Transcript Highlights:

• It has<00:45:35.440> been<00:45:35.599> signed<00:45:35.920> by<00:45:36.079>
• > who<00:45:44.720> has<00:45:44.880> been<00:45:45.359> a<00:45:45.680><
• :46.880> on<00:45:47.119> the<00:45:47.280> issue<00:45:47.520> of<00:45:
• <00:45:49.520> Uh<00:45:49.839> to<00:45:50.079> hear<00:45:50.319> her
• championing<00:45:57.119> this<00:45:57.440> issue<00:45:57.760> and<00:45:58.079

Keywords: U.S. House of Representatives Floor Proceedings on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, 1012, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• :49.040> and<00:45:49.200> not<00:45:49.359> borne<00:45:49.599> by<00:45
• not borne by the insurance carriers.<00:45:50.960> Thank<00:45:51.040> you<00:45:51.200
• Thank you<00:45:53.200> very<00:45:53.520> much.
• <00:45:54.160> Um<00:45:54.560> next<00:45:54.800> I<00:45:55.119> have
• Um next I have um Leotaa Goodney<00:45:58.160> and<00:45:58.880> Matt<00:45:59.280>

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• <01:45:10.280> into<01:45:10.760> trouble<01:45:11.760> um<01:45:11.920>
• <01:45:14.639> have<01:45:14.840> the<01:45:15.000> baby<01:45:15.480> or
• <01:45:17.880> never<01:45:18.199> taught<01:45:19.119> about<01:45:19.719><
• I was never<01:45:23.239> taught<01:45:23.599> that<01:45:23.760> there's<01:45
• in<01:45:26.400> every<01:45:26.880> state<01:45:27.199> in<01:45:27.360>

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on House Bill 662, which would require public schools to include discussion of abortion procedures and show specified videos in health education classes. The prime sponsor argued the bill would ensure students receive medically accurate, age-appropriate, and nonpolitical information about abortion, saying the topic is important for informed decision-making and should be taught consistently statewide. He said the videos were intended for grades 9-12, that parents could opt out, and that the requirement was meant to supplement, not sway, students’ views. He also acknowledged the bill could be seen as limiting local control over curriculum and said the intent was to prevent the topic from being missed due to scheduling disruptions. Committee members questioned the sponsor about local control, the need for a video mandate, the source of his statistics, whether the bill could be biased or inflammatory, and whether the requirement should apply every year in high school. The sponsor said the videos were only a starting point, could be replaced by others, and were meant to be informational. He also said the bill was not intended to influence students’ decisions about abortion. Several supporters testified in favor, including representatives of New Hampshire Right to Life and others who said students should be told the “truth” about abortion and its consequences. They emphasized graphic or emotionally difficult aspects of abortion and argued that young people need this information to make informed choices. Opponents and skeptical witnesses raised concerns about prescribing curriculum, eroding local control, and the appropriateness of the material for younger high school students. The New Hampshire School Administrators Association said the bill was overly prescriptive, that health education standards are already set by the State Board of Education, and that the topics in the bill are not part of the current standards. That witness recommended the committee consider retaining the bill for further work or making it less prescriptive. No vote or final committee action was taken in the portion of the meeting provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:45:09.599> of<00:45:09.760> the<00:45:10.000> form<00:45:10.400> itself
• I I<01:45:00.400> I<01:45:00.800> want<01:45:00.880> to<01:45:01.040> take
• ><01:45:01.119> a<01:45:01.360> deeper<01:45:01.600> dive<01:45:01.840> and
• <01:45:02.880> the<01:45:03.199> substance<01:45:03.600> of<01:45:03.760>
• <04:45:15.120> so<04:45:15.280> I<04:45:15.440> I<04:45:15.680> grew<04:45

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• > we<00:45:07.319> just<00:45:07.440> want<00:45:07.599> it<00:45:07.920>
• 45:15.359> seeing<00:45:15.720> none<00:45:16.480> um<00:45:16.640> Senator
• <00:45:41.800> to<00:45:41.960> go<00:45:42.119> on<00:45:42.240> to<
• next<00:45:42.839> bill<00:45:43.119> Senator<00:45:43.520> mqu<00:45:44.040>
• > way<00:45:46.440> Senator<00:45:46.880> house<00:45:47.240> child<00:45

