Transcript Highlights:

• I recognize we're in the second house. You're in this committee. I don't remember.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The Assembly Privacy and Consumer Protection Committee heard a long agenda focused largely on artificial intelligence, consumer transparency, and privacy protections. The committee first took up consent items, then heard SB 1050, which would require disclosures in advertisements that use AI-generated or synthetic performers. Supporters, including SAG-AFTRA, Teamsters, Common Sense Media, and the Music Artists Coalition, argued consumers should know when an ad uses a synthetic person and that the bill protects workers and honesty in advertising. Opponents from TechNet, the Motion Picture Association, broadcasters, and business groups said the bill was too broad, lacked a deception standard, created enforcement and compliance concerns, and should include carve-outs and stronger guardrails. The bill passed out on a divided vote. The committee then heard SB 1111, which would create liability and remedies for nonconsensual use of a person’s voice or likeness to create digital replicas or deepfakes. Supporters said the bill addresses a growing problem of exploitative AI-generated sexual content and gives victims clear legal standing; there was no opposition testimony. SB 867, a proposal to place a four-year moratorium on AI chatbot-powered toys, drew support from children’s advocates, pediatricians, and media-safety groups, who said the Legislature should pause before exposing children to potentially harmful products. Business and civil-justice groups raised concerns about broad definitions and unintended consequences, but the bill advanced after members discussed the need for clearer guardrails. Later, the committee heard SB 1247, which would let people who were monetized as child influencers delete content featuring their image and likeness once they turn 18. Supporters framed it as a privacy and healing measure for children whose lives were shared online for profit, and there was no opposition. SB 1146 would require disclosures in health-related ads that use AI-generated or synthetic depictions of health care providers; medical and pediatric groups supported it as a way to combat deceptive health misinformation, and it also passed without opposition. The committee also heard SB 1000, updating California’s AI Transparency Act to align disclosure and provenance standards with evolving technology and international practices, and SB 957, which would require social media companies to notify users before complying with certain federal administrative subpoenas and give them time to challenge them. SB 957 drew support from civil liberties and privacy groups and opposition from one member concerned about federal law-enforcement impacts; both bills advanced, along with the others heard, with roll calls left open for absent members.

Transcript Highlights:

• team is looking to place someone into permanent housing.
• I am the director of housing community services at Berkeley.
• I also am responsible for below market rate housing.
• We know the individual will never work in that housing complex because of X, Y, and Z.
• Housing teams, unarmed with information that mental health teams have, have placed individuals into housing

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The Assembly Committee on Human Services heard and advanced a series of bills focused on homelessness, child care, food security, public assistance, immigration legal services, and veterans’ benefits. SB 479 would allow city-based local health jurisdictions, including Berkeley and Oakland, to run homeless response multidisciplinary teams and share specified information across departments; supporters said the change would improve coordination and outcomes, while no opposition testified. SB 902 would permit electronic signatures for Child Care and Development Services Act paperwork, with supporters describing the burden of paper processes on working families and noting that paper would remain an option. Both bills were referred onward after committee action. The committee also approved SB 1025, creating an Office of Food Security and Affordability; SB 1030, repealing the CalWORKs “man-in-the-house” rule; and SB 1077, requiring CDSS to develop a communications and contingency plan for CalFresh disruptions during federal government shutdowns. Testimony on these measures emphasized fragmented food assistance systems, the need to modernize outdated welfare rules, and the importance of preparing for future federal benefit interruptions. Each bill drew broad support from advocates, local governments, and social service organizations, with no opposition testimony, and each received a due-pass recommendation to the next committee. The committee further advanced SB 1194, which would codify the Immigration Legal Fellowship Project to expand access to immigration legal services in underserved regions, and SB 1201, which would seek federal waivers and other protections to help veterans affected by CalFresh changes and connect applicants with county veterans service officers. Supporters said both bills would fill critical service gaps and strengthen legal and food-security infrastructure. SB 1194 received a 6-1 vote, while SB 1201 passed unanimously. Earlier in the hearing, SB 557 and SB 1051 were approved on consent. The committee then adjourned after recording final roll calls for absent members.

