Transcript Highlights:

• pass a joint resolution allowing the surviving spouses of deceased, disabled veterans to continue to claim
• purchaser, how would subsequent owners first. ...purchaser, how would subsequent owners know that these processes
• up with an analogy, but anything that is public record becomes discovered during the transaction process
• So they're making a claim. The science behind this is not exact. It's not an A to B, right?
• So this brings experts into the fold that can substantiate the claim. Thank you.

Summary: The State Affairs Committee opened with a tribute to the late Representative Joe Casello, with remarks from the chair and Ranking Member Eskamani honoring his service, especially his advocacy for first responders, veterans, and working people. The committee then turned to its only bill, HB 167, which would remove strict liability for certain previously mined phosphate lands if the landowner notifies the county and requests a Department of Health radiation survey. The sponsor said the bill is intended to create a voluntary process, add data about the land, and provide notice through the public record and title process. Members asked extensive questions about who pays for the surveys, how notice would reach future buyers, whether the bill affects renters or construction workers, and whether it would impact pending lawsuits. The sponsor said the landowner would pay for the survey needed to remove strict liability, plaintiffs would pay for surveys in litigation, the bill does not address OSHA or rental disclosures, and it would not apply retroactively to current cases because the complaint must include a survey. Supporters argued the bill simply replaces automatic liability with recorded notice and due diligence, while opponents said it could leave families and renters without adequate warning and should include stronger disclosure protections. Public testimony was in support from the Florida Chamber of Commerce, Associated Industries of Florida, and one individual. After debate, the committee voted 18-8 to report HB 167 favorably.

Transcript Highlights:

• Tobacco companies claim that they are less harmful than conventional cigarettes, but there is little
• evidence to demonstrate that claim because to demonstrate that claim because in the long term, early
• That's part of the process. But my point is when we get to... ...process.

Bills: SB282, SB300, HB72, HB396, SB282, SB300, HB72, HB396

Keywords: virtual currency, cryptocurrency, tax exemption, state tax law, digital assets, ad valorem tax, tangible personal property, business incentives, economic impact, firefighter, license plate, fees, funds distribution, support programs, memorial, disabled veterans, property tax exemption, debt-to-income ratio, homestead, veterans affairs

Transcript Highlights:

• and the formal administrative process. and the formal administrative process.
• administrative process. administrative process.
• This is not a hypothetical claim.
• This is not a hypothetical claim.
• This is not a hypothetical claim. This is not a hypothetical claim.

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The subcommittee considered an emergency regulation from the Kentucky Board of Optometric Examiners, 201 KAR 5021E, along with a staff amendment to conform the text to KRS Chapter 13A. The regulation was described as implementing an Attorney General opinion and a review of optometrists licensed during the 2020–2023 period when alternative testing and waivers were used during the COVID-19 era. The board explained that the rule requires affected licensees to complete specified examinations or an alternative certification before renewing in 2027, and that it now removes the OEBC Canadian exam as a future pathway while preserving recognition of OEBC results submitted during the period when that option was in effect. The staff amendment was approved without objection. Testimony was sharply divided. Board representatives and the Attorney General’s office said the regulation is needed to protect public health and to bring the licensure review into the formal administrative process. They said the NBEO Part 3 exam is the nationally recognized hands-on clinical licensure test, while the American Board of Optometry certification is a post-licensure credential for already licensed practitioners and is not a substitute for initial licensure testing. They also said no other state uses the ABOC certification for licensure, and that the board’s approach balances fairness, due process, and public protection. Opponents argued the regulation would allow individuals who were improperly licensed to continue practicing without meeting the same standards as other Kentucky optometrists. A representative from the Kentucky School for the Blind Charitable Foundation described cases of alleged inadequate care and urged the committee to require full national board passage before independent practice. Representatives from ARBO and NBEO said the emergency regulation is not justified as an emergency, does not adequately address public safety or fiscal impacts, and exceeds the board’s authority by creating a renewal path for licensees whose initial licensure was challenged. They emphasized that NBEO Part 3 is a practical, hands-on exam and that the ABOC certification is not designed or validated for initial licensure. The committee asked several questions about the differences between the exams, and no final vote on the regulation itself was described in the transcript beyond approval of the staff amendment.

Transcript Highlights:

• however with it having some the process however with it having some consternation<00:25:20.840> I
• As I’ve said, my entire working career I’ve represented coal miners, including in death claims, and I
• As I’ve said, my entire working career I’ve represented coal miners, including in death claims, and I
• As I’ve said, my entire working career I’ve represented coal miners, including in death claims, and I
• forward I'm going to vote Yes so process forward I'm going to vote Yes so thank thank thank you<00:27

Keywords: Meeting Start: 00:12 Attendance Roll Call: 01:12 HB 19 (Rep. Hodgson): 01:41 HB 54 (Rep. Banta): 04:01 HB 313 (Rep. King): 06:24 HB 473 (Rep. Branscum): 08:04 HB 196 (Rep. Wheeler for Rep. Blanton): 10:01 Adjournment: 28:08, 958, all

