Video & Transcript : 'nonemitting generation' :
Page 121 of 500
LA
Louisiana 2026 Regular Session
Revenue and Fiscal Affairs May 11th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- So it's a general—basically, you've got a locomotive, a diesel electric.
- I would assume it's running a generator to assist it going down the road.
- If it's being run by a generator, the engine's running a generator and you're not using electricity,
- a generator for my house.
- relying on additional state general fund appropriations.
Summary:
The Senate Committee on Revenue and Fiscal Affairs met on May 11, 2026, approved the April 27 minutes, and then took up several House bills. HB 618, by Rep. McMakin, would update Louisiana Economic Development fees and filing charges by indexing them to inflation and allowing some discretion to waive or reduce fees for small businesses; it was reported favorable. HB 732, by Rep. Owen, drew extensive discussion because it combined two issues: temporary OMV relief for a hospice-related ID problem and a suspension of the new hybrid vehicle road usage fee. Members and the OMV commissioner raised constitutional and drafting concerns about waiving or eliminating obligations, and the committee discussed how newer vehicle classifications blur the line between electric, hybrid, and gas-powered vehicles. The committee ultimately reported HB 732 favorable, with the understanding that amendments and further work would be needed before floor action.
The committee also reported favorable on HB 217 and HB 214 by Rep. Henry, which would authorize local governments to grant property tax exemptions for the rehabilitation of blighted property and place the related constitutional amendment before voters. Testimony emphasized that the measure is permissive for local governments, applies only after a property is formally blighted and rehabilitated, and is intended to encourage redevelopment while preserving some tax revenue. Members discussed the exemption level, duration, and the need for clearer definitions of blight, but no objections were raised. HB 593, also by Rep. Henry, would raise the maximum service fee for OMV public tag agent offices statewide; the commissioner explained that many offices are locally operated and that the increase would help cover costs, and the bill was reported favorable.
Later, HB 514 and HB 961, by Rep. Foreman, were reported favorable. HB 514 would allow local governments, by referendum, to provide additional property tax relief for seniors who meet income and freeze requirements, with phased age-based eligibility steps; HB 961 would extend a similar concept to certain homesteads held in trust. Members discussed the optional local nature of the program and the need to avoid overly broad rules. HB 908, by Rep. Mina, would increase certain Secretary of State business services fees to support operations and system upgrades; agency officials said the fees had not been comprehensively adjusted since 2013 and remained below regional averages, and the bill was reported favorable. The committee then heard an informational update on the capital outlay bill from the Division of Administration, including the use of bundled projects for universities and DOTD, the status of P1/P2/P5 funding, and available cash capacity. Finally, HB 1010, by Rep. Deshotel, was reported favorable after brief discussion; it would require assessors to report property tax collections to the Louisiana Tax Commission for centralized public reporting.
ND
North Dakota 2026 1st Special Session
Budget Section Commerce and Legal Service Division Mar 18th, 2026 at 01:00 pm
Transcript Highlights:
- And then when we come back in June, we're going to hear the Attorney General.
- I've been told that an attorney general said otherwise.
- He said they told the Attorney General how they wanted to do it, and the Attorney General said, okay.
- The Attorney General did not go to them and say, you need to... General said, okay.
- Third, it has generated measurable employment impact over time.
Summary:
The Budget Section’s Commerce and Legal Services Division met to review the Department of Commerce base budget for the 2027-29 biennium and to receive an update on Commerce programs. Legislative Council staff first walked the committee through the “blue sheet” base budget summary, explaining the major line items, the large share of federal grant authority in Commerce’s budget, and the continuing appropriations that support several Commerce funds. Members asked how grant funding is coordinated across agencies, and staff said collaboration varies by program but is strong in areas like UAS and LIHEAP.
Commerce Commissioner Chris Schilken then presented on current activities, focusing heavily on grant administration, transparency, and economic development programs. Members questioned how grant applicants are selected, whether Commerce tracks applications and return on investment, and how long grant awards take to reach recipients. The commissioner said Commerce uses scoring criteria, outside reviewers, a minimum 30-day application window, and typically completes awards within two to three months. A lengthy exchange followed over whether Commerce should open some grants only to intended recipients versus running competitive application processes; Commerce said it follows best-practice grantmaking and that its attorney in the Attorney General’s office approved that approach.
