Transcript Highlights:

• This is an issue position on the issue.
• When I say they, position on this issue.
• We're asking them to take a position, and they refuse to do that.
• We're asking them to take a position, and they refuse to do that.
• We're asking them to take a position, and they refuse to do that.

Keywords: 918, senate, all

Summary: The conversation focused on a Minnesota Senate gun violence prevention package that had recently passed the Senate. The senator said the effort began in 2023 with red flag laws and was later expanded into a broader, “holistic” approach after the Annunciation church shooting, with input from families affected by the tragedy, especially the parents of Harper Moyski. The package was described as combining gun restrictions with mental health and school safety measures. The main provisions discussed were a ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, a re-ban on binary triggers, a ban on ghost guns, funding for mental health services including mobile crisis and health care professionals, and school safety aid for both public and private schools. The senator said the package reflected concerns raised by families, advocates, and members from both parties, and argued that it included items Republicans had requested, such as school safety aid and mental health funding. The senator said the Senate vote was historic because it was the first time the chamber passed an assault-weapons and high-capacity-magazine ban, and the first time such a comprehensive package had been assembled. The vote was described as party-line, with disappointment that no Republicans supported it. The senator said the House should take up the bill next, criticized House Republican leaders for not bringing it forward, and urged them to at least allow a vote. The senator also argued that the measure does not take away constitutional rights and said public support for the package is strong, including in so-called purple districts.

Transcript Highlights:

• There was a farm there that imported elk from Alberta that later tested positive for the disease.
• later tested positive for the disease. later tested positive for the disease.
• So, if there was a positive found, they buyout at the federal level.
• <00:10:53.720> found,<00:10:54.880> they If there was a positive found, they wouldn't
• House File 4508 is laid over. in a positive way and uh in a positive way and uh maybe<00:12:31.640>

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: Representative Heintzeman presented House File 4508, which would allow the importation of elk from other states into Minnesota to help address challenges facing the state’s elk breeding industry and improve herd genetics. The Minnesota Elk Breeders Association supported the bill, arguing that recent CWD-related import restrictions have effectively cut off access to outside breeding stock, hurt breeder numbers, and limited options for maintaining healthy, profitable herds. The group said elk are relatively resistant to CWD and that importation could be allowed under Board of Animal Health oversight. The Minnesota DNR opposed the bill, saying there is no validated live test for CWD that can ensure incoming animals are disease-free and pointing to recent cases in other states where imported elk later tested positive. The DNR also said federal herd certification programs have not prevented spread of the disease and warned that responding to a new captive cervid detection can cost more than $500,000. Members then discussed broader issues around CWD testing, including frustration that a live test developed at the University of Minnesota has not been federally validated and whether Minnesota should pursue state or third-party validation. Representative Heintzeman said the bill was intended to start a broader conversation and noted that the current proposal does not address the testing issue directly. After testimony and discussion, no vote was taken and House File 4508 was laid over.

Transcript Highlights:

• give the representative a chance to speak about it, but I will tell you this is going to be a hard position
• to<00:07:01.680> be<00:07:01.759> a<00:07:01.919> hard<00:07:02.160> position
• <00:07:02.479> from<00:07:02.639> the is going to be a hard position from the is going
• to be a hard position from the Senate.<00:07:03.120> We're<00:07:03.280> we're<00:07:03.520
• And our united position is that if that is not included in this, then we would not concur with this.

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Summary: The Committee of Conference opened on Senate Bill 302, originally focused on background checks for solid waste management facility owners. Members discussed House-added amendments, including language from House Bill 616 on animal cruelty and additional solid waste site evaluation committee provisions from House Bill 2. The Senate chair said the Senate would not accept the HB 616 animal cruelty language in SB 302, though he indicated the issue could return next year in a standalone or amended bill. Representative Comtois explained a revised version of the animal-related language, including a provision that an owner’s name and address would not be publicized until a case is adjudicated and that donations raised using the stories or likeness of animals in protective custody would be limited to covering the animals’ care costs. Despite that explanation, the Senate maintained its opposition. House members said their side would not concur unless the language remained in the bill, and the chair responded that the Senate would let the bill go rather than accept the amendment. The hearing was then closed without agreement or final action on the bill.

