Transcript Highlights:

• Today is Friday, March 14, 2025, and we are here for our 10:00 a.m. hearing notice.
• If they put it in their administrative rules, it's going to have to go in this really long chapter that
• It's going to be a very heavy lift to get that chapter through the rulemaking process, and I think that's
• Again, it’s already in statute, Chapter 142, so it’s just adding an additional monetary fine up to $1,000
• 142 so it's just adding an chapter 142 so it's just adding an additional<00:44:28.559> monetary

Keywords: 910, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Milan<00:14:13.199> Akaka<00:14:13.920> Manfrey<00:14:15.040> for<00:14:15.279
• Anyone else<00:14:18.480> wishing<00:14:18.800> to<00:14:19.040> testify<00:14:19.519
• <00:14:21.440> Members,<00:14:21.839> we<00:14:22.000> are<00:14:22.160>
• 50.399> what<00:14:50.560> why<00:14:50.800> we<00:14:50.959> need<00:14:
• Um well, we<00:14:58.639> think<00:14:58.720> that<00:14:59.120> literacy<00:14:

Bills: HB1559, HB2012, HB2297, HB2122, HB2345, HB2398, HB2534, HB2621

Keywords: telecommunication devices, student use, public schools, student engagement, educational outcomes, confiscation policy, mental health, statewide policy, community literacy, education, Title I funding, reading proficiency, underserved communities, family engagement, tutoring, literacy support, adult education, community education, literacy programs, workforce development

Transcript Highlights:

• At least 14 other states, including pending legislation in New York, have already taken this step.
• For example, I would suggest deleting the language which amends Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 44B
• This bill is filed to amend section 224 of chapter 238...
• This bill is filed to amend Section 224 of Chapter 238, the Acts of 2024.
• However, Governor Healey signed SAFE 2.0 on November 14 of last year.

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on a wide range of public health and emergency services bills, with many speakers focusing on EMS system failures, hospital service closures, trauma preparedness, epilepsy awareness, drink-spiking response, sudden cardiac arrest, and survivor financial assistance. Several legislators and advocates described the EMS system as underfunded and overstretched, citing long ambulance waits, staffing shortages, and the need for statewide oversight, a special commission, and clearer recognition of EMS as an essential service. A number of speakers also supported bills to preserve essential hospital services after closures such as Nashoba Valley Medical Center and birthing services in Leominster, arguing that current closure rules lack enforcement and leave communities without critical care. Multiple panels testified in support of bills requiring trauma kits in public buildings, public education on SUDEP and epilepsy mortality, and improved cardiac arrest response. Supporters of the trauma-kit bill said public buildings should have bleeding-control kits and trained staff, comparing them to AEDs and first aid supplies. Epilepsy advocates, clinicians, and grieving parents urged a public health campaign on SUDEP, saying families are often not warned about the risk and that awareness could improve medication adherence, reduce guilt, and save lives. On cardiac arrest, EMS professionals and the American Heart Association backed measures to improve telecommunicator CPR, create an AED registry, and strengthen dispatch and training standards. The committee also heard extensive testimony on a bill addressing illicit drink spiking. Senators, city officials, victims, physicians, and an international anti-spiking advocate described cases in which hospitals refused toxicology testing unless a sexual assault was reported, and argued for standardized testing protocols, better data collection, and coordination with law enforcement and licensed venues. Another bill drew a sharp exchange over local public health control and the SAFE 2.0 law, with one senator arguing for more local approval and voluntary participation, while committee members defended the earlier law as a response to inequities in local public health capacity. Finally, advocates from Jane Doe, Inc. supported legislation to provide flexible financial assistance to survivors of domestic and sexual violence, saying unrestricted cash helps survivors meet basic needs, escape abuse, and rebuild stability.