Summary: The Senate Standing Committee on Economic Development, Tourism, and Labor met for its fifth meeting of the 2025 session, took roll, established a quorum, and considered several bills. The committee first heard House Bill 19, which would create protections against unauthorized drone surveillance of people and private property and allow injunctive relief and civil actions. Representative John Hodgson said the bill was intended to protect privacy while preserving legitimate drone uses, and the committee reported the bill favorably on a 10-0 vote. The committee then considered House Bill 54, which would allow work hours earned through dual credit programs to count toward apprenticeship or licensing requirements in certain trades. Representative Banta and witness Brian Miller said the measure had been worked out with labor interests and would help students in career pathways. The bill passed unanimously and was reported favorably. House Bill 313, a cleanup measure related to last year’s consumer data privacy legislation, was also presented and passed unanimously with a favorable expression. The most extensive discussion centered on House Bill 196, which would change the number of mine emergency technicians required on coal mine shifts, especially for smaller mines. Senator Philip Wheeler presented the bill in place of Representative Blandon, arguing that smaller mines were struggling to meet current staffing requirements and that the UMWA was neutral. Stella Morris and Courtney Rhoads opposed the bill, with Morris describing the 2005 death of her husband in a mining accident and Rhoads arguing the change would reduce mine safety and roll back protections adopted after that tragedy. Several senators explained their votes, citing the balance between coal jobs and miner safety. The bill passed 7-4 and was reported favorably. The committee then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• disclosures such as how to file a claim disclosures such as how to file a claim and<00:32:22.240
• It has to describe how to process a claim. Has to describe how to cancel the policy.
• Senator Sieben: It has to describe how to process a claim.
• <01:03:59.280> They claim is legitimate. They claim is legitimate.
• thought in this process. thought in this process.

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• The author claims this bill will...
• This process is also a double-edged sword.
• and denied their due process.
• That's a due process problem and a setup for uneven justice.
• It uses the existing cannabis expungement process as the template.

Summary: The committee heard several public safety measures, with extensive testimony on firearms regulation, disability and sexual assault, mental health diversion, emergency response, and law enforcement masking. SB 704 by Senator Arreguín would require firearm barrels to be purchased through licensed dealers with a background check, as a response to the rise in ghost guns and 3D-printed firearms; supporters said barrels are a key component of untraceable guns, while opponents argued the bill burdens lawful gun owners and does little to stop criminals. SB 258 by Senator Wahab would eliminate the remaining spousal rape exception for victims unable to consent because of disability; supporters called it a needed closure of an archaic loophole, while disability-rights advocates opposed it unless amended, warning it could worsen misunderstandings about capacity to consent and harm disabled people’s autonomy. After debate, SB 258 passed the committee on a due-pass motion to Appropriations, with several members voting aye and the bill held on call. Senator Umberg presented SB 398, which closes a loophole in the law prohibiting paying or offering money or other value to induce someone to vote or register to vote; there was little opposition, and the bill passed on a due-pass motion to Appropriations and was held on call. He also presented SB 27, a CARE Court cleanup measure that would allow certain misdemeanor defendants found incompetent to stand trial to be routed into CARE Court and would expand eligibility to some people with mood disorders with psychotic features. Supporters said it would improve access to treatment and reduce unnecessary incarceration, while county behavioral health directors and disability advocates warned it could blur the line between voluntary civil treatment and coercive criminal proceedings and expand CARE Court beyond its intended scope. SB 27 passed on a due-pass motion as amended to Appropriations. The committee also heard SB 36 from Senator Umberg, a price-gouging measure tied to wildfire-related emergency conditions that also expands search-warrant authority for certain misdemeanor investigations. Public defenders opposed the search-warrant expansion as unnecessary, while a late supporter from the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office spoke in favor; the bill was moved on a due-pass motion as amended to Appropriations and held on call. SB 571 by Senator Arreguín would increase penalties for impersonating emergency personnel and related conduct during disasters; supporters cited post-fire looting and impersonation, while opponents argued longer sentences do not deter crime and that existing law is sufficient. The bill passed on a due-pass motion as amended to Appropriations and was held on call. Finally, Senator Wiener presented SB 627, which would prohibit law enforcement from wearing extreme masks except in limited circumstances, aimed largely at masked federal immigration enforcement operations. Supporters said masked, unidentified officers create fear and undermine trust, while law enforcement groups argued the bill wrongly sweeps in local officers, is too broad, and should instead target federal agents or impersonators. Testimony was still underway when the transcript ended, and no final committee action on SB 627 is shown here.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:07:41.520> of claims of claims of creditors<00:07:43.360> uh<00:07:43.840> we
• <00:15:32.759> uh used the through the court process uh used the through the court process
• This protects individuals who make claims of sexual misconduct from defamation lawsuits unless the claims
• We're in the process of upgrading that system to make it more efficient and more current to the processing
• This protects individuals who make claims of sexual misconduct from defamation lawsuits unless the claim

