Video & Transcript Research : 'Kakou Pilot Program'
Page 147 of 500
US
US Federal 2025-2026 Regular Session
An oversight hearing to examine Native communities' priorities for the 119th Congress. Feb 12th, 2025 at 01:30 pm
Indian Affairs Committee
Transcript Highlights:
- programs.
- , the tribal pilot projects.
- , whether it's the school lunch programs. school breakfast programs, summer food services, the child
- and adult care food program.
- Those are your programs. Those are programs that impact you.
Keywords:
tribal sovereignty, healthcare, education, public safety, Economic Development, Tax Parity Act, PROTECT Act, trust obligations, bipartisan support, Indian Health Services
Summary:
The committee meeting focused on crucial issues facing tribal nations, particularly emphasizing the federal government's trust and treaty obligations. The discussions highlighted ongoing challenges such as disparities in healthcare, education, and public safety within Native communities. Chair Murkowski underscored the importance of listening to Native leaders and aligning congressional efforts with community needs, advocating for legislative actions that support tribal sovereignty and economic development. Various initiatives, including the Tax Parity Act and the PROTECT Act, aimed at addressing jurisdictional and financial disparities, were discussed in detail. A call for bipartisan support to alleviate the funding shortages affecting Indian Health Services was made several times during the meeting. Testimonies from tribal leaders and representatives emphasized the dire need for legislative support to enhance infrastructure, healthcare access, and public safety initiatives in tribal communities.
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- We didn't get it, so I'm using $500,000 to do a pilot program so that we can show proof of concept.
- we 500,000 to do a pilot program so that we 500,000 to do a pilot program so that we can<00:33:47.200
- Oh, can you say again when is that pilot program going to be running?
- them back okay so so that that pilot them back okay so so that that pilot program<02:33:51.720><
- <02:57:33.720>
uh <02:57:33.880>and Programs uh and Programs uh and programs<02:57:35.800
Summary:
The Public Safety Committee held a hearing on House Bill 433, which would appropriate $4 million for Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation re-entry services to connect offenders with community-based services. Director Tommy Johnson said the department supports the bill’s intent but noted the governor’s executive budget already includes $4 million for the same purpose and asked that the measure defer to that budget. Supporters, including the Hawaii Correctional System Oversight Commission, Community Alliance on Prisons, and the ACLU, backed the funding but urged that it be tied to a clear re-entry plan, performance measures, transparency, and regular reporting to the legislature. They emphasized that re-entry should begin at intake and involve community partnerships, housing, treatment, employment, and family reunification services.
Committee members questioned the department about current re-entry services, pre-trial detainees, and how the new funds would be used. Johnson said the department’s current statewide re-entry budget is about $1.5 million to $1.7 million, separate from the larger Corrections Program Services Division budget for in-facility programs. He described the proposed $4 million as supporting a mix of services, including a pilot apprenticeship program, substance abuse treatment, navigator or warm-handoff services, and short-term transitional housing. He also said the department already tracks performance outcomes in its annual report and can provide a matrix showing the intake-to-discharge process, program contracts, and volunteer organizations.
The discussion also covered pre-trial detainees, electronic monitoring, and mental health services. Johnson said the department has limited jurisdiction over pre-trial detainees but works with courts to seek supervised release when possible; he noted that many requests are denied, though electronic monitoring has improved release rates somewhat. On mental health, he said the jail is not an ideal therapeutic setting for people found unfit to proceed and suggested a secure community-based step-down facility run by the Department of Health for those needing care above what the jail can provide but below forensic-level treatment. No vote or final action on the bill was taken during the hearing.
NM
New Mexico 2026 Regular Session
IC - Legislative Education Study Jan 19th, 2026 at 10:05 am
NM
New Mexico 2026 Regular Session
IC - Legislative Education Study Jan 19th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- learning, the CTE pilot project, innovation zones.
- And we really want you to think about the costs between a virtual program and an in-person program.
- Are a virtual program and an in-person program the same?
- Plus, should a virtual program generate all the same funding as an in-person program?
- . whole program virtual instruction program, and that would eliminate that $42 million in funding for
KY
Kentucky 2025 Regular Session
Interim Joint Committee on Veterans, Military Affairs, & Public Protection (9-24-25)
Transcript Highlights:
- <00:20:26.400>
our operational with that program. our operational with that program. our Kentucky - Uh, I'm a drone pilot. Uh, I've flown a drone.
- <01:14:58.320>
I'm <01:14:58.560>not pilot. Uh I've flown a drone. I'm not pilot. - The Navy and the Air Force have done pilot programs around the country to facilitate the licensing and
- So Senator their initial pilot project.
Summary:
The committee met with a quorum, approved the August minutes, and heard a brief announcement from Senator Richardson about the Missing in America Project interring unclaimed veterans’ remains at the Western Kentucky Veterans Cemetery in Hopkinsville. He read the names of several veterans being laid to rest with military honors, and the chair thanked the volunteers involved in the effort.
