Transcript Highlights:

• ><00:35:04.800> money<00:35:05.040> of<00:35:05.119> course<00:35:05.320> but
• > it's<00:35:08.800> the<00:35:08.960> it's<00:35:09.119> the<00:35:09.320><
• <00:35:14.280> chair<00:35:14.560> and<00:35:14.760> members<00:35:15.520>
• c><00:35:27.720> or<00:35:27.800> a<00:35:27.920> grant<00:35:28.400> to<
• rehab the<00:35:30.240> the<00:35:30.440> home<00:35:30.760> or<00:35:31.000>

Keywords: 1183, house

Summary: The House Housing Finance and Policy Committee met for an informational session with no bills taken up and no votes or formal actions. Members and staff introduced themselves, and Chair Speno said the committee would focus on understanding housing policy and barriers to building more homes, noting Minnesota’s housing shortage and the need to support both single-family and multifamily construction. House Research analyst Mary Davis and House Fiscal analyst Katrina Heimark gave an overview of the committee’s jurisdiction and the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency’s programs and funding streams. Davis outlined areas the committee may hear about, including real estate law, landlord-tenant law, manufactured home parks, housing cooperatives, zoning, property taxes, and MHFA programs. Heimark described MHFA’s five main budget areas—development and redevelopment, housing stability, homeownership assistance, preservation, and resident/organization support—and reviewed recent appropriations, emphasizing that much of the large 2024–25 funding was one-time money and that ongoing base funding is lower in 2026–27. Members asked several questions about how prior appropriations were spent, whether unused funds return to the general fund, and whether funds can be repurposed. Heimark said transferred funds generally are not returned to the general fund if unspent, but are expected to be used for the purposes outlined in the appropriation; she also said she had requested more detailed expenditure information from the agency and would follow up. Questions also focused on who benefits from programs such as rental housing rehabilitation and the affordable rental investment fund, with the testifiers explaining that most MHFA programs are targeted to low- and moderate-income households and that income eligibility varies by program. The committee also discussed the new metro-area sales tax revenue dedicated to housing, with members requesting more detail on reporting, oversight, and allowable uses.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:35:05.119> took<00:35:05.440> real<00:35:05.680> data<00:35:06.560> and
• every<00:35:07.599> county<00:35:08.240> and<00:35:08.400> then<00:35:08.640>
• as<00:35:14.960> well,<00:35:15.200> let's<00:35:15.440> tar<00:35:15.680><
• That's in its<00:35:18.320> simplest<00:35:18.640> form<00:35:19.200> how<00:35:
• :35:22.800> I<00:35:23.040> will<00:35:23.200> tell<00:35:23.359> you<00:

Keywords: The first few minutes of this meeting was missed on the live stream. This upload restores those few minutes, 958, all

Summary: The subcommittee met with Secretary Jeff Null and General Counsel Matt Wing of the Cabinet for Economic Development for an overview of the cabinet’s main economic development tools, strategy, and compliance practices. Null said the cabinet uses a data-driven approach focused on competitiveness, site readiness, wages, workforce training, and long-term assets such as roads, rail spurs, water, and sewer improvements. He emphasized that the cabinet tries to balance attracting new employers with supporting existing businesses, and said compliance is a core value of the agency. Null walked members through several programs, including the closing fund, Kentucky Business Incentive (KBI), Bluegrass State Skills Corporation training support, and the KIA sales-tax refund tool for construction materials and equipment. He said the closing fund has received $80 million over two years for projects generally involving at least $10 million in investment, though some flexibility exists. He also explained that Bluegrass State Skills funding is typically about $2,000 to $3,000 per job and can be used flexibly for training, including sending Kentucky workers to be trained elsewhere or paying trainers to come to Kentucky. He described KBI as a pay-as-you-go, incremental tax credit tied to actual jobs and investment, and said the legislature’s tiered refundable credit structure allows more targeted use of incentives in heritage and non-heritage counties. A substantial portion of the presentation focused on compliance and monitoring. Null said incentive agreements are written with commercial terms and spell out jobs, investment, wages, and training commitments. The cabinet requires regular reporting, invoices, and sampling, and can use clawbacks or suspend benefits if companies fail to meet obligations or lose required environmental permits. He said the Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority reviews incentive applications in public meetings and often requires company representatives to answer questions before preliminary approval is granted. No votes or formal actions were taken during the meeting.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:35:01.680> well<00:35:01.920> together<00:35:02.320> and<00:35:02.560>
• 00:35:06.400> bill<00:35:06.560> as<00:35:06.800> it<00:35:06.960> could<
• 00:35:07.119> be<00:35:07.280> and<00:35:07.520> I<00:35:07.839> urge as
• I<00:35:11.440> recognize<00:35:11.760> a<00:35:11.920> member<00:35:12.079>
• Speaker,<00:35:15.200> and<00:35:15.599> thank<00:35:15.760> you,<00:35:16.000><