Transcript Highlights:

• While this bill is contingent on funding, this House saw an earlier bill by Assemblymember Soria that
• While this bill is contingent on funding, this House saw an earlier bill by Assembly of Soria that is
• But we also are open to it being housed wherever it’s most appropriate, based and potentially tiering

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The Assembly Environmental Safety and Toxic Materials Committee heard several bills, with SB 811 pulled by the author and deferred to a later hearing. The committee first took up SB 501 by Senator Allen, which would expand California’s battery extended producer responsibility program to include medium-format batteries such as those used in e-bikes, scooters, lawn equipment, and portable power systems. Supporters from local governments, stewardship organizations, and recycling groups said the bill would reduce fire risks, worker hazards, and disposal costs; opposition was limited, with some industry groups seeking clarification or expressing neutrality after amendments. The bill was moved out of committee on a do-pass vote, with one no vote recorded from Assemblymember Ellis and later additional ayes added after quorum was established. The committee then heard SB 1125 by Senator Menjivar, which would create a statewide low-income drinking water rate assistance program administered by the State Water Resources Control Board, contingent on funding. The author and supporters argued that many Californians face water debt and that public water systems lack a statewide affordability program because of Proposition 218 constraints. Water agencies, environmental justice groups, and local governments testified in strong support, and there was no opposition. The bill passed the committee on a do-pass vote, again with one no vote from Assemblymember Ellis and later additional ayes after quorum. SB 1259 by Senator Blakespear, as amended, would require petroleum refineries to provide advance closure, cleanup, and cost information to the state to improve planning for refinery transitions and site remediation. Supporters, including the City of Benicia and environmental groups, said communities need transparency and early planning to avoid leaving local governments and workers with cleanup and redevelopment uncertainty. Opponents, including the Western States Petroleum Association, the State Building and Construction Trades Council, and business groups, argued the bill was burdensome, duplicative of existing regulation, and could send the wrong signal to remaining refineries. After extensive discussion, the committee approved SB 1259 on a do-pass-as-amended vote to the Assembly Utilities and Energy Committee. The consent calendar, including SB 1253 and SJR 13, also passed.

Transcript Highlights:

• Acted to remove disability income from government housing eligibility calculations.
• CalVet achieves this success by keeping loans in-house and servicing them directly.
• And if not, we're hoping that the housing bond can be a backstop.
• , base housing to a home loan program.
• On consent, we have Senate Resolution 143 by...

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The Assembly Committee on Military and Veteran Affairs heard four bills and one consent resolution, all focused on veterans’ benefits and military policy. SB 888 would exclude VA service-connected disability compensation from household income when determining eligibility for the low-income disabled veterans’ property tax exemption. The author and numerous veterans’ organizations argued that disability benefits should not disqualify disabled veterans from tax relief, and the bill received broad support with no opposition. The committee passed it 6-0 and later 8-0 on add-on, sending it to Revenue and Taxation. SB 1354 would prohibit military personnel from another state, territory, or district from entering California to perform military or law enforcement functions without the Governor’s permission, while preserving Title X activity, mutual aid, and training arrangements. The author said it was meant to protect California’s authority and prevent unauthorized military involvement. Committee members asked for clarifications about training and mutual aid, and the author agreed to work on amendments. The bill passed 5-0 initially and later 6-0 on add-on, with referral to Public Safety. SB 623 would place the Veterans Bond Act of 2026 on the ballot to authorize $1.25 billion in general obligation bonds for the CalVet home loan program. Supporters emphasized the program’s century-long record, self-supporting structure, low foreclosure rate, and importance in helping veterans buy homes and stay in California. Members discussed the urgency of getting the measure on the ballot in time and the possibility of folding it into another bond if needed. The committee approved the bill with urgency and sent it to Housing and Community Development, later voting 8-0 on add-on. SB 1407 would increase the state income tax exclusion for military retirement pay and survivor benefits to the first $40,000, subject to income caps. Supporters said it would help retain veterans and their economic contributions in California, while an opposition group argued the state already provides generous veteran benefits and that the measure would be unfair to other public servants. Despite the opposition, the bill passed and was re-referred to Revenue and Taxation. The committee also adopted consent resolution SR 143 unanimously.

Transcript Highlights:

• go into dispute resolution. go into dispute resolution.
• students needs resolution. students needs resolution.
• >> It was dispute resolution. >> Dispute resolution. >> Yeah. >> Okay.
• >> It was dispute resolution. >> Dispute resolution. >> Yeah. >> Okay.
• >> It was dispute resolution. >> Dispute resolution. >> Yeah. >> Okay.