Transcript Highlights:

• I moved to the United States for like 14 years ago. I live in Texas over 10 years.
• I represent 9 out of the 14 counties that share a border with Mexico.
• Chapter 12 of the BISOG Code, uh, is the chapter that provides for the Attorney General to be able to
• This bill amends Chapter 12 to allow court review of requests for documents as required by the Supreme
• Chapter 15 of the Business Organizations code, for example, allows the AG to demand both documents and

Bills: HB 256, HB 1308, HB 1554, HB 1743, HB 2308, HB 2351, HB 2858, HB 3676, HB 3784, HB 4312, HB 4552, HB 4823, HB 4852, HB 5007, HB 5010, HB 5520, HB 5524, HCR 19

Keywords: E-verify, employment verification, illegal employment, state contracts, government entities, license suspension, immigration compliance, state grant funding, E-Verify, compliance, penalties, immigration, government contracts, employee status, state contractors, E-verify program, legally present, employment practices, legal services, public money

Transcript Highlights:

• > got<01:14:15.840> a<01:14:16.159> standing<01:14:16.480> ovation<01:14:
• but<01:14:18.719> I<01:14:18.800> I<01:14:19.120> never<01:14:19.280>
• jumped out<01:14:21.280> of<01:14:21.440> their<01:14:21.600> chairs<01:14:22.000
• > some<01:14:25.280> of<01:14:25.360> the<01:14:25.440> choir<01:14:25.760
• where<03:14:04.479> those<03:14:04.640> with<03:14:04.880> lived<03:14:05.120><

Keywords: 910, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• House Bill 447, an act to amend Title 14 of the Delaware Code relating to child care, out of Education
• House Bill 300 with House Amendment 1, an act to amend Title 14 of the Delaware Code relating to the
• House Bill 378, an act to amend Chapter 186, Volume 83 of the Laws of Delaware relating to the Council
• House Bill 437, an act to amend Title 4, Title 11, Title 14, Title 16, Title 18, Title 20, Title 21,
• Title 24, Title 25, Title 29, the chapter of the Town of Dewey Beach, the charter of the City of Harrington

Summary: The Senate received communications from the House listing numerous bills, substitutes, amendments, and concurrent resolutions passed by the House or returned to the Senate, and it also noted a Senate amendment being stricken from House Bill 190. Committee reports were read on a wide range of nominations and bills, including favorable reports on several executive nominations and legislation involving nurse preceptors, voting, agricultural/forestry grants, child care, Title IX coordination, vehicle security devices, dry needling, human remains disposition, child care assistance, autism-related oversight, nursing advancement, correctional oversight, massage and bodywork, probate letters, computer security breaches, automobile insurance, medical debt protection, and technical corrections. The Senate also assigned House Bill 300, House Bill 64, and House Bill 385 to the Finance Committee. The chamber confirmed several gubernatorial nominations by roll call vote, each receiving the required majority: Heidi J. A. Gilmore to the Marijuana Appeals Commission; Lee Wynne and Ruth J. Tucker to the Delaware River and Bay Authority Board; Jennifer R. Hallman and Lindsay E. Alexich to the Professional Standards Board; Jason M. Munion and F. Todd Kulata to the Environmental Appeals Board. The Senate also passed House Substitute 1 for House Bill 383, which changes overtime eligibility for certain DelDOT employees and clarifies covered positions, and Senate Bill 315 with Senate Amendment 1, which revises the Delaware Technical Innovation Program to give the Division of Small Business more flexibility in using federal grant funds. Consent Agenda M passed unanimously, including Senate Substitute 1 for Senate Bill 319 on menopause and perimenopause coverage, House Bill 411 on alcohol/tobacco/marijuana enforcement, House Bill 271 on marijuana establishment spacing, House Bill 258 on alcohol licenses, House Bill 303 on juvenile probation/parole officers and DCYF employees, and House Bill 377 on Ocean View municipal election deadlines. Consent Calendar 63 also passed unanimously, including resolutions recognizing Day of Service, National Adoption Month, National Coaches Day, Free Speech Week, Women’s Equality Day, and Spirit of America 250, along with resolutions encouraging a veteran cemetery in Kent County, seeking plans for repurposing underused public buildings, and honoring Delaware Boys State. The Senate spent significant time on floor remarks about the Boys State delegates and on a tribute to emergency responders who helped save a seven-year-old child trapped by a seatbelt; the responders were recognized individually and thanked for their work. Additional remarks explained the purpose of the menopause coverage bill, the adoption month resolution, the free speech resolution, and the America 250 resolution. The session ended with no further business and the Senate recessed until June 18.