The main presentation was an update on Kentucky’s urban search and rescue program from the Department of Military Affairs and Kentucky Emergency Management. Officials said the program is being built around two regional task force hubs, a helicopter aquatic rescue team, an incident support team, and a rescue aid fund for local search and rescue units. They reported that the $8.3 million appropriated for the program in the 2025 budget was fully executed, that $482,670 of the rescue aid fund went to 29 local teams, and that $493,592 has already been allocated in the current year to 36 teams. They also described warehouse and equipment purchases, staffing with full-time and part-time personnel, and a new training site on state property for collapsed-structure and multi-agency exercises.
Officials said the program has already been used in recent disasters, including flood response and urban search and rescue operations in several parts of the state, and claimed the effort has impacted more than 1,500 citizens through rescues, evacuations, and related assistance. They said the helicopter aquatic rescue team is fully operational, the task force roster should be finalized by January, incident support should be online by April, and the full program should be deployable by June 30 or July 1, 2026. Members asked about statewide response times, K-9 search capabilities, and the long-term cost of the program, including concerns about reliance on federal matching funds. The presenters said K-9 assets will be part of the task force, that pre-positioning during forecasted storms can reduce response times significantly, and that they would provide more detailed budget information later.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Assembly Transportation Committee Apr 21st, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- Program.
- As the representative of the folks that would actually be piloting these things, what we're looking for
- This bill provides for a pilot program for the use of cargo handling equipment that meets the European
- This program also allows cargo... ...of zero emissions for heavy-duty vehicles.
- There's one company out there right now that's doing a pilot for this.
Summary:
The Assembly Transportation Committee heard a series of bills focused on transportation safety, climate resilience, wildlife connectivity, parking enforcement, and EV charging reliability. AB 605 would create a pilot program allowing certain hydrogen internal combustion cargo-handling equipment at ports; supporters said it could help ports stay competitive while reducing emissions, while South Coast AQMD raised concerns about possible nitrogen oxide emissions and limits on future regulation. The bill passed on an 11-0 vote to the Natural Resources Committee. AB 1132 would require Caltrans to incorporate community resilience indicators, including socioeconomic factors, into climate vulnerability assessments; supporters from Greenlining, AARP, and others said it would better protect seniors, people with disabilities, and transit users during heat waves and disasters, while some members questioned the cost during a tight budget year. It passed 9-0 to Appropriations, with some members not voting. AB 382 would lower school-zone speed limits to 20 mph and give local agencies more flexibility in how the limit is posted and enforced; supporters cited child pedestrian deaths and safety research, and the bill passed 11-0 to Appropriations. AB 902, as amended, would require transportation projects in wildlife connectivity areas to include wildlife passage features where feasible; supporters emphasized reduced collisions and habitat fragmentation, while the California Building Industry Association and COGs moved from opposition to neutral after amendments. It passed 9-1 to Local Government. AB 1014 would give Caltrans more discretion to lower speed limits on state highways based on local conditions rather than the 85th percentile rule; supporters said it would improve safety in rural and tourist areas, and the bill passed 13-0 to Appropriations. AB 1022 would end towing or booting vehicles solely for unpaid parking tickets, with supporters describing the practice as punitive and harmful to low-income drivers, while cities and parking groups argued it would weaken enforcement and create problems for out-of-state vehicles. The bill passed 9-3 to Appropriations. AB 1423 would require publicly funded EV chargers to meet reliability standards and allow enforcement of uptime requirements; supporters said taxpayers need functioning chargers, while charging-industry opponents objected to retroactive standards and possible conflicts with existing agreements. The bill passed 14-0 to Utilities and Energy. The committee also approved a consent calendar of five bills by voice vote and held roll calls open for additional members to add on.
LA
Louisiana 2026 Regular Session
Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture, and Rural Development May 7th, 2026
Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture, and Rural Development
Transcript Highlights:
- Maybe it's a program. I had to Act 30, Section 32 in that program, and I mean, in that act.
- Maybe it's a program.
- We also have a Master of Science program and a post-baccalaureate program in dietetics.
- Probably one of our top programs is our beef cattle production program. And we developed, via Dr.
- That is a duly funded program.
Summary:
The House Committee on Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture, and Rural Development met with a quorum, adopted the minutes from its October 3, 2024 meeting, and Chairwoman Butler noted that HCR 82 would be voluntarily deferred in favor of continuing work on HCR 77 related to a pilot program for landscaping and crawfishing. The committee then considered HCR 205, which urges the USDA to use its Commodity Procurement Program to purchase domestic Louisiana shrimp. Representative Kerner and Commissioner Mike Strain described the shrimp industry’s low prices, full cold storage, and the need for urgent federal action to support shrimpers and move product into schools, nursing homes, and food banks. Members discussed domestic sourcing rules, enforcement against imported seafood, and marketing challenges; HCR 205 was reported favorably without objection.