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Summary: The commission meeting focused on reviewing and correcting draft minutes and then working through a draft report on the cost of special education. Members made mostly clerical corrections, including clarifying references to Spalding, fixing acronyms such as LETRS, and cleaning up membership titles and appointee roles to match SB 57. The minutes were approved as amended, with some members abstaining because they were not present at the prior meeting. The chair also noted the commission’s deadline to complete findings and recommendations by July 1 and said the final report must be delivered to legislative leaders, the governor, the state librarian, and others. The main substantive discussion centered on the report’s findings about special education funding. Members agreed the report should emphasize that the commission was created to study the cost of special education and reduce reliance on local property taxes. One draft section described FY24 special education funding as coming from three primary state and federal sources totaling about $152 million, or roughly 15% of annual costs, with the remaining 85% paid by local school districts through property tax revenue, estimated at about $825 million. Members discussed adding historical or longitudinal data to show trends over time, and some suggested attaching charts or tables showing funding over the last 20 to 30 years. A second major topic was demographic data. The draft noted that statewide K-12 enrollment has declined since 2003 while the number and share of students with IEPs has increased. Members questioned whether the data compared like with like, especially given the growth of Education Freedom Accounts and charter school enrollment, and whether the figures included or excluded those students. Several members asked for clearer sourcing from the Department of Education and suggested keeping a list of unresolved questions, including the impact of the shift from ADMA to ADMR and the effect of the EFA program. The discussion ended with agreement to continue refining the report and to gather additional attachments and clarifications before finalizing recommendations.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm [clears throat] just wondering if I know that some other committees, House committees, do post that
• I'm still transplanting a tree from one side of my house to the other side that I did yesterday, my back

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The Education Freedom Account Oversight Committee met on March 27 and approved the agenda, adding a request for clarification on how the Children’s Scholarship Fund separates applications for the EFA program and the education tax credit program. The committee also approved minutes from December 30, 2025, and March 27, 2026, with a request that the March minutes include a link to the live stream. Members discussed the status of pending Legislative Budget Assistant audit reports on EFA and special education, noting the reports were still not released and would likely come later in the summer after review by the Department of Education and the Children’s Scholarship Fund. A major topic was the EFA program’s administrative fee, which statute allows up to 10% of deposits. Children’s Scholarship Fund representatives said current administrative costs were under 8%, that staffing had been reduced through the ScholarVia platform, and that any unused amount is reconciled and returned to students at year’s end. Members asked for historical administrative-cost data and a written explanation of how the withholding and reconciliation process works. The committee also reviewed the distinction between the EFA and education tax credit funding streams and was told the two programs use separate applications and separate funds, though both use the same platform. The committee spent substantial time on assessment and accountability. Department of Education staff explained that EFA students may satisfy annual assessment requirements through a portfolio, a norm-referenced test, or the statewide assessment; only about 10 EFA students took the statewide assessment, while most used portfolios or standardized tests such as the California Achievement Test and NWEA. Staff described how statewide assessment data are kept separate by student identifier and can be aggregated for EFA reporting, and members asked for breakdowns by grade, test type, and school district. The department also discussed linking assessments through Lexiles and Quantiles and said it could provide a list of commonly used formative assessments in New Hampshire districts. The committee additionally discussed a possible PSAT addition to the state contract and the costs of the statewide assessment program. Another major issue was special education eligibility and services within the EFA program. Members questioned the rule allowing a medical certification of disability from a licensed professional anywhere in the United States as an alternative to an IEP-based determination. Department staff said the current system allows either pathway, that about 1,000 EFA students are identified as special education students, and that the program does not track growth or service alignment on an individual basis. Members expressed concern that the medical-certification route may be too broad and asked for data on the disability categories used. The committee also discussed career and technical education access for EFA students, noting that Senate Bill 491 would provide guidance and that House Bill 1817 would address access and funding issues, but that current law still allows EFA funds to be used to pay CTE costs. The meeting ended with a request for future agenda items and a decision to leave the next meeting date open until fall, pending further information from the LBA audit process.

Transcript Highlights:

• It makes housing and construction in California prohibitively expensive.
• As the chair of the Senate Housing Committee, and somebody who cares deeply about housing production
• and housing affordability, I don’t want to do anything that’s going to put barriers in the way of, you
• know... ...housing affordability, I don’t want to do anything that’s going to put barriers in the way
• have a situation like we had in my district where five and six hours after the fire swept through houses