Transcript Highlights:

• Dan Cha on behalf of Ava Community Energy, we have a support-if-amended position.
• We have an opposed and less amended position on the bill in print.
• We have an opposed and less admitted position on the bill in print.
• We have an opposed and less-amended position on the bill in print.
• That's our position, too. Yeah, I believe it. Yeah, and regardless... That's our position, too.

Summary: The committee heard several energy and water affordability bills, with extensive testimony on SB 254 by Senator Becker, SB 541 by Senator Becker, SB 453 by Senator Stern, SB 292 by Senator Caballero, and SB 473 by Senator Padilla. SB 254 was presented as a broad utility affordability package addressing short-term climate credits, a Power Fund, tighter scrutiny of rate increases and utility profits, wildfire spending, securitization of future utility costs, and streamlining. Supporters, including TURN and several environmental and public power groups, said it could lower bills and reduce long-term costs; opponents from investor-owned utilities, labor, business, and local government raised concerns about market impacts, insufficient analysis, and the breadth of the bill. The committee approved SB 254 on a 6-3 vote and placed it on call. SB 541 focused on load flexibility and using existing grid capacity more efficiently. Senator Becker described it as a transparency and planning measure to identify cost-effective load shifting and reduce peak demand, while supporters said it could improve resiliency and save money. Several CCAs and utilities opposed the bill in print or unless amended, arguing that some language implied a mandate and that the concept needed more cost-effectiveness analysis; the author said amendments would remove language dividing the state goal among retail suppliers and clarify that the bill is not a procurement mandate. The committee passed SB 541 as amended to Appropriations on a 9-1 vote and left it on call. SB 453 by Senator Stern would return unspent ratepayer-funded microgrid program dollars and was described as a way to keep the lights on and redirect unused funds. It drew support from local government and environmental groups, with PG&E expressing concern about how the bill would affect its ability to spend awarded funds. The committee passed SB 453 as amended to Appropriations on a 12-0 vote. SB 292 by Senator Caballero would require more granular outage and reliability reporting, including census-tract-level data, to better inform resilience planning after PSPS events; utilities opposed unless amended, citing duplicative reporting and regulatory overlap, but the bill passed 12-0 to Appropriations. SB 473 by Senator Padilla would require or expand water utility decoupling to promote conservation and affordability. Supporters, including water utilities, labor, business, and local government groups, argued decoupling stabilizes revenue, supports conservation, and can keep rates lower for low-use customers. The Public Advocates Office opposed, saying prior pilot data showed no conservation benefit and about $1 billion in added costs, and that the CPUC had already rejected similar requests. Committee members questioned the conservation and capital-investment effects of the different rate structures; the author and supporters argued decoupling helps utilities fund infrastructure while allowing lower fixed charges for low-use customers. The transcript ends during that discussion, before a final vote on SB 473 is shown.

Transcript Highlights:

• If you are registering a position only, you may do so at any kiosk in the extension.
• If you are registering a position only, you may do so at any kiosk in the extension.
• If you are registering a position only, you may do so at any kiosk in the extension.
• Today, he communicates effectively, interacts positively with peers, and, most importantly, he's happy
• of not having the funding to pay the salary of positions including the original agreement.

Bills: SB1, SB 1

Keywords: appropriations, budget, state funding, education, healthcare, infrastructure, campground safety, youth camp regulations, flood safety, emergency evacuation, health and safety standards, 1185, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• memory, there were positive memory, there were positive appropriations<00:36:45.119> made
• It does legislative leadership position.
• positions are covered under that. positions are covered under that.
• I am not positive exactly position.
• . position. position.

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: The committee took up House File 4252 and first heard a walkthrough of a DE2 amendment that largely incorporated Office of Higher Education technical and statutory cleanup items, including reporting consolidations, updates to postsecondary registration and licensing statutes, and an anti-fraud provision. New provisions in the DE2 would require public postsecondary institutions to explain developmental courses before enrollment and obtain a written acknowledgement, revise the state grant tuition cap, add a $1.5 million ongoing appropriation in FY 2027 for an identity verification system to combat enrollment fraud, and provide $5,000 one-time funding for reforestation at Bemidji State University. Fiscal staff also noted additional special revenue fund revenue and expenditures tied to licensing and registration litigation response. The main debate centered on the A8 amendment offered by Representative Rarick, which would require the governor to appoint University of Minnesota regents only from candidates recommended by the joint legislative committee if the legislature fails to elect regents. Rarick argued the amendment was needed to address what he described as conflicts of interest and pay-to-play concerns in recent gubernatorial appointments. Several members questioned whether the language was constitutional, whether it actually addressed conflicts of interest, and whether it should instead refer to ARCAC-screened or ARCAC-recommended candidates. Nonpartisan staff said the governor’s appointment power is addressed in the university charter, not directly in the constitution, but could not definitively assess constitutionality if challenged. Members were divided: some supported the goal of cleaner governance but said the amendment was not ready or did not match the problem being described; others argued the legislature had failed to complete its own regent appointments and that the amendment was a response to that failure. No vote on the A8 amendment or the bill was reached in the portion provided, though a roll call was requested on the amendment and the chair indicated the bill would continue through amendment consideration before final discussion and vote.