The committee also took up HCR 188, which memorializes Congress to oppose any federal farm bill provision that could negatively affect the use of hunting dogs. Chairwoman Butler and Commissioner Strain explained that the concern centered on vague language in a farm bill section that could be interpreted to restrict hunting dogs used for tracking or field trials. Members agreed the language should be removed if it remained in the bill, and HCR 188 was reported favorably without objection.
The committee then heard a presentation from Orlando McMeans of the Southern University Ag Center and College of Agriculture, along with Dr. Calvin Walker. They outlined the center’s research, extension, and academic programs, including enrollment growth, dual-enrollment efforts, 1890 scholars, JAG Stars scholarships, beef cattle and aquaculture research, viticulture, precision nutrition, and food access initiatives. They also described major facility projects, including a high-tech meat processing facility, research labs, a vineyard, and a proposed disaster-safe shelter. Members asked about butcher training, cattle genetics, and the shelter’s potential uses, and the committee adjourned after the presentation.
AR
Arkansas 2026 Regular Session
ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE AND DEMENTIA ADVISORY COUNCIL Jul 9th, 2026
ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE AND DEMENTIA ADVISORY COUNCIL
Transcript Highlights:
- We have a program out now where you can look on, you can get an app on your phone, kind of get all of
- We have a program out now where you can look on, you can get an app on your phone.
- We have a program out now where you can look on, you can get an app on your phone, kind of get all of
- This collaboration is being piloted out of Northwest Arkansas and the Schmitting Center.
- They've done a great job administering this grant program.
Summary:
The Arkansas Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Advisory Council met with legislative members and agency, advocacy, and provider representatives present. The council adopted its rules and procedures, approved the prior meeting minutes, and authorized the co-chairs to approve special expenses. Members then heard an extensive update on the state Alzheimer’s plan and current developments in diagnosis, treatment, research, caregiving, and workforce issues.
David Cook of the Alzheimer’s Association described major changes since the first state plan, including the growth of blood-based biomarkers, broader access to amyloid PET scans, and the availability of disease-slowing treatments such as Leqembi and Kisunla. He emphasized that Arkansas still faces major barriers in rural areas, including limited provider awareness, insurance coverage concerns, shortages of specialists, and long wait times for memory care and infusion services. He also highlighted caregiver burden, the need for better education and care navigation, and new efforts such as a dementia resource center pilot with UAMS, respite grants, and workforce training. Members discussed the importance of public education on brain health, diet, exercise, and risk reduction, as well as the need to collaborate with chronic disease partners and improve outreach to primary care providers.
The council approved four proposed focus areas for the next state plan: advancing risk reduction, brain health, early detection and diagnosis; strengthening family caregiver support; improving access to diagnostics and treatment; and supporting access and quality of care, including workforce training and crisis response. Members also discussed possible legislative or statutory changes to keep the council active and engaged, and they agreed to pursue a future meeting in August, tentatively August 12 in Hot Springs, with additional meetings under consideration for later in the month. The meeting adjourned after no further business.
TX
Transcript Highlights:
- and public school performance ratings under the public school accountability system, and a grant program
- By taking part in this special program, these scholars are preparing themselves to be future leaders
- Thank you, Senator King, and I appreciate all your work on this wonderful program.
- I think it's important that we have a program and it continues.
- We don’t want good programs to go under.
Summary:
The Senate convened with a quorum, offered an invocation, approved the previous day’s journal, and received a House message announcing passage of HB 4 on public school accountability and assessment. The chamber also recognized the Doctor of the Day, adopted SR 520 honoring Rosser Coke-Newton Sr. for his biography of former Governor Richard Coke, and adopted SR 518 recognizing Texas Moral Injury Awareness Day, with remarks focused on the impact of moral injury on veterans and first responders. The Senate later adopted SR 395 honoring the ninth class of Governor William P. Clements, Jr. Scholars, and several other resolutions were adopted by voice vote, including college savings awareness recognition and other member-sponsored recognitions.
The body then took up several bills and resolutions on the floor. HB 3307, allowing online continuing education for arbitrators in property tax appeals, passed unanimously after suspension of the rules and the three-day rule. HB 913, renaming and reorganizing certain state hospitals, and HB 2970, governing the Gulf Coast Protection District and coastal barrier design, also passed unanimously. HJR 1 and HB 9 advanced a proposed constitutional amendment and statutory change to raise the business personal property tax exemption from $2,500 to $125,000; both measures passed, with HJR 1 receiving one no vote and HB 9 passing unanimously after a clarifying amendment.