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• :29.840> may<01:35:30.000> be<01:35:30.159> a<01:35:30.360> problem<01:35
• <01:35:32.639> Nuance<01:35:33.320> recognized<01:35:34.000> so<01:35:34.199
• :35:35.840> so<01:35:36.119> thank<01:35:36.280> you<01:35:36.760> I the
• /c><01:35:37.520> I<01:35:37.600> will<01:35:37.840> make<01:35:38.000> a
• 35:51.561> just<04:35:52.000> this<04:35:52.080> is<04:35:52.240> an<04:35

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:35:03.160> Like<00:35:03.360> how<00:35:03.520> often<00:35:03.800> are
• <00:35:05.120> Just<00:35:05.320> sort<00:35:05.480> of<00:35:05.600> out
• Bottom line<00:35:13.600> is<00:35:13.720> and<00:35:13.840> some<00:35:14.040><
• c> of<00:35:14.120> it's<00:35:14.360> I<00:35:14.480> can<00:35:14.680>
• 35:31.640> where<00:35:32.240> she<00:35:32.400> had<00:35:32.520> a<00:35

Keywords: 1183, house

Summary: House File 2614 was heard with a delete-everything amendment adopted at the outset. The bill, as explained by the authors, would prevent local governments from requiring amenities or common property that effectively force the creation of a homeowners association, while still allowing developers to create HOAs voluntarily when needed. The authors said the language was negotiated with stakeholders, including the League of Minnesota Cities, and was intended to be moved on to the Housing Committee for further discussion. Supportive testimony came from Housing First Minnesota and the Minnesota Homeownership Center. They argued that unnecessary HOA mandates can raise housing costs, reduce homebuyer choice, and shift public infrastructure costs onto homeowners through dues in addition to property taxes. Testifiers cited examples involving single-family developments, a Burnsville case involving a large roof assessment and disputed ACH withdrawal, and the Heritage Park development in Minneapolis, where an HOA was required but later became difficult to dissolve. They said the bill would preserve HOAs where they are genuinely needed, such as townhomes or shared-amenity developments. Members raised questions about the removal of county-specific language in the amendment, the meaning of the bill’s references to services and common property, and whether the bill would still allow neighborhood signs or other developer-requested features. A major point of concern was stormwater ponds and drainage infrastructure: one member argued that prohibiting cities from requiring HOA maintenance of such facilities could shift costs to taxpayers, while the authors responded that the bill was meant to stop cities from mandating discretionary amenities and that maintenance issues had been partly addressed in the amendment. The committee did not take a final vote in the portion provided, but the amendment was adopted and the bill was discussed for referral onward.

Transcript Highlights:

• doesn't this you<00:35:09.119> know<00:35:09.359> make<00:35:09.520> the<00:35:
• think<00:35:13.280> so<00:35:13.760> hickman<00:35:14.160> I<00:35:14.240>
• :35:22.400> the<00:35:22.640> shorter<00:35:22.960> route<00:35:23.200> to
• <00:35:29.040> Look,<00:35:29.280> I've<00:35:29.440> seen<00:35:29.599>
• :35:30.640> practice<00:35:30.960> that<00:35:31.280> you<00:35:31.440> have<

Keywords: Education - Room 216, January 6, 2026; 12:45 PM, 925, all

Summary: The committee welcomed three new members and elected Senator Brian Rhodes as committee secretary by acclamation. It then took up three education bills. Senate Bill 2001, a $2,000 across-the-board pay raise for teachers, teacher assistants, and certain higher education instructors, was explained as a partial step that could be increased later if more funds become available. The bill also included language to prevent school districts from offsetting state raises for teacher assistants by reducing local supplements. After no questions, the committee adopted a motion that the bill be reported. Senate Bill 2003, which expands the program allowing retired individuals to return to teach, drew the most discussion. The bill broadens eligibility beyond retired educators, raises the retirement-pay percentage from 50% to 65%, shortens the required break in service from 90 days to 45 days in most cases, removes the critical-shortage-area limitation, and allows retirees to teach in any district. Senator Hill offered and the committee adopted an amendment to clarify that the retiree must be receiving a PERS retirement allowance. Members debated possible effects on the retirement system, but the bill was ultimately reported. Senate Bill 2002, dealing with public school district transfers, would remove the sending district’s ability to veto a student’s transfer to another public district. Senator Hopson offered a single amendment, adopted by the committee, to allow receiving districts to charge a reasonable fee, require transfer notice by March 15 absent good cause, and preserve MHSAA’s authority over extracurricular eligibility. Members discussed transportation, equity, and athletic recruiting concerns, and the amendment was clarified to leave the fee amount to the receiving district’s board. After the amendment, the bill was reported.