Transcript Highlights:

• Thank you, Madam Chair. add 71 teacher positions compared to the add 71 teacher positions compared to
• positions.
• already have in those positions.
• certified and classified positions. certified and classified positions.
• <00:58:41.119> and difficult to fill those positions and difficult to fill those positions

Bills: SF0059, SF0053

Keywords: language proficiency, literacy education, reading interventions, dyslexia support, Montessori methods, individualized reading plans, amateur status, high school athletics, student eligibility, sports regulation, monetary compensation, 916, all

Transcript Highlights:

• One of the reasons why I want this position is because I had to reclassify an administrative position
• One of the reasons why I want this position is because I had to reclassify an administrative position
• One of the reasons why I want this position is because I had to reclassify an administrative position
• One of the reasons why I want this position is because I had to reclassify an administrative position
• hiring an investigative senior position hiring an investigative senior position to<00:37:58.000>

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Health and Human Services Committee met on January 28, 2025, to review Governor’s budget proposals for several health-related licensing boards. The chair said no formal action would be taken and noted that final budget language was not yet available. The committee began with an overview from Bridget Anderson of the health-related licensing boards, who explained that the boards are fee-funded, operate as independent executive agencies, and handle licensing, complaints, rulemaking, and disciplinary matters. She also noted that the Board of Dentistry’s budget includes the Administrative Services Unit and criminal background check program, which can make the budget graphs appear larger than the dentistry board’s own operations. The Board of Dentistry requested funding for a new administrative staff position, estimating about $100,000 in salary, insurance, and fringe costs, to replace support lost when an administrative position was reclassified. Anderson said the board handled more than 300 complaints last year, with cases becoming more complex, especially involving surgical and implant procedures and imaging. Members asked about dental Medicaid access, but Anderson said that issue would be better directed to DHS’s Medicaid oral health division. The Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy requested a full-time position due to rapid growth in the number of regulated professionals, from about 4,000 in 2014 to nearly 10,000 now, and also sought authority to set a fee for out-of-state applicants under the Counseling Compact, with a cap of up to $100 though the board expects to charge much less. The Board of Podiatric Medicine asked to raise its fee ceiling, saying fees had not been increased since 1999 and that the board now faces a structural deficit of about $40,000 per year and declining reserves. Several senators expressed concern about “not-to-exceed” fee authority, calling it too open-ended and suggesting the legislature should scrutinize specific fee needs rather than approve broad ceilings. Similar concerns were raised during the Board of Chiropractic Examiners presentation, where the board sought $100,000 in additional spending authority and a fee increase after 32 years without an adjustment; members questioned the proposed ceiling approach and asked for more historical information before deciding. The Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice also discussed fee-setting authority, with the executive director explaining that the board had previously lowered fees without clear authority and later faced audit questions; she requested funding for a vacant administrative position, saying applications and revenues have increased sharply and no fee increase would be needed. The final presentation began with the Board of Pharmacy, which said it serves more than 26,000 licensees and oversees the Prescription Monitoring Program and opioid product registration. The board requested an extension of previously appropriated general fund dollars through fiscal year 2027 to continue paying legal costs tied to the insulin safety net lawsuit, emphasizing that this was not a new funding request but an extension of existing authority. No votes or formal actions were taken during the meeting.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:05:41.360> on to see a um non an advisory position on to see a um non an advisory position
• I think in that position I might Hm.
• kind of the balance that this position kind of the balance that this position could<00:23:24.320
• , where you would be roing that position, where you would be roing that position, I<00:25:21.600>
• being put in that position. being put in that position.