The Senate also passed HB 1151, which limits child removals and termination of parental rights based solely on parental medical treatment decisions, and HB 116, which revises grounds for involuntary termination of the parent-child relationship by removing the “O grounds” and requiring support from financially able parents whose rights were terminated. HB 1899 lowered the age for pyrotechnic operator licenses and fireworks display permits from 21 to 18. SB 1285, as amended, passed to protect bats by prohibiting entombment while preserving removal options from unoccupied spaces, and SB 2847 passed to promote innovations in core curriculum for faster bachelor’s degrees.
On criminal justice, SJR 87, a proposed constitutional amendment requiring denial of bail for certain repeat violent felony offenders, passed after two floor amendments clarifying due process and representation language; Senator Eckhardt spoke against it on final passage, arguing it lacked judicial discretion and a clear-and-convincing standard. SB 3073, requiring magistrates to make written findings in certain criminal proceedings, also passed. Later, SB 128, requiring hospitals to report suspected child abuse-related information to HHSC, advanced on a divided vote, and SB 2619 and SB 2972 passed on public school accountability and expressive activities at public colleges, respectively, with Senator Eckhardt opposing SB 2972 as too restrictive on campus protest rights. The chamber also heard extended debate on HB 21, targeting “traveling” housing finance corporations and their use of tax exemptions for apartment projects, with supporters arguing it curbs abuse of the tax code and critics warning about unintended effects on affordable housing; the discussion continued with questions but no final action shown in the excerpt.
WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Transportation Sep 30th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- That would be our Yakima Nation Engineering Program. We have Mr.
- I'm the program manager or director of the Yakima Nation Engineering Program.
- I'm the assistant manager in the engineering program. Thank you.
- So they directed us, our engineering program, to work with WSDOT.
- evidence-based programs at the federal and state level.
Summary:
The Senate Transportation Committee met in Yakima to focus on tribal traffic safety, with members and Yakima Nation leaders emphasizing the importance of safety, the right to travel, and continued partnership on U.S. 97 corridor improvements. Yakima Nation Vice Chair Christopher Wallachie and engineering staff described the Tribal Traffic Safety Committee, the U.S. 97 safety project, heritage connectivity trails, roundabout construction, and the use of federal grants and advanced sensing technology to identify hazards before crashes occur. They highlighted collaboration with WSDOT, the Traffic Safety Commission, the University of Washington, and other regional partners, and explained that the goal is to move from reactive crash response to proactive risk reduction.
The Yakima Nation engineering team and AI Vision presented the MUST sensor project, which uses compact AI-enabled devices to collect traffic counts, speeds, near-miss events, roadway conditions, and pedestrian activity, with data transmitted to a dashboard and used for real-time warnings and longer-term planning. Committee members asked about speed tracking, driver behavior, enforcement, and partnerships with WSDOT and counties. Yakima Nation staff said the relationship with WSDOT has improved over time, especially after community outreach on proposed roundabouts, and that the tribe now supports several roundabout projects and broader safety coordination.
The Washington Traffic Safety Commission then presented statewide fatality trends and tribal traffic safety data. Mark McKekney said 2024 showed a roughly 10% decrease in fatalities statewide, though recent years remain among the highest in decades. He noted that race and ethnicity data are only available for people who die in crashes, and that many American Indian and Alaska Native fatalities involve passengers, pedestrians, or bicyclists rather than drivers. Penny Rerick outlined tribal traffic safety coordinator grants and other state-funded tribal projects, including work with Yakama Nation, Colville, Kalispel, Makah, Port Gamble S'Klallam, Muckleshoot, Lower Elwha, and Puyallup, stressing that flexible state funding helps fill gaps left by federal programs and supports community-led solutions.
The final presentation covered impaired driving enforcement and ignition interlock compliance in Yakima County. Yakima Police Chief Sean Boyle said the city created a DUI enforcement and education officer program that helped reduce serious injury and fatal impaired-driving crashes, supported by state funding and social media outreach. Yakima County District Court’s Nick Bazan described a supervision program for DUI offenders and interlock compliance, reporting more than 1,000 DUI convictions in 2024-25 and about 3,800 noncompliant interlock users countywide. He said the court is using a two-pronged approach—pretrial assistance for indigent clients and post-conviction accountability and case planning—to improve compliance and reduce impaired driving. The committee expressed support for the work, noted the progress made, and adjourned the work session after thanking presenters for their updates.
NM
New Mexico 2026 Regular Session
Senate Chamber Jan 23rd, 2026 at 10:43 am
New Mexico Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Our fighter pilots go through what is called UPT, undergraduate pilot training.
- On a BAMD program, funded in part by the New Mexico taxpayers.
- That is what we call 638 programs.
- and restructure the existing broadband program.
- A low-income telecommunications assistance program and restructured the existing broadband program, making
FL
Florida 2025 Regular Session
Education Postsecondary Jan 14th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- SOMETIMES THEY ARE FUNDED FROM FEDERAL GRANT PROGRAMS SO THE ONE I HIGHLIGHTED AT FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL
- THERE ARE RESEARCH PROGRAMS IN CANCER DISEASES AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES AS PART OF THIS CENTER.