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several Judiciary-related measures. SB 94 would increase the mandatory minimum jail term for a first knowing or intentional violation of a temporary restraining order from 48 to 72 hours. The Office of the Public Defender and the Hawaii State Coalition Against Domestic Violence opposed the bill, arguing the current penalty is effective, the measure treats very different conduct the same, and the mental health assessment language is unclear and could be harmful or misapplied. Some other testifiers were listed in support or opposition, but no vote was taken. SB 15 would raise the real property exemption amount for attachment or execution. The Hawaiʻi Financial Services Association offered comments rather than opposition, suggesting the bill should be clarified as applying to creditor claims rather than property taxes and possibly limited to a primary residence, with restrictions on frequency of use. Committee discussion focused on how the exemption would affect unsecured creditors, the role of recorded mortgages and judgment liens, and whether the bill should instead establish a clearer homestead-style exemption. The bill drew both support and comments, with no action taken during the hearing. The committee also took testimony on SB 117, which would protect people making sexual misconduct claims from defamation suits unless made with malice; SB 121, a constitutional amendment to give the Senate more time to confirm judicial appointments; SB 14, a reapportionment amendment tied to the decennial census and resident population; SB 175, which would raise the mandatory retirement age for judges and justices from 70 to 75; SB 173, creating a three-year pilot program for free child care for minor children of parties and witnesses attending First Circuit court hearings; and SB 261, increasing juror pay from $30 to $50 per day. Testimony on these measures was generally supportive in the case of SB 175, SB 173, and SB 261, with some opposition on SB 14 and SB 117. On SB 173 and SB 261, committee members asked questions about practical implementation, and on SB 261 the State Bar Association said the increase was overdue and intended to encourage jury participation.

Transcript Highlights:

• There's some requirements for the checkout process, right, that there's warnings in that process clear
• onboarding process works? onboarding process works?
• But this is a process question.
• But this is a process question.
• But this is a process question.

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The subcommittee focused primarily on a bill concerning long-term care insurance rate increases and consumer notice. Members and staff discussed replacing or supplementing a proposed public hearing requirement with annual reporting, website updates, and consumer-facing disclosures about approved rate increases, carriers writing the products, and how the products work. Several participants emphasized that long-term care policies are long-term products, that rate increases can be spread over many years for actuarial reasons, and that consumers need better information about trends and the impact of increases. A major point of disagreement was whether the bill should try to cap premium increases. One member argued the real problem is unexpected increases of 15% to 20% and urged a statutory cap to protect consumers. Insurance department representatives and others responded that hard caps had been struck down in prior case law, that the department’s core responsibility is solvency, and that carriers need sufficient premium to pay future claims. They also said the market is struggling because many carriers stopped selling the product, leaving in-force policies to bear the cost, and that overly restrictive caps could cause insurers to withdraw from the state. The discussion then shifted toward a compromise requiring carriers to notify policyholders before a rate increase is approved and allowing a 60-day comment period. Participants debated whether the notice should come from the carrier, how confidentiality rules would apply before approval, and what the department should do with public comments. The department said it already reviews filings carefully and that submitted rates are often adjusted before approval; lawmakers noted that prior commissioners had pushed back on increases in some cases, including a seven-year moratorium. No final vote was taken in the excerpt, and the chair repeatedly tried to move the subcommittee along to other bills.

Transcript Highlights:

• Due process. That's for everyone. U.S. citizens, non-U.S. citizens, due process. this.
• <01:12:23.360> That's<01:12:23.600> for process in it. Due process.
• That's for process in it. Due process. That's for everyone. everyone. everyone.
• Due<01:12:57.520> process Due process Due process in<01:13:00.159> this<01:13:00.400
• That's what due process is about.

Keywords: 981, all

Summary: The Senate met with a quorum, approved the February 20, 2026 journal, and then moved into Committee of the Whole for second reading of bills on the consent calendar. Senate Bill 85, concerning military protection orders in domestic violence cases, and Senate Bill 25, concerning land survey monumentation, were both adopted on the consent calendar and later reported out as amended and placed on the calendar for third reading and final passage. The chamber also briefly recognized the Denver Alumni Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and welcomed a visiting family member of a sergeant during moments of personal privilege. The committee then took up Senate Bill 5, which creates a state court remedy for violations of federal constitutional rights during immigration enforcement. Senators Weissman and Gonzalez supported the bill, arguing it is meant to protect constitutional rights and provide a civil remedy when those rights are violated. Senator Gonzalez urged a strong vote in favor, while Senator Weissman explained the bill’s scope and later supported amendments as technical or clarifying changes. Two amendments to SB 5 were debated at length and both were defeated. Amendment L004, offered by Senator Baisley, would have required that a violation be done “knowingly and intentionally”; supporters argued it would add fairness and guard against frivolous claims, while opponents said it would raise the burden for injured people and was unnecessary because the bill already concerns federal constitutional rights. Amendment L005, offered by Senator Lon, would have barred claims where the plaintiff provoked the conduct; supporters said it would protect self-defense and limit abuse of the bill, while opponents called it victim-blaming and said it would undermine accountability. Both amendments failed on voice votes, and debate on the bill continued.

