Transcript Highlights:

• There is also a companion public records exemption for those emails that I will explain in the next bill
• There is also a companion public records exemption for those emails that I will explain in the next bill
• There's been a lot of talk this week about AI in this chamber, and we know that there would be a lot
• of maybe higher-paying white-collar jobs that people are going to lose because of the advent of AI.
• of maybe higher-paying white-collar jobs that people are going to lose because of the advent of AI.

Bills: S0216, S0246, S0356, S0388, S0470, S0488, S0490, S0528, S0584, S0594

Keywords: reemployment assistance, fraud prevention, eligibility verification, Department of Commerce, benefit disqualification, specialty license plate, specialty plates, motor vehicle registration, license plate fees, annual use fees, Florida DHSMV, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, deauthorization, financial reporting, nonprofit organizations, college license plates, university license plates, veterans plates, law enforcement plates, Fraternal Order of Police

Summary: The committee met with a quorum and considered ten bills, beginning with SB 594 on local housing assistance plans. Senator Burton explained that the bill would make residents of mobile home parks and manufactured housing communities eligible for SHIP rental assistance and, in some cases, repair or rehabilitation funds, recognizing that many own their homes but rent the lot. Supporters from AARP and the Federation of Manufactured Homeowners said the bill would help seniors and low-income residents remain housed. The bill was reported favorably by a roll call vote. Members then approved two Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles measures: SB 488, the agency package updating Florida’s motor fuel tax compliance with IFTA, allowing online filing and private license plate agencies to act as agents, raising the crash-damage reporting threshold, expanding email communications, and updating tank vehicle compliance; and SB 490, a related public records exemption for email addresses collected for renewal notices. Both were reported favorably without opposition. The committee also passed SB 246, creating a specialty license plate for the UFC Foundation, despite concerns raised that the foundation is based out of state and that the plate was politically motivated; the bill was approved on a split vote. The committee gave favorable reports to SB 216 on reemployment assistance eligibility, which would tighten job-search requirements, require more frequent eligibility verification, and add reporting on fraudulent claims. The bill drew substantial opposition from labor and policy advocates who argued it would add barriers for unemployed workers, especially in rural and skilled-trades jobs, and that the state’s unemployment system remains difficult to navigate. Supporters said the bill was aimed at fraud prevention and ensuring claimants remain eligible. SB 356 on utility terrain vehicles generated extensive debate over safety, local control, and whether UTVs should be allowed on certain roads; supporters emphasized rural utility and law enforcement benefits, while opponents cited manufacturer warnings and crash risks. The sponsor ultimately temporarily postponed the bill. The committee also reported favorably SB 528 on manufacturing, which expands the Department of Commerce’s manufacturing responsibilities, codifies the chief manufacturing officer position, and creates workforce development grant support; SB 584 on commercial driving schools, which authorizes DHSMV agreements with county tax collectors to help enforce school regulation; and SB 388, which raises the annual use fee for the Florida Wildflower specialty plate from $15 to $25 to support the Florida Wildflower Foundation. The final bill, SB 470 on the Fraternal Order of Police specialty plate, was introduced as a measure to broaden eligibility for the existing plate and stabilize funding for law enforcement memorial efforts, but no final action on that bill was reached in the portion of the transcript provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• The companion legislation is House Bill 325.
• Senate Bill 815 is the companion to my HB 1455, which passed this House 97 to 0.
• relating to the Board of Education, artificial intelligence use in instructional settings, development of AI
• safety guidance, and an AI innovation and education pilot program.
• H.B. 1487, Delegates Singh, Sullivan, and O'Quinn, and that is companion legislation to SB 827.

Keywords: March 09, 2026 - Regular Session, 976, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm Nancy Morris, and I highly oppose Senate Bill 6004 and its companion.
• nuclear power plant supplying energy sometime in the future or other non-emitting... 004 and its companion
• opportunity to sign in and support on behalf of Yakima County for Senator Braun's Senate Bill 5821 and the companion
• I understand Amazon is funding this effort, and I'm very concerned about AI and data centers appearing
• I understand Amazon is funding this effort, and I'm very concerned about AI and data centers appearing