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• >> Thank<01:45:41.280> you,<01:45:41.600> Chairman<01:45:41.920> L.
• I think one aspect<01:45:44.239> I'm<01:45:44.480> trying<01:45:44.639> to<01:45
• <01:45:45.760> this<01:45:46.000> conversation<01:45:46.400> is<01:45:46.639
• > in<01:45:47.199> which<01:45:47.440> districts<01:45:48.000> get<01:45:
• <01:45:53.040> So<01:45:54.239> if<01:45:54.400> you're<01:45:54.880> saying

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Summary: The commission to study the cost of special education met, confirmed a quorum, introduced members and guests, and approved the minutes from the October 29 meeting. Members noted the commission’s mandate under Senate Bill 57 and emphasized the need to focus on recommendations and findings by July 1, 2026. The chair also distributed additional handouts, including materials related to the Education Freedom Account (EFA) program and administrative rules tied to differentiated aid and disability determinations. The main discussion centered on how students qualify for differentiated aid under the EFA program. Matt Sutherton of the Children’s Scholarship Fund explained that the organization, which contracts with the state to administer EFAs, accepts either school-district/IEP documentation or a medical certification of disability (MCD) from a licensed medical professional. Members questioned how this process relates to the state’s special education rules and whether the school-district examiner standards in ED 107/1107.04 apply to EFAs. Sutherton said the MCD form, created with the department, requires the medical professional to sign that they are qualified to make the determination and to identify the disability. Several members expressed concern that the EFA process is less rigorous than the school-district IEP process and may be inflating disability counts. One member argued that the administrative rules cited are primarily for school districts, not EFAs, and said the Department of Education may not know how many of the roughly 890 EFA students receiving differentiated aid came through school-district documentation versus the MCD pathway. Another member said the EFA system appears more generous than the school system and raised concerns about oversight, auditing, and whether the program’s data are accurate. Sutherton said the organization reviews signed documentation, credentials, and diagnosis information, and may request additional records to help adjudicate expenses. No votes or formal actions were taken beyond approving the prior minutes.

Transcript Highlights:

• Uh, would<00:45:18.880> like<00:45:19.040> to<00:45:19.200> have<00:45:19.359>
• just<00:45:24.800> to<00:45:24.960> make<00:45:25.119> sure<00:45:25.280>
• > it's<00:45:27.599> laid<00:45:27.839> out<00:45:28.000> is<00:45:28.240
• . uh as<00:45:37.280> opposed<00:45:37.599> to<00:45:38.640> and<00:45:38.880>
• <00:45:40.800> I<00:45:40.960> sat<00:45:41.200> down<00:45:41.440> with<

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The Environmental Policy Subcommittee took up HB 1621, which would require a baseline environmental impact study before development of certain manufacturing and storage facilities. Members said the concept had merit, but they could not resolve major drafting and implementation issues, including how to define covered facilities, what the study would require, and how enforcement would work at the municipal or county level. Several members expressed concern about unintended consequences and said the proposal was not ready; the subcommittee voted unanimously to recommend inexpedient to legislate (ITL), and the full committee later adopted that recommendation on a 16-0 roll call vote, placing the bill on consent. The committee then discussed HB 1053, involving electronically submitted pesticide use reports. Representative Comtois presented an amendment creating a department database and protecting confidential information, but said she still needed to check whether it was germane and to review administrative issues with the Department of Agriculture. After hearing from David Russo of the Division of Pesticide Control, the committee agreed to continue work on the amendment and took no action that day. The committee also reviewed HB 1186 on egg labeling and producer exemptions. Representative Comtois offered an amendment exempting small producers from most requirements except labeling, but Commissioner Sean Jasper asked for more time to review the impact and suggested the state might not need the existing egg law at all if federal USDA rules already cover the field. Members agreed to hold action until the following week. Finally, the committee began discussion of HB 1780 on penalties for violations involving seeds, plants, and nursery stock, focusing on labeling rules and germination-date requirements; testimony from industry and department representatives indicated they were working toward a compromise that would allow multiple relabelings, add production dates, and set a 36-month sale limit, but no final action was taken in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• One thing that's interesting is that Chapter 2251 of the Insurance Code is what talks about the rate
• Those under Chapter 2251.002, the Insurance Code is—that's actually...
• “Chapter 152 does not meet those qualifications.
• I've done it for 45 years. I've had customers I've done three times. Wow. Five years.
• Um, uh, Cyrus Reed, Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club. Thank you.