Transcript Highlights:

• UnitedHealth continued, um, sorry, I will state that their lawyers deny this claim.
• The lawsuit claims UnitedHealth used their AI to create a monetary windfall by denying care, knowing
• processes to maximize shareholder<00:03:28.239> value.
• ><00:05:00.080> the pre-authorization processes runs the pre-authorization processes runs the
• And health plans do use prior authorization in order to speed up processes.

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• allow more of an individualized process. allow more of an individualized process.
• You appear to be in that process.<02:34:29.280> What process. What process.
• <02:37:04.319> Thank process for sure. Okay. Thank you. Thank process for sure. Okay.
• that process, they gain depth of that process, they gain depth of understanding<02:58:25.040> and<
• there's no data to support that claim. there's no data to support that claim.

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• the form go through a rulemaking process.
• Planning electric infrastructure and transmission buildouts involves a lengthy process, a process that
• My concern is, number one, due process. What are the due process securities in place for the bill?
• This bill violates the spirit of due process.
• Lastly, it amends the code to adjust the process for warranty reimbursement adjustment claims regarding

Bills: SB1113, SB1117, SB1206, SB1460, SB1802, SB1906, SB1917, SB2340, SB2455, SB2680, SB2690, SB705, SB748

Keywords: SB 1113, converter's license, converter license, motor vehicle dealer, auto dealer, vehicle conversion, converted vehicles, direct sales, retail sales, trailer, semitrailer, manufactured trailer, chassis, manufacturer's statement of origin, MSO, Occupations Code, Transportation Code, Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, dealer licensing, general distinguishing number

Summary: The committee took up pending business first and reported several bills favorably, including SB 2139, SB 2610, SB 1856, SB 2530, SB 2401, SB 2858, and SB 3016, with most of those measures moving out on committee substitutes and being sent to the local and uncontested calendar or to the full Senate. The committee also heard SB 1906 on expanding Chapter 342E consumer lending rates; supporters argued it would modernize Texas law and expand access to safe, regulated credit, while opponents from Texas Appleseed and AARP warned it would raise costs on already expensive loans and worsen debt burdens. SB 1906 was left pending after testimony. The committee also reconsidered and re-voted SB 1856 after a procedural issue, with the substitute ultimately adopted and the bill reported favorably. The committee then heard SB 1113, which would clarify that certain vehicle converters, including a Texarkana business, do not need an additional dealer license to sell converted vehicles. The bill’s supporters described a long-standing business model and said the new metal license plate rules had created problems, while the Texas Automobile Dealers Association opposed the bill in its current form and said it could be resolved through DMV action or narrower changes. DMV said it was still researching a possible administrative fix, and SB 1113 was left pending. The committee also heard SB 2680, a Public Information Act cleanup bill dealing with emergency deadlines, business-day exclusions, and litigation timing; broadcasters and other open-government advocates argued the issues were already addressed by prior law and court rulings, while the Attorney General’s office said the bill would help with catastrophe notices and timing conflicts. SB 2680 was left pending. Other bills heard included SB 1117, which would allow any Texas-licensed dentist to administer botulinum toxin neuromodulators for aesthetic purposes in the oral and maxillofacial region; the author and dental witnesses said it would clarify scope and improve access, and the bill was left pending. SB 2340 would clarify the Attorney General’s investigative authority over Texas corporations, including pre-suit depositions and sworn written questions; opponents raised due process and separation-of-powers concerns, and the bill was left pending. The committee also heard SB 705 and SB 748, both TDLR cleanup bills, and SB 1206, which would impose timelines and notice requirements on municipalities reviewing transmission projects; SB 1206 was supported by an electric cooperative and left pending. SB 1460, creating an ethics violation registry tied to licensing consequences, drew constitutional and due-process objections from several witnesses and was also left pending. After a recess, the committee heard SB 1802 on landlord duties to repair mobility assistance devices like elevators and ramps in rental housing, with the author describing prolonged outages affecting seniors; the bill was left pending. Finally, SB 2455, creating an Energy Waste Advisory Committee to coordinate efficiency and demand-response programs, drew support from energy-efficiency and environmental witnesses and was left pending, and SB 2690, targeting deceptive business-certification solicitations, was laid out and opened to testimony before the transcript ended.

Transcript Highlights:

• A shareholder claim. Thank you.
• to that process.
• agreements and similar agreements into the sunset review process.
• The amendment clarifies the board's re-evaluation process.
• Okay, and what is the process? Can you walk me through the process just really quickly? Sorry.