Transcript Highlights:

• And<00:35:02.600> when<00:35:03.480> there<00:35:03.960> were<00:35:04.280> a
• Which<00:35:10.359> doesn't<00:35:10.680> help<00:35:10.920> us<00:35:11.040>
• :35:16.880> a<00:35:16.960> lot<00:35:17.160> more<00:35:17.280> money.
• Most<00:35:24.560> of<00:35:24.640> the<00:35:24.720> proposals<00:35:25.280>
• 35:38.640> on<01:35:38.760> and<01:35:38.960> and<01:35:39.680> and<01:35

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• /c><00:35:03.200> to<00:35:03.400> pay<00:35:03.599> the<00:35:03.920> cost
• :35:08.480> impacted<00:35:09.400> when<00:35:09.560> it<00:35:09.680> is
• <00:35:10.440> dollars<00:35:10.720> that<00:35:10.839> is<00:35:11.000>
• ><00:35:16.240> legislation<00:35:17.079> I<00:35:17.160> am<00:35:17.280> a<
• <00:35:20.520> Stevenson<00:35:21.480> I<00:35:21.680> like<00:35:21.839>

Keywords: Meeting Start: 00:00:00 Roll Call: 00:00:08 SB 169: 00:01:07 SB 02: 00:05:56 Discussion in Opposition to SB 02: 00:19:22, 958, all

Summary: The House Judiciary Committee first took up Senate Bill 169, which would expand the Attorney General’s and Kentucky State Police’s authority to use administrative subpoenas in child exploitation investigations. Senator Danny Carroll and Attorney General’s office staff said the bill updates existing law to reflect modern online platforms, adding social networking companies, mobile payment services, and cloud storage services so investigators can obtain limited account-holder information tied to online child exploitation cases. Members raised no opposition, and the committee approved SB 169 17-0 with favorable expression. The committee then heard Senate Bill 2, which would prohibit the use of public funds for certain cosmetic or elective procedures in correctional facilities, including gender-affirming surgeries, and would also affect some hormone-related treatment. Senator Mike Wilson and supporters said the bill was intended to stop such procedures from being authorized by memo rather than regulation and to ensure taxpayer money is not used for elective care. Several members asked whether any such surgeries had occurred in Kentucky; Wilson said none had been approved, and he emphasized the bill was about public funding, not general medical care. Supporters argued the state should not pay for elective procedures, while opponents said the bill targeted a tiny population and could create constitutional problems. Opponents included incarcerated and advocacy voices, a psychologist, and legal advocates, who said gender-affirming care is medically necessary for some patients, that withholding it can cause serious mental health harm, and that similar restrictions have faced court challenges. One speaker described personal harm from being denied hormone therapy while incarcerated. Another warned the bill could violate the Eighth Amendment and lead to costly litigation. After debate, the committee moved to vote on SB 2, with members giving explanations both for and against, but the transcript cuts off before the final roll call result is shown.

Transcript Highlights:

• 00:35:04.960> hospital<00:35:05.200> is<00:35:05.440> not<00:35:05.599> in
• > a<00:35:08.720> patient<00:35:08.960> for<00:35:09.200> a<00:35:09.359>
• <00:35:17.680> known<00:35:17.920> the<00:35:18.160> price<00:35:18.320>
• <00:35:23.760> all<00:35:23.920> agree<00:35:24.160> is<00:35:24.400> a
• <00:35:32.240> these<00:35:32.480> are<00:35:32.640> bills<00:35:32.800>

Bills: HB1853, HB1591, HB1961, HB1854, HB1965, HB1962, HB1959, HB2505, HB2576, HB1801, HB1804, HB1864, HB2319, HB2314, HB2115

Keywords: HB1853, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, cognitive impairment, memory care, memory clinic, Hanai Memory Network, Executive Office on Aging, aging services, kupuna, caregiver support, long-term care, elder care, geriatrics, public health, dementia screening, care coordination, referral network, neighbor islands, rural health