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• We've got some positive upside, I think, on sales tax and a little bit of a bet on oil prices.
• So sure, you're going to have settlements both ways, positively and negatively.
• And it's not necessarily an ideal position, but when you make changes to lower your corporate rate to
• The General Fund cash position has increased since December, and then the state's interfund borrowing
• The monthly General Fund cash position graphs reflect, on average, a similar cash position for fiscal

Summary: The Revenue Estimating Conference met with four members present and first approved the prior meeting minutes and recognized the FYI end-of-balance of $577,077,871 as nonrecurring revenue. The main business was revising the state revenue forecast for FY 2026, FY 2027, and the long-range outlook. The Division of Administration recommended a $113 million reduction to the FY 2026 State General Fund forecast and a $104 million reduction for FY 2027, citing weaker-than-expected individual income tax collections, softer corporate income tax receipts, and some weakness in general sales tax, partly offset by stronger motor vehicle sales tax and higher mineral-related revenues tied to oil prices. The Legislative Fiscal Office presented a somewhat different but broadly similar forecast, with modest net increases to the general fund bottom line in the current year and next year, emphasizing caution on income and corporate taxes and more optimism on sales, severance, royalties, and some other revenue streams. A substantial portion of the discussion focused on the causes of the income tax shortfall, especially withholding and refund patterns after tax changes that lowered rates. Department of Revenue officials explained that withholding tables had been set with a cushion that may be producing larger refunds, and said changing the tables could quickly reduce overwithholding, though the effect would take time to show up. Members also discussed corporate collections, the lingering effects of the franchise tax repeal, the role of settlements and audits, and the extent to which collections are voluntary versus enforcement-driven. The Department of Revenue said corporate collections still had key filing and estimated-payment milestones ahead in May and June, and that refund and audit activity related to the former franchise tax would continue for some time. The conference then adopted the Division of Administration’s FY 2026 forecast, the FY 2027 recurring forecast, and the long-range forecast, along with the proposed inflation rates for the Millennium Trust and parish severance allocation. Members also adopted the incentive expenditure forecast, noting that the reported amount is only the REC-reported portion and that larger tax exemption amounts come off the top before appropriations. The Treasurer reported a General Fund cash balance of about $404.1 million as of May 5, 2026, and an interfund borrowing base of about $9.18 billion, saying cash levels were similar on average to the prior year. The meeting ended with a note that another REC meeting might be needed depending on the May 16 election, and the conference adjourned without objection.

Transcript Highlights:

• Some people have taken the position that there was such a gap. I'd happen to disagree with that.
• Okay, so it's your position that this was unnecessary. the effective dates.
• Okay, so it's your position that this was unnecessary as far as fixing some of those gaps.
• Okay, so it's your position that this was unnecessary as far as fixing some of those gaps.
• And your position is that cleans this up.

Summary: The House convened with prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, then approved the House Journal for the prior day by a 125-0 roll call vote. The chamber spent a large portion of the session on personal privileges and memorials, honoring former Representative Ken Waller and Rawls County teenager Keaton O’Neill, with a moment of silence observed for O’Neill. Members also introduced several guests, including a deployed Marine, legislative visitors, family members, and an intern who was made a page for the day. The House then considered several committee reports and Senate amendments. On House Bills 2637 and 3155, members discussed a broad criminal justice package that included technical fixes to prior sentencing legislation, sex offender registry changes, drone restrictions tied to major events, health care-related provisions, and prosecutor salary adjustments; the House voted to refuse the Senate substitute and request a conference. House Bill 2593, a bipartisan military and veterans measure, was adopted and finally passed 137-1 and 138-1 after debate highlighting cybersecurity protections, Service Members Civil Relief Act language, TRICARE protections, expanded military leave, National Guard benefits, and other support for service members and families. The House also adopted and finally passed House Bill 2974, a licensure reciprocity and telehealth bill that expands interstate practice options for certain health professionals and is intended to improve rural health access; the votes were 109-29 on adoption and 108-30 on final passage. House Bill 2108, a Jefferson City land conveyance and infrastructure bill related to the viaduct and safety improvements, was adopted and finally passed 138-1 and 138-2 after discussion of the state’s transfer of property to the city and an added land provision involving Northwest Missouri State University and Nodaway County. The chamber then received Senate messages on HB 2596 and HB 2637/3155, appointed conference committees, announced upcoming committee meetings, and adjourned until April 28, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• The Industrial Commission is faster, more nimble, and better positioned to deliver timely outcomes.
• Chairman, are there any unfilled full-time positions at the Commission at the moment? Mr.
• There was over 100 unfilled positions, but the department would come back and ask for more positions
• So I guess what I really wanted to know is whether, if they will require more positions and they have
• already been budgeted positions which are not filled, they should simply fill the positions.