Transcript Highlights:

• 14:15.839> some<00:14:16.000> of<00:14:16.120> the<00:14:16.279> suggested
• c> that<00:14:17.639> you<00:14:17.880> have<00:14:18.199> so<00:14:18.560><
• c><00:14:33.800> but<00:14:34.040> we<00:14:34.440> should<00:14:34.759> be
• minimum<00:14:45.519> in<00:14:45.720> this<00:14:45.880> bill<00:14:46.240>
• > so<00:14:55.560> we<00:14:55.639> don't<00:14:55.880> have<00:14:56.000>

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several water, land, and conservation measures. HB 86, which would fund a permanent DLNR Makai Watch coordinator position, drew strong support from DLNR and community advocates. Testifiers said the coordinator is needed to connect community-based nearshore monitoring groups with government, support training and reporting, and provide stable civil-service funding instead of relying on grants and philanthropy. The committee discussed the position’s duties and cost, estimated at about $110,000 with fringe benefits, and noted broad support from organizations including Kuaʻulu, The Nature Conservancy, OHA, and others. HB 36, relating to state water code penalties, was also supported in principle by DLNR, but the agency proposed amendments to create two tiers of violations, distinguish first-time/non-harmful violations from repeat or harmful ones, and give the commission discretion on whether each day counts as a continuing violation. DLNR said the bill is intended to address egregious cases such as Red Hill while avoiding undue impact on small farmers and others without malicious intent. Testifiers from the Board of Water Supply, Lono Initiative, and others supported stronger penalties and transparency, while Earthjustice raised concerns about broader structural issues and the risk of penalties being applied unfairly. The committee then heard HB 316, which appropriates funds to continue the Green Jobs Youth Corps program. DLNR, the Hawaiʻi State Energy Office, Kōkua, The Nature Conservancy, and other groups testified in support, describing the program as a workforce pipeline that places young professionals in communities, builds trust, and helps recruit future state employees. Supporters said the program has expanded capacity in watershed and reef management and has drawn extensive public backing. Finally, HB 506, funding equipment for the Oʻahu branch of DOCARE, received support from DLNR and others. DOCARE said recent recruit classes are moving through training, that the new positions will expand patrol capacity, including nighttime enforcement, and that the Oʻahu-specific funding is tied to priorities such as the Māʻili Bay herbivore rules. The committee also began hearing HB 510 on water shortage and emergency declarations. DLNR proposed limiting shortage declarations to 90 days unless extended, capping groundwater reductions at 20% for lower-priority permits, removing climate-crisis language as a standalone criterion, and moving the process into rulemaking for more public input. The Board of Water Supply supported the bill and the proposed changes, while Earthjustice urged deferral absent broader Water Commission reforms. No votes or final actions were taken in the portion provided; the chair indicated the committee would be decision-making after the hearing on items on the agenda.

Transcript Highlights:

• ><00:14:25.120> but<00:14:25.640> just<00:14:25.880> given<00:14:26.200> the<
• frame<00:14:27.080> for<00:14:27.840> moving<00:14:28.200> some<00:14:28.360>
• > committee,<00:14:29.960> uh<00:14:30.040> we'd<00:14:30.120> like<00:14
• <00:14:31.240> work<00:14:31.440> on<00:14:31.560> it<00:14:31.880> as
• a work<00:14:32.320> in<00:14:32.400> progress<00:14:32.880> as<00:14:33.080>

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:

• <00:14:56.079> able<00:14:56.279> to<00:14:56.440> unlock<00:14:57.160> um
• > SA<00:14:59.160> in<00:14:59.240> federal<00:14:59.519> funding<00:14:59.880
• 01:14:09.960> rent<01:14:10.199> goes<01:14:10.440> up<01:14:10.840> and
• > don't<01:14:11.960> care<01:14:12.760> why<01:14:13.080> I<01:14:13.239>
• them whether<01:14:14.560> I<01:14:14.719> point<01:14:15.000> out<01:14:15.280

Bills: HF1143, HF1548, HF1340, HF2549, HF2559, HF1673, HF2740, HF2507, HF2461, HF2381, HF2695

Keywords: education funding, unemployment aid, special education, Minnesota statutes, appropriations, housing, redevelopment, local government, trust funds, community development, HF1340, housing infrastructure bonds, Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, MHFA, affordable housing, supportive housing, permanent housing, adaptive reuse, area median income, AMI

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:14:05.240> given<00:14:05.519> the<00:14:05.800> extent<00:14:06.120>
• 00:14:08.920> end<00:14:09.160> up<00:14:09.800> very<00:14:10.040> often
• <00:14:24.680> to<00:14:24.839> try<00:14:25.000> to<00:14:25.279> get<00
• there was a<00:14:30.920> Court<00:14:31.480> verdict<00:14:32.040> that<00:14:
• 14:41.600> act<00:14:41.800> 45<00:14:42.759> uh<00:14:42.880> which 2018

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: This joint informational briefing of Senate and House committees focused on restricted use pesticides in Hawaiʻi, with opening remarks framing the issue as one of health, environmental impact, and state-level regulation. The briefing reviewed the history of pesticide disclosure efforts, including prior county actions, a 2016 court ruling that shifted responsibility to the state, and Act 45, which enabled disclosure of restricted use pesticide data. Speakers highlighted 2019 reporting data showing concentrated use in parts of Oʻahu and Kauaʻi, especially near schools and communities, and identified fumigants such as 1,3-dichloropropene and metam sodium as among the heaviest-used products. Concerns were raised about potential links to cancer, respiratory illness, reproductive harms, Parkinson’s disease, and developmental effects, as well as the lack of long-term mixture studies and the need for better buffer zones, reporting, and farmer transition support. The Department of Agriculture’s pesticides program manager described the state’s regulatory framework, explaining the distinction between general use and restricted use pesticides and the department’s role under FIFRA and Hawaiʻi law. He outlined the branch’s enforcement, education/certification, registration, and laboratory functions, including inspections, complaint response, market surveillance, applicator certification, product review, groundwater protection modeling, and special registrations. He also noted staffing and resource limitations, including the absence of an in-house toxicologist and long-term monitoring capacity, and compared Hawaiʻi’s resources to California’s much larger pesticide regulatory program. He said the department supports Act 231, which was passed the previous year and is moving forward this session. A pediatrician speaking for the Hawaiʻi chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics emphasized concerns about chronic low-level pesticide exposure in children, citing AAP policy statements and technical reports that associate exposure with cancer, leukemia, birth defects, neurobehavioral issues, and asthma. Drawing on work with the Kauaʻi Joint Fact Finding Task Force, the speaker said the group found the west side of the island to be an unhealthy community but could not prove causation because of missing drift, geospatial, and biomarker data. The testimony pointed to elevated cancer mortality, pneumonia admissions, obesity, dialysis, and developmental delay indicators, and described concerns about pesticide drift near schools and homes, including reports of children becoming ill after nearby spraying and low levels of chlorpyrifos detected in dust samples. An environmental health scientist from the University of Hawaiʻi described a pilot project using restricted use pesticide data in a public health context. She said the project began after seeing maps of Central Oʻahu pesticide use and aimed to pair GIS data with health and ethnicity data, while also conducting community focus groups. Preliminary focus group themes included calls to action, voting and policymaker awareness, concern about pesticide use near homes and fields, lack of community consent, and a desire to stay engaged. No votes or formal committee actions were taken during the briefing.