Commerce also highlighted the North Dakota Development Fund, citing long-term investment and job creation results, examples such as Red Trail Energy, Packet Digital, Valiance, Corvent Medical, child care loans, and the Automate ND program. Members asked about acceptable failures, lessons learned, regional economic development coordination, and the expansion of the fund into non-primary sectors. Workforce Director Katie Ralston Howell then outlined a statewide workforce ecosystem review, a new governor’s workforce sub-cabinet, and three task forces focused on simplifying entry, warm handoffs, and data integration. She discussed the in-demand occupations list, Workforce Pell, apprenticeships, and efforts to better connect students with employers and higher education. Commerce also briefly reviewed housing programs and a new housing sub-cabinet. No votes were taken; the committee simply received testimony, asked questions, and adjourned after setting up the next meeting to hear the Attorney General budget in June.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
BCA Use of Force investigations of federal agents 3/3/26
Minnesota House Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- And Chair Mhler, would you like to recommend that House File 3405 be placed on the general register?
- He said it would have been better to have cooperation from before with the governor, attorney general
- He said it would have been better to have cooperation from before with the governor, attorney general
- Representative Duran said that when looking at the general safety for everybody, legislators need to
- </c> as amended be placed on the general as amended be placed on the general register.<00:26:22.159><
WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Housing Feb 20th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- Such regulations generally include things like location and height of construction.
- Such regulations generally include things like location and height of construction.
- So we know that that opportunity will be here for generations and generations for new families to move
- Would you be thinking that we should be opening up zoning in general?
- It is considered administrative... ...generally speaking, is not covered by traditional public funding
Summary:
The Senate Housing Committee held public hearings on four bills and then took executive action on several measures and two gubernatorial appointments. At the start, the committee waived the five-day notice rule for Substitute House Bill 2354, Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2266, and Second Substitute House Bill 2590. The committee also heard public testimony on House Bill 1859, which would expand affordable housing on property owned by religious organizations by lowering the affordability threshold needed to qualify for a density bonus. Supporters, including the sponsor, faith leaders, and local officials, said the current 100% affordability requirement has made projects difficult to finance and that the bill would better unlock underused church land for housing.
The committee then heard Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2266, which would further standardize where and how permanent supportive housing, transitional housing, indoor emergency housing, and shelters can be sited, while limiting local barriers and allowing some negotiated conditions near schools or when local governments provide significant support. The sponsor and supporters from King County, housing providers, the Attorney General’s office, disability advocates, medical professionals, and others argued the bill would reduce discriminatory or inconsistent local siting rules and expand needed housing. Some local government representatives supported the bill but asked for additional amendments to preserve local flexibility, require on-site contacts, and clarify how operating conditions and funding agreements would work.
The committee also heard House Bill 2590, which would revise rules for limited equity cooperatives so they can better function as a long-term affordable homeownership model and remain exempt from certain Washington Uniform Common Interest Ownership Act requirements. Supporters said the bill would help preserve manufactured housing communities and other cooperative housing while maintaining affordability and oversight. House Bill 2354, a trailer bill to WACOIA, would make technical changes affecting common interest communities, including EV charging and heat pump cost responsibility, reserve studies, and audit thresholds; the Washington State Community Association’s Institute testified in support. In executive session, the committee confirmed gubernatorial appointments Aaron T. McGrath and Ann T. Malone and voted do-pass recommendations for EHB 1687, SHB 2269, and HB 2304, all subject to signatures.
KY
Kentucky 2026 Regular Session
House Standing Committee on Families and Children. (2-12-26)
Families & Children
Transcript Highlights:
- </c> >> uh is a core part of uh my generation >> uh is a core part of uh my generation and
- You know, our rate of having children has really declined with generations and with younger generations
- </c> Klein, is it's a generational Klein, is it's a generational conversation.<00:14:42.079><c> My</c
- My generation might be a conversation.
- and with younger uh with generations and with younger generations.<00:15:06.000><c> And</c><00:15:06.160
WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Finance Feb 5th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- way of background, county, cities, and towns were authorized to create tourism promotion areas to generate
- Depending on how a city is added to a fire protection district, its general levy rate might change.