Summary: The committee heard testimony on SB 2047, relating to pharmacy benefit managers. The Insurance Division said the bill would require new enforcement resources and estimated an appropriation of about $1.5 million and five positions. Kaiser Permanente asked for an amendment to exclude HMOs from the definition of third-party PBMs, saying the bill should not interfere with integrated care models. PCMA and the Hawaii Pharmacist Association supported narrowing amendments, with pharmacists objecting to section 3 and warning the bill as amended could create major operational burdens and a significant general fund cost. No vote was taken in the portion provided, and the chair moved on to the next measure after questions. The committee then took up SB 2080, which would allow Hawaii to join the psychology interjurisdictional compact. Supporters, including DCR, the Hawaii Association of Health Plans, the Hawaii State Association of Counties, the Grassroot Institute, and others, said the compact would expand access to psychology services, especially for people in rural areas or those needing continuity of care while traveling. Opponents, including the Board of Psychology and a Shamanad University psychology professor, raised concerns about client safety, crisis-response procedures, enforcement costs, FBI background checks, and possible loss of state control over training and specialization standards. The board said Hawaii’s current 1,900-hour internship/postdoc requirement is higher than the compact’s standard and that the state is still implementing a separate provisional licensing law that may address some access issues. The discussion focused on whether the compact would meaningfully reduce shortages and whether Hawaii should instead pursue changes within its existing licensing system. Finally, the committee heard SB 2277 on hospital price transparency. The Office of Consumer Protection initially noted the bill could require significant staffing, but later testimony from SHIP suggested the measure could be handled more simply by working with the Healthcare Association of Hawaii and publicly posting violations. The Healthcare Association of Hawaii opposed the bill, arguing hospitals already must comply with federal CMS transparency rules and that adding state requirements would increase costs and legal exposure, especially if violations were treated as unfair or deceptive trade practices. Steve Fenberg testified in support, saying the bill would simply codify existing federal requirements in state law and that he was open to amendments removing state enforcement and the unfair trade practice language. No final action was taken in the excerpt provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:35:11.200> Uh<00:35:11.839> what<00:35:12.000> do<00:35:12.160> you
• Most<00:35:15.040> recently,<00:35:15.599> there<00:35:15.839> were<00:35:16.000
• So, there<00:35:24.320> is<00:35:24.480> some<00:35:24.720> concern<00:35:25.200
• And<00:35:36.079> as<00:35:36.320> you<00:35:36.480> mentioned,<00:35:36.880>
• :40.640> not<00:35:40.800> come<00:35:40.960> to<00:35:41.200> any<00:35:

Keywords: 0:22 – Roll Call 0:30 – Approval of minutes 1:04 – Department of Veterans Affairs 2:06 – Board of Pharmacy 3:20 – Board of Optometric Examiners 39:26 – Board of Nursing 40:07 – Board of Emergency Medical Services 41:52 – Department of Fish & Wildlife Resources 44:36 – Transportation Cabinet: Department of Vehicle Registration 45:36 – Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control 47:00 – Cabinet for Health & Family Services: Department for Medicaid Services 49:59 – Cabinet for Health & Family Services: Department for Community-Based Services, 958, all

Summary: The subcommittee approved the minutes from the previous meeting and then took up several regulations. The first was a Department of Veterans Affairs regulation, with a staff amendment, to allow nurse practitioners to apply for the Veterans Affairs nurse loan repayment program year-round and to make technical drafting changes. The committee heard from the Office of Kentucky Veteran Centers, then adopted the staff amendment and approved the regulation without objection. The main item of the meeting was the Board of Optometric Examiners’ proposed amendment to 201 KAR 5:010, which would allow applicants to use the Optometry Examining Board of Canada written exam in place of part one of the National Board of Examiners in Optometry exam for licensure. The board said the change would improve access to care, provide an additional pathway for Canadian-trained candidates, and still require applicants to pass the remaining national board parts. Opponents, including NBEO officials, ARBO, Pearson VUE, and several optometrists, argued the Canadian exam is not equivalent, does not test the same biomedical science content, is not validated for U.S. scope of practice, and raises concerns about test security, transparency, and portability across states. They urged the committee to find the amendment deficient or vote no. Committee members questioned both sides about prior communication with the board, whether Kentucky would be the first state to adopt such a change, the rationale for the proposal, and the cost difference between the exams. Supporters said the board had received some written comments and one phone call, and that the proposal was driven by access concerns and the presence of Canadian students. Opponents said they had not had direct discussions with the Kentucky board before the hearing. No final vote on the optometry regulation is reflected in the transcript excerpt, but the committee heard extensive testimony and rebuttal before moving on.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:35:01.760> to<00:35:01.920> say<00:35:02.079> is<00:35:02.320> anything
• > or<00:35:04.480> whatsoever<00:35:05.200> maybe<00:35:05.440> to<00:35:
• <00:35:07.040> But<00:35:07.760> first<00:35:07.920> of<00:35:08.079> all
• Uh,<00:35:12.400> and<00:35:12.640> as<00:35:12.880> I<00:35:13.119> shared
• c><00:35:13.440> with<00:35:13.680> some<00:35:13.839> of<00:35:14.000> my