Transcript Highlights:

• someone<02:14:06.480> like<02:14:06.679> myself<02:14:07.440> who<02:14:07.599>
• :14:11.400> short<02:14:11.760> answer<02:14:12.239> is<02:14:12.520> you
• <02:14:14.280> do<02:14:14.559> not<02:14:15.079> know<02:14:15.320> who<
• I<02:14:27.559> was<02:14:28.239> let<02:14:28.520> kids<02:14:28.800>
• > let<02:14:30.040> them<02:14:30.280> grow<02:14:30.559> up<02:14:31.119

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Recognizing the need for a cohesive framework, the Massachusetts Legislature enacted Chapter 164 of the
• Speaking of rates, our clients on average pay between 14 and 19 cents per kilowatt hour compared to the
• The added clause to Section 17 of Chapter 775, a section which limits bond issuance to only reasonable
• The added clause to Section 17 of Chapter 775, a section which limits bond issuance to only reasonable

Keywords: 995, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on a range of energy, utility, broadband, and municipal infrastructure bills. Representative Powell supported H 3466, which would create a task force to study public ownership of utilities and alternatives to investor-owned electric and gas systems. Representative Therber supported H 3574, which would use RGGI funds to reimburse cities and towns affected by power plant decommissioning, citing lost jobs, tax revenue, and service cuts in communities such as Somerset, Plymouth, Salem, and Everett. Several witnesses from municipal light plants and related organizations testified in support of mutual aid bills, including H 3486/S 2252 and H 3330/S 2277, saying the measures would clarify protections and liability coverage for MLP workers assisting in emergencies and non-emergency work. Jim Leiden of EMWIC opposed H 3514/S 2295, saying the proposed board and governance changes would reduce local control, add burdens, and weaken confidentiality protections. A committee member asked whether the mutual aid bills had been reviewed for municipal impacts, and the witnesses said they had done due diligence. The committee also heard extensive testimony on H 3551/S 2306, the smart meter opt-out bills. Supporters argued that smart meters emit harmful wireless radiation, that some residents have developed health problems or electromagnetic sensitivity, and that opt-outs should be available without fees or penalties; several witnesses urged notification, consent, and non-transmitting analog meter options. The committee also heard testimony from municipal officials and the Massachusetts Municipal Association in support of H 3462/S 2250, which would strengthen municipal authority to enforce timely removal of double utility poles, citing safety, accessibility, and construction-delay concerns. Derek Leffert of Gateway Fiber opposed H 3450, saying it would improperly shift broadband deployment costs to competitors. At the end of testimony, the chair closed the hearing by motion and vote, with members voting aye and no opposition recorded.

Transcript Highlights:

• on as the tax department is generally in the finance section of OPA, which is Title 7, and then Chapters
• Finally, there are those indirect impacts, also in Chapters 5 and 6 regarding PIT and SIT.
• If we turn to slide 14, we just highlight some.
• Basically, the legislature would amend Chapter 7 to say something is or isn't exempt, deductible, and

Transcript Highlights:

• , as we've been trying to wrap our hands around produce water management and and last last year's chapter
• In the 80s, the agency had a very robust oil... a theft investigative unit, and 14 individuals that were
• Yes, for the record, Cyrus Reed, Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club.
• We do think— I think it would make sense in the bill to specifically reference Chapter 26 in the Texas

Bills: SB766, SB290, SB494, SB1145

Keywords: Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, water regulation, environmental protection, pesticide management, natural resources, LP-gas, property owner notice, gas installations, safety notification, petroleum theft, task force, oil and gas, law enforcement, economic impact, environmental regulation, water permits, water quality, land application, 1185, senate

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:14:01.560> go<00:14:02.279> good<00:14:02.440> morning<00:14:02.959>
• > is<00:14:04.360> Kristen<00:14:04.680> Martino<00:14:05.240> and<00:14:
• <00:14:18.440> I<00:14:18.560> get<00:14:18.680> into<00:14:18.880> the
• ><00:14:25.240> to<00:14:25.399> explain<00:14:25.680> a<00:14:25.759> fetal<
• > and<00:14:28.440> that<00:14:28.519> is<00:14:28.600> a<00:14:28.680>