- Generally, a city has a levy rate of up to $3.375 per $1,000 of assessed value.
- The exemption does not include general summaries that do not identify individual businesses.
- And those dollars also help generate other local taxes.
Summary:
House Finance heard testimony on several tax and local government bills. HB 2278 would remove the July 1, 2027 expiration on the additional $3-per-room-night tourism promotion area lodging charge; supporters from destination marketing organizations said the revenue has produced strong returns for tourism and events, while questions were raised about how the local ordinances would continue. HB 2583 would lower the population threshold for cities to impose a higher lodging tax and expand authority for public facilities districts; the sponsor and Vancouver supporters said it would help fund a proposed performing arts center and other tourism investments, while hospitality, short-term rental, and some local advocates raised concerns about stakeholder input, equity, and whether the bill was too broad. HB 2224 would change how a city forming a single-city fire protection district handles levy reductions and would exempt part of one levy from the local tax limit; city and firefighter groups supported it as a needed tool for fire and EMS funding, while hospital districts and tax opponents warned about prorationing, governance, and higher taxes. HB 2325 would create a statewide tourism self-supported assessment program funded by participating tourism businesses; supporters from tourism, hospitality, wine, and brewing groups said it would provide a competitive, industry-driven statewide marketing program, while members questioned impacts on specific communities and the need for broader local benefits. HB 2431 would expand from 15 to 50 days the amount of fundraising activity allowed in nonprofit public assembly halls and meeting places, and the Grange supported it as a practical way to keep community halls open.
After public testimony, the committee moved into executive session and advanced three bills. HB 2584, a sales and use tax exemption for qualifying farm equipment sold to eligible farmers, passed 14-0 with one excused. HB 2610, which modifies the property tax exemption for nonprofit homeownership development, also passed 14-0 with one excused. HB 2615, which codifies the voluntary disclosure tax program and authorizes temporary tax amnesty, likewise passed 14-0 with one excused. The chair also announced a deadline for amendments on items to be acted on the following day.
VT
Transcript Highlights:
- </c><00:05:50.639><c> Next</c> committee on general and housing.
- Next committee on general and housing.
- </c> chair of 2024 House of Deputies General chair of 2024 House of Deputies General Convention<00:09
- </c> Representatives that the General Representatives that the General Assembly<00:10:25.600><c> extends
- Knox was the senior officer of the army when General Washington resigned.
KY
Kentucky 2026 Regular Session
Senate Legislative Session Day 6 (1-13-26)
Kentucky Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- </c><00:13:51.760><c> Assembly</c> session of the Kentucky General Assembly session of the Kentucky General
- However, the Kentucky General Assembly passed legislation requiring it to be tolled.
- Of course, we put up $250 million general fund dollars to get the grant for the Ben Spence Bridge.
- ><c> Assembly</c> However, the Kentucky General Assembly However, the Kentucky General Assembly passed
- It would be uh from the general fund.
Summary:
The Kentucky Senate convened with an invocation, pledge, and roll call establishing a quorum of 37 members. The chamber approved the journal from Monday, January 12, 2026, and then moved through routine business including recessing briefly for the Rules Committee and Committee on Committees. The Committee on Committees reported referrals of Senate Bill 7, Senate Joint Resolution 11, and Senate Joint Resolution 27 to Transportation, and Senate Resolutions 25, 28, 29, 30, and 31 to the Senate floor.
Several new bills and resolutions were introduced, including measures on identity documents, youth vaping prevention, local occupational license fees and taxes, healthcare provider credentialing, constitutional amendments on voting and restoration of rights, substance use disorder medication regulations, forcible entry and detainer, coroner response times, special needs trusts, immigration enforcement collaboration, and a resolution recognizing Physician Anesthesiologist Week. The Senate also adopted Senate Citation 001 honoring Shelby County Sheriff Mark Moore as the Kentucky Sheriffs’ Association’s 2025 Sheriff of the Year, and adopted Senate Resolution 14 honoring David Delvin Drake.