Bills: HB125, HB116, HB183, HB342, HB341, SB280, SB245, SB159, HB125, HB116, HB183, HB342, HB341, SB280, SB245, SB159

Keywords: HB125, sunset law, Alabama Sunset Committee, Alabama State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, veterinary medical examiners, veterinary board, veterinary licensing, veterinary regulation, professional licensing board, state board continuation, sunset review, regulatory board, animal health, veterinarians, disciplinary authority, HB116, Alabama Sunset Law, sunset bill, Alabama Professional Bail Bonding Board, bail bonding

Transcript Highlights:

• Try<00:35:00.040> to<00:35:00.160> get<00:35:00.320> in<00:35:00.440> here.
• <00:35:03.120> My<00:35:03.240> name<00:35:03.400> is<00:35:03.520> Tara<
• <00:35:12.680> And<00:35:12.920> 3<00:35:13.120> years<00:35:13.360> ago,
• Uh<00:35:41.480> for<00:35:41.600> the<00:35:41.680> past<00:35:42.080> 2
• <00:35:50.360> And<00:35:50.480> I<00:35:50.520> also<00:35:50.760> have<

Bills: SB2041

Keywords: land court, real property, legal documents, bureau of conveyances, judicial confirmation, property registration, working group, Hawaii Revised Statutes, reform, 912, senate, all

Summary: The committees heard SB 2041, which would repeal the Land Court, transfer its functions to the Bureau of Conveyances, and create a working group to recommend implementation. DLNR and Judiciary stood on their written testimony, while Realtors supported the bill and one testifier raised concerns about the loss of judicial authority, title disputes, adverse possession, and possible effects on Kuleana lands. Members questioned whether property could be deregistered and what the legal consequences would be, and the Bureau of Conveyances said deregistration is already available but burdensome. The committees ultimately recommended passage with amendments, and the measure was adopted by both committees. The Judiciary Committee then heard SB 2247, which restricts certain governor-appointed, Senate-confirmed executive branch employees from participating in campaign fundraising. The State Ethics Commission and Campaign Spending Commission supported the bill as a way to curb pay-to-play concerns and the appearance of undue influence, and several advocacy and civic groups also testified in support, with one person opposing. The committee agreed to amend the bill so the restrictions apply only after confirmation and continue until the person leaves the covered position. The committee voted to pass SB 2247 with amendments. Finally, the Judiciary Committee heard SB 2143, which would make the Attorney General the interim Chief Election Officer if that office becomes vacant until the Elections Commission appoints a replacement. Supporters argued the bill would provide continuity, prevent delays in certifying election results, and protect election integrity; opponents argued it would politicize the office, create a conflict of interest, and was unnecessary because current law already provides a process for filling vacancies. Testimony was extensive and sharply divided, with many speakers on both sides. The transcript provided does not include a final vote or action on SB 2143.

Transcript Highlights:

• :00.160> relating<00:35:00.720> to<00:35:00.840> the<00:35:00.960> Kentucky
• House<00:35:14.120> Bill<00:35:14.360> 701,<00:35:15.320> Representative<00:35:15.960
• <00:35:30.080> House<00:35:30.280> Bill<00:35:30.520> 704, to land use.
• c> the<00:35:54.920> Country<00:35:55.280> Music<00:35:55.680> Highway<00:35
• <00:35:57.800> House<00:35:57.960> Joint<00:35:58.200> Resolution<00:35:58.760