Bills: HB2174, HB2496, HB2744, HB2863, HB2910, HB2938

Keywords: insurance regulation, modeling organizations, financial disclosure, rate-making, predictive models, revitalization districts, construction contracts, infrastructure, municipal services, intergovernmental agreements, user fees, landowner agreements, overtime, wages, employee rights, industrial commission, complaints, adjudication, landlord, tenant

Transcript Highlights:

• And that position was not developed in a vacuum.
• So to summarize, the agency's position is that a sunset provision is not appropriate.
• Just for clarification, it's the agency's position Thank you, Chair.
• Just for clarification, it's the agency's position that these rules are unnecessary?
• That's not the agency's position. It's not the agency's position that they're unnecessary.

Summary: The Joint Administrative Procedures Committee reviewed several agency rules and objections under Chapter 120. First, the committee revisited prior objections to Agency for Health Care Administration rules containing sunset provisions. AHCA’s general counsel said the agency amended 26 of the objected rules but declined to amend five others, arguing sunset provisions are lawful, are not themselves rules, and were consistent with a 2019 gubernatorial directive. Committee members questioned that position, especially for licensing and certificate-of-need rules, and urged the agency to consider legislative changes; no formal action was taken on that item during the discussion. The committee then considered an objection to Department of Management Services Rule 60G-1.001 defining the Governor’s Mansion grounds. Committee staff argued the rule is vague and improperly refers to future land acquisitions without updating the rule since 1998. DMS defended the rule as a general definition tied to publicly recorded property and a master lease, but said it would not object if the Legislature chose to codify the definition in statute. After discussion, the committee voted to file the objection. Members also received informational updates from the Department of Environmental Protection on the Solaris state lands inventory system, and from the Florida Gaming Control Commission on its response to the Tampa Bay Downs unadopted-rule litigation, in which the commission said it has stopped relying on the prior tax interpretation and will not promulgate a rule on that issue. The Department of Business and Professional Regulation said it would remove an unsupported cigar wholesale dealer permit reference, repeal an obsolete excise-tax deduction rule, and amend penalty guidelines and an affirmation in its alcohol, beverage, and tobacco rules. Finally, the Division of Administrative Hearings’ interim director discussed case-processing times, possible changes to ALJ status, and whether the Florida Rules of Evidence should apply in administrative proceedings, emphasizing the need to weigh costs, independence, and impacts on pro se litigants. The chair noted this was likely the committee’s final meeting of the year.

Transcript Highlights:

• House 2985, an act exempting Stephen Justice from the maximum age requirement for appointment to the position
• House 2986, an act exempting Javier Vargas from the minimum age requirement for the position of firefighter
• House 2988, an act exempting Freddie Castanita from the maximum age requirement for the position of police
• An act authorizing Kenneth Navarro to take the civil service examination for the position of firefighter
• An act authorizing William Rob Cargill to take the civil service examination for the position of firefighter