A major floor discussion centered on Senate Resolution 10, which honored the victims of the UPS Flight 2976 crash and commended first responders. Senator Herron described the crash, named the victims, and thanked emergency responders and government partners; the resolution was adopted unanimously, followed by a moment of silence. Another extended discussion came from the Senator from Marion regarding the I-69 bridge project, explaining the bipartisan effort behind the project, the push for a federal grant, and the state’s tolling requirements if no grant is secured. The Senate also heard announcements about committee meetings, upcoming receptions, and a film release, and several members requested co-sponsorships on various bills before the chamber adjourned until 2 p.m. on Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Working Group on Omnibus Capital Investment Bill - 06/09/25
Minnesota Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- That's $1 million in the general fund.
- Uh, that's 1 million in general<00:06:32.000><c> fund.
- </c> and manufactured housing and in general and manufactured housing and in general fund<00:07:30.560
- </c> line 8 you can see um the uh general line 8 you can see um the uh general fund<00:10:09.320><c>
- </c> Um on page 14, section 14 is the general Um on page 14, section 14 is the general fund<00:23:12.799
FL
Florida 2025 Regular Session
February 4, 2025 - 03:00 PM
Transcript Highlights:
- The generators I noticed in the budget were, goodness, we're at $32 million.
- Generators I noticed in the budget were, goodness, we're at $32 million.
- Why are we leasing $32 million worth of generators versus purchasing them?
- But I think we leased over 500 generators in one of the storms.
- So that's much easier to manage than 500 pumps, 500 generators.
Summary:
The Economic Development Budget Subcommittee received a lengthy presentation from Kevin Guthrie, Executive Director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, on disaster costs, recovery operations, sheltering, and major capital projects. He reviewed the 2024 hurricane season impacts from Debby, Helene, and Milton, explaining how FEMA public assistance and state reimbursement work, how cost shares can shift from 75/25 to 90/10 after a federal threshold is reached, and how Florida uses prior storm data and inflation to estimate recovery costs. He also described the state’s faster reimbursement timelines, crediting legislative investments in technology and digital field documentation, and said the division is working to reduce disaster closeout timelines from decades to about seven years.
Members asked about debris removal, FEMA de-obligations, local preparedness, and whether regional shelters or co-located emergency operations centers could be used more efficiently. Guthrie said debris assistance is complicated and should generally remain tied to local contracts and planning, though the state will help fiscally constrained communities when needed. He explained de-obligations as FEMA clawing back previously approved funds after later review, and said Florida’s FROC program is helping local governments reduce those risks through standardized documentation, procurement review, and training. He also urged more mandatory emergency-management training for local and state officials and cautioned against weakening the FEMA 50% rule for rebuilding damaged structures.
Guthrie provided updates on the new central Florida warehouse in Auburndale and the new State Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee. He said the warehouse will improve logistics, include cold and ultra-cold storage, and be run by a private vendor with virtual inventory tracking, while the new EOC is designed for Category 5 conditions and expanded partner capacity. He acknowledged budget pressures that reduced the size of the EOC project and said an additional IT request was needed because those costs were not originally included. The meeting ended with praise for FDEM’s work and no votes or formal actions beyond adjournment.
HI
Hawaii 2026 Regular Session
FIN Info Briefing - Thu Jan 8, 2026 @ 9:00 AM HST
Hawaii House Floor Meeting
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- We have SB 2602 SD1 HD1 relating to the general fund.
- Now, granted, those are general powers.
- My name is Lisa Tamura, Deputy Attorney General. We have comments.
- Keith Regan, Controller, Department of Accounting and General Services.
- There are no general funds.
Keywords:
image-based sexual abuse, working group, gender-based violence, Hawaii Commission on the Status of Women, prevention efforts, survivor protections, new technologies, legal reform, HCR14, House Concurrent Resolution, perpetual easement, non-exclusive easement, state submerged lands, submerged lands, shoreline easement, drainage outfall, stormwater outfall, lagoon outfall, pipelines, Kahala Hotel & Resort
MN
Transcript Highlights:
- </c><00:59:06.865><c> [snorts]</c> fuel generation mix. [snorts] fuel generation mix.
- </c> state's electricity fuel generation mix. state's electricity fuel generation mix.