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The House convened with 96 members present, approved the prior journal, excused absences, and suspended rules to allow co-sponsorship and vote modifications. The Senate clerk reported passage of Senate Bills 39, 70, 80, 127, and 154 and requested concurrence. The House then took up several bills on third reading. House Bill 168, relating to boating under the influence, was explained as “Keegan’s Law.” The sponsor said it would require law enforcement to seek a search warrant for blood testing of boat operators and improve notification so Fish and Wildlife officers are alerted more quickly after 911 calls involving incidents on waterways. House Committee Substitute 2 was adopted, and the bill passed 88-0. House Bill 455, relating to artificial intelligence and declaring an emergency, was amended by committee substitute and two floor amendments. Supporters said it clarifies that AI may not perform direct therapy, make independent therapeutic decisions, generate treatment plans without professional review, or detect emotions/mental state, while still allowing therapists to use AI as a tool. It passed 88-7. House Bill 185, relating to employment and occupational licensing for people with felony records, was described as allowing applicants to seek licensing before completing education and requiring a clear connection between an offense and the occupation; it passed 95-0. House Bill 249, relating to involuntary commitment, was explained as closing a gap in the law for mentally incompetent defendants accused of felony sex offenses; House Floor Amendment 1 broadened the qualifying offenses to all felony sex offenses under Chapter 510, and the bill passed 94-0. After the floor action, the House received House Bill 1 back from committee for second reading and heard announcements, including committee meeting notices and a birthday recognition. A member also gave a Black history tribute to Garrett A. Morgan, highlighting his inventions and civic contributions. The House introduced a slate of new bills and resolutions, including measures on high-acuity youth medical treatment, data privacy, municipal utility service, tax credits for employers, campaign finance, infantile seizure disorder, commercial surrogacy, dentistry, paid leave for state employees, crimes and punishments, postnuptial agreements, local government, land use, alcoholic beverages, and several resolutions. The Committee on Committees and Rules Committee then reported referrals and posted bills for the next regular orders, floor amendments were introduced, and the House adjourned until 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, February 24, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:35:05.920> of<00:35:06.079> restrictions<00:35:06.560> that<00:35:06.720>
• > and<00:35:09.680> so<00:35:10.160> if<00:35:10.320> there<00:35:10.480>
• looking<00:35:13.119> at<00:35:13.280> the<00:35:13.520> rules<00:35:13.839>
• > add<00:35:14.800> to<00:35:15.040> the<00:35:15.200> rules<00:35:16.160
• <00:35:25.440> This<00:35:25.599> is<00:35:25.760> what<00:35:26.160> you

Bills: SB2543, SB2435, SB2352

Keywords: state construction, construction manager, design review, public works, capital improvement, DAGS, Department of Accounting and General Services, DOE, Department of Education, comptroller, pilot program, design review special fund, county permit review, accessibility compliance, Disability and Communication Access Board, state infrastructure, government construction, project oversight, civil service exemption, county agencies

Summary: The Committee on Government Operations reconvened on February 10, 2026, to take up measures previously heard on February 5. It advanced SB 2983 on criminal destruction of trees with technical, non-substantive amendments and a committee report note asking Judiciary to clarify that removal of invasive species remains allowed; the measure passed with one no vote. SB 2930 on the state risk management revolving fund also passed with amendments, including blanking out the amount, setting a defective date, and directing Ways and Means to review a spreadsheet before further action. The committee likewise passed SB 2928 on making the small business procurement program permanent and SB 2970 on standards of conduct for state agency contracts, adopting the Ethics Commission’s recommended language assigning compliance responsibility to department directors and deputy directors. SB 2927 and SB 3068 on procurement were deferred to a time certain on February 12, and SB 3015 on personal information, SB 2929 on public notice, and SB 2938 on search and rescue were also deferred for further discussion or to avoid re-referral issues. SB 2662 on external consultants was amended to remove a cap and preemptive approval language, narrow the expertise standard, and note possible auditor staffing or appropriation needs; it then passed with amendments. The joint GVO-EIG hearing then took up SB 2543 on state construction projects and an Office of the State Construction Manager within DAGS. Testimony from the Hawaii Iron Workers Stabilization Fund strongly supported the bill, saying it could reduce wasteful spending on large design-build projects and free money for tax credits and other public needs. DAGS, the University of Hawaii, and DLNR offered written comments, while one witness from KIC opposed the measure and asked for an exemption for member-owned electric cooperatives. A Hawaii Solar Energy Association witness also supported the bill but asked that landscape architects be excluded from the bill’s definition of design professionals, and Rocky Mold said Kauai permitting was efficient enough that he had no objection to carving it out. The committee adopted amendments from DNR, DAGS, and UH and passed SB 2543. The hearing also considered SB 2435 on EV charging infrastructure at state facilities. DAGS and the Hawaii State Energy Office supported the concept and explained that the goal was to retrofit managed parking facilities with infrastructure that can meet current and future EV needs, while acknowledging that some stalls can sit unused and that the state must balance space and enforcement. Members raised concerns about whether dedicating 25% of stalls to EV charging would reduce usable parking, and about rural and Big Island conditions where EV range and battery capacity remain limiting. The discussion noted that DOT, DNR, DOE, and DOH may have their own parking facilities outside DAGS control. The committee then indicated it would broaden the bill to apply to all state agencies and lower the threshold in response to member concerns, with final action not fully shown in the transcript.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:35:02.120> and<00:35:02.640> I<00:35:02.760> encourage<00:35:03.200> you<
• <00:35:05.040> now,<00:35:05.640> later<00:35:06.000> because<00:35:06.359><
• 35:42.480> but<00:35:42.600> I<00:35:42.680> think<00:35:42.840> it<00:35
• Uh,<00:35:46.960> thank<00:35:47.200> you<00:35:47.280> so<00:35:47.440>
• I just<00:35:56.040> wanted<00:35:56.280> to<00:35:56.400> note<00:35:56.640>