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The Committee on Emergency Management heard several bills after a delay while the Senate was in budget deliberations. The committee first approved the consent item, SB 895, on a do-pass motion to the Committee on Communications and Conveyance. The main policy discussion centered on SB 1299, which would place in statute a certification and training framework for fire sprinkler fitters and apprentices after prior regulations were struck on procedural grounds. Supporters said the bill would protect public safety by ensuring qualified installation and maintenance of fire suppression systems; opponents raised concerns about added costs, housing affordability, and impacts on rural areas. The bill was approved on a do-pass-as-amended vote to the Committee on Labor and Employment, with Assembly Members Hadwick and DeMaio voting no. The committee then heard SB 1153 on wildfire preparedness and public water systems. The author and supporters from water agencies argued the bill would require urban retail water suppliers to include wildfire response procedures in emergency plans, clarify that water systems are not designed to suppress large wildfires, and reduce litigation costs passed on to ratepayers. Several water districts, fire-related organizations, and business groups testified in support. Members discussed transparency, backup power for pumps, and whether the bill should require more public disclosure about generator capacity; the author said he would continue working on the issue. The bill passed on a do-pass-as-amended vote to the Committee on Environmental Safety and Toxic Materials. Finally, the committee considered SB 828, prompted by the Esparto fireworks warehouse explosion. The bill would tighten fireworks licensing and storage rules by requiring disclosure of storage locations, proof of local permits, and confirmation that licensees are not federally disqualified. Support came from local government and environmental health representatives, while one pyrotechnic operator opposed unless amended, arguing the permit-verification requirements could not be met for hobby rocketry and some jurisdictions lack a permit process. Members and the author discussed possible clarifications for model rockets and other niche uses, and the author said he would continue working with the Fire Marshal and stakeholders. SB 828 passed on a do-pass-as-amended vote to the Committee on Local Government, and the meeting then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• Under this committee, we talk about housing and homelessness.
• I know that it expands housing production with $500 million for the low-income housing tax credit and
• $200 million for the multifamily housing and keeps families housed with $100 million in housing stability
• ... ...and keeps families housed with $100 million in housing stability supports.
• A vote today is a vote for funding affordable housing and keeping families housed and not homeless.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The Assembly convened, established a quorum after a roll call, observed a moment of silence for the fatal B-52 crash at Edwards Air Force Base, and proceeded with routine procedural business, including re-referrals of numerous Senate bills to different committees and several rule suspensions to allow bills to be heard or moved. Assembly Member DeMaio attempted to amend and then return AB 109 to the Senate to add health care premium reductions, but the motions were ruled out of order and his request to suspend the rules failed on a 13-45 vote. The main floor action was on AB 109, the 2026-27 state budget. Assembly Member Gabriel presented the budget as balancing fiscal responsibility with protections for health care, schools, housing, wildfire prevention, and the safety net, while opponents argued it raised costs, underfunded education and public safety, and relied on gimmicks. Supporters emphasized investments in hospitals, Medi-Cal, IHSS, child care, food banks, housing, and reserves, and repeatedly defended the budget’s approach to Proposition 36 funding and prison closures. After extensive debate, the Assembly voted to concur in the Senate amendments to AB 109, and the bill was immediately transmitted to the Governor. Later, the Assembly took up SCR 89 on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Members from several caucuses spoke in support, arguing DEI is central to equal opportunity, civil rights, and California’s identity, and warning against federal efforts to roll back such programs. Assembly Member DeMaio spoke in opposition, saying DEI treats people differently based on immutable characteristics. The transcript ends during that debate, with the resolution still under consideration.

Transcript Highlights:

• In housing and homelessness, the plan provides additional funding for the multifamily housing program
• We added money for low-income housing tax credit.
• Natalie Spivak with Housing California.
• tax credits, and the multifamily housing program.
• the Multifamily Housing Program and also appreciate the support for a statewide housing bond.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The Assembly Budget Committee met to consider the 2026 Budget Act, which leaders described as the compromise budget expected to move to the floor later that evening. Opening remarks emphasized that the plan balances the budget over two years, reduces the structural deficit, and builds reserves, while also protecting core programs from federal cuts. Jason Sisney outlined the legislative budget plan, saying it uses higher-than-expected revenues and reserve balances to reject some proposed reductions and fund temporary restorations and new spending in areas such as education, child care, health care, housing, homelessness, and public safety. Department of Finance representatives said the administration appreciated the two-year balanced framework and the effort to address out-year deficits, while noting the plan includes additional spending and revenue changes. Sisney also previewed floor bills including AB 109, SB 110, SB 122, and SB 125, with SB 122 described as a modification to the tax credit proposal and SB 125 as the managed care organization tax proposal. Subcommittee chairs then described the major policy choices in their areas. Health chair Addis said the budget responds to federal health care rollbacks by protecting Medi-Cal, clinics, hospitals, dental care, and other safety-net services, while also supporting reproductive care, gender-affirming care, and county health systems. Education chair Alvarez highlighted increased school funding, expanded learning, special education, teacher support, community colleges, and a change to Cal Grant eligibility for older community college students. Other chairs emphasized child care expansions, homelessness and housing funding, prison closure and criminal justice savings, wildfire mitigation, county support for Medi-Cal and CalFresh administration, and accountability measures tied to homelessness and corrections spending. Several members also raised concerns or priorities, including the impact of the MCO tax on providers, the need for more support for local journalism, transit and climate funding, biotech and R&D incentives, and continued work on Prop 98 and long-term revenue solutions. No formal votes were taken in the portion provided, but members broadly expressed support for the budget framework and the need to continue negotiations with the administration before final passage. The committee discussion repeatedly framed the budget as a response to federal policy changes and a choice to protect vulnerable Californians while maintaining fiscal responsibility. The vice chair, citing LAO warnings about future volatility and limited reserves, pressed Finance on whether the budget represented a record-sized state budget and whether revenues were also at record levels, underscoring concerns about the state’s preparedness for a downturn.