Bills: HB1520, HB1545, HJR110, HJR203, HB245, HB1465, HB1482, HB294, HB793, HB809, HB3928, HB334, HB2037, HB1973, HB285, HB4341, HB4264, HB 1043, HB837, HB 1234, HB 1193, HB 1194, HB1646, HB1729, HB2498, HB1314, HB2295, HB1353, HB1531, HB1988, HB5398, HB3960, HB3923, HB1407, HB1764, HB2221, HB2214, HB2517, HB2518, HB2213, HB5008, HB5092, HB3421, HB3663, HB3748, HB3800, HB3756, HB2613, HB3782, HB5246, HB4344, HB4044, HB4066, HB2702, HB2807, HB2869, HB2898, HB3181, HB3250, HB4153, HB2091, HB2115, HB2542, HB2768, HB3349, HB3352, HB4406, HB1593, HB1899, HB3133, HB4432, HB4960, HB3214, HB3915, HB3508, HB2145, SB304, SB608, SB2312, SB494, SB530, HB45, HB2520, HB35, HB47, HB318, HB349, HB554, HB1359, HB1373, HB2254, HB2259, HB2853, HB3073, HB3088, HB353, HB355, HB786, HB762, HB705, HB932, HB849, HB 1119, HB3041, HB713, HB3104, HB3970, HB4042, HB4490, HB1731, HB2607, HB3689, HB1788, HB1612, HB138, HB15, HB1971, HB1338, HB2989, HB267, HB 1201, HB2954, HB5265, HB1804, HB5061, HB1520, HB1545, HJR110, HJR203, HB1887, HB1914, HB2402, HB2306, HB1809, HB2350, HB3000, HB3237, HB3326, HB3211, HB 1056, HB2081, HB2187, HB3092, HB3308, HB3526, HB3750, HB3527, HB4219, HB4230, HB4290, HB5238, HB4804, HB4749, HB245, HB1465, HB1482, HB294, HB793, HB809, HB3928, HB334, HB2037, HB1973, HB285, HB4341, HB4264, HB 1043, HB837, HB 1234, HB 1193, HB 1194, HB1646, HB1729, HB2498, HB1314, HB2295, HB1353, HB1531, HB1988, HB5398, HB3960, HB3923, HB1407, HB1764, HB2221, HB2214, HB2517, HB2518, HB2213, HB5008, HB5092, HB3421, HB3663, HB3748, HB3800, HB3756, HB2613, HB3782, HB5246, HB4344, HB4044, HB4066, HB2702, HB2807, HB2869, HB2898, HB3181, HB3250, HB4153, HB2091, HB2115, HB2542, HB2768, HB3349, HB3352, HB4406, HB1593, HB1899, HB3133, HB4432, HB4960, HB3214, HB3915, HB3508, HB2145, HCR6, HCR12, HCR34, HCR50, HCR55, HCR58, HCR70, HCR71, HCR72, HCR74, HCR75, HCR78, HCR80, HCR93, HCR100, HCR107, HCR116, HCR117, HCR90

Keywords: Angelina and Neches River Authority, river authority, Sunset Advisory Commission, Texas Sunset Act, Special District Local Laws Code, local government, natural resources, board of directors, director training, board governance, public testimony, open meetings, public information, conflict of interest, ethics, complaint system, general manager, board president, staggered terms, removal of director

Transcript Highlights:

• What this does is it really simplifies the process.
• Hopefully, the approval process...
• Leader in this process as it moves forward.
• Third, it involves the legislature in the process.
• Approval process, right?