- </c> foregone revenue to the state general foregone revenue to the state general fund<00:59:45.200><c
- This share has steadily generation.
- </c> the state's electricity generation mix. the state's electricity generation mix.
NH
New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session
Committee of Conference on HB 1, HB 2 (06/13/2025)
Transcript Highlights:
- Uh so I general funds and education.
- </c> to fiscal in 27 for additional general to fiscal in 27 for additional general funds<00:51:05.280
- </c> the general fund. the general fund.
- Uh so while these general funds.
- </c><01:21:28.880><c> Any</c> that are generated by lottery. Any that are generated by lottery.
Summary:
The Committee of Conference on HB 1 and HB 2 met to review revenue estimates and begin working through the HB 1 detail change sheet. New Hampshire Lottery Director Charlie McIntyre reported stronger-than-expected lottery performance, raising the current-year return estimate to $27 million and the next biennium estimate to $200 million, with the increase attributed to improved scratch ticket sales and sports betting not hurting revenue as much as expected. Members questioned the assumptions behind the higher estimates, including the impact of $50 scratch tickets and whether the figures accounted for future conversion from historical horse racing (HHR) machines to video lottery terminals (VLTs). McIntyre and committee members discussed machine counts, per-day revenue assumptions, and the likelihood that VLT conversion would increase revenues over time, though the timing and pace of conversion remained an open question.
The committee also discussed several gaming-related policy items in HB 2, including changes to kino hours and local option games of chance, and noted that the Senate and House differed on how gaming revenues would be allocated between charities, education, and general funds. Members emphasized that revenue projections should remain conservative because operators, not the state, would control the pace of machine conversion. Representative Sweeney noted that operators could earn more per machine under the VLT model, and McIntyre said the new facilities and expansions were largely concentrated near the Massachusetts border.
The committee then moved to the HB 1 detail change sheet. It agreed to Senate position on the Department of Safety’s road toll bureau and international registration program changes, which were described as a zero-cost realignment of positions, and held the Department of Corrections section for later discussion. On the judicial side, members approved a technical footnote fix, but held a new contract counsel item for involuntary mental health admissions and deferred discussion of the public defender program increase. The committee also noted no change for the PE development authority, moved safety rest area funding from HB 2 into HB 1 with no additional cost, and flagged the tourism development fund and other judicial items as issues that may depend on overall available revenue.
AZ
Arizona 2026 Regular Session
03/04/2026 - House Science & Technology
House Science & Technology Committee of Reference
Transcript Highlights:
- You know, I'm generous, like five minutes. How's that? Oh, man.
- You know, I'm generous, like five minutes. How's that? Oh, man.
- What are the impacts of these representations on government, just in general, I guess?
- What are the impacts of these representations on government, just in general, I guess?
- What are the impacts of these representations on government, just in general, I guess?
Summary:
The Science and Technology Committee considered Senate Bill 1308, which would create a Foreign Adversary Fraud Office within the Attorney General’s Office to pursue consumer fraud cases involving technology produced by foreign adversaries. The bill also establishes a Foreign Adversary Fraud Fund, includes a $500,000 appropriation for fiscal year 2026-27, and directs any fund balance above $10 million at year-end to the Foreign Adversary Technology Rip and Replace Fund. Staff explained that the office would support investigations and litigation, with delayed repeal dates included in the measure.
A representative of State Armor and a local attorney testified in support, arguing the bill would protect consumers and state systems from products with undisclosed security vulnerabilities, citing examples involving cameras and routers allegedly linked to foreign adversary entities. They said the initial appropriation would serve as seed money for enforcement actions that could generate settlements or judgments, and that the resulting proceeds could help replace vulnerable technology in critical infrastructure. Committee members asked about how the rip-and-replace fund would be used, who would identify critical infrastructure, and the effects on government purchasing; the witness said the Department of Homeland Security would identify critical infrastructure and administer the funds.
After discussion, a member moved Senate Bill 1308 be returned with a due pass recommendation. The committee approved the motion on an 8-0 vote, with one member absent.
MN
Transcript Highlights:
- Senate file and then amend the language of our two House files and pass that amended bill to the general
- I will now make a series of motions to get us through this general procedure.
