Transcript Highlights:

• Like<00:14:02.560> what<00:14:02.720> will<00:14:02.959> be<00:14:03.360> I
• c><00:14:03.600> guess<00:14:03.680> I<00:14:03.839> have<00:14:04.000> two
• > and<00:14:04.800> maybe<00:14:04.959> you<00:14:05.120> don't<00:14:05.279
• <00:14:32.079> Um<00:14:32.720> over<00:14:32.959> the<00:14:33.199> long
• At the<00:14:34.160> end<00:14:34.240> of<00:14:34.320> the<00:14:34.480> day

Bills: HB2241, HB2316, HB1566, HB1926, HB1673, HB1948, HB2602, HB1598, HB2334, HB2451, HB2243

Keywords: renewable energy, income tax credit, solar energy, wind energy, low-income households, energy policy, lead materials, drinking water, public health, water infrastructure, safety regulations, HB1566, energy efficiency, LED lighting, light-emitting diodes, fluorescent bulbs, fluorescent fixtures, compact fluorescent lamps, CFL ban, mercury-free lighting

Summary: The committee heard testimony on a bill to expand the solar energy tax credit for single-family residential properties by removing certain cap amounts and raising the adjusted gross income limits for taxpayers to elect a refund of excess credits. The Hawaii State Energy Office and Department of Taxation both said they were standing on written testimony, while industry and advocacy groups largely supported the measure. Members questioned whether the income thresholds were set appropriately, how many taxpayers would be affected at different income levels, and how many would qualify for refundable treatment; Taxation said it did not yet have the requested numbers but was preparing a fiscal estimate. A major issue raised was drafting and administration: witnesses said the bill appears to apply differently to owner-purchased systems versus third-party leased systems, and Taxation said it likely could not easily verify household income for leased systems or cross-reference different taxpayers. Discussion also covered whether the credit should remain refundable, whether credits should be limited to amounts actually expended, and whether the bill should instead be structured to keep the credit with the system owner or lessor, with concerns about equity, market effects, and possible incentives to lease rather than buy. The committee then moved to HB 2316, which would align state restrictions on lead materials in drinking water infrastructure with federal Safe Drinking Water Act requirements. The Department of Health and other supporters testified in favor, and there were no questions from the chair. Next, HB 1566 on energy efficiency would require state agencies to use energy-efficient lighting, with the Hawaii State Energy Office providing technical assistance and a compliance survey prioritized for first responder facilities; testimony from state agencies and advocates was in support, and again there were no questions. For HB 1926 on Red Hill, the Department of Land and Natural Resources, the Board of Water Supply, and multiple organizations and individuals supported funding for remediation studies, environmental monitoring, groundwater research, independent testing, and a public dashboard, with DLNR emphasizing that decades of work remain necessary even after defueling and that the bill supports ongoing university and community partnerships. The committee then heard HB 1673 on landfill units. The Department of Health initially said it was in support but later corrected the record and stated it strongly opposes the measure, saying the bill would undo protections enacted last session that keep landfills out of areas over aquifers; the Board of Water Supply also opposed repeal of those protections, while the City and County of Honolulu supported the HD1 version that leaves siting decisions to the counties. Sierra Club of Hawaiʻi and the Energy Justice Network opposed the bill, arguing the original protections should remain and that the amended version had confused commenters; supporters of the original version urged restoring it and considering additional language on ash.

Transcript Highlights:

• > us<00:14:01.600> to<00:14:01.760> have<00:14:02.320> uh<00:14:02.480>
• <00:14:12.000> Uh<00:14:12.399> just<00:14:12.560> want<00:14:12.639> to<
• Um, I know<00:14:17.279> that<00:14:17.839> uh<00:14:18.000> the<00:14:18.240>
• um<00:14:24.480> just<00:14:24.639> with<00:14:24.800> a<00:14:24.959>
• We haven't<00:14:26.240> been<00:14:26.399> able<00:14:26.560> to<00:14:26.720><

Bills: HF2784, HF2785, HF2778, HF2281, HF2576, HF2280, HF2579

Keywords: beginning farmers, agriculture, loans, economic opportunity, farmers' equity, agriculture appropriations, farm to school, early care, child care food program, school lunch program, local food, Minnesota agriculture, food access, farm-to-institution, limited market access, county fairs, biofuels, E25, ethanol, meat processing

Transcript Highlights:

• No one even thought<00:14:04.880> that<00:14:05.120> we<00:14:05.360> it<00:14:05.760
• Um Um Um it's<00:14:11.040> it's<00:14:11.519> a<00:14:11.760> better<00:14:12.079
• 00:14:15.360> small<00:14:15.760> scale<00:14:17.040> um<00:14:18.000> than
• huge<00:14:19.680> huge<00:14:20.079> conglomerates<00:14:20.959> that<00:14
• Um that<00:14:25.519> scares<00:14:25.839> me<00:14:25.920> a<00:14:26.160> little

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• So, it's not<04:14:31.760> like<04:14:32.239> he<04:14:32.479> saw<04:14:32.640>
• it<04:14:32.800> there<04:14:32.960> and<04:14:33.120> then<04:14:33.279
• > machines,<05:14:38.240> and<05:14:38.480> then<05:14:39.040> you<05:14:
• <05:14:44.000> But<05:14:44.320> second<05:14:44.878> 40<05:14:45.200> is
• 14:46.320> almost<05:14:46.798> as<05:14:47.040> much,<05:14:47.440> isn't

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The committee first took up SB 63, which concerns funding for the division of travel and tourism and its relationship to the meals-and-rooms tax calculation. Members asked for confirmation that the bill would not affect municipal distributions under RSA 78-A:26. Jennifer Ramsey of the Department of Revenue Administration explained that the amendment does not change meals-and-rooms distributions, but instead corrects the calculation for the travel and tourism appropriation by adding back the municipal fund transfer before applying the 3.15% floor. Chris Shay of the Office of the Attorney General agreed with that explanation. The committee also discussed the complexity of the meals-and-rooms statutes and the possibility of a future cleanup effort. The committee then voted 19-0 to recommend SB 63 ought to pass; it will not go on consent because it has a fiscal note. The committee next considered SB 60, relative to advanced deposit account wagering. Rep. Murphy moved ought to pass, explaining that the bill would regulate advanced deposit wagering on horse racing and impose a 1.25% revenue share on wagers from New Hampshire residents, generating roughly a quarter-million dollars in new lottery revenue in the first year. The motion passed 19-0, and the bill will not go on consent because of its fiscal note. The committee then voted 19-0 to recommend SB 147 ITL, with members noting that live racing facilities are in decline and the market is shrinking. SB 160, which updates raffle ticket pricing and prize limits for bingo-related gaming, also passed ought to pass 19-0 and will not go on consent. The committee then took up SB 73, which revises coverall bingo rules and increases prize limits. An amendment, 2025-1470H, was offered to raise the total prize amount to $5,000; members supported it as a reasonable compromise, and the amendment was adopted unanimously. The bill as amended then passed ought to pass 19-0, again with a fiscal note preventing consent placement. After those votes, the committee moved into a work session on SB 83, where members began discussing the bill’s video lottery terminal provisions, including the meaning of “maximum wager,” the absence of a cumulative betting cap, and concerns that the bill combines several distinct policy changes—tax treatment, VLT rules, renaming, and a self-exclusion database—into one measure. No vote was taken on SB 83 during the work session, and members indicated they would continue discussion later after reviewing side-by-side materials.

Transcript Highlights:

• > at<01:14:01.199> least<01:14:01.600> do<01:14:01.840> some<01:14:02.080
• 14:03.440> can<01:14:03.520> get<01:14:03.679> as<01:14:04.000> informed<
• as you<01:14:04.880> possibly<01:14:05.280> can<01:14:05.760> about<01:14:06.080
• I'm sorry.<01:14:07.199> In<01:14:07.440> terms<01:14:07.600> of<01:14:07.760>
• <01:14:46.320> to<01:14:46.560> prove<01:14:46.800> the<01:14:47.120> point.

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The subcommittee on Family Court reviewed several previously distributed reports, including a comparison of family court structures in other states and a report on improving New Hampshire family court pre-trial and mediation practices. The main new topic was a report on the intersection of domestic violence and family courts in New Hampshire, with members discussing how domestic violence cases in superior or district court can overlap with custody matters in family court and how courts may not be aware of related proceedings in other venues. Members discussed RSA 490-D:2 and related statutes, noting that family courts have original jurisdiction over certain abuse, neglect, and domestic violence matters, with concurrent jurisdiction in some protective-order cases. The discussion focused on practical problems such as confidentiality in domestic violence cases, limited access to case information by nonparties, and the need for courts to better communicate about companion cases. Suggestions included a shared or unified database, expanded lethality assessments for law enforcement, and a requirement that criminal courts report domestic violence convictions or protective-order violations to family court so judges are aware of the full case context. The subcommittee also discussed ways to help self-represented litigants, including better education at first appearance, clearer guidance about raising protective orders or criminal charges at hearings, daily docket review by clerks, and a possible “lawyer for the day” program modeled on Massachusetts. One member raised the idea of a family safety docket, while another noted that New Hampshire already has a complex case docket for high-conflict matters and that cases generally stay with one judge when possible. No votes were taken, and the chair said the subcommittee would continue reviewing materials and could return to work next year, with possible bill amendments to follow.

Transcript Highlights:

• Cyrus Reed on behalf of the Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club, against the bill.
• But yes, Cyrus Reed, Lone Star Chapter, Sierra Club.
• We show you registered as Kenneth Flippin on behalf of the Texas chapter of U.S.
• Yes, Ken Flippin, Texas Chapter U.S.
• Cyrus Reed, Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club, against the bill.

Summary: The committee first heard House Bill 1904, which would classify intentionally released helium balloons as litter and create criminal penalties for balloon releases. The author and supportive witnesses argued that balloon releases harm wildlife, livestock, waterways, and infrastructure, and that the bill would close a loophole in current litter law. Several members questioned whether criminal penalties were appropriate, and the author said he was willing to work toward civil penalties and fines instead. No vote was taken, and HB 1904 was left pending. The committee then took up several pending bills and reported them favorably to the full House, including HB 3249, HB 3866, HB 4112, HB 1768, HB 1499, HB 573, and HB 464. These measures dealt with topics such as TCEQ contested-case procedures, outdoor storage containers, high-level radioactive waste, concrete plant permitting and grants, unannounced concrete batch plant inspections, and a scrap tire grant program. Most were adopted with substitutes and passed on recorded votes, generally with unanimous or near-unanimous support. A major portion of the meeting focused on HB 3997, which would create expedited permitting timelines for LNG facilities and related wastewater permits. Industry witnesses said the bill would provide certainty for multibillion-dollar projects without eliminating public participation, while environmental groups opposed parts of the bill that they said could limit contested-case participation and be unrealistic for SOAH timelines. TCEQ staff described the current wastewater permitting process and said some of the bill’s timing provisions could be workable, especially with an expedited fee. The bill was left pending after the author said he would continue working on committee substitute language. The committee also heard HB 1237 on extending the renewal window for expired TCEQ occupational water licenses, and HB 4519, a TERP consolidation bill that would combine several clean transportation grant programs into fewer programs. HB 1237 was left pending without testimony, while HB 4519 drew broad support from environmental and industry witnesses who favored simplifying the program, though some asked for stronger emphasis on particulate matter and hydrogen funding. The committee withdrew the substitute on HB 4519 and left it pending. Finally, HB 5033, which would eliminate the motor vehicle emissions inspection and maintenance program if federal authority changes, drew opposition from environmental and inspection-industry witnesses who warned it would weaken air-quality protections and could remove an important enforcement tool. The author said the bill was intended as a trigger mechanism and would be refined, and HB 5033 was left pending. The committee also heard HB 1227 on municipal solid-waste franchise fees and private-provider access; the author said he would bring a substitute after hearing concerns from cities, and the bill was left pending.

Transcript Highlights:

• 14:37.560> and<01:14:37.800> has<01:14:38.000> known<01:14:38.320> for<01
• <01:14:39.440> I<01:14:39.520> am<01:14:39.639> not<01:14:39.760> a<01:14
• > would<01:14:41.719> face<01:14:41.920> bullying<01:14:42.280> for<01:14
• :46.280> I'm<01:14:46.440> not<01:14:47.120> the<01:14:47.239> same<01:14
• > or<01:14:50.360> a<01:14:50.520> sport<01:14:51.400> I<01:14:51.600>

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The House Judiciary Committee opened a hearing on House Bill 148, which Rep. Jim Kofalt said is the same language as last year’s HB 396, vetoed by the governor. He described the bill as allowing, but not requiring, separation by biological sex in three areas: bathrooms and locker rooms, houses of correction, and certain athletic competitions. Kofalt argued the bill would give local school boards and other policymakers discretion to set practical rules, citing concerns about safety, privacy, and a Milford incident involving a biological male in girls’ locker rooms. Committee members pressed him on the lack of a definition of “biological sex,” and he said he did not think one was necessary because males and females are commonly understood. He also said the bill was meant to address situations where outside groups threaten lawsuits and leave local boards with no latitude. Testimony then split sharply. Supporters, including Executive Counselor Karen Hill and several others, said HB 148 would roll back anti-discrimination protections, contradict New Hampshire’s “Live Free or Die” values, and harm transgender and non-binary people. Opponents described the bill as discriminatory and unnecessary, arguing that existing bathroom and sports policies already work and that the bill would invite harassment, invasive enforcement, and legal conflict. Several speakers, including trans residents and parents of trans children, said they had used public restrooms without incident and warned that enforcement would be impractical or abusive. One supporter argued the bill was needed to protect girls’ privacy and safety and cited school sports disputes and a concern about a sex offender at a game as examples of why sex-segregated rules should be restored. Committee members asked questions about how biological sex would be defined, whether the bill was responding to real incidents in New Hampshire, and how any restrictions would be enforced. Kofalt said he was aware of issues in several school districts and at the State House, but did not have detailed documentation for every case. No vote or final action was taken in the portion of the hearing provided; the chair instead moved through public testimony under a strict two-minute limit and noted that follow-up questions would be limited so the committee could hear multiple bills that day.

Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:14:13.079> thank<00:14:13.240> you<00:14:14.000> we<00:14:14.399> we
• > okay<00:14:17.680> um<00:14:17.880> so<00:14:18.040> that<00:14:18.160>
• :14:21.959> is<00:14:22.320> okay<00:14:23.279> now<00:14:23.759> second
• :37.920> is<01:14:38.159> that<01:14:38.480> all<01:14:38.719> the<01:14:
• the<01:14:40.880> rate<01:14:41.239> payers<01:14:42.120> and<01:14:42.280><

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The committee first discussed a proposed increase to the annual elevator certificate fee in the Department of Labor. The commissioner said the fee had been $50 for years and generated just under $300,000 annually, while the Inspection Division’s broader revenue far exceeded its expenses. Members noted the fee only covered the certificate, not the inspection itself, which is billed separately at $100 per hour. After comparing the fee to neighboring states and discussing the department’s revenue and staffing, the committee agreed to rewrite the language to set the fee at $75 and to vote on an amendment later. The committee then took up Section 139, which would expand the list of labor-law violations that can be penalized without first issuing a warning. The Department explained the change was meant to align House Bill 157 with other chapters, including youth employment and workers’ compensation provisions, where immediate civil penalties are already allowed. The section was accepted unanimously. A longer discussion followed on the Second Injury Fund. The commissioner explained that the fund reimburses insurers for certain workers’ compensation costs tied to claims involving pre-existing conditions, is financed by assessments on insurers, and requires notice within 100 weeks of injury plus a $10,000 deductible before reimbursement. He said the fund currently holds roughly $16 million to $22 million, one full-time employee administers it, and total staff involvement is about five to six people. Members questioned whether the fund should be sunset, but the department said the current House Bill 2 language does not propose a sunset; instead, it addresses increased hearing and litigation burdens after a recent Supreme Court decision. Sections 140 and 141, dealing with hearings, were then accepted unanimously. The committee also briefly discussed fines for late insurance coverage reporting, with the department noting the current rubric allows up to $50 per day but uses $112 per day, and members suggesting a lower amount.

Transcript Highlights:

• over that period of time, we would be paying for all sort of 12 and a half—sorry, I'm doing my math—14
• I'm the executive manager of the Boston chapter of the National Electrical Contractors Association.
• So despite all you just heard and all these investments, our average customer rates remain between 14
• 26 and 27 of Chapter 149, which is a prevailing wage.
• Since 2020, eight of 14 states with similar nuclear bans have lifted restrictions.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on H. 4144, the Governor’s Energy Affordability, Independence, and Innovation Act, with the administration arguing the bill would lower bills in the short and long term while expanding clean energy supply and innovation. The Governor and Secretary said the bill would reduce or restructure charges on customer bills, reform Mass Save, expand securitization as a financing tool, speed interconnection, create energy-ready zones, strengthen consumer protections in competitive supply, and allow broader state procurement of energy resources. They said the package could save consumers billions over time and would help address high energy costs, especially during extreme heat and winter spikes. Committee members pressed the administration on several provisions, especially securitization, asking whether the bill requires an apples-to-apples comparison of total costs over time, including interest and lost tax revenue, versus paying through rates. Administration witnesses said DPU review and public comment would be required and said they would work to clarify the language if needed. Members also questioned the bill’s solar and procurement provisions, including reduced net metering compensation for some large facilities, the scope of all-resource procurements, and whether hydro, solar, and nuclear would be included; the administration said those resources were contemplated and that procurement would still be reviewed by DPU. Other questions focused on the short-term relief from bill changes, the treatment of low- and moderate-income discounts, and whether the bill’s heat pump and Mass Save reforms would help customers who cannot afford upfront costs. Several witnesses and committee members discussed Mass Save reforms, including securitization of program costs, on-bill financing, pre-approval of rebates, and shifting program administration away from gas utilities. Administration witnesses said the changes were intended to reduce volatility, lower administrative costs, and better align costs with long-term savings. Questions also touched on geothermal permitting, municipal participation in offshore wind procurement, and the proposed repeal of the ballot requirement for nuclear power, which the administration defended as preserving future options under heavy review. No votes were taken during the hearing portion described. Supportive testimony came from labor, environmental, business, planning, and development groups. The AFL-CIO, NECA, and the Environmental League of Massachusetts backed the bill, emphasizing lower bills, job creation, labor standards, just transition protections, and cleaner energy. NAIOP, the Massachusetts Business Roundtable, and MAPC supported provisions on energy-ready zones, interconnection reform, microgrids, extreme-heat shutoff protections, and Mass Save improvements. A HEET representative praised the bill’s use of securitization, geothermal, and utility financing tools but urged guardrails and workforce protections. Overall, testimony was broadly favorable, with most witnesses calling for refinements rather than opposing the bill outright.

Transcript Highlights:

• ,<00:14:12.800> I<00:14:13.040> always<00:14:13.279> admired<00:14:13.839>
• <00:14:32.160> that<00:14:32.399> came<00:14:32.560> to<00:14:32.800> him
• He<00:14:33.680> was<00:14:33.760> here,<00:14:34.079> he<00:14:34.320> said,
• And<00:14:39.279> I<00:14:39.519> think<00:14:39.600> he<00:14:39.839> did
• <00:14:44.480> In<00:14:44.720> some<00:14:44.880> ways,<00:14:45.040> he

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• the um shouldn't The Physician or<00:14:48.759> the<00:14:49.279> the<00:14:49.480>
• physician's<00:14:50.040> assistant<00:14:50.680> have<00:14:51.440> at or
• had<00:14:52.519> a<00:14:53.079> whether<00:14:53.279> it's<00:14:53.399><
• :14:56.079> with<00:14:56.279> them<00:14:56.639> before<00:14:56.959> they
• seeing<00:14:58.680> this<00:14:59.040> tele<00:14:59.320> medicine<00:14:59.759

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• throw<00:14:02.440> out<00:14:02.640> to<00:14:02.760> you<00:14:02.840>
• :14:12.520> of<00:14:12.560> the<00:14:12.640> pipeline<00:14:13.200> schools
• up and<00:14:20.120> what<00:14:20.280> they<00:14:20.400> termed<00:14:20.680>
• And<00:14:21.920> so,<00:14:22.560> that's<00:14:22.920> their<00:14:23.120>
• It's<00:14:24.240> not<00:14:24.560> something<00:14:25.000> that<00:14:25.160><

Keywords: 916, all

Summary: The Select Committee on School Facilities met to satisfy its quarterly statutory requirement and to discuss interim priorities. Staff from LSO reviewed the committee’s duties: monitoring K-12 school facilities statewide, prioritizing needs for the interim, and preparing a budget request due by November 1. They also noted the ongoing litigation related to the Chapter 3, Section 8 exception process and said the committee would move forward with securing a consultant to study that issue, as previously authorized by Management Council. A major topic was school funding formulas, especially how average daily membership (ADM) affects routine and major maintenance funding and how excess square footage is treated. Members revisited an earlier proposal to fund 135% of allowable square footage, which did not advance this session, and discussed whether some schools should instead be funded at a minimum percentage of their actual square footage. Staff explained that some districts have buildings larger than their formula allowance, and that the issue is complicated by older buildings, pools, and other unique facilities. They also noted that recent changes to the major maintenance multiplier increased funding and that some districts are still not fully covered by the formulas. Safety and security funding was another focus. The State Construction Department reported that $10 million was appropriated this year for safety and security upgrades, with some funds expected to go toward vestibules, bollards, and design work, and the rest through a district application process. Officials said the last comprehensive safety assessment was done more than 10 years ago and suggested a new consultant-led study to update priorities, since technology and building conditions have changed. Members also discussed the role of school resource officers and whether the committee should continue leading this work rather than handing it off to the recalibration committee. The committee also examined declining enrollment and excess capacity across the state, citing examples such as Newcastle, Shoshoni, Casper, Campbell County, and Fremont County. Officials said some districts are right-sizing by taking schools offline, while others cannot easily reduce capacity because the buildings are essential to the community. Charter school leasing was raised as a related concern, including the Mills charter school and the fact that the state pays lease costs based on ADM and allowable square footage. No formal votes were taken, but the committee agreed to continue studying these issues, likely including site visits and further data requests during the interim.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:14:29.160> H<00:14:29.519> from<00:14:29.759> Phantom Fireworks<00:14:38.720
• > and<00:14:38.839> then<00:14:39.079> our<00:14:40.079> next<00:14:40.759
• is Abra<00:14:44.519> green<00:14:45.519> testifying<00:14:46.000> for<00:14:46.160
• Beverly<00:14:49.600> Heiser<00:14:50.600> uh<00:14:50.880> and<00:14:51.120
• > Joanna<00:14:57.800> Amo<00:14:58.680> Louis<00:14:59.160> krower<00:14

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The joint committees heard testimony on three fireworks-related bills. On SB 1226, which would create a shipping container inspection program and require Department of Law Enforcement reporting, the Department of Law Enforcement supported the measure, while the Attorney General recommended deleting references to explosives to avoid a single-subject constitutional issue and noted possible federal limits on military involvement. Harbor users raised concerns about logistics, delays, and cost, and HPD supported the bill; members also discussed how inspections would work and whether DLE would coordinate with county and federal partners. No vote was taken during the testimony portion. On SB 32, which would sharply restrict consumer fireworks by requiring permits for cultural use, repealing the general holiday exceptions, and imposing a $25 permit fee, the State Fire Council supported the bill as a public safety measure but said it was willing to work on problematic language. The Office of the Public Defender opposed it, arguing the bill’s use of “culture” could create constitutional and discrimination problems because permit decisions would effectively define culture. Fireworks retailers and other opponents said the bill would push consumers toward illegal fireworks and hurt lawful sales, while supporters said it would reduce injuries, fires, and respiratory harm. Members questioned whether the permit fee was new, whether the bill would affect commercial display companies, and whether permit caps should be added. On SB 1324, which expands fireworks offenses, increases penalties for injuries or death, creates new criminal offenses and an infraction adjudication system, and appropriates funds, the Attorney General strongly supported the bill and said it would give law enforcement and prosecutors better tools, while DLE said the current weight-based definitions make prosecutions difficult and labor-intensive. DLE also said disposal of seized fireworks is expensive and hazardous, and suggested violators should bear more of that cost. HPD and the Maui County prosecutor supported the bill, but some opponents argued it would overcriminalize conduct and create constitutional issues; a commercial pyrotechnics company asked for amendments to preserve lawful display work. Members asked about the appropriation, enforcement challenges, and whether existing exceptions would still allow commercial shows. The hearing ended with no final decision reported in the transcript.

Transcript Highlights:

• c><01:14:13.600> defer<01:14:14.320> for<01:14:14.640> further<01:14:15.040>
• So<01:14:36.640> what<01:14:36.880> mirrors<01:14:37.679> um<01:14:38.080> what
• :41.360> are<01:14:42.239> uh<01:14:42.400> so<01:14:42.640> I<01:14:42.800
• ><01:14:44.080> that<01:14:44.320> will<01:14:44.480> be<01:14:44.640> changed
• <01:14:51.920> do<01:14:52.000> all<01:14:52.239> the<01:14:52.400> work.

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Without objection, the reading of the journal of Wednesday, January 14, 2026, is dispensed with and approved
• Sonderation to the Committee of Finance to temporarily replace Senator Fernandez for Wednesday, January 14
• I'm returning Senator Bolick to the Committee on Judiciary Elections for Wednesday, January 14, 2026.
• Arizona settlement. 433 Chapter 18. 433. 143. 143. Chapter 18. Taxation.
• Arizona State Senator, LD 2, along with Warren Petersen, President of the Arizona State Senate, LD 14

Keywords: 1182, all

Summary: The Senate convened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, attendance, and routine journal and guest items, then moved into the Committee of the Whole to consider bills on the calendar. The main substantive item was SB 1106, a tax conformity bill tied to federal tax changes. Senators debated it extensively, with supporters arguing it would provide tax relief, certainty for taxpayers filing returns, and pro-growth benefits for workers and businesses, while opponents said it would reduce state revenue, favor wealthier taxpayers and corporations, and should be handled in broader budget negotiations. Several senators also objected to provisions they said were added late, including child care, senior deductions, and education-related tax credit language. The bill was ultimately passed in open session by a vote of 17 ayes, 12 nays, and 1 not voting, and was transmitted to the governor. After SB 1106, the chamber adopted the Committee of the Whole report and then heard a proclamation in support of law enforcement, read by Senator Bolick and signed by Senate leadership. The proclamation cited officer safety, assaults, fatalities, and mental health concerns, and called for continued support, equipment, training, and resources for law enforcement. Senators spoke in favor of honoring police and “backing the blue.” The Senate also handled routine floor business, including a message from the House, transmission of SB 1106 to the governor, and a long list of first-reading bill introductions and committee references covering topics such as public safety, health and human services, education, finance, elections, immigration, border issues, and appropriations. The meeting concluded with committee announcements and adjournment until Tuesday, January 20, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• It may be a chapter, but it doesn't speak to the true history.
• Item 14, AB 1991, motion is due pass as amended to the Appropriations Committee.
• That bill has 14-0. That bill is out. That bill's out.
• That's 14-0. That bill is out. Moving on to this one, item number 14.
• Thank you. 14-0. That bill has 14-0. That bill is out, and that concludes today's committee.

Keywords: 987, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

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• > of<00:14:06.959> session,<00:14:07.600> what<00:14:07.839> would<00:14:
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• Representative Nash's<00:14:52.959> bill<00:14:53.519> um<00:14:53.680> to<00:14

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: House Fraud Prevention and State Agency Oversight Committee Chair Kristen Robbins opened by criticizing the governor’s fraud package as too focused on new spending and staffing, and not enough on culture change, accountability, eligibility rules, and an enterprise-wide IT/data strategy. She said the committee had heard a good overview from multiple commissioners, but she remained concerned that piecemeal technology investments and added staff would not address the root causes of fraud. Robbins also said she would introduce a bill based on issues raised in committee, including requiring grants management staff to complete Office of Grants Management training and certification. A major action announced was the launch of a new whistleblower portal at mnfraud.com, which legislators said will let people submit basic fraud allegations, after which staff will follow up and forward matters to the Office of the Legislative Auditor, BCA, law enforcement, or the attorney general as appropriate. Members noted that the Office of the Legislative Auditor already has a separate reporting portal, and there was a question about why the new site does not allow anonymous reporting; Robbins said contact information is needed so staff can follow up. She also said the portal is intended to centralize and triage reports from agency workers, service recipients, and providers. Republican members said the governor’s proposal still misses key pieces. Vice Chair Anderson argued the package mostly adds staff to agencies that failed to catch or act on fraud, and said Minnesota needs a statewide independent inspector general with authority outside agencies and a stronger whistleblower system. Representative Marion Rarick said the proposed criminal penalty increases are too small compared with federal penalties and criticized the package for adding only one forensic auditor at the BCA while DHS receives many more positions. She also argued that agency managers should face sanctions when fraud occurs under their watch and said the state needs a culture where employees can be rewarded for good work but also held accountable for failures. Members discussed several other ideas, including creating new crimes for kickbacks and theft of public funds, requiring fraud fiscal notes, improving data sharing and eligibility verification, and using better IT so systems can talk to each other. There was also discussion of whether government services should rely less on nonprofits and private contractors; one member said fraud often follows a particular business model rather than the sector itself, while another suggested capping salaries of top nonprofit executives receiving government funds. The committee also noted that the governor’s fraud package is being presented as a package but will likely move as separate provisions through different omnibus bills.

Transcript Highlights:

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Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The joint hearing of the House Committees on Tourism, Housing, and Economic Development and Technology began with House Bill 604, which would raise the transient accommodations tax by 1 percentage point starting January 1, 2026 and direct the revenue to the Hawaiian Homes General Loan Fund. The Department of Hawaiian Home Lands supported the bill as a source of consistent funding, while the Grassroots Institute of Hawaii and the Tax Foundation of Hawaii opposed it, warning that Hawaii already has very high tourism taxes and that further increases could hurt visitors, workers, and the broader economy. The committees later voted to pass HB 604 with amendments as an HD1 and to defer the date; the vote was adopted, with one member noted as having reservations in the housing committee vote and one no vote in that committee. The committees then heard House Bill 973, which would require transient accommodations brokers and others to display all resort fees, taxes, and government-imposed charges upfront in advertised prices and would establish penalties. The Office of Consumer Protection expressed concerns about the bill’s intent requirement and noted a forthcoming federal FTC rule on junk fees; the Hawaii Hotel Alliance strongly supported the measure as promoting transparency and uniformity, and a public witness also supported price transparency while questioning the size of the penalties. After questions about federal rescission of the FTC rule and enforcement authority, the committees voted to pass HB 973 with amendments as an HD1, including removal of the intent requirement and technical changes, and the recommendation was adopted unanimously. House Bill 594, relating to hotel service disruptions, would require hotel keepers to give notice of disruptions to guests and third-party vendors and allow damages. The Attorney General’s office recommended amendments to add a purpose section and savings clause to address First Amendment and contract clause issues, and Unite Here Local 5 supported the bill, saying guests are not always notified of disruptions and that the measure would improve transparency; the union agreed with the legal amendments. The committees voted to pass HB 594 with amendments as an HD1 and to defer the date, adopting the recommendation. The final measures were House Bill 448 and House Bill 449, both related to technology enablement and economic development for small businesses, including tourism-related businesses. HTDC strongly supported both bills but emphasized that technology should be targeted to the actual problem and coordinated with sister agencies rather than applied broadly; the Hawaii Food Industry Association and Chamber of Commerce also supported HB 448, and HB 449 received support from HTDC and HFIA. The committees adopted amendments to HB 448, including moving a $250,000 appropriation to the committee report, and to HB 449, including deleting duplicative language tied to HB 448 and moving a $500,000 appropriation to the committee report; both bills were passed as HD1s with deferred dates, and the hearing adjourned after the votes were adopted.

Transcript Highlights:

• I am aware, but I think you're referencing some of the issues with our chapters, one particular chapter
• So this fixes Chapter 320.01, which is unclear, the reason why you're asking the question.
• a footprint that's only 400 square feet but actually is 26,000 square feet and has 13 bedrooms and 14

Summary: The Committee on Community Affairs met with a quorum present and heard three bills. First, the committee considered Senator Osgood’s home hardening products bill (CS/SB 78). The sponsor offered and the committee adopted a strike-all amendment that changed the sales tax exemption for impact-resistant doors and windows into a refund program. The refund is limited to homeowners with site-built homesteads valued at $700,000 or less, requires application to the Department of Revenue with proof of eligibility, caps the refundable tax at $500,000 per property, and runs for two years beginning July 1, 2026. The bill, as amended, was reported favorably after a roll call vote. The committee then took up Senator McLean’s land use and development regulations bill (SB 208), which would redefine compatibility, define infill residential development, allow administrative approval in certain cases, and set standards for local development-related fees. Members and stakeholders discussed concerns about the compatibility definition, the scope of administrative approval, and whether 100 acres is too large to qualify as infill. Testimony came from Audubon Florida, the Florida Association of Counties, the Florida League of Cities, Highland Homes, 1,000 Friends of Florida, and others, with supporters emphasizing housing supply and affordability and opponents warning about sprawl, reduced public participation, and impacts to rural lands and the Florida Wildlife Corridor. The sponsor said he would continue working on the language, and the bill was reported favorably. Finally, the committee heard Senator Truenow’s bill on special assessments for recreational vehicle parks (SB 118). The bill clarifies that if a local government levies a special assessment on an RV park space or campsite, the assessment may not exceed the maximum square footage allowed for an RV site. An amendment clarified that maximum as 400 square feet, resolving confusion about the cross-reference in current law. After brief discussion and one appearance form in support, the committee adopted the amendment and reported the bill favorably. The meeting then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• It's already allowed in Chapter 152 for the state's medical cannabis program.
• action in this section is carrying forward existing opportunities for tribal medical patients in Chapter
• 152 into Chapter 342. 152 is where we currently regulate the medical cannabis program. 342 is where
• Section two outlines the classification of company data under chapter 13 and allows for summary-level
• is kind of Articulating multiple different types of sanctions through the subsequent sections, 13, 14

Bills: HF2354, HF1672, HF2389, HF2870, HF2743, HF1918, HF2551, HF1671

Keywords: medical assistance, fraud prevention, subpoena authority, criminal penalties, consumer protection, medical cannabis, medical marijuana, cannabis, cannabinoids, hemp, marijuana registry, patient registry, visiting patient, Tribal cannabis, Tribal medical cannabis program, Tribal sovereignty, Office of Cannabis Management, designated caregiver, home cultivation, adult-use cannabis