Bills: SB801, SB867, SB2717, SB2919, HJR7, HB4, HB14, HB27, HB42, HB46, HB100, HB111, HB112, HB121, HB126, HB146, HB186, HB223, HB229, HB322, HB367, HB500, HB521, HB640, HB705, HB783, HB1052, HB1056, HB1105, HB1106, HB1178, HB1211, HB1234, HB1306, HB1403, HB1449, HB1506, HB1661, HB1690, HB1871, HB1960, HB2017, HB2078, HB2128, HB2240, HB2243, HB2348, HB2407, HB2512, HB2820, HB2844, HB2853, HB2854, HB2885, HB3000, HB3005, HB3053, HB3057, HB3181, HB3333, HB3372, HB3425, HB3441, HB3516, HB3749, HB3783, HB3812, HB3848, HB3923, HB3963, HB4070, HB4134, HB4157, HB4158, HB4211, HB4449, HB4623, HB4638, HB4687, HB4690, HB4748, HB4749, HB4795, HB4848, HB5093, HB5115, HB5129, HB5138, HB5294, HB5616, HB5629, HB5646, HB5661, HB5672, HB5674, HB5699, HCR40, SJR5, SJR27, SJR59, SB4, SB6, SB8, SB9, SB10, SB12, SB22, SB23, SB25, SB27, SB34, SB36, SB37, SB38, SB40, SB57, SB140, SB261, SB293, SB441, SB447, SB467, SB512, SB650, SB777, SB785, SB924, SB1188, SB1281, SB1318, SB1333, SB1398, SB1448, SB1566, SB1579, SB1621, SB1723, SB1838, SB1862, SB2167, SB2405, SB2406, SB2407, SB2878, SB3059, SB3070, SB1, SB17, SB21, SB260, SB379, SB509, SB1198, SB1405, SB1506, SB1637, SB1833, SB2155, SB2308, SB2601, SB2778, HB300, HB2011, HB2525, HB5246, SJR36, SJR50, SJR63, SCR12, SCR39, SB2023, SB62, SB666, SB847, SB284, SB854, SB810, SB1505, SB583, SB507, SB1434, SB1772, SB2016, SB1122, SB731, SB397, SB508, SB1436, SB287, SB1882, SB393, SB1791, SB209, SB2429, SB1085, SB1975, SB2717, SB1262, SB636, SB2056, SB884, SB1200, SB1845, SB2458, SB801, SB3014, SB3013, SB758, SB2797, SB2076, SB2876, SB1640, SB1449, SB1181, SB1234, SB2926, SB2841, SB1528, SB1854, SB317, SB1250, SB2082, SB1237, SB2819, SB629, SB2608, SB1602, SB2009, SB867, SB640, SB1698, SB2680, SB913, SB1071, SB1086, SB1087, SB1483, SB1444, SB1553, SB1556, SB1703, SB2133, SB2297, SB2298, SB2622, SB2955, SB2334, SB1367, SB2044, SB2363, SB2565, SB1888, SB3036, SB3057, SB3043, SB3063, SB3035, SB203, SB2688, SB2522, SB2459, SB2655, SB2251, SB1884, SB2928, SB2566, SB2549, SB2553, SB2919, SB1944, SB1232, SB1798, SB2603, SB2607, SB2683, SB1319, SB3045, SB3071, HJR7, HB5115, HB3053, HB1403, HB223, HB748, HB5652, HB3395, HB180, HB1306, HB322, HB126, HB5650, HB4894, HB1629, HB5698, HB3171, HB2694, HB5664, HB4690, HB4464, HB3623, HB2520, HB2213, HB252, HB146, HB5596, HB3619, HB5320, HB5651, HB5670, HB5665, HB5437, HB5679, HB5699, HB5661, HB5662, HB5654, HB5672, HB5656, HB3812, HB3057, HB2035, HB721, HB346, HB2512, HB5695, HB5694, HB5674, HB3185, HB2348, HB1871, HB1135, HB101, HB5666, HB5677, HB5682, HB5658, HB4144, HB3642, HB3815, HB2686, HB2012, HB1960, HB227, HB654, HB1690, HB2128, HB4158, HB4630, HB1523, HB2078, HB1973, HB3333, HB3697, HB3546, HB3225, HB3181, HB2820, HB1506, HB1234, HB640, HB521, HB229, HB186, HB119, HB4795, HB4466, HB3749, HB1106, HB4, HB4170, HB3909, HB4081, HB4145, HB4157, HB4285, HB4463, HB4995, HB5138, HB5624, HB1449, HB2598, HB3629, HB4361, HB824, HB1868, HB4848, HB2243, HB40, HB117, HB3686, HB500, HB3793, HB112, HB104, HB1056, HB42, HB3000, HB100, HB2240, HB718, HB27, HB4904, HB4202, HB2853, HB5129, HB5093, HB4765, HB4748, HB4559, HB4350, HB4214, HB3388, HB3112, HB5196, HB4211, HB3516, HB3092, HB4233, HB4687, HB705, HB1094, HB2037, HB3005, HB3848, HB1105, HB121, HB3372, HB367, HB783, HB3336, HB3441, HB4449, HB5616, HB2407, HB2854, HB3425, HB5294, HB1178, HB4623, HB14, HB3963, HB1211, HB5646, HB5629, HB3783, HB4236, HB46, HB4638, HB1052, HB4070, HB5509, HB5435, HB4134, HB3923, HB3520, HB3320, HB2517, HB2488, HB5663, HB2731, HB3073, HB2655, HB2399, HB541, HB4099, HB111, HB1532, HB3483, HB2963, HB4580, HB3748, HB713, HB632, HB426, HB4730, HB127, HB5690, HB5689, HB5655, HB3385, HB2757, HB4359, HB5381, HB20, HB123, HB549, HB5606, HB2217, HB2594, HB796, HB150, HB1057, HCR141, HCR40, HCR59, HCR76, HCR81, HCR46, HCR111, HCR83, HCR84, HJR7, HB4, HB14, HB27, HB42, HB46, HB100, HB126, HB150, HB322, HB367, HB500, HB640, HB705, HB783, HB1105, HB1178, HB1211, HB1234, HB1506, HB1690, HB1871, HB2078, HB2128, HB2240, HB2243, HB2407, HB2512, HB2853, HB2854, HB3000, HB3057, HB3181, HB3372, HB3425, HB3441, HB3749, HB3783, HB3812, HB3923, HB3963, HB4070, HB4134, HB4157, HB4211, HB4449, HB4623, HB4638, HB4687, HB4748, HB4795, HB5093, HB5129, HB5616, HB5629, HB5699, HB229, HB521, HB1056, HB1106, HB5138, SR583, SCR52, HB223, HB229, HB521, HB1056, HB1106, HB1403, HB3053, HB5115, HB5138

Keywords: SB 801, birth certificate, birth record, certified copy, homeless, homelessness, unhoused, vital records, state registrar, local registrar, county clerk, fee waiver, identity documents, ID access, housing insecurity, shelter, transitional housing, Health and Safety Code, HHSC, Health and Human Services Commission

Transcript Highlights:

• . process. process.
• work required of the clerk to process work required of the clerk to process the<00:39:39.680>
• the process. the process. >> Correct. >> Correct. >> Correct.
• Uh so as a little process at the FDA.
• to happen earlier in that process to happen earlier in that process because<03:32:50.640> until