- OBVIOUSLY THERE HAS BEEN ACTIVE DRUG DISCOVERY PROGRAMS AS PART OF THE CENTER.
- AND BASKETBALL PROGRAM.
- WE ARE PILOTING A PROGRAM COMPONENTS AND WE HAVE PLANS TO PILOT EACH OF THE COMPONENTS BEFORE THE END
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- ><00:11:47.000>
uh <00:11:47.160>and <00:11:47.800>here apprentice uh trade programs - uh and here apprentice uh trade programs uh and here to<00:11:48.200>
answer <00:11:48.440> - There is essentially already a pilot that has been going forward in the CAP building, and we want to
- The committee notes there is already a pilot in the CAP building and that the information collected will
- The committee explains that the CAP building pilot has already been going forward, and they want to use
Summary:
The committee met for joint decision-making on several measures related to elections, telework, procurement, hiring, public records, and public meetings. On Senate Bill 444, testimony was largely opposed or in comment, and the chairs said the bill raised real issues that needed more time; they deferred it for the year. Senate Bill 1091 on telework and space allocation drew support and discussion about DAGS’ role versus the Department of Human Resources; the committee agreed to amend it in a Senate Draft 1 to remove reference to OE, add a DAGS management analyst position, change “positions” to “allocations,” limit the assessment to executive branch departments in DAGS-managed or DAGS-leased facilities, and add a defective date, then passed it with amendments. Senate Bill 1057 on apprenticeship-related bid incentives received mixed testimony, including support from labor and opposition from some contractor groups, and was passed as a Senate Draft 1 with technical amendments and a defective date. Senate Bill 1065 on skills-based hiring, which would bar bachelor’s degree requirements for most state jobs with exemptions, had support from the Comptroller and outside groups and was passed with technical amendments and a defective date.
The committee also took up several procurement and accountability measures. Senate Bill 92 on emergency medical response/defibrillators was deferred indefinitely because a pilot project is already underway in the Capitol building and the committee wants to use that information before expanding. Senate Bill 1175 on a past-performance procurement database was amended to add general fund appropriations and committee-report language about funding needs, then passed. Senate Bill 1587 on retainage was heavily amended to define total project budget, revise retainage language, leave key percentage and day limits blank for further review, limit application to contracts executed after January 1, 2026, and add a defective date; it passed as amended. Senate Bill 1543 on government accountability was amended to incorporate procurement officer changes and add language ensuring inherent government functions are not delegated to contractors, then passed. Senate Bill 1255 on government records was amended to clarify that records used in performing a government function are public records subject to UIPA, add contractor recordkeeping/access requirements, protect certain confidential contract information, and add a defective date; it passed.
Additional measures were either deferred or advanced with amendments. Senate Bill 1513 on appropriations was deferred to a time certain on February 11. Senate Bill 1616 on care centers was converted into a feasibility study and passed with a defective date. Senate Bill 74 on state construction projects was deferred indefinitely due to concerns it could slow projects and duplicate another measure. Senate Bill 125 on state organizations and administrations was amended to codify Administrative Directive 19-02, with a note about a possible title issue, and passed. Senate Bill 786 on government records was deferred to February 11 for further amendment work. Senate Bill 1611 on government positions was amended by removing section two and passed. Senate Bill 1637 was deferred for the year after testimony indicated the action could already be done. Senate Bill 1651 on public meetings was amended to require board packets by the third business day before a meeting, remove the word “full,” and adjust notice language, then passed. Senate Bill 1617 on public meetings was deferred because the Office of Information Practices reported no complaints. Senate Bill 1253 on boards and commissions was deferred indefinitely due to no testimony. Senate Bill 1031 on advisory referendums was deferred to February 11 for possible amendments. Senate Bill 1306 on a procurement automation special fund was amended to align procurement statutes and add the School Facilities Authority executive director as a chief procurement officer, then passed.
FL
Florida 2026 Regular Session
Joint Administrative Procedures Committee Feb 17th, 2025
Transcript Highlights:
- We determined that because this is a grant program, this is the MySafe Florida Home Condominium pilot
- program...
- We determined that because this is a grant program, this is the MySafe Florida Home Condominium pilot
- We just did not receive funding during the last fiscal year for the grant program, so there was no program
- to implement since there was no funding correlated with the program.
Summary:
The Joint Administrative Procedures Committee heard a presentation from Representative Esposito on a proposal to strengthen oversight of agency rulemaking under Chapter 120. The bill would require cost-benefit analysis at the front end and after implementation, create an eight-year sunset and review process for rules, and require express legislative authority for agency rulemaking. Members questioned the lack of concrete examples of burdensome rules, the effect on already slow rulemaking, the choice of an eight-year sunset, and the bill’s origin; Esposito said she was working with stakeholders and cited her chamber-of-commerce background and research with the Cicero Institute. No vote was taken on the bill itself.
