demonstration waiver and was working with retailers on implementation, with a target date of August 1. Supporters of the measure argued it would promote healthier choices, while opponents, including Hawaii Appleseed, the Hawaii Public Health Institute, Hawaii Children’s Action Network, and the Hawaii Food Industry Association, said such restrictions are ineffective, stigmatize low-income residents, create burdens for retailers and DHS, and may be difficult to implement. Members asked DHS to clarify the scope of the waiver and confirmed it applies to sugary drinks and beverages containing more than 10 grams of sugar. Finally, the committee took up HB 1705, which would allow licensed mental health counselors to serve as child custody evaluators, but there was no testimony from the relevant agencies and the item was quickly set aside. The committee also heard HB 1565, which would establish a judiciary working group to improve family court processes and legal representation for youth in the child welfare system. The Attorney General’s Office offered minor technical amendments, and supporters from the Office of Wellness and Resilience, High Hopes Hawaii, Hawaii Children’s Action Network, and a social work student described the need for legal representation, citing better reunification and stability outcomes and the importance of youth voice in court proceedings. No votes or final actions were taken in the portion of the meeting provided.