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• that as part of the application process that as part of the application process they<04:00:25.040
• are the economic risk but the claims are still<04:03:25.720> being<04:03:26.080> processed
• > all see there's a unified process for all see there's a unified process for all employers<04
• insurance companies were very, very responsive to claims that were clearly claims.
• that were clearly responsive to claims that were clearly claims<04:30:21.760> it's<04:30:22.040

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The committee took up House Bill 2 provisions affecting the New Hampshire Retirement System, focusing on Group 2/Tier B retirement changes in pages 25 through 39 of the bill. NHRS Executive Director Jan Goodwin and deputy chief counsel Mark Kavanaugh explained that the 2025 bill is largely similar to prior versions and to HB 727, with the main difference being that the 2025 version does not include the earlier increase in the maximum benefit. They also said the fiscal note for HB 2 is based on earlier actuarial work and that an updated valuation was expected later in the week. A major topic was whether the bill accidentally removed an anti-spiking or special-duty compensation limit. NHRS said the omission appears to be a scrivener’s error caused by moving language between Group 1 and Group 2 definitions, and they planned to flag it in the fiscal note. Members also reviewed the bill’s intent to restore Tier B members to pre-2011 benefit rules, including changes to earnable compensation, average final compensation, and the comp-over-base rule. Some members questioned whether restoring those older rules was appropriate, arguing the 2011 changes were meant to curb pension spiking and that undoing them could be problematic. The committee also discussed the bill’s cost and funding assumptions. NHRS said the 2025 bill would reduce unfunded actuarial liability by about $98.2 million and would have a more favorable effect than the 2023 version, while employer contribution impacts would remain relatively small. Members noted the bill assumes annual appropriations of $27.5 million for 10 years, but House Bill 1 currently provides only $5 million in the first year, and NHRS had not yet analyzed the effect of that shortfall. No votes were taken in the portion provided; the discussion was informational and focused on clarifying the bill’s language, intent, and fiscal impact.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:15:02.639> in part of the the bill review process in part of the the bill review process
• And if the through this process.
• RSA 999D that do provide for the process RSA 999D that do provide for the process about<01:04:02.240
• So I anticipate that alcar process.
• ." process." process."

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Summary: The continued conference on House Bill 609 focused on reconciling House and Senate drafts dealing with firearms and other personal defense tools, local government preemption, and agency rulemaking. Representative Leyon walked through amendment 21107H, explaining that it narrows undefined terms, clarifies that the General Court has supremacy over local regulation, allows damages actions for violations of preemption law, and adds language limiting agency rules unless specifically authorized by statute. She also described a three-year sunset and a delayed effective date for new rules so existing rules could continue temporarily while the legislature considers any needed statutory carveouts. Members then debated the practical effect of the language, especially whether it would bar agencies from adopting internal employment rules or instead require those rules to come through JCAR and be tied to express statutory authority. Several examples were discussed, including state plow drivers, corrections employees, and other workers who may need to carry personal defense tools in the field. The committee also discussed a provision making a plaintiff a prevailing party if a municipality changes a challenged policy after suit is filed, and a clause stating that good faith or advice of counsel is not a defense, though it may be considered in mitigation. The discussion narrowed to the difference between the House approach, which some members read as an absolute prohibition on agency rules in these areas, and the Senate approach, which some members said would allow rules only when an agency can point to express enabling authority and JCAR can review them. Members agreed that the goal was to prevent agencies from adopting rules that conflict with the statute while still allowing legitimate safety-related regulations where the legislature has authorized them. The conference took a recess and later resumed with the chair stating the parties had reached an agreement in principle based on the latest Senate language, and Representative Leyon was asked to continue reviewing the draft line by line for remaining concerns.

Transcript Highlights:

• One is streamlining the comp plan process.
• One is streamlining the comp plan process.
• One is streamlining the comp plan process.
• One is streamlining the comp plan process.
• So there is a process to do that.

Summary: The Senate opened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and several recognitions, including remarks from the new Democratic caucus leader, Senator Berman, who emphasized affordability, education, health care, public safety, and opposition to measures he said would roll back child labor protections, book access, and gun safety laws. The chamber also recognized military leaders from U.S. Army Special Operations Command and an intern from Senator Polsky’s office. No committee reports or executive messages were on the desk at the start. The Senate then took up and passed several bills, often after substituting House companions and adopting technical amendments. Among the measures approved were the dangerous dogs bill (the Pam Rock Act), local government land regulation, vessel-related voter freedom/boating provisions, blood clot screening and treatment, fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, concealed carry licensing for certain officers and service members, timeshare management firms, disability history and awareness instruction, manufacturing and manufacturing fees, public education on background screening requirements, utility service restrictions, educational opportunities for military children, Medicaid oversight, health facilities authorities, and veterans’ nursing home beds. Several bills were temporarily postponed, including measures on human trafficking, waste management, Bright Futures, Medicaid oversight earlier in the day, mammogram coverage, and others. Debate on the disability history bill was especially extensive, with senators discussing the use of the word “disability,” the role of bias, and whether the bill fit with broader DEI-related policy debates. The bill’s sponsor and supporters framed it as a first step toward helping students understand and respect people with disabilities, and the chamber opened co-sponsorship before substituting the House version. Other bills drew focused questions about local government costs, impact fees, staffing burdens, grant criteria for small manufacturers, and the scope of utility preemption. Most measures passed on strong votes, including several unanimous votes, with the concealed carry/firearms bill passing 33-3 and the local government land regulation bill passing 26-8.