Summary: The committee heard public testimony on Senate Bill 5821, which would direct the Department of Commerce, if funded by gifts or grants, to develop a nuclear power strategic framework and integrate it into the state energy strategy. Supporters, including Sen. Braun, Energy Northwest, public power representatives, and several pro-nuclear advocates, said Washington needs to keep advanced nuclear on the table to address rising electricity demand, reliability concerns, and clean energy goals. Opponents, including the Sierra Club, Columbia Riverkeeper, tribal representatives, and other environmental advocates, argued the bill gives nuclear special treatment, lacks sufficient guardrails on waste, safety, cost, and public process, and was rushed without adequate tribal consultation. Several tribal testifiers said the bill should require early, meaningful government-to-government consultation and stronger protections for treaty rights and cultural resources. The committee then held a work session on a Washington State Institute for Public Policy report reviewing state policies supporting small modular reactors. Staff and researchers explained that the report surveyed 79 policies in 35 states and found most states are still in preliminary planning stages, with policies focused on feasibility studies, siting, workforce development, permitting, financial support, and market integration. Members asked about water use, waste, footprint, and whether the report covered fusion; the researchers said it was limited to fission and that water needs vary by reactor design. Some senators noted the need to consider lifecycle impacts and compare nuclear with other energy technologies. The committee also heard Senate Bill 6010, which would change FSEC tribal consultation procedures by exempting most government-to-government consultations from the Open Public Meetings Act when there is no deliberation or commitments, requiring all FSEC members to participate in consultation, and giving tribes a chance to review and correct the consultation summary before it goes to the governor. Tribal witnesses and environmental groups supported the bill as a way to improve confidentiality and meaningful consultation, while the Association of Washington Business opposed it, saying it could add delays and suggesting timelines. Finally, the committee heard Senate Bill 6004, which would update contracting statutes so public entities can contract for renewable or non-emitting generation capability under CETA definitions; utilities supported the update as a modernization, while consumer and environmental opponents warned it could shift financial risk to ratepayers, especially for nuclear projects. No votes were taken in the transcript.

Transcript Highlights:

• Substitute Senate Bill 6091 is the Substitute Senate Bill 6091 is the companion to House Bill 2512 that
• Senate Bill 6178 is the companion to House Bill 2399 by Representative Hackney that the committee heard
• Senator Hunt, for bringing this bill forward and for Representative Hackney's strong work on the companion
• We also appreciate that this committee has previously heard the House companion and thank you for continuing
• Madam Chair and members of the committee, my name is Noelle Lee, head of Mindcast AI.

Bills: SB5831, SB6178

Keywords: mortgage modification, uniform regulations, homeowners, financial stability, foreclosure prevention, SB6178, property insurance, insurance claims, assignment of benefits, AOB, post-loss assignment, post-loss benefits, homeowners insurance, policyholder, insured, restoration contractor, mitigation contractor, public adjuster, insurance commissioner, claims handling

Transcript Highlights:

• Senator Berman, there is a House companion bill here.
• Senator, there is a companion House bill. Senator, there is a companion House bill.
• Senator Wright, there is a House companion here.
• Senator Arrington, the House companion is here.
• Senator Errington, the House companion is here.

Keywords: 998, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• SB 903 simply clarifies that AI is not exempt from that rule, prohibiting AI from independently interacting
• AI systems are not. Without clear guardrails, AI chatbots that mimic therapeutic relationships...
• AI systems are not. Without clear guardrails, AI chatbots that mimic therapeutic relationships.
• And then the AI should be in support of that.
• Thank you to the author for all the work you've done to make sure that companion chatbots and other AI

Summary: The Assembly Business and Professions Committee heard several Senate bills, with most of the discussion focused on worker training, public safety, and consumer protection. SB 1203 by Senator Smallwood-Cuevas would expand training and de-escalation requirements for private security officers. Supporters, including security workers and labor groups, said the bill would better prepare officers who often respond first to mental health crises and violent incidents. Opponents, including security industry representatives and business groups, argued it would impose major costs, create training bottlenecks, and could reduce licensed security coverage. The committee ultimately voted the bill out on a due pass recommendation to Labor and Employment, with some members noting future amendments to address training capacity and employer-provided training. The committee also approved SB 936 by Senator Blakespear, which would restrict retail sales of nitrous oxide canisters larger than 8 grams while preserving legitimate medical, dental, culinary, and automotive uses. Support came from county officials, public health groups, waste management organizations, law enforcement, and local governments, who described rising misuse, impaired driving, and recycling hazards. No opposition testimony was presented, and the bill passed to Public Safety. SB 1271 by Senator Reyes, aimed at strengthening California’s midwifery training pipeline by requiring data collection on licensed midwife preceptor capacity, also passed unanimously to Health. Supporters said the bill would help address shortages in rural birth care and improve access to training for aspiring midwives. SB 903 by Senator Padilla, which would place guardrails on the use of AI in mental health and psychotherapy settings and prohibit AI from being marketed as a therapist, drew emotional testimony from a mother whose son died by suicide after extensive chatbot interactions. Health and behavioral health groups supported the measure, while several industry and health organizations were opposed unless amended; the committee nevertheless sent it to Privacy and Consumer Protection on a unanimous vote. The committee also approved SB 1165 on consent and then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• uh for those projects and the AIS uh for those projects and the original<00:54:49.960><c> version</c
• </c><00:54:59.720><c> to</c> so we don't see the need for an AIS to so we don't see the need for an AIS
• </c><00:56:10.400><c> um</c><00:56:10.680><c> I</c> bill where it references an AIS um I bill where it
• references an AIS um I think<00:56:10.920><c> the</c><00:56:11.079><c> intent</c><00:56:11.599><c> of
• we're going to go with AIS we're going to go with archaeological<00:56:55.880><c> monitor</c><00:56:

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committee heard several measures, beginning with SB 946 on wastewater management, which would clarify that the ban on discharging wastewater or raw sewage into state waters after 12/31/26 applies to treatment plants. Testimony was in support from the Department of Health, Maui County Council, Mayor Bisson, and individuals, and no one testified in opposition. SB 849 on wildlife conservation would prohibit intentional taking, harming, or killing of the Hawaiian hawk (ʻio) and increase penalties for taking native aquatic life, wildlife, and land plants; DLNR supported the bill, noting the ʻio was delisted federally in 2020 and that the measure also updates penalties and adds a rehabilitation/community service option. No questions were raised, and the bill drew support testimony only. For SB 330 on invasive species prevention, the Attorney General raised a supremacy clause concern with language requiring state enforcement of federal quarantines and recommended reverting to a prior version with a catchall for federal regulation. The Coordinating Group on Alien Pest Species supported the bill as a way to close a biosecurity gap, while the Department of Agriculture said it supported the intent but wanted to avoid acting without a cooperative agreement with USDA and suggested deleting the portion allowing action without such an agreement. The committee also heard SB 1393 on public land use, which would require the School Facilities Authority to consult with DOE and other agencies before land conveyances or leases and repeal a requirement that DOE transfer title upon request; both SFA and DOE supported the measure, with DOE emphasizing the need for early communication and consultation, and members asked about possible disagreements or stalemates. The committee then heard SB 321 on private roads and ways, which would deem certain privately owned roads and similar ways transferred to adjacent owners or community associations if conditions are met. The Hawaii Land Title Association said the bill as drafted would create uncertainty and proposed a court process to clarify ownership and create a recordable order; written support came from the Mortgage Bankers Association of Hawaii, Hawaii Financial Services Association, and one individual. SB 66 on housing permitting would require permit decisions within 60 days for certain housing projects and deem permits approved in some circumstances; DLNR’s historic preservation office supported the intent but noted county historic preservation roles, OHA suggested amendments to clarify county duties, and DPP opposed the time limits as risky for health and safety reviews, warning about back-and-forth review cycles and possible mismatches between approved plans and field work. Realtors, NAIOP, Hawaii Food Industry Association, Hawaii YIMBY, and the Maui Chamber supported the measure, while Lahaina Strong, Hawaii Good Neighbor, and two individuals opposed it. Finally, the committee heard SB 1170 on expeditious redevelopment of affordable rental housing, which would speed permits for rebuilding permanently affordable multifamily rental housing damaged by natural disasters and exempt certain projects from EIS requirements. HHFDC supported the bill, citing the Front Street Apartments rebuild and the long SMA permit timeline on Maui, and the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development supported the intent while suggesting technical placement of amendments. Testimony in support also came from the Maui Chamber of Commerce and Joe Blanco, who described difficulties rebuilding a project originally developed under older statutory requirements and said the bill’s added language addressed those issues.

Transcript Highlights:

• So what this bill does, it requires providers of companion animal cremation to provide a written description
• of the things that the targeted spray technology does, this is an illustration of where we're using AI
• The point is that AI and robotics, we think, can be developed to benefit not just large growers but also
• The point is that AI and robotics we think can be developed to benefit not just large growers but also
• trained in engineering, genetics, AI, robotics, aquatic animal health, and climate resilience systems

Summary: The Committee on Agriculture convened, took roll, and heard Senate Bill 58 by Senator Harrow, which would create regulation for companion animal cremation. Harrow described a case involving mishandled pet remains and said the bill would require written