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The House began with the Pledge of Allegiance and then took up several routine matters. The Committee on Rules recommended adoption of resolutions honoring William B. O’Leary on his 100th birthday, congratulating Ethan Ho on earning Eagle Scout rank, and celebrating the 150th anniversary of St. Paul’s Church of Palmer. The House suspended the rules and adopted the resolutions. It also concurred with a Senate referral of a petition concerning retirement benefits for Alec Simonello to the Committee on Public Service. The House then considered local bills reported by the Committee on Steering, Policy and Scheduling, including measures concerning an excise on parking space transfers in Salem, expanded senior property tax abatements in Auburn, a means-tested senior property tax exemption in Sudbury, and land acquisition/disposition in Falmouth. After suspending Rule 7A, the House gave these bills second and third readings and ordered them to a third reading. The chamber also passed to enactment several engrossed bills, including firefighter and police age-exemption bills for Haverhill, a Williamsburg board-name change to select board, a Sandwich overpass memorial designation, and a Chicopee charter change to gender-neutral language. The House then acted on additional third-reading bills, passing to enactment a bill allowing Kenneth Navarro to take the Haverhill firefighter exam despite the maximum age requirement, and passing to engrossment bills for William Rob Cargill’s firefighter exam eligibility and special meetings of the Holyoke City Council. On Senate Bill 1859, concerning retirement for Walter L. Gerton, Representative Walsh offered and the House adopted an amendment substituting text from House Document 5331, after which the bill was passed to engrossment as amended. Finally, the House adopted an order to meet the following Monday at 11 a.m. and adjourned to that time in informal session.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:16:13.199> should evaluate whether that position should evaluate whether that position
• work agreements well what what positions work agreements well what what positions are<00:46:43.800
• <00:46:50.800> um administrative uh assistant positions um administrative uh assistant positions
• <00:47:23.359> or administrative type positions or administrative type positions or clerical
• ><00:47:26.040> understand clerical positions so if I understand clerical positions so if I understand

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The committee heard an overview from Department of Juvenile Justice Commissioner Randy White on the state’s juvenile detention network and several facility projects. He identified the currently operating detention centers as Boyd County for females, Breathitt County for low-risk males, Fayette County for high-risk males, Adair County for high-risk youth from Jefferson and surrounding counties, Warren County for high-risk males, and McCracken County for low-risk males. Members asked about capacity and staffing; White said Boyd County houses 33 and is usually near full, Breathitt County is about half full, Fayette County runs about 80-90% full, Campbell County’s operational limit is about 25 due to staffing, Adair County can hold 60 and has hit capacity several times this year, Warren County holds 43 and usually runs near capacity, and McCracken County holds 43 and is not currently full. He said staffing is generally harder in higher-risk facilities and in metropolitan areas because of wages and housing costs. White then updated the committee on the Louisville Detention Center downtown renovation and the Lyon facility project. For the Louisville downtown facility, he said schematic design and design development are complete, construction documents are expected by late February or early March, bids are anticipated in April, and completion is projected for March 2027. He explained the delay is due to extensive renovation work needed to bring the building up to current building, life-safety, ACA, and PREA standards, including security, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, food service, and roof work. The project is designed for 64 beds for high-risk Jefferson County boys, with the facility currently vacant and those youth being housed in Adair County and Campbell County. For the Lyon project, he said the contract was issued November 21, 2024, demolition is underway, completion is expected June 14, 2026, and the facility will have 34 beds in four pods for low-risk offenders; he said the project appears to be on time and on budget within the $4.5 million authorization. The committee also discussed the medical services contract. DJJ officials said they are reviewing whether to continue with the current state contract provider, Wellpath, or pursue an RFP, while retaining current merit staff and continuing oversight through four nurse program administrators. They said DJJ uses a state master agreement to staff nurses, APRNs, and the chief medical officer, and that the current contract is about $20 million per year. Members asked about Wellpath’s bankruptcy filing; officials said they were aware of it, asked questions, and were told it would not affect Kentucky service delivery or contracting, though they could not recall the bankruptcy type and offered to provide more detail later. They also said DJJ is working with the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to become a Medicaid provider, and any future contractual partner will need to be a Medicaid provider. Finally, White described the proposed high-acuity juvenile mental health treatment facility. He said DJJ must accept court-ordered youth even when they have severe mental illness, but detention centers are not equipped to treat those youth and private psychiatric hospitals often refuse them or discharge them early. He argued that a dedicated secure treatment facility is needed for a small number of highly violent, high-need youth who require intensive psychiatric care and are disruptive in detention. The facility would provide behavioral and psychiatric treatment, reduce delays caused by lack of beds or outside placements, and serve youth determined by clinical assessment to need a secure treatment environment. No votes were taken during the discussion.

Transcript Highlights:

• with supervision or a clerical position, and so, but regardless, we typically don't support licensure
• <00:03:42.080> and position and position and so<00:03:44.120> but regardless<00:03:48.400
• relevant to what people in this position relevant to what people in this position are<00:22:14.200
• Does that position exist with OPLC?
• Does that position exist with OPLC?