Staff then reported on legislatively mandated rulemaking from 2023 and 2024, noting that most required rules had been adopted, proposed, noticed, or scheduled, with a few agencies still outstanding. The Department of Financial Services explained a delayed notice of rule development for the MySafe Florida Home condominium pilot program as an oversight that has since been corrected, and the Department of Education said it did not proceed with rulemaking for the Fostering Prosperity grants because the program received no funding in the 2025 budget. The Department of Health described delayed rulemaking for the sickle cell disease and trait registry, saying the registry and opt-out forms were being implemented and that notices of rule development had now been filed. Members pressed the department on why rules took so long and discussed the need for statutory deadlines.
The Department of Children and Families reported on two 2023 human-trafficking-related rules: signage requirements for residential treatment facilities and children’s safe homes, and a new certification process for adult safe homes. DCF said the signage rule is now moving forward and the adult safe home certification rule has been submitted for final review after workshops and stakeholder feedback. Senators questioned the lengthy timeline and the lack of oversight during the interim, while the chair emphasized the need for time-certain deadlines in legislation and for JAPAC oversight hearings.
The committee also considered staff-proposed amendments to Chapter 120 addressing emergency rules pending legislative ratification and the process for initiating ratification, including a one-year limit and notice to JAPAC. After discussion, the committee voted to forward the proposed amendments to the Senate President and House Speaker. Finally, members discussed a proposed amendment to the administrative law judge appointment and retention process under Section 120.65. DOAH’s interim director opposed the change, saying ALJs and workers’ compensation judges have different functions and warning against shifting appointment power to cabinet officers whose agencies appear before DOAH. Members raised concerns about timeliness, consistency, and accountability in DOAH decisions. The committee voted to forward this proposal as well, with Senator Smith voting no on that motion.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Committee on Health and Human Services - 02/26/25
Health and Human Services
Transcript Highlights:
- The program is critical to ensuring access to care for all Minnesotans; however, the failure to update
- premium to subsidize low public program premium to subsidize low public program rates<00:25:52.600
- that if we are if we enter the program that if we are if we enter the program we<00:38:47.160>
<01:47:23.719>we the psychiatric residency program we the psychiatric residency program we - <02:04:46.079>
to <02:04:46.280>Fund decompression pilot to Fund decompression pilot
AR
Arkansas 2026 1st Special Session
ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE AND DEMENTIA ADVISORY COUNCIL Jul 9th, 2026
ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE AND DEMENTIA ADVISORY COUNCIL
Transcript Highlights:
- We have a program out now where you can look on, you can get an app on your phone, kind of get all of
- We have a program out now where you can look on, you can get an app on your phone.
- We have a program out now where you can look on, you can get an app on your phone, kind of get all of
- This collaboration is being piloted out of Northwest Arkansas and the Schmieding Center.
- They've done a great job administering this grant program.
Summary:
The Arkansas Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Advisory Council met to introduce members, adopt its rules and procedures, approve prior minutes, and authorize the co-chairs to approve special expenses. The main discussion focused on updating the Arkansas State Plan for Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, with David Cook of the Alzheimer’s Association outlining major changes in prevalence, caregiving burden, diagnostics, and treatment since the prior plan. He noted rising disease and caregiver numbers in Arkansas, the expansion of amyloid PET access, the growing use of blood-based biomarkers, and the availability of FDA-approved treatments such as Leqembi and Kisunla, while emphasizing that access, insurance coverage, and provider education remain major barriers.
Members and presenters also discussed the need to better reach rural primary care providers, who may not be aware of new diagnostics and therapies, and the bottlenecks caused by limited specialists and infusion capacity. There was concern about overreliance on blood tests without confirmatory evaluation, and several members stressed the importance of collaboration, public education, and promoting brain health through exercise and diet. The council also heard about existing programs such as the dementia services coordinator, the BOLD grant, caregiver respite grants, workforce training, and a pilot dementia resource center with UAMS Centers on Aging.
The council approved a new four-part outline for the next state plan: advancing risk reduction and brain health/early detection, strengthening family caregiver support, improving access to diagnostics and treatment, and supporting access and quality of care, including workforce and crisis response. Members also agreed to consider future agenda items on new treatments, brain health and lifestyle prevention, workforce training, and possible legislative changes to the enabling statute. The meeting ended with discussion of scheduling the next meeting, tentatively set for August 12 in Hot Springs, and adjournment.