Transcript Highlights:

• this by requiring completed mitigation discount forms, 1802, be provided to the office so that a process
• That is a brand-new process, and that may take a little bit of time for both the office to absorb that
• That is a brand new process, and that may take a little bit of time for both the office to absorb that
• Preferred claims, as Mr.
• So a bunch of stakeholders reached out to me, a lot to process.

Summary: The committee heard and advanced several insurance, financial regulation, and public safety bills. The most extensive discussion centered on SB 1656, a major Office of Insurance Regulation bill covering reciprocal insurers, rate transparency, data calls, cybersecurity notification, and stronger oversight of continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs). The sponsor and OIR described the bill as aimed at transparency and preventing insolvencies, especially after recent CCRC failures. CCRC residents and industry representatives testified both in support and in opposition, with supporters emphasizing resident protection and opponents warning about liens, reserve requirements, management-company regulation, and higher costs. After debate and assurances that problematic provisions would be refined, the committee adopted a delete-all amendment and then reported the bill favorably. The committee also passed SB 1658, which creates a public records framework for the uniform mitigation verification of inspection form database while protecting policyholders’ personal information; a clarifying amendment was adopted before the bill was reported favorably. SB 1612 on financial institutions was approved after a substitute amendment restored current limits on credit union investments and kept only reimbursement, not salary, authority for certain board members and officers. SB 1740, an insurance bill intended to reduce premiums and insurer insolvency risk, was amended to prioritize rate-decrease filings and prohibit claim denials based solely on AI, then reported favorably. Two public-safety bills also moved forward. SB 1212 on firefighter health and safety would update OSHA-related protections, address toxic exposure in gear, encourage safer replacement equipment, and support best practices and mental health resources; an amendment refined terminology and added related provisions, and the bill was reported favorably. SB 1184 on residual market insurers was amended to preserve existing consumer protections and disclosure rules for excess and surplus lines and to clarify Citizens-related appointment requirements before being reported favorably. Throughout the meeting, members repeatedly noted ongoing stakeholder negotiations and intent to refine several bills further in later committee stops.

Transcript Highlights:

• And the recovery phase, which is the process of rebuilding homes and communities.
• Also, we know that this process is going to be longer than most disasters.
• is not a two-month process.
• years as well, because this is not, you know, a two-month, two-month process.
• And like the process of a lot of stuff is just really draining mentally.

Summary: The committee heard a broad public safety budget hearing focused on youth justice funding, probation incentive grants, and disaster response and recovery. On the youth justice item, the Office of Youth and Community Restoration described a proposed change to the JJRBG funding formula that would shift resources away from a DJJ-based measure and toward county youth population, serious offenses, and step-down placements in less restrictive programs. Members asked about data on Native American youth; OYCR said statewide data are limited, but its SYTF data show about 1% of youth in secure youth treatment facilities were Native in 2024. The Department of Finance had no objections, and the item was discussed as a way to support alternatives to long-term incarceration. The committee then reviewed the community corrections performance incentive program for county probation departments. The Department of Finance proposed stabilizing the program with a maintenance payment, updating the performance baseline, and adding a growth factor; the LAO agreed the formula needed changes but recommended using 2022-23 data instead of 2021-23, using marginal rather than average cost assumptions, rejecting the growth payment and minimum guarantee, and adding stronger oversight through the BSCC. Finance said it was open to some technical changes but opposed a new BSCC audit framework, noting Judicial Council already surveys probation departments and that evidence-based practice use has increased over time. Members and staff indicated the proposal still needed further work. A major portion of the hearing focused on the January 2025 Southern California wildfires and state disaster response. A resident of Altadena gave emotional testimony about evacuation failures, loss of home, and the need for accountability. LAO and Cal OES outlined the disaster response and recovery system, including mutual aid, alert and warning, debris removal, FEMA and state funding streams, and the long timeline for reimbursement. Cal OES said it had pre-positioned resources, temporarily took over the county’s wireless emergency alert function for about three weeks, coordinated debris removal and recovery operations, and had already allocated more than $286 million in state funds. Officials also discussed the 100% federal cost share for emergency work for 180 days and the uncertainty created by changing federal processes and the cancellation of the BRIC resilience program. The committee also heard two smaller Cal OES items: a request to reappropriate about $22 million for the law enforcement mutual aid reimbursement program, which the LAO said should be placed in statute with clearer goals and reporting, and an update on Victims of Crime Act funding, where Cal OES said federal VOCA allocations have fallen sharply and that roughly $224 million would be needed to maintain current service levels if federal funding does not improve. Public comment included a request for funding to expand datacasting and emergency alert receivers for wildfire and earthquake warning.