- File or Senate File 305, I chair moves that Senate File 3045 be recommended for placement on the general
- </c><00:01:43.360><c> All</c> placement on the general register.
- All placement on the general register. All those<00:01:43.680><c> in</c><00:01:43.960><c> favor?
Keywords:
omnibus, state government, local government, elections, campaign finance, voter registration, absentee voting, election administration, electronic rosters, lobbying, lobbyist disclosure, state budget, appropriations, biennial budget, Minnesota Secretary of State, Minnesota Management and Budget, state personnel, civil service, affirmative action, disability employment
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Joint Hearing Budget Subcommittee No. 2 on Human Services and Budget Subcommittee No. 1 on Health Apr 9th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- While we have seen poverty decrease for the general population since 2012, it has...
- Our proposal is for $74.8 million General Fund ongoing in 2025-26.
- Overall, it could be upwards of billions in additional state General Fund costs.
- SSI is federally funded, and SSP is funded by the state General Fund.
- You were very specific about $15 million ongoing, but you said non-General Fund.
Summary:
The joint Assembly Budget Subcommittee hearing focused first on long-term services and supports for older adults, especially the “forgotten/overlooked middle” who earn too much for Medi-Cal but cannot afford private long-term care. Administration witnesses from DHCS, the Department of Aging, and Social Services described Medicare’s limited long-term care coverage, Medi-Cal’s role, the elimination of the Medi-Cal asset test, and ongoing state studies and listening sessions on financing options. Testimony from advocates and researchers emphasized rising homelessness among older adults, the need for better navigation and coordination across health, aging, housing, and social service systems, and short-term policy steps such as share-of-cost reform, housing stability supports, and protecting home- and community-based services. Members highlighted the need for a coordinated, no-wrong-door approach and asked for the most impactful budget investments to address affordability and homelessness risk.
The second major topic was the Community-Based Adult Services (CBAS) program. CDA reported that CBAS helps participants remain in the community, that 304 centers operate statewide serving about 42,000 people, and that demand is stable but access gaps remain in some regions. DHCS explained that a 2024 rate increase authorized by SB 159 became inoperative after Proposition 35, and that a separate 10% rate change on the fee schedule was the result of a DHCS system error; the department said it would not require recoupment, though managed care plans may act under their contracts. CBAS providers and advocates warned that reimbursement rates have not kept pace with costs, that several centers have closed, and that clawbacks could trigger more closures. They requested $74.8 million ongoing General Fund to close part of the rate gap and preserve the program, while members expressed concern about closures and the cost savings of keeping people out of more expensive institutional care.
The hearing then moved to In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) and statewide collective bargaining. CDSS reviewed provider recruitment and retention efforts, including electronic timesheets, direct deposit, and the now-completed IHSS Career Pathways program, which trained more than 59,000 providers. CDSS also summarized its AB 102 workgroup report on statewide versus regional bargaining, saying the final report would be sent to the Legislature soon and that statewide bargaining appeared more viable than regional bargaining, though it would require clear statutory scope and major fiscal changes. The department estimated that each $1 per hour statewide wage increase would cost at least $1.3 billion to $1.5 billion annually. Labor advocates argued that IHSS wages, benefits, and training are too inconsistent across counties and called for statewide bargaining, consumer participation, and ongoing state funding. County representatives supported stronger wages but cautioned that counties need protection from new costs and administrative burdens, and consumer advocates warned that moving bargaining to the state could weaken local consumer control and the program’s consumer-driven structure.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Housing committee OKs HF1987, the 'Minnesota Starter Home Act' 3/11/25
Transcript Highlights:
- to older generations.
- so</c> generations to older Generations so generations to older Generations so that's<00:04:31.800><
- generation of Minnesotans now and in the future.
- generation of Minnesotans now and in the future.
- generation of Minnesotans now and in the future.
Summary:
The committee heard House File 1987, the Minnesota Starter Home Act, and first adopted the A1 author’s amendment, which made minor cleanup changes, removed sections two and three, adjusted ADU language, and tweaked density language. The bill authors described the measure as a bipartisan effort to address Minnesota’s housing shortage by allowing more starter homes, duplexes, townhomes, and accessory dwelling units, while also limiting some local zoning barriers and preserving city protections in certain sensitive areas. They emphasized that the state has a large housing gap, rising home prices, and that the bill is intended as one part of a broader housing package.