DE
Delaware 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Legislative Session - Session 2 - 40th Legislative Day Jun 24th, 2026
Delaware Senate Floor Meeting
Transcript Highlights:
- Amendment 1, an act to amend Title 16 of the Delaware Code relating to the Delaware Diabetes Wellness Pilot
- Program within the Department of Health and Social Services to study diabetic well care, out of Health
- Amendment 1, an act to amend Title 16 of the Delaware Code relating to the Delaware Diabetes Wellness Pilot
- Program within the Department of Health and Social Services to study diabetic well care, out of Health
- requirements for municipalities participating in Delaware's state aid for municipalities for streets program
Summary:
The Senate received a large number of House communications and committee reports, including several nominations and many bills and resolutions returned from House committees or passed by the House. Committee reports covered a wide range of topics, including education, health, judiciary, finance, housing, transportation, emergency management, and business/technology. The Senate also assigned several measures to committees for further consideration and noted upcoming committee meetings.
The chamber confirmed three nominations by roll call: Michael T. Scuse to the Delaware Thoroughbred Racing Commission, J. Eric Firewold to the University of Delaware Board of Trustees, and Joan F. Coker to the University of Delaware Board of Trustees. The Senate also passed Consent Calendar 66, which included Senate Concurrent Resolution 223 on DIA broadcast access for playoff and championship games and House Concurrent Resolution 149 designating June 12, 2026, as Loving Day in Delaware. Members discussed Loving Day and the importance of recognizing interracial marriage rights, with Senator Huxstable, Senator Buckson, and Senator Townsend offering remarks.
On the floor, the Senate passed House Bill 141, requiring a firearm responsibilities notice for gun purchasers, after debate over gun safety and industry burden; House Substitute 1 for House Bill 200, as amended, expanding insurance coverage for HIV prevention medications PrEP and PEP; House Bill 426, modernizing municipal street-aid reporting; and Senate Resolution 21, directing a study of portable solar generation devices and related safety and utility issues. The Senate also passed Consent Agenda O, a large package of bills covering topics such as money transmission and stablecoins, nursing advancement, pilot licenses, commerce and trade, subaqueous lands, driver’s license loss due to medical issues, residential speed limits, electronic bidding, family court jurisdiction, agency regulations, technical corrections to multiple local charters, and other measures. The Senate then recessed until June 25, 2026.
AZ
Transcript Highlights:
- Are you familiar with the Reconnect app program? I am.
- Are you familiar with the Reconnect app program? I am.
- Are you familiar with the Reconnect app program? I am.
- a pilot project going in Maricopa.
- It's like a pilot project going in Maricopa.
Keywords:
evictions, judgment satisfaction, tenant rights, landlord obligations, court procedures, abortion-inducing drugs, medical abortion, pharmaceutical regulation, felonies, state law, DUI, ignition interlock, substance abuse treatment, driving privileges, alcohol education, felony conviction, misdemeanor designation, court judgment, criminal justice reform, rehabilitation
Summary:
The committee heard and acted on several bills. HB 2749, as amended, would allow certain nonviolent class 4, 5, or 6 felonies to be redesignated as class 1 misdemeanors after five years and after completion of sentence terms, with exclusions for crimes such as cruelty to animals, weapons misconduct, and failure to register as a sex offender. Supporters framed it as a redemption and reintegration measure, and the committee adopted the amendment and gave the bill a due pass recommendation on a 6-0 vote with one not voting.
HB 2870 would prohibit certain level 2 and level 3 sex offenders from living together in the same single-family dwelling, with exceptions for relatives, community reentry centers, and certain existing supervised facilities. The sponsor and neighborhood residents described a real-life situation in Chandler involving multiple offenders in one house and argued the bill would protect families; opponents warned it could push people into homelessness and undermine supervision. After testimony from residents, housing operators, and a structured-housing provider, the committee approved the bill 3-2 with two not voting. HB 2862, which increases penalties for offenses committed while wearing a mask to conceal identity, drew support from the City of Scottsdale and opposition from the ACLU over First Amendment concerns; it passed 3-2 with two not voting.
HB 2364 would create criminal penalties for mailing or delivering abortion-inducing drugs, including felony penalties for providers and a misdemeanor for ordering such drugs by mail. Supporters said it would enforce existing law and protect women; opponents argued it conflicts with Proposition 139 and constitutional protections for abortion access. The committee gave it a 4-3 due pass recommendation. HB 2244, supported by Phoenix Vice Mayor Keisha Hodge Washington, would streamline satisfaction of eviction judgments when tenants have paid and allow sealing of eviction records in some cases; it passed unanimously 7-0. HB 2573, which removes the 45-day waiting period before some repeat DUI offenders can apply for an ignition interlock restricted license, also passed unanimously 7-0.
The committee also considered HB 4117, a strike-everything amendment creating a new offense for interfering with a religious service or worship by obstructing access or engaging in disorderly conduct intended to disrupt the service. Supporters, including ADL and Jewish community representatives, said it would protect worshippers from obstruction and intimidation; opponents argued it was vague, unnecessary, and could chill protest speech. After extensive debate, the committee adopted the strike-everything amendment and gave the bill a due pass recommendation. Finally, HCR 2004, a mirror resolution to SCR 1004, would require voter approval for local photo enforcement systems and periodic reauthorization; it was discussed with support from city and league representatives, but the transcript ends before a final vote on that measure.