Keywords: 1185, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• I point out that special permits are granted under Section 9 of Chapter 48.
• And this looks to simplify Chapter 40A, the Zoning Act, in a number of different ways.
• However, I will focus on one particular change to Chapter 40A, Section 10.
• You know, Section 3 of Chapter 40A.
• I'm testifying today in opposition to Bill 42 to 45, and I'll explain my rationale.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The Joint Committee on Municipalities and Regional Government held a hybrid hearing on bills related to land use, zoning, permitting, municipal governance, and homelessness. Early testimony focused on a home rule petition for Ipswich to remove a residency requirement for a town manager, with supporters saying it would broaden the applicant pool and help fill a vacant permanent manager position. Another panel backed legislation to change the Springfield Water and Sewer Commission’s governance so ratepayers in surrounding communities would have representation, arguing the current board structure leaves many users without a voice in rate-setting and capital decisions. Several housing and zoning bills drew testimony. Senator Keenan and the Home Builders and Remodelers Association supported a bill to toll the one-year period for acting on a variance while an appeal is pending, saying appeals should not consume the time needed to implement approved projects. Representative Murray and the Real Estate Bar Association also testified on broader zoning reforms, including changes to undersized lots, merger rules, hearing deadlines, appeals, and variance standards; they argued the proposals would reduce delay and uncertainty and help housing production. Committee members questioned whether shifting zoning appeals from de novo to closed-record review would limit new evidence, and the witnesses said the change would speed cases while preserving limited opportunities to supplement the record. The committee also heard testimony on bills to end the criminalization of homelessness. Representatives, advocates, and shelter organizations said local camping bans and fines are counterproductive, especially after the U.S. Supreme Court’s Grants Pass decision, and urged a statewide response centered on housing and public health rather than punishment. Other municipal bills included remote participation in open town meetings for Wayland and a statewide local option, Fairhaven and Mattapoisett charter changes, and Cambridge’s request to use automated parking enforcement and mail parking tickets. The hearing also included testimony supporting fairground zoning flexibility, a Shrewsbury solar siting bill, and an Inspector General bill clarifying county land disposition procedures by requiring written notice to DCAM and a defined response period. No votes were taken during the hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• It used to be 45.
• The requirement to adopt the rules is proceedings under this chapter, which is 1409, which is proceedings
• That would be under a different chapter of code, so this is narrow in that it is within the objectives
• 1409. ...conform with the requirements of Chapter 1409.06.6.6.6.
• Beth, was the same language as before and then a new sentence starting after the end of the word chapter

Summary: The Child Custody Review Task Force met to approve prior minutes and then worked through draft legislation related to a possible family court study committee. The group discussed the proposed 15-member committee’s makeup in detail, including whether to add parent representation, judges, family law section members, child support, clerks of court, domestic violence advocates, and other stakeholders. The task force ultimately agreed to keep the committee at 15 members, reduce the legislative membership from eight to six, add two judges from different districts, add two family law section members with rural and urban representation, include one parent subject to a custody order, and replace the mental health professional with a clerk of court representative appointed through the trial court administrator’s office. The draft was also revised to keep domestic violence advocacy representation and to clarify that the study could consider juvenile court issues as part of the family court umbrella. The committee voted to approve the revised draft and recommend it to Legislative Management, with one recorded “no” vote from Judge Hovey after the meeting resumed. The task force then turned to a second draft dealing with requiring participation in a family transition program, which was renamed in discussion to a parenting education course. Members debated whether the bill should simply refer to an existing program like Parents Forever or instead specify broader education about the court process, parental rights, co-parenting, and related issues. Some members supported the requirement as a way to reduce conflict and improve understanding of the system, while others raised concerns about vague language, cost to parents, lack of exemptions, and whether the bill was too open-ended or potentially duplicative of other legislation. The discussion became lengthy and unresolved, with the drafter noting that more specific direction would be needed to revise the bill. The transcript cuts off before a final vote or action on this second draft is shown.