Bills: HF4207, HF4338

Keywords: housing aid, local housing trust, funding projects, income provisions, technical changes, human services, medical assistance, Medicaid, provider enrollment, provider revalidation, fraud prevention, program integrity, background study, background check, fingerprinting, licensing, license revocation, payment withholding, payment suspension, prepayment review

Transcript Highlights:

• :00.560> on<00:35:00.800> both<00:35:00.960> sides<00:35:01.200> of<00:35
• Um, and<00:35:02.640> so<00:35:02.800> that's<00:35:03.040> where<00:35:03.200><
• Whether I<00:35:04.240> you<00:35:04.400> know,<00:35:04.560> I've<00:35:04.880>
• , Ron, is we will vote<00:35:07.839> on<00:35:08.000> it<00:35:08.160> if<00:35:
• >> Could<00:35:11.440> um<00:35:11.680> could<00:35:12.079> somebody<00:35

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• > to<00:35:02.079> crowd<00:35:02.480> out<00:35:02.760> or<00:35:03.000>
• restrict<00:35:05.160> access<00:35:05.480> to<00:35:05.720> the<00:35:05.839>
• :29.640> you<00:35:29.800> Mr<00:35:30.119> chair<00:35:31.119> um<00:35:
• <00:35:45.640> Act<00:35:46.119> so<00:35:46.320> I<00:35:46.400> don't
• :35:13.920> go<03:35:14.840> now<03:35:15.399> see<03:35:15.880> we<03:35

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Summary: The subcommittee first took up several bills and repeatedly chose to retain or table them rather than advance them. House 167, dealing with past wax, was voted ought to pass; House 312 was retained because members said NCAA-related advertising and uniform policy issues were still unresolved; House 434, requiring insurers to provide rental cars for at least seven days, was voted inexpedient to legislate; and House 454, on biodegradable packaging claims, was also voted inexpedient to legislate after members said the proposal lacked a workable enforcement mechanism and would likely be only a symbolic state-by-state measure. House 721, making gold legal tender, was retained, with members saying the bill needed more work and that the issue was less compelling in New Hampshire because the state has no sales tax. The committee then discussed House 310, which was amended to create a study commission on blockchain and related regulatory issues. The amendment expanded the commission’s charge to include legal, regulatory, financial, technological, and environmental considerations, added review of federal developments, included blockchain-based trust and stable token issues, broadened membership, and extended the repeal and report dates by a year. Members said the commission would help New Hampshire develop expertise and a report for future legislation, while also noting that federal action could affect the state’s role. The amendment was adopted 8-1, and the bill itself was then retained. Finally, the subcommittee heard a revised amendment to House 406 on business filings and registered agents. The Secretary of State’s office explained that the amendment, drafted with input from the Business and Industry Association, narrows the bill to address fraudulent or unauthorized entity filings after a written complaint and sworn statement, sets minimum requirements for registered agents, bars use of commercial mail-drop addresses as registered offices, and allows removal or cancellation of fraudulent filings with penalties for false filings. Members asked about which entities must maintain registered offices and how the rules would affect home-based businesses; the sponsor said most New Hampshire business entities must have a registered office, with some exceptions such as domestic nonprofits and trade names. The discussion emphasized concerns about synthetic entities, identity misuse, and the need for a physical in-state registered agent address.

Transcript Highlights:

• :35:01.920> afford<00:35:02.240> to<00:35:02.400> buy<00:35:02.640> food
• <00:35:03.920> got<00:35:04.160> cut<00:35:04.400> off<00:35:04.560> at
• Um more<00:35:08.079> than<00:35:08.240> half<00:35:08.480> of<00:35:08.560>
• So, we just<00:35:16.880> uh<00:35:17.440> were<00:35:17.680> so<00:35:17.920>
• > proud<00:35:18.079> of<00:35:18.240> our<00:35:18.400> state<00:35:18.640>

Bills: HB2116, HB1879, HB2214, HB2310, HB2168, HB2427, HB2560, HB1596, HB2197, HB2498, HB2167

Keywords: grants, community engagement, nonprofit organizations, federal assistance, volunteering, youth transit, public transportation, subsidized transit, environment, energy independence, affordable transportation, Hawaii, diaper tax credit, families, low-income, childcare, health, Hawaii Department of Human Services, DHS, emergency appropriation