HI
Hawaii 2026 Regular Session
HHS, HHS DEFER Public Hearings 02-13-2026
Transcript Highlights:
- We strongly support extending<00:12:56.639>
the <00:12:56.880>pilot <00:12:57.360>program - <00:12:58.320>
for <00:12:59.040>um <00:12:59.519>our extending the pilot program - for um our extending the pilot program for um our domestic<00:13:00.240>
violence <00:13:00.959 - I believe that this pilot program will emphasize diversion and intervention for families and children
- SB 3204 relating to family resilience pilot project program. Director Yammane, DHS in support.
Summary:
The committee heard testimony on a large number of health-related measures, with the most extensive discussion on SB 2283, which would expand mail-order pharmacy access for prescription drugs. Supporters including HMSA, the Board of Pharmacy, and health plan groups said mail order could lower costs, improve adherence, and reduce hospitalizations, while independent pharmacies and rural neighbor-island providers warned it could harm local pharmacies, reduce access for patients who rely on face-to-face service, and create delivery and storage problems for medications. No vote was taken on SB 2283 during the excerpt, and the chair moved on after hearing testimony.
The committee also heard SB 2855 on opioid antagonists, with the Insurance Division and HMSA noting that medically necessary opioid antagonists are already covered and suggesting the issue may be addressed through education or administrative fixes. Fentanyl and substance abuse groups supported the measure. SB 3045 on health insurance coverage for continuous glucose monitors drew broad support from diabetes and health organizations; HMSA said it had already expanded coverage for members on injectable insulin but raised concerns about supply constraints and said it had not yet seen an auditor study referenced in discussion. Members asked whether the bill would extend coverage beyond current policy.
SB 2843 on domestic violence received support from the Public Defender’s Office, prosecutors, and victim-related organizations, who said the pilot program for misdemeanor domestic violence cases had reduced backlogs and improved court efficiency. A prosecutor also supported retaining coercive control as a petty misdemeanor tool in larger domestic violence cases. SB 2845 on healthcare facility access drew strong support from many health, legal, and advocacy groups, who said it would protect patients and staff from disruptive interference at healthcare facilities; one opponent argued it would chill lawful speech and protest and unfairly exempt labor demonstrations. The committee then heard SB 2854 and SB 3202, both healthcare-related measures, with testimony largely in support. SB 2854 drew comments from health and dental groups, and SB 3202 focused on workforce and licensing issues, including support for retired physicians volunteering, preceptor tax credits, and adding advanced midwifery and physician assistant-related provisions. The chair repeatedly enforced a one-minute testimony limit and moved through the agenda without recorded votes in the excerpt.
AZ
Transcript Highlights:
- through Tempe Union satellite programming.
- This program is an opt-out program, while sex education is an opt-in program.
- I also have issues with this because it is a pilot program, so schools will be picked and chosen rather
- is an opt-out program while sex education is an opt-in program this is also I have issues with this
- because it is a pilot program so it will be schools will be picked and chosen rather than having everyone
Summary:
The House opened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, guest introductions, and a proclamation honoring the future USS Arizona, SSN-803, and the USS Arizona Legacy Foundation. Members also announced committee assignments and several bills were read for first and second reading. The chamber then moved into Committee of the Whole to consider HB 4034, HB 2444, HB 2992, and HB 4027, with amendments adopted on each measure. HB 4034 drew comments about career and technical education funding and district disputes; HB 2992 prompted debate over a pilot sexual abuse prevention program, with supporters calling it a resource for students and opponents criticizing it as an opt-out pilot and a burden on classrooms; HB 4027 generated discussion about a highway naming amendment involving Charlie Kirk and Ed Pastor. All three bills were reported out as amended and sent to engrossing and third reading.
On third reading, the House passed HB 293, HB 2502, HB 2750, HB 2999, and H.C.M. 2009. HB 293 dealt with school curricula and passed 31-22. HB 2502 related to the Arizona State Retirement System and passed 37-16. HB 2750, concerning mining and legislative department provisions, passed 44-9. HB 2999, creating special taxing districts tied to housing development, drew supportive remarks about affordability and private financing and passed 32-21. H.C.M. 2009 urged federal action to streamline access to minerals on federal land withdrawals and passed 31-22.
HB 2229, relating to maternal services and funding for pregnancy resource centers, failed initially by a 26-27 vote after extended debate over abortion-related implications and taxpayer funding. Members then moved to reconsider that failure, and the motion to reconsider passed 27-21, placing the bill back on the calendar. The House also heard a proclamation for March as Sleep Apnea Awareness Month and a Women’s History Month reflection on Mexican-American and Mexican-Irish heritage. The chamber adjourned until 1:15 p.m. on Wednesday, March 18, 2026.