Transcript Highlights:

• :02.119> of<00:45:03.119> you<00:45:04.119> us<00:45:04.359> taking<00:45
• > so<00:45:13.000> I<00:45:13.599> Heard<00:45:14.160> Law<00:45:14.400><
• <00:45:29.200> deterrence<00:45:30.200> uh<00:45:30.359> and<00:45:30.520>
• > know<00:45:31.160> is<00:45:31.640> the<00:45:31.880> best<00:45:32.359
• crimes<00:45:36.160> and<00:45:36.319> what<00:45:36.520> this<00:45:36.720>

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: The committee heard extended debate on a bill requiring cooperation with ICE and reporting related to undocumented people in certain criminal contexts. Representative Rymer argued the measure was meant to align with federal priorities focused on violent offenders and to ensure local governments respond to federal inquiries, not proactively target immigrants. He also said the bill was intended to address serious crimes and protect victims, citing examples of violent offenders and trafficking-related cases. Several members raised concerns that the bill’s language was broader than described and could affect family court matters, health care, elder care, and routine interactions with government agencies. Testifiers and members warned it could be used as leverage against undocumented people in custody, child support, domestic violence, and labor exploitation situations, and could discourage people from reporting crimes or seeking help. The sheriff’s association and county attorneys’ association letters were cited as raising due process, equal protection, civil rights, and public safety concerns. The discussion also focused on the bill’s definitions and mechanics, especially whether section three would require reporting after arrests that do not lead to charges and how county attorneys would know when to report. Representative Pinto pressed on the bill’s reference to “violent crime” and whether drug possession could be swept in, while Rymer argued the bill was narrower than critics suggested. No vote or final action was taken in the portion provided; the exchange remained at the discussion and questioning stage.

Transcript Highlights:

• /c><00:45:15.839> item<00:45:16.240> is<00:45:16.960> uh<00:45:17.839> a<
• <00:45:22.400> This<00:45:22.640> was<00:45:22.800> adopted<00:45:23.119>
• <00:45:47.440> agreement<00:45:48.079> by<00:45:48.400> the<00:45:48.640>
• <00:45:54.400> to<00:45:54.880> to<00:45:55.119> the<00:45:55.280> end
• 57.760> 2<00:45:58.000> to6<00:45:58.880> 23<00:45:59.280> to<00:45:59.599

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• help with<00:45:23.440> assistance<00:45:23.920> in<00:45:24.160> getting<00:45:
• c> I<00:45:33.440> I<00:45:33.839> don't<00:45:33.920> know<00:45:34.000>
• <00:45:37.839> Uh<00:45:38.079> I<00:45:38.319> think<00:45:38.800> in
• <00:45:40.480> have<00:45:40.640> done<00:45:40.800> a<00:45:41.040> similar<
• > of<00:45:41.520> project,<00:45:42.240> Alabama<00:45:42.640> is<00:45:

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: The task force held its first meeting on the insurance affordability crisis affecting single-family housing, common interest communities, and multifamily rental housing. Members and staff introduced themselves, including representatives from insurers, the Department of Commerce, housing advocates, affordable housing developers, and HOA/community association interests. Representative Steve Elkins was elected chair by roll call vote with 10 members in favor, after discussion that the Senate appointee’s formal appointment had not yet arrived; the group noted the intent to later move to co-chair leadership once that appointment is finalized. Staff reviewed the task force’s enabling statute and open meeting law requirements. The task force is charged with studying homeowners and commercial property insurance, property resilience and risk mitigation, liability laws and possible tort reform, notice and oversight issues, public reporting, and the state-supported insurance program, including possible expansion to a catastrophic reinsurance fund or self-insured pool. The final report is due February 15 and will go to the commissioners of commerce, housing finance, and employment and economic development, as well as relevant legislative committees. Members were also briefed on meeting logistics, a draft charter to be voted on at the second meeting, a resource page for shared materials, and the schedule of future meetings. The Department of Commerce then gave an overview of Minnesota’s property and casualty insurance market. Commerce described its regulatory role, the state’s competitiveness test, and how homeowners insurance is often filed under a “file and use” process rather than prior approval. The presentation emphasized that homeowners coverage has been under pressure for years: insurers have lost money in many recent years, premiums have risen, some consumers are taking on more risk through higher deductibles or reduced coverage, and some are moving into the surplus market. Commerce also highlighted the impact of severe weather losses, the growth in premiums since 2014, and gaps in oversight for homeowners associations and related policies. The meeting then shifted to brainstorming the problems the task force should address. Early discussion focused on climate and construction-related resilience, including hail and wind-driven rain damage, discontinued building materials, and whether stronger materials are reflected in insurance pricing. Members also raised the need to study programs like Alabama’s fortified roof model and Minnesota’s own Strengthen Minnesota Homes effort, along with questions about whether the construction industry is prepared to support broader resilience measures. No additional votes were taken during the discussion segment.