Transcript Highlights:

• community land trusts who support the growth of permanently affordable, community-controlled land and housing
• relying on fixed or semi-fixed incomes spend a disproportionate share of their income on health care, housing
• Amber King with LeadingAge California, representing nonprofit providers of care services and housing
• Many older adults are facing rising costs for housing, health care, and daily necessities.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The Assembly Committee on Revenue and Taxation met as a subcommittee and heard several tax-related bills, with initial items identified as suspense candidates because of their fiscal impact. SB 881 would extend the farmer-to-food-bank tax credit and the Emergency Food for Families voluntary tax contribution; the author and supporters from food banks, agricultural groups, local governments, and climate organizations said it would reduce food waste, help farmers donate surplus produce, and address rising food insecurity. No opposition was presented, but the bill was ultimately referred to suspense. SB 1406 would target the so-called Montana tax loophole used to avoid California taxes on luxury vehicles and similar purchases; supporters said it would recover revenue and improve fairness, while a business group opposed it unless amended, warning the shell-company language could affect legitimate small businesses and passive owners. That bill was also sent to suspense. SB 1349, which directs the Legislative Analyst’s Office to review major existing tax expenditures and evaluate whether they are meeting their goals, drew support from the California Teachers Association, tax reform advocates, school employees, local governments, and others who argued that California needs more accountability for billions in tax breaks. The committee later took a quorum and passed SB 1349 on a due pass as amended motion to the Assembly Committee on Appropriations. The committee also approved two consent items, SB 1436 and SB 1437, sending them forward on the agreed motions. SB 1249 would provide a $3,000 tax deduction for seniors ages 86 to 90 through 2032, with the author and LeadingAge California describing it as targeted relief for older adults facing rising costs. The bill received supportive comments from a committee member but was referred to suspense. SB 1151 would codify the sales tax exemption for infant formula by expressly defining it as a food product; the author said this would remove uncertainty for families, and members cited the high cost of formula and the need for clarity. The committee passed SB 1151 on a motion to the Assembly Committee on Appropriations. After completing the remaining business, the committee adjourned.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The Rules Committee was called to order in the evening, the roll was taken, and a quorum was established. The committee then considered a consent agenda, with items 9 and 12 pulled for separate action at the request of members. The remainder of the consent agenda was moved and approved by roll call vote. Item 9, H.R. 115 by Assembly Member Ward, was then taken up separately and approved by roll call vote. Item 12, an urgency clause request for SB 830 by Senator Ergin, was also moved and approved by roll call vote. During both votes, some members were recorded as not voting or absent. After completing action on the consent agenda and the two pulled items, the committee adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• between the house and the Senate. between the house and the Senate.
• this is not going to go to the house this is not going to go to the house for<00:13:31.800> a
• anybody else's house in the town. anybody else's house in the town.
• We're voting on House Bill 1599.
• on House Bill 1647. on House Bill 1647.