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Bruce<01:14:06.040> newad<01:14:06.560> if<01:14:06.639> you<01:14:06.719><
• > yourself<01:14:07.480> for<01:14:07.600> the<01:14:07.719> record<01:14
• we're<01:14:19.480> really<01:14:19.719> focused<01:14:20.040> on<01:14:20.280>
• <01:14:25.960> the<01:14:26.080> conversation<01:14:26.520> on<01:14:26.639>
• :14:27.679> say<01:14:27.920> this<01:14:28.040> is<01:14:28.120> a bill

Bills: HF2228, HF46, HF856, HF2149, HF2215

Keywords: homeowners insurance, property insurance, commercial property insurance, insurance affordability, insurance market stabilization, reinsurance, catastrophic reinsurance fund, self-insured pool, premium costs, coverage notice, liability reform, climate risk, climate change, housing affordability, multifamily housing, rental housing, common interest communities, cooperatives, small business insurance, Minnesota Commerce Department

Transcript Highlights:

• <01:14:00.040> Uh<01:14:00.200> thank<01:14:00.440> you,<01:14:00.480> Mr
• You<01:14:19.480> know,<01:14:19.640> 80<01:14:19.960> 82%<01:14:20.640> of
• c><01:14:31.400> and<01:14:31.480> balances,<01:14:32.080> and<01:14:32.240>
• <01:14:32.960> represent<01:14:33.440> or<01:14:33.600> Chair<01:14:33.800><
• 14:47.600> think<01:14:47.800> this<01:14:47.960> is<01:14:48.080> something<

Bills: SF856, HF4482, HF3672, HF1234, HF4591, HF3554, HF936

Keywords: Inspector General, fraud prevention, state audit, public funds, misuse, transparency, government accountability, HF4482, Minnesota Historical Society, state historic sites, historic site management, historic preservation, county historical society, local historical society, municipality, county government, admission fees, grants-in-aid, site operations, site maintenance

Transcript Highlights:

• I had the good fortune of being a volunteer firefighter for 14 years, a cop for 26.
• Early on, in the early 2000s, I was a board member for the local Dutchess County Red Cross chapter, and
• TO THAT, EARLY ON IN THE EARLY 2000S, I WAS A BOARD MEMBER FOR THE LOCAL DUTCHESS COUNTY RED CROSS CHAPTER
• things like that, but also to follow up with individuals who had been helped by our local Red Cross chapter
• and put their hand on my shoulder, and I turned around and it was a member of the Dutchess County chapter

Keywords: 993, senate, all

Summary: The Senate convened with a prayer and Pledge of Allegiance, then approved the prior journal and took up motions and resolutions. Senator Gianaris moved to reconsider and restore Senate Print 3179A, an Environmental Conservation Law bill, to the third reading calendar, and amendments were also received on Senate Print 8491. The chamber then considered and adopted Resolution 1716, designating March 2026 as Greek History Month in New York, with remarks from several senators about Greek heritage, Greek independence, immigration, and the contributions of Greek Americans. The Senate also adopted Resolution 1607, proclaiming March 2026 as American Red Cross Month, with extensive testimony praising Red Cross disaster relief, blood donation, preparedness work, and volunteers; several senators highlighted local volunteers and urged greater support for the organization, including budget resources. The Senate welcomed guests, including Red Cross representatives and students from Brooklyn, and later opened the resolutions for co-sponsorship. The chamber then moved through the calendar and passed multiple bills, including measures affecting mental hygiene, elder law, penal law, public authorities, labor, public service, correction, education, election law, alcoholic beverage control, and state administrative procedure. Most bills passed by wide margins, though some drew recorded opposition, including the public authorities bill and several election, public service, and correction measures. Senator Ramos explained her support for the labor bill as a workplace dignity and anti-bullying measure, and Senator Ryan explained his support for the small-business regulatory website bill as a way to simplify access to agency rules and guidance. Senator Skoufis’s Public Health Law bill was also recalled from the Assembly, restored to the third reading calendar, and amended. The Senate then adjourned until Thursday, March 12 at 11:00 a.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• >> Any<00:14:41.920> questions<00:14:42.399> at<00:14:42.639> all<00:14:43.279
• >> Just<00:14:54.320> wondering<00:14:55.120> where<00:14:55.360> it<00:14
• that the committee<01:14:01.120> could<01:14:01.360> find<01:14:01.679> a<01:14
• Thank you so<01:14:06.719> much<01:14:06.880> for<01:14:07.120> your<01:14:07.520
• you like to<01:14:14.560> say<01:14:14.719> a<01:14:14.960> few<01:14:15.120>