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The subcommittee heard House Bill 2712, which would remove the exam requirement for licensure as a Licensed Social Work Associate (LSWA). Members expressed concern that the exam requirement was only added in 2021 and has not been in place long enough to evaluate, but they also questioned whether licensure should be granted without a meaningful measure of competency. Testimony was split: supporters argued the exam is a barrier for applicants without formal social work education, while opponents said licensure should still require some standard of competency, especially because the title carries public expectations and insurance reimbursement implications. Karina Bonia, speaking for NASW New Hampshire, said there is very limited data because only one person in New Hampshire currently holds an LSWA. She explained that LSWA applicants may have degrees outside social work, unlike licensed social workers, and that the current exam is the same national social work exam used for higher levels of licensure. She argued that this creates a significant barrier for LSWA applicants and noted that LSWA holders are already required to complete 30 hours of training and substantial supervised hours. Members asked for data on pass/fail rates and whether a different exam or practical skills test would be more appropriate. Committee members and OPLC representatives discussed whether the current statute and board rules already provide enough authority for the board to set other criteria, and whether the exam requirement is tied to the social work compact. OPLC indicated that the current rule requires passage of a national proctored exam approved by the board, but that no national exam exists specifically for this level, and that the board may need legislative authority to develop different criteria. The discussion ended with interest in obtaining the existing rule language and possibly revisiting the issue through amendment or future legislation rather than immediately removing the exam requirement.

Transcript Highlights:

• You may approach the mic with name, affiliation, and position only, please.
• You may approach the mic with name, affiliation, and position only, please. Timothy Bird Jr.
• Affiliation and position only, please. Hi, good afternoon.
• Anybody who wants to come to the mic and just say name, position, and affiliation only?
• You may approach the microphone with name, affiliation, and position only, please.

Summary: The Assembly Communications and Conveyance Committee met with several bills on the agenda, beginning with SB 739 (Arreguín) on the Clean Miles Standard and Incentive Program for transportation network companies. The author and supporters from Lyft, Uber, and TechNet said the bill would update EV miles traveled and greenhouse gas targets to reflect current market conditions, add flexibility for CARB and the CPUC, and protect drivers from losing platform access while also creating a path for future electrification. Opponents including the American Lung Association, Sierra Club California, and NRDC argued the bill would weaken a program meant to accelerate EV adoption and should retain stronger targets. Members discussed affordability, charging infrastructure, and the need to balance climate goals with feasibility. The committee approved SB 739 as amended and re-referred it to Appropriations, later recording a 9-0 vote when the roll was completed. The committee then heard SB 1190 (Grove), the “Safe Passage for Youth Act,” which would regulate private youth transport services used for out-of-state residential placements. The author and sponsor testimony described abusive practices such as nighttime pickups, blindfolds, restraints, and emotional trauma, and said the bill would require CPUC permitting, TrustLine background checks, training, parental consent, and bans on certain practices. Support came from youth and disability advocates, with no opposition testimony. The bill was moved on a due pass as amended recommendation and later passed 9-0. SB 1191 (Ochoa Bogh) would extend the sunset for California High Cost Fund A and B universal service programs that help provide affordable telephone service in rural and high-cost areas. Supporters from rural telecom companies and industry groups said the funds are essential for maintaining service, 911 access, and emergency communications in remote communities. There was no opposition, and the committee advanced the bill on a due pass recommendation; it later passed 9-0. The consent item, SB 985 (Strickland) on the 911 emergency system, was also approved. Finally, the committee heard SB 1246 (Cortese) on autonomous vehicles and emergency response. The author and supporters from SEIU California and the California Professional Firefighters said the bill would require AV companies to provide incident response, notify local jurisdictions during system failures, ensure U.S.-based remote drivers, and prevent public safety workers from having to manage AV breakdowns. Industry opponents argued the bill intrudes on federal vehicle standards, gives local governments enforcement authority they should not have, and could create overly broad notification and response requirements. Members raised questions about local control, response times, and whether the bill was premature given existing DMV regulations. Despite those concerns, the committee passed SB 1246 on a due pass as amended recommendation, later recording a 7-1 vote. The committee then recessed and returned to complete roll calls before adjourning.

Transcript Highlights:

• Taking supervisory positions in several components of the DEA, including Spatial Operations Division.
• Being considered for this esteemed position is truly the honor of a lifetime.
• I bring 35 years of law enforcement experience to this position.
• Marshal, you're in the best position.
• I look forward to you serving in this position. I think you are eminently qualified for it.