Transcript Highlights:

• If not,<00:45:08.480> thank<00:45:08.560> you<00:45:08.720> very<00:45:08.880>
• :45:10.880> that<00:45:11.119> you've<00:45:11.520> you<00:45:11.760> were
• <00:45:12.319> because<00:45:12.640> this<00:45:12.880> is<00:45:12.960>
• what's<00:45:15.920> really<00:45:16.079> going<00:45:16.319> on<00:45:16.560
• First up,<00:45:54.240> we<00:45:54.480> have<00:45:54.880> Department<00:45:55.200

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committee first took up House Bill 1531, HD1, which would require the governor or county mayors to provide American Sign Language interpreters during official emergency announcements broadcast on television or the internet, ensure the interpreter is visible, and provide a primary pool feed with picture-in-picture so rebroadcasters would not need to add the feature themselves. Testimony from the Disability and Communication Access Board and the State Council on Developmental Disabilities strongly supported the bill, emphasizing effective communication for deaf and hard-of-hearing residents and noting that interpreter placement and size can make broadcasts inaccessible. The council requested an effective date of July 1, 2027 to allow implementation time. Members raised concerns about interpreter availability and emergency logistics on Hawaiʻi Island, but the chair moved to pass the bill with amendments reflecting the picture-in-picture recommendation and the later effective date. The committee adopted the motion, with several members voting aye and others voting with reservations. The committee then heard House Bill 1880, HD2, which would prohibit, beginning January 1, 2027, the use or application of pesticides containing 1,3-dichloropropene, such as Telone. The Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity explained that pesticides are already regulated at both the federal and state levels, with EPA risk assessments and state enforcement of label restrictions, reporting, and school-buffer requirements. The Hawaii Public Health Institute supported the bill, citing cancer and respiratory risks and arguing that safer alternatives exist. In opposition, Dole Food and the Hawaii Farm Bureau said Telone is important for controlling nematodes in pineapple production, that it is applied underground under EPA conditions, and that no comparable registered alternative exists for pineapple; they also said the bill’s 2027 start date is too short for growers to adjust. A representative from the Y Alliance for Progressive Action and Support supported the measure, citing statewide usage data and concerns about drift and chronic health impacts. Committee members questioned both sides about drift monitoring, groundwater impacts, alternative methods, and whether a transition period or research into resistant varieties could reduce reliance on the chemical.

Transcript Highlights:

• Okay, so Chapter Two, kind of how you laid out your thing, starts a general revenue fund.
• Chair, I'm ready to move on to Chapter 3, which is critical spending, and starting on 13.
• Okay, Chapter 3, critical spending. Go ahead. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
• So we have 45 minutes. I just want to make sure we don't miss anything.
• It takes some 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of their house and whether or not they have individuals