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several measures related to human services, homelessness, transit, and family supports. HB 2116 HD1, concerning grants from the Office of Community Services to nonprofits providing training and volunteerism opportunities, drew strong support from Catholic Charities Hawaii, Hawaii Children’s Action Network Speaks, and multiple organizations in written testimony. Supporters said the bill would help vulnerable people affected by federal program changes and cuts by connecting them to reintegration and support services. HB 1879 HD1, establishing a subsidized youth transit program coordinated with counties, received extensive testimony in support from the Department of Health, Department of Taxation, Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Commission, Aloha United Way, Hawaii Bicycling League, Hawaii Appleseed, Hawaii State Youth Commission, Hawaii Public Health Institute, Greenpeace Hawaii, Hawaii Youth Transportation Council, and others. Testifiers emphasized equity, school attendance, reduced transportation costs, climate benefits, and broader access for youth. Several witnesses urged amendments to make the program universal rather than means-tested, and committee discussion noted implementation questions for neighbor islands and rural areas. HB 2214, creating a refundable diaper tax credit for low-income families with children age four and under, was supported by the Hawaii Diaper Bank, Hawaii Children’s Action Network Speaks, and several other organizations. The Department of Taxation recommended making the credit non-refundable and clarifying definitions to aid administration, while supporters argued refundability was important for low-income families who may owe little or no income tax. HB 2310, an emergency appropriation to replenish DHS funds used to provide SNAP benefits during a federal shutdown, also drew broad support from DHS, Catholic Charities, Hawaii Public Health Institute, Hawaii Children’s Action Network Speaks, Hawaii Food Industry Association, Aloha United Way, and others; witnesses praised the state’s rapid response and said the appropriation would prepare DHS for future emergencies. The committee also heard HB 2168 HD1 and HB 2427 HD1 on education for students experiencing homelessness and unaccompanied homeless youth; the Attorney General recommended technical amendments to avoid conflicts with existing law and to clarify McKinney-Vento-related definitions, while advocates stressed the need for school access, transportation, meals, and other supports for homeless and runaway youth.

Transcript Highlights:

• :35:32.960> uh<00:35:33.359> what<00:35:33.560> what<00:35:33.760> bills<
• <00:35:36.760> uh<00:35:36.960> next<00:35:37.520> Wednesday<00:35:38.520>
• > um<00:35:45.440> so<00:35:45.680> those<00:35:45.839> will<00:35:46.000
• c> try<00:35:48.680> and<00:35:48.880> do<00:35:49.079> that<00:35:49.280>
• ><06:35:35.398> you<06:35:35.600> as<06:35:35.760> a<06:35:36.240> a<06:35

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The House Education Committee held its organizational meeting for the new term, with members introducing themselves and describing their backgrounds in teaching, school boards, special education, administration, law, and related fields. Chair Glenn Cordelli outlined the committee’s goals and procedures, emphasizing civility, professionalism, and respectful treatment of witnesses and members. He also noted that the committee has been split into two this year because of the large volume of bills, and said the committee had already sent three bills to the other education committee, with 36 bills currently assigned and more expected. The chair reviewed committee rules and logistics: hearings should start on time, members should minimize cell phone use and avoid searching during testimony, and questioning of witnesses is limited to one question at a time unless the chair allows a follow-up. Members were told to use the title “Representative,” to sign up on pink cards to testify, and to submit written testimony to the clerk. He also explained that hearings are for listening rather than debating, while executive sessions are where debate and motions occur. Possible motions include ought to pass, inexpedient to legislate, and retain in committee for further work, including subcommittees. Additional procedures covered scheduling, with the committee expected to meet Wednesday and Thursday the following week because of a holiday, and regular meetings generally planned for Monday and Wednesday. The chair also discussed the consent calendar, reports from majority and minority positions, and the expectation that members who testify on a bill should not then question other witnesses on that same bill. No legislation was voted on at this meeting; it was a procedural and orientation session for the committee.

Transcript Highlights:

• How<00:35:18.120> is<00:35:18.240> that<00:35:18.400> to<00:35:18.480> be
• Would<00:35:20.080> nurses<00:35:20.440> be<00:35:20.560> legally<00:35:20.920><
• an employee<00:35:25.400> with<00:35:25.600> a<00:35:25.640> chair<00:35:25.960
• <00:35:27.640> Does<00:35:27.960> a<00:35:28.000> fast<00:35:28.280> food
• Who<00:35:32.880> determines<00:35:33.400> what<00:35:33.600> is<00:35:33.720>

Bills: HF3878, HF4131, HF3796, HF4097

Keywords: airport workers, wage standards, labor rights, minimum wage, economic equity, surveillance, price discrimination, wage discrimination, consumer rights, automated decision systems, Minnesota Statutes, suitable seating, employee seating, workplace seating, occupational safety, workplace safety, labor standards, employer requirements, chair, stool