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Summary: The committee began with brief remarks recognizing Representative Almquist’s service and noting that he would not seek reelection, along with comments about other members’ departures and replacements. The chair then opened a series of interim study work sessions, explaining that some bills would be handled now and school-funding-related bills later in the year. Members also discussed how interim study reports work, including that they are recommendations for future legislation and do not prevent anyone from filing similar bills again. On HB 224, dealing with rebates to taxpayers from the renewable energy fund, members noted that the bill was essentially the same as a prior House bill that passed the House but stalled in conference with the Senate. The committee discussed whether the measure would change current law; members were told it would not, and that the report would simply recommend future legislation. The chair indicated the committee would likely recommend the bill for future legislation, with no minority report, and that any roll call vote would be reflected in the final report. On HB 417, repealing the communication services tax, members raised concerns about revenue loss, possible 911-related issues, and conflicts over municipal taxation of telephone poles and related property. The Lottery Director and others explained that repeal could create legal uncertainty for municipalities and that the bill could reduce state revenue by millions of dollars. The committee concluded the bill should not be recommended for future legislation unless it were substantially revised to address revenue and municipal-taxation complications. On HB 635, concerning taxing nonprofit entities that settle illegal immigrants, members agreed it was primarily a federal issue and outside the state’s authority, so it was not recommended for future legislation. On HB 660, requiring historic horse racing facilities to compensate host communities, members said the concept of mitigating local impacts was reasonable but the bill was too broad in its current form. Testimony from the Lottery Director and others focused on how host communities and charities currently receive days and revenue, how operators are using shared days, and how the market may already be adjusting. Members also discussed whether neighboring communities, including out-of-state towns, should be considered and whether the state’s share of gaming revenue could be redirected. The discussion ended with interest in a narrower rewrite and possible future legislation, but no final vote was described in the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• But when it becomes necessary, we could say this patient has been struggling with housing displacement
• I worked with Senator Rader when she was in the House on this.
• I worked with Senator Rader when she was in the House on this.
• I understand we'll take a vote on this. the House on this. I understand we'll take a vote on this.
• It takes, She was in the House. The Senator was when she started this process.

Keywords: 959, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Obviously, housing is a priority for the city.
• proximity to other houses.
• as a wildfire buffer for existing houses, would significantly increase the probability of housing loss
• predicted housing losses in the next wildfire?
• as a wildfire buffer for existing houses, would significantly increase the probability of housing loss

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The hearing focused on lessons from the 2017 Tubbs Fire and how Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, and state partners have changed wildfire prevention, recovery, and rebuilding practices since then. Opening remarks emphasized that catastrophic wildfire is now a statewide issue, that California has shifted more toward prevention and resilience, and that Sonoma County’s recovery has become a model for other communities. Panelists included fire, water, permitting, community recovery, and insurance experts, who described how local experience has informed broader policy discussions. Santa Rosa fire and city officials described major changes in prevention and preparedness, including stronger public education, a vegetation management ordinance, an ignition-free/Zone Zero approach, and more detailed community wildfire protection planning. They said these efforts helped reduce damage in later fires, such as the Glass Fire, and noted ongoing challenges with prescribed burning, smoke management, grant delays, and maintaining vegetation treatments over time. Santa Rosa Water described improvements in regional coordination, backup power, generator redesign, and wildfire contamination response protocols after the city became the first utility to identify wildfire-related contamination in its water system. Community recovery leaders stressed the importance of block captain networks, neighborhood organization, and trusted local information in helping residents rebuild and avoid fraud. They argued for more formal support, training, and funding for block captain programs, as well as better long-term financing for local mitigation work and utility upgrades. Permit Sonoma officials said the county tried to balance speed and safety in rebuilding by streamlining permits, reducing fees, and helping residents rebuild to stronger standards, though they noted the loss of a major BRIC grant has slowed home-hardening outreach. Insurance advocate Amy Bach said wildfire risk reduction is increasingly influencing insurer behavior, with some companies offering discounts or more favorable treatment for Firewise communities and homes meeting wildfire-prepared standards. She urged continued funding for mitigation grants, better disclosure when insurers use aerial imagery to non-renew policies, and caution against removing wildfire coverage from standard homeowners policies. No formal votes or legislative actions were taken in the hearing; it was an informational discussion intended to gather testimony and policy recommendations.

Transcript Highlights:

• Uh, I'd like to call to order our special committee on COVID response efficacy for the House.
• <01:04:08.559> had<01:04:09.359> up<01:04:09.760> through that the house had
• up through that the house had up through um<01:04:12.240> really<01:04:12.640> mid<01:
• Address that to the House Special Committee on COVID Efficacy.
• uh address that to the special uh house uh address that to the special uh house special<02:56:51.680

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Summary: The committee met as a special House committee on COVID response efficacy, noted absences, and restated its mission to review New Hampshire’s pandemic response, including federal guidance, federal funds, emergency use authorization vaccination efforts, long COVID treatment, patient bill of rights implementation, and vaccination policies. The main business was discussion of a proposed letter or report language concerning current COVID vaccine recommendations for young children, especially those under age two, and how to support any conclusions with cited scientific and state sources. Representative Polozov argued that the committee should ask the governor or agencies to reconsider current recommendations, saying the committee should focus on whether vaccination is needed for that age group, whether it is effective, and whether the risks outweigh the benefits. He said he had distributed articles and wanted the committee to pair its conclusions with scientific and statistical data. Other members asked him to identify the specific New Hampshire DHHS and American Academy of Pediatrics sources for the recommendation, clarify the age range being discussed, and separate any evidence about adverse effects in other age groups from the infant/toddler demographic so the letter would be transparent and not misleading. Members generally agreed the letter should be carefully sourced and refined, with citations for each claim. The chair said the committee would treat the request as urgent and try to finalize a version by the next meeting, noting that some members would be traveling. The committee also discussed scheduling additional testimony in September and October, possibly with extra meetings, to continue gathering evidence and to hear from witnesses. The chair then began reviewing supporting articles, including studies he said were new since the 2024 report, and introduced a 2025 South Korea cohort study and another 2025 Italian cohort study as examples of the evidence he wanted to incorporate into an updated 2026 report.