Keywords: 1182, all

Summary: The committee met to review the governor’s fiscal 2027 budget presentation, with the chair repeatedly asking members to keep questions brief and avoid speeches. The discussion focused first on the overall revenue and spending outlook, including concerns from members that the executive forecast was more optimistic than the JLBC baseline and that the budget appeared to front-load revenue and expenditure growth. The governor’s budget team said the forecast was close to JLBC’s, that the budget was structurally balanced, and that differences were roughly $100 million per year on ongoing revenue. Members asked for follow-up calculations in writing, including the total multi-year gap and the amount of revenue enhancements above base revenues. A major portion of the meeting centered on tax and fee proposals tied to data centers, water use, and sports betting. The governor’s team defended eliminating the existing data center tax incentive as the removal of a loophole rather than a new tax, arguing the incentive had already succeeded in attracting major investment. They also described a proposed Department of Water Resources fee-setting authority for data centers to support a new Colorado River Protection Fund, and said the proposal would apply to existing and future facilities without a grandfather clause. Members raised concerns about fairness, competitiveness, and whether the changes would require a supermajority vote. The team also discussed increased sports betting fees, saying the revenue forecast did not include dynamic behavioral effects. The committee then moved through major spending areas, including corrections, public safety, border security, cybersecurity, K-12 education, Medicaid, and developmental disabilities. The governor’s budget includes ongoing funding to prevent correctional officer pay cuts, money to comply with prison health care court orders, probation funding, body-worn cameras, law enforcement staffing, fentanyl task forces, and cyber readiness grants. Members questioned the lack of funding for a prison oversight committee and asked for corrections spending totals over the administration. On border security, the executive said it was seeking about $759.7 million in federal reimbursement for border-related costs and that the governor had met with federal officials, including Secretary Noem and Tom Homan, about the request. In education, the budget proposes renewing Prop. 123, adding K-12 base funding, and issuing $1.5 billion in school facilities bonds over three years; members debated whether the proposal was appropriate and whether Prop. 123 revenues could support the debt service. The meeting also covered AHCCCS cost growth and federal HR1 impacts, with the executive warning of major coverage losses and hospital funding reductions, and DDD funding, where the governor’s team said the budget fully funds services and includes about $120 million in supplemental needs. No votes were taken; the meeting was a presentation and question-and-answer session only.

Transcript Highlights:

• No, I think TCEQ, I think it's Chapter 18, Ed, for... no, no, that's for marine desal.
• applications, just like all permit applications, are processed pursuant to the requirements set forth in Chapter
• Cyrus Reed, Lone Star chapter, the Sierra Club, very much in support of House Bill 4530, which just clarifies
• I mean, Alan Day has almost 300 wells in two counties that monitor the well levels, 45 wells about that
• I mean, Alan Day has almost 300 wells in two counties that monitor the well levels, 45 wells about that

Summary: The committee met with limited attendance at first, then took up a series of water, agriculture, and rural affairs measures. HB 3898 would allow the Texas Water Development Board to provide financial assistance for brackish water desalination projects in certain border counties and related nonprofit suppliers even if the projects are not in the state water plan. Supporters said it is needed to address severe water shortages in places like Webb County and to support future planning; opponents, including the Texas Alliance of Groundwater Districts, argued it bypasses the regional and state water planning process. The bill was left pending after testimony. The committee also heard HB 5339, which would create a higher-education grant program for regenerative agriculture research. A rancher testified that regenerative methods improved soil health, water retention, and farm viability, while a senator noted existing university research but said better coordination could help. Public testimony was closed and the bill was left pending. Members then heard HB 1523, a temporary prohibition on TCEQ issuing Austin a Class 5 injection well permit for an aquifer storage and recovery project in Bastrop and Lee counties until December 2027. Local officials from Bastrop supported the pause, citing unanswered questions about water treatment, recovery rates, and impacts on the aquifer, while Austin Water opposed the substitute, saying the project is central to its long-term water plan and that stakeholder talks were already underway. TCEQ explained its ASR permitting process and said public participation is possible but not always used in the current authorization process. The bill was left pending. HB 5659, concerning the Northeast Texas Municipal Water District and requiring majority city-council approval before certain water sales or interbasin transfers, drew testimony from district officials who said the change could interfere with existing contracts and district authority, but the chair emphasized the need for local buy-in and said the stakeholders had reached a workable compromise; testimony was closed and the bill was left pending. The committee also heard HB 1690, which would expand notice requirements for groundwater export permits so neighboring landowners and potentially affected aquifer areas are informed by certified mail and publication. The sponsor tied the bill to impacts from the Vista Ridge project, and no one testified against it; it was left pending. HB 3333 would prohibit TCEQ from issuing new wastewater discharge permits directly into the Devils River in Val Verde County. The sponsor and a conservation witness said the bill protects one of Texas’s most pristine rivers and reflects a local stakeholder agreement, while TCEQ said it can ensure water quality but acknowledged the river’s unique sensitivity; the bill was left pending. The committee also heard HCR 108 urging continuation of the U.S.-Mexico tomato suspension agreement, with supporters warning of major Texas job and consumer-price impacts if it ends, and HCR 76 urging federal action on imported shrimp, citing public health and industry concerns; both were left pending. Additional measures heard and left pending included HB 4158 on compensation for Texana Groundwater Conservation District directors, HB 654 creating a dismissal path for certain first-time deer hunting violations after self-reporting and hunter education, HB 4530 requiring Texas Water Development Board review of groundwater rights placed in the Texas Water Trust, HB 2128 directing a study of rural versus urban firefighting and rescue disparities, and HB 278 requiring groundwater districts and management areas to track progress toward desired future conditions over shorter intervals. On HB 278, witnesses split over whether the bill’s interim tracking would improve accountability or create new triggers that could be used against local districts, but no final vote was taken and the bill was left pending.