Supportive testimony came from the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, Housing First Minnesota, Habitat for Humanity, AARP Minnesota, and Americans for Prosperity. These witnesses argued that workforce and starter-home shortages are hurting families, employers, and economic growth; that restrictive zoning and lengthy approval processes raise costs; and that more middle housing and ADUs would expand options for older adults, caregivers, working families, and people seeking homeownership. Several supporters said the bill would reduce regulatory barriers, lower development costs, and help communities add needed housing supply.
Opposition or cautionary testimony came from city and municipal representatives, including officials from Cambridge, Eagan, and Mankato, as well as the League of Minnesota Cities and related groups. They argued that local governments already are approving substantial housing growth and need flexibility to manage zoning, parking, infrastructure, stormwater, and community input. They warned the bill could weaken local control, remove practical standards, and create unintended impacts such as more rental conversion in some neighborhoods or development without adequate infrastructure. No final vote on the bill itself was shown in the transcript beyond adoption of the A1 amendment.
HI
Hawaii 2025 Regular Session
HHS, HHS DEFER, HHS DEFER, HHS DEFER, HHS-HRE Public Hearings 02-12-2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Deputy Attorney General Andrew Kim.
- The Attorney General is providing comments.
- Attorney General providing comments.
- General, you're present on Zoom.
- </c> next we have um Deputy attorney general next we have um Deputy attorney general put<01:02:33.240
Summary:
The Health and Human Services Committee heard testimony on several measures related to child welfare, health care access, overdose response, disability services, and waste management. For SB 710 on child welfare, the Department of Human Services, the Office of Wellness and Resilience, the Attorney General’s office, and multiple advocacy groups testified in support, with the Governor’s office noting support but deferring to the Attorney General on implementation because of separation-of-powers concerns. For SB 952 on child welfare services, DHS, the Governor’s office, and child- and trauma-informed care advocates supported the bill, saying it would help families access services, provide basic material support, and reduce strain on the child welfare system. SB 954 on a home health services rate study also drew support, including from DHS, the Hawaii Healthcare Association, and a public testifier who said the study would help ensure funds reach low-income, disabled, and kupuna recipients. SB 957 on overdose prevention received support from the Department of Health and the Attorney General, who said overdose prevention centers are evidence-based but raised federal-law concerns and recommended amendments; the Hawaii Health and Harm Reduction Center and others also testified in support.
The committee then moved to the 1:00 regular calendar and heard SB 850 on disability health disparity, which was supported by the Executive Office on Aging, the Hawaii State Council on Developmental Disabilities, the Hawaii Disability Rights Center, self-advocates, and others. Testimony emphasized that a disparity study could improve workforce development, training, and services for people with disabilities. SB 838 on continuous glucose monitoring drew support from health agencies and advocates, with testimony stressing that monitors can be critical for some diabetes patients. SB 829 on health care was supported by the Department of Health and health care stakeholders, who said it would help rotating physicians serve neighbor islands without local hospital privileges and align with CMS rules. SB 446 on waste management drew mixed testimony: the Department of Health and several public entities provided comments, the County of Maui opposed, and environmental advocates urged stronger aquifer protections and limits on ash reuse.
During decision making, the committee adopted recommendations to pass SB 298, SB 322, SB 299, SB 450, SB 451, SB 949, SB 710, SB 957, SB 69, and SD 952 with various amendments, including technical changes, blank appropriations, and defective dates. SB 323, SB 324, SB 712, SB 950, SB 954, and SB 959 were deferred, largely because companion House measures were moving or similar Senate measures had already passed. The chair also announced recesses to find quorum and noted that some bills from the earlier Monday calendar were being deferred to avoid duplication.
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- Teachers already have a low salary and work hard to educate our current and upcoming generations.
- teachers should have the Generations teachers should have the resources<00:05:27.600><c> available</
- And when we're talking about bronchodilators, we're generally speaking about inhalers, and albuterol
- And the amount of doses in an inhaler is generally 200.
- And the amount of doses in an inhaler is generally 200.