Transcript Highlights:

• I request unanimous consent to suspend the rules to allow Assembly Member Garcia to take up House Resolution
• It is time to talk about the things that unite us, and without reference to file, House Resolution 118
• House Resolution 118 by Assembly Member Garcia relative to the FIFA World Cup.
• House Resolution 113 by Assembly Member Jeff Gonzalez, relative to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
• House Resolution 113 by Assembly Member Jeff Gonzalez, relative to focal segmental glomerulosclerosis

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The Assembly convened after a quorum call and completed routine opening business, including the prayer, pledge, journal approval, and several unanimous-consent procedural motions to suspend rules, re-refer bills, and adjust committee notices. Members also introduced guests, including anesthesia residents, a legislator’s son, and a legislative intern. The chamber then adopted House Resolution 118 welcoming the 2026 FIFA World Cup to California; members spoke in support of the event’s international, cultural, and economic significance, and the resolution received 64 co-authors before passing by voice vote. On the daily file, the Assembly passed and retained or continued a number of second- and third-reading items, then adopted Assembly Concurrent Resolution 193 proclaiming 2026 the International Year of the Woman Farmer. Supporters highlighted women’s role in California agriculture, including farm ownership, production, and leadership, and the resolution received 69 co-authors before adoption. The Assembly also adopted ACR 210 establishing a sister-state relationship with Gauteng, South Africa, with members citing economic ties, educational exchange, and existing partnerships such as an MOU with Sacramento State; it received 65 co-authors before passage. The second-day consent calendar was adopted 73-0 after item 46 was removed, and the remaining consent items passed unanimously. The chamber then observed adjournment-in-memory tributes for Norman L. Ford, Jr. and James McCain, Sr., with family members present in the gallery. The session concluded with announcements about budget-related business and the schedule for the next meeting, then adjourned until Monday, June 15, upon the call of the Speaker.

Transcript Highlights:

• That has always been understood to apply to the public advocates office as well, since it's housed within
• You pretty much had to have a single-family house. And I've had a condo for 35 years.
• , and we've talked so much about how we can't make our climate goals unless people in multifamily housing
• bill, and we've talked so much about we can't make our climate goals unless people in multifamily housing

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The Assembly Committee on Utilities and Energy heard several bills focused on utility affordability, transparency, and clean energy. SB 327 would bar investor-owned utilities from using ratepayer funds to oppose municipal utility formation and would clarify the Public Advocates Office’s authority to inspect utility books; supporters framed it as a ratepayer protection measure, while utilities and telecom/broadband interests opposed it unless amended, citing concerns about scope and participation in regulatory proceedings. After questions about how it differed from AB 1167 and how PAO discovery disputes are handled, the committee passed SB 327 as amended to Appropriations on an 11-2 vote, later reopening the roll to 12-2. SB 1350 would allow renewable portfolio standard credit for power plants using green hydrogen, with the author and supporters emphasizing hydrogen’s role in decarbonization, grid reliability, jobs, and the Lancaster/ARCHES project. Environmental groups opposed the bill unless amended, warning about NOx emissions, paper transactions, and the need for stronger safeguards on hydrogen sourcing and delivery. The committee discussed amendments, including a minimum 20% hydrogen blend and emissions-related guardrails, and passed the bill to Natural Resources on a 14-0 vote, later reopening the roll to 18-0. SB 868, the Plug and Play Solar Act, would create a framework for small plug-in balcony solar devices for renters and others without rooftop solar access, while setting safety standards and limiting system size. Supporters said it would lower bills and expand access to solar; utilities and some public power entities raised safety and backfeed concerns, arguing interconnection review under Rule 21 remains necessary. After extensive discussion of safety, certification, and export limits, the committee passed SB 868 as amended to Appropriations on a 17-0 vote, later reopening the roll to 18-0. SB 1233, a transparency bill requiring additional disclosure about utility cash on hand, capital structure, and related reporting, drew utility opposition over duplicative processes and possible delays, but was passed as amended to Appropriations on a 10-3 vote, later reopened to 11-3. The committee also approved the consent calendar unanimously and adjourned after reopening the rolls for absent members to add on.