Transcript Highlights:

• :56.480> pay<00:45:56.640> the<00:45:56.800> contractors<00:45:57.359> for
• So the<00:45:58.640> money<00:45:58.800> that<00:45:59.040> we're<00:45:59.280><
• The recom uh the recommendation<01:45:52.239> is<01:45:52.400> to<01:45:52.639> pass
• 01:45:57.280> are<01:45:57.520> present.
• Any members<01:45:58.800> voting<01:45:59.119> with<01:45:59.280> reservations?

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The Transportation Committee met on February 5 and heard testimony on a long agenda of transportation-related bills. Early measures included HB 2392, which would create an employer tax credit for transportation demand management benefits; HB 2462, which would bar auto manufacturers and dealers from charging post-sale fees for already-installed hardware; and HB 2423, which would require diesel sold for on-road use to contain at least 5% biodiesel. HB 2392 drew support from the Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization and one individual, with the Department of Taxation and the Tax Foundation offering comments. HB 2462 drew support from DCCA and one individual, while the Alliance for Automotive Innovation opposed it. HB 2423 drew comments from the Hawaii State Energy Office and Hawaii Farm Bureau, support from Pacific Biodiesel and the Hawaii Transportation Association, and a question from the chair about whether biodiesel is exported; the witness said production stays local. The committee also heard HB 1771 on voluntary carbon offsets for air travel, HB 2081 on requiring firefighters exempt from CDL rules to follow equivalent alcohol and substance abuse policies, HB 2334 on allowing the Department of Transportation to assume NEPA responsibilities for certain projects, and HB 2336 on DOT agreements with the Department of Defense for work at military installations using federal funds. HB 1771 drew comments from Life of the Land warning that carbon offsets are often unreliable and could create liability, while Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines offered comments. HB 2081 received support from DOT, county human resources offices, fire departments, and county officials, with the Hawaii Firefighters Association in opposition. HB 2334 was supported by DOT, and the director said other states using NEPA assignment can complete projects in about half the time. HB 2336 was supported by DOT, HIEMA, DBEDT’s military relations office, and the Hawaii Military Affairs Council; the committee discussed the administrative fee as a way to recover costs under an intergovernmental agreement. The most extensive testimony centered on HB 1666, which would limit new motor vehicle markups above 5% of MSRP and require recordkeeping. Multiple dealer groups and the Hawaii Automobile Dealers Association opposed it, arguing it would threaten dealership operations, especially in Hawaii’s high-cost market and for vehicles without an MSRP. The committee also heard HB 2375 on uniform towing and parking enforcement standards on state and leased lands, including notice, disability protections, payment safeguards, and public reporting; DLNR, DAGS, and several advocacy groups testified, with strong public support and concerns about towing practices and ADA compliance. HB 2415, which would appropriate funds for crosswalks near school properties, drew support from DOT, DOE, and the Hawaii Bicycling League, and the committee discussed how counties would request projects and how funding would be allocated. Finally, HB 2451, which would move Hawaii toward fare-free public transit beginning in 2027 and create a dedicated funding source through a petroleum tax increase, received broad support from DOT, the Energy Office, public health and advocacy groups, and many individuals; DOE testified that it currently uses about $2.1 million for student bus passes and that the program is tied to savings from inactive school bus routes.