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The committee first heard Senate Bill 497, a technical correction to last year’s capital budget. Shannon Reid of the Community College System of New Hampshire explained that the bill removes leftover state-agency boilerplate from a repurposed capital appropriation and replaces it with community college language, without changing any dollar amounts. She also described a requested amendment to rename a respiratory therapy renovation appropriation at Nashua Community College as an allied health instructional center, so the space can be used more flexibly for programs such as phlebotomy, radiologic technology, and LNA training. Terry Poff of the General Court then testified on the second part of the bill, which changes legislative space references to support the move of General Court offices from the second floor to the fourth floor of the annex as part of the legislative office building reconfiguration. Members asked whether the community college changes affected funding, and Reid confirmed the amounts do not change and that the bill simply speeds up a correction that otherwise would have been handled later in the lapse process. Poff said the annex space change is part of a permanent transition, though the work cannot proceed until the General Court has legal control of the space. The committee then entered executive session, adopted Amendment 1031H on a 12-0 vote, and voted ought to pass as amended on SB 497 by a 12-0 vote, with several members absent. The bill was placed on the consent calendar. The committee next opened a hearing on Senate Bill 529FN, which would give preference to lumber sourced in the United States on state-funded building projects. Representative Davis, introducing the bill for Senator Roachford, argued that New Hampshire timber is disadvantaged by grading rules that treat U.S. lumber differently from Canadian SPF lumber, even when the wood is from similar species and climates. He said the bill is intended to support New Hampshire’s timber industry and that architects and engineers would still be able to specify stronger materials when needed. Committee members questioned whether the bill should instead refer specifically to New Hampshire lumber, how it would be enforced, and what the cost impact would be. Davis and later witness Mike Olette said the issue is tied to industry grading standards rather than a government code, that the bill is meant to create a preference rather than a mandate, and that price differences are hard to pin down because lumber is a commodity. Olette, who lives near the border, testified that New Hampshire logs are often sent to Canada for milling and then return under a different grade, which he said puts New Hampshire loggers and mills at an economic disadvantage.

Transcript Highlights:

• Village, which<00:14:43.280> is<00:14:43.440> a<00:14:43.480> city<00:14:43.880
• > that<00:14:44.120> has<00:14:44.440> the<00:14:44.520> cities<00:14:44.880
• And<00:14:48.079> so,<00:14:48.200> I<00:14:48.280> had<00:14:48.520> some
• <00:14:55.880> Chair,<00:14:56.280> and<00:14:57.000> I<00:14:57.079> guess
• :14:52.520> for<01:14:52.720> us<01:14:52.880> as<01:14:53.040> a<01:14:53.080

Bills: HF495, HF4321, HF3902, HF4161, HF3755

Keywords: day care, tax subtraction, child care costs, licensed child care, dependent care assistance, HF4321, dependent care assistance programs, gross income exclusion, federal conformity, Internal Revenue Code, individual income tax, Minnesota tax law, tax conformity, child care assistance, employer-provided dependent care, taxable income, state income tax, retroactive tax change, family care benefits, housing tax credit