Transcript Highlights:

• New requirements for increased spending on housing interventions mean that counties have less money to
• For some of our smaller school districts or our rural communities, they don’t have the in-house expertise

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The hearing focused on youth mental health and treatment access, with the chair framing the issue around California’s Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative (CYBHI), school-based supports, and the need to coordinate education, health, and community systems. The first panel featured PPIC researcher Shalini Mostala, who said teen mental health remains a serious concern but recent California Healthy Kids Survey data show improvement in chronic sadness and suicidal thoughts since the pandemic peak. Youth advocate Ella Cruz described her own struggles, emphasized stigma reduction, peer support, and the importance of youth voices in shaping policy and outreach. Members asked about phone use, cultural stigma, and how to encourage young people to seek help and connect with trusted adults and peers. The second panel, led by CYBHI director Dr. Sohill Sood and DHCS Deputy Director Autumn Boylan, provided implementation updates. Dr. Sood said recent data show more students receiving counseling, lower stigma, and a drop in reported suicidal ideation, while also highlighting growth in certified wellness coaches and the CYBHI fee schedule. He said the program has generated more than 230,000 claims and over $11 million in new revenue for participating entities, though implementation is still early and technical assistance remains important. Fresno County’s Trina Frazier described a multi-tiered system of care with wellness centers, mobile therapy units, and strong outcomes in attendance, suspensions, and academic performance, while Rachel Kroberniski of the James Morehouse Project described a long-running school wellness center and a peer-to-peer model that helps students feel connected and supported. Members pressed witnesses on rural staffing, billing coordination, higher education participation, and how to sustain services after one-time grants expire. In the final panel, WestEd’s Lisa Eisenberg discussed what makes the fee schedule work best, saying schools are most successful when they build on existing staff, relationships with health plans, and data-sharing agreements rather than creating entirely new systems. Across the hearing, witnesses and members repeatedly returned to themes of flexibility, sustainability, youth-led and peer-based supports, and the need to reduce stigma while improving coordination across schools, counties, providers, and colleges. No formal votes or legislative actions were taken during the hearing.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The subcommittee met at 1:40 p.m. with quorum established and heard one bill, SB 920 by Senator Archuleta. The bill was described as a good-governance measure based on a 2018 audit of the Gaming Control Fund. It would require the Gaming Commission, when adopting or adjusting a fee deposited into the fund, to maintain a regulation stating the fee’s authorized purpose and use, with the goal of improving transparency, accountability, and fiscal integrity in gambling regulatory fees. The bill’s sponsor and supporters, including Communities for California Card Rooms and representatives from several casinos, testified in strong support, saying the measure would add clarity and “belt and suspenders” to the fee process. Assembly Member Dixon asked about the delay since the 2018 audit and said she supported the bill. There was no opposition. The committee voted do pass SB 920 to Appropriations, with the roll showing enough aye votes to pass while the roll remained open for absent members. The committee then approved a consent calendar containing SB 33, SB 1205, SB 1235, SB 1236, SB 1273, and SB 1434, all with do pass to Appropriations recommendations. The meeting adjourned at 2:00 p.m.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Summary: The Assembly Committee on Public Employment and Retirement heard three bills. SB 939 (Laird), sponsored by CalPERS, would end new enrollment in the actuarial equivalent reduction option for service credit purchases after January 1, 2028, and require any unpaid balance at retirement to be paid within 90 days. The author said the change would reduce unintended consequences for retirees, employers, and CalPERS. There was no opposition, and the bill passed the committee on a 6-0 vote and was referred to Appropriations. SB 1038 (Laird), sponsored by the California School Employees Association, would expand CalPERS audit notifications so bargaining units receive notice of employer audits, affected-member lists, and final audit reports. Supporters said this would help unions protect members from benefit reductions or repayment demands caused by audit corrections, citing a Kern High School District example. There was no opposition, and the bill also passed 6-0 and was referred to Appropriations. SB 1227 (Drozzo) would require the Department of Industrial Relations to work with state worker unions to create apprenticeship pathways into key enforcement jobs, including roles at Cal/OSHA and the Labor Commissioner’s Office. Supporters from United Steelworkers, SEIU Local 1000, CSEA, and the California Labor Federation said the bill could help address staffing shortages and improve enforcement capacity. The committee approved the bill 6-0 as amended and re-referred it to the Committee on Labor and Employment.