Transcript Highlights:

• Back on New Year's Eve, Engine 43, Truck 45, Battalion 45, and AMR Medic 319 were dispatched to a motor
• We're on to file item number five, that's HR 45. By Assemblymember Castillo, the clerk will read.
• House Resolution 45 by Assemblymember Castillo, relative to Animal Rights Awareness Week.
• Speaker and colleagues, I'm proud to present House Resolution 45 in recognition of Animal Rights Awareness
• She was chapter vice president and sectional president for Future Farmers of America and Miss Kings County

Keywords: 988, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

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• /c><01:45:26.560> that's<01:45:26.800> a<01:45:26.960> bug<01:45:27.119> and<
• because<01:45:29.760> if<01:45:30.080> we<01:45:30.320> don't<01:45:30.560><
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• 45:49.760> a<01:45:50.000> sense<01:45:50.320> on<01:45:50.719> number<01

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The meeting began with approval of the October 15 minutes and a brief discussion of the committee’s report process, including the likelihood of a minority report and a deadline of November 1 for any separate report. Members then heard from Jod Adams of the New Hampshire Alliance for Public Charter Schools, who gave an overview of charter schools in the state: there are 37 charter schools, with 6,034 students last year, and schools are formed by certified teachers, parents, or nonprofit organizations. She said charter schools receive about $9,180 per pupil in adequacy aid and charter school grant funding, must fundraise for additional money, and are governed by their own boards under their charters and bylaws. Members asked about admissions, governance, transportation, and special education. Adams said charter schools are open enrollment, not geographically based, and may use lotteries when applications exceed available seats. She explained that districts and charter schools coordinate on special education and busing, with the sending district responsible for special education coordination and certain transportation obligations depending on where the student lives and attends. She also said charter schools are public schools, not selective, and that each school’s board operates independently of the local district school board, though some schools may have special arrangements. A substantial portion of the discussion focused on funding and statutory obligations. Adams and members discussed how special education aid follows the student, while charter schools do not receive some district-level aid such as catastrophic aid; free and reduced lunch funding and Title funds can go to charter schools. Members also raised concerns that some state laws and administrative rules do not clearly specify whether they apply to charter schools, creating confusion and, in some cases, causing districts to perform services such as dyslexia screening for charter students without additional funding. Adams agreed that clearer statutory language would help and noted that charter schools are subject to many state requirements, including testing and reporting, even though not every public-school rule applies to them.

Transcript Highlights:

• Senate Print 9877, Myrie, an act to amend Chapter 455 of the Laws of 1997.
• Senate Print 10558, Stewart-Cousins, an act to amend Chapter 573 of the Laws of 2025.
• Calendar 949, Assembly 11373, Assembly Member Kassay, an act to amend Chapter 378 of the Laws of 2014
• Ayes 45, nays 16. The bill is passed.
• AYES 45, NAYs 16. >> THE BILL IS PASSED.

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate convened, approved the journal, and then moved through a large number of motions to discharge bills from committees and substitute identical Senate bills for third reading. The chamber also received and accepted a Finance Committee report on nominations for Kathleen Mosier as Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, Terrence O’Leary as Commissioner of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, and John Kagia as Executive Director of the Office of Cannabis Management. All three nominees were confirmed, with Mosier and O’Leary confirmed unanimously and Kagia confirmed 57-1, with Senator Walczyk voting no. The Senate adopted previously approved resolutions recognizing June 2026 as LGBTQIA+ Pride Month and mourning the death of Susan Irene Wright of Harlem. Senators Brisport and Bottcher spoke at length in support of Pride Month, emphasizing LGBTQ+ history, resilience, and ongoing threats to the trans community. On the Susan Wright resolution, Senators Cleare, Bailey, and Bottcher praised her community leadership, philanthropy, and family legacy, and Assembly Member Jordan Wright was recognized in the chamber. The body then considered and passed many bills on the calendar, including measures on insurance, environmental conservation, public health, education, business law, labor, social services, highway law, and local tax exemptions. Several bills drew brief explanations of vote, including a measure to end higher insurance premiums for widows, a bill to prohibit correctional facilities from denying visitation because of menstrual products or IUDs, and a Medicaid-related bill to expand access to blood pressure monitors for pregnant people. Most bills passed with broad support, though some had notable opposition from a small group of senators. Late in the session, the Senate took up a proposed constitutional amendment on redistricting. Senator Stewart-Cousins sponsored the measure, and Senator Walczyk questioned it extensively, arguing voters had previously approved an independent redistricting process and objecting to changes that would remove the Legislature’s two-thirds map-approval requirement and alter the commission’s role. The sponsor said the changes were needed in response to aggressive partisan redistricting in other states and would still require voter ratification in future sessions. The transcript ends during that debate, with no final vote on the amendment shown.