Keywords: fentanyl crisis, DEA, drug trafficking, public safety, Judea Serrata, Terrence Cole, judicial security, social media, drug prevention

Summary: The committee meeting centered on the urgent crisis of fentanyl abuse and the government’s response to the drug trafficking epidemic. Key discussions revolved around the nomination of Terrence Cole as the Administrator of the DEA and Judea Serrata as Director of the U.S. Marshals Service. Cole emphasized his commitment to combating the fentanyl crisis, highlighting the rising number of overdose deaths and the necessity of bipartisan efforts to dismantle drug cartels. Members engaged in dialogue on the effectiveness of various strategies and the importance of education aimed at preventing drug-related deaths among youth. Additionally, the challenges of social media in drug trafficking were highlighted, indicating a need for greater accountability in how platforms handle such issues. Senators voiced concerns about the impact of administration policies on judicial security and the resources available for marshals to perform their critical roles.

Transcript Highlights:

• Assembly Concurrent Resolution 14 by Assemblymember Michelle Rodriguez, relative to Positive Parenting
• We come together today to recognize, celebrate, and mark January as Positive Parenting Awareness Month
• We know that positive parenting starts from birth and many times even before birth with prenatal care
• Which will recognize January as Positive Parenting Awareness Month in the state of California.
• Marty was a man of action and a positive thinker.

Keywords: 988, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Name, affiliation, position on the bill. Thank you, Madam Chair.
• Any others in the hearing room with a position of opposition to the bill?
• Please come forward with your name, affiliation, and position on the bill.
• Madden said, both our opposition positions are based on the bill in print.
• We believe the amendments move us closer to achieving that policy position.

Summary: The Assembly Health Committee heard several measures, beginning with SB 331 by Sen. Menjivar, which would require large-group health plans to cover hearing aids for children. The author and supporters described the bill as a long-running effort to address a developmental emergency and reduce out-of-pocket costs for families, while opponents were absent. Testimony from parents, advocates, medical experts, and organizations emphasized the importance of early access to hearing aids; committee members voiced strong support, and the bill was moved on a do-pass basis to Appropriations, with several members requesting to be added as coauthors. The committee then heard SB 608, also by Sen. Menjivar, to expand access to condoms in school-based health centers and related settings and to prevent barriers such as ID checks. Supporters, including students and school health advocates, argued the bill would improve sexual health and reduce stigma, while opponents from family and faith groups argued it would undermine parental authority and normalize early sexual activity. The bill was supported by committee members and moved forward on a do-pass basis to Appropriations. Next, SB 971 by Sen. Choi proposed community-based healthy aging partnerships for older adults, with testimony from the California Senior Legislature and supporters from aging and dementia organizations. The measure was described as voluntary and focused on connection, independence, and local collaboration; there was no opposition, and the committee moved it on a do-pass basis to Appropriations. The committee also heard SB 869 by Sen. Weber Pierson, which would require warning icons and statements on chain restaurant menus for beverages with very high added sugar content. Supporters framed it as a transparency and public health measure, while restaurant and beverage industry representatives opposed it unless amended, citing cost and menu-space concerns; the bill was nevertheless moved on a do-pass basis to Appropriations after a roll call vote, with some members voting no and the measure placed on call. The committee also considered SB 950 by Sen. Weber Pierson, aimed at ensuring timely coverage of FDA-approved, medically necessary treatments for early-onset Alzheimer’s disease on commercial plans. Supporters, including the Alzheimer’s Association and a patient advocate, said the bill would reduce delays and barriers to care, while health plan representatives opposed it over step therapy and utilization-management concerns. Members discussed the limited treatment window and the need for early access, and the bill was moved on a do-pass basis to Appropriations. In addition, SB 490 by Sen. Umberg would set timelines for DHCS investigations of unlicensed sober living homes and allow counties to assist if the department cannot act in time; supporters from Anaheim and a patient-brokering survivor described serious abuse and oversight gaps, while county behavioral health representatives opposed the county role as an unfunded and potentially liability-creating burden. After discussion, the bill was also moved on a do-pass basis to Appropriations. Finally, the committee began hearing SB 1037 by Sen. Weber Pierson on health insurance affordability and rate review, with supporters arguing it would tie premium increases more closely to affordability targets and public reporting; the transcript cuts off before the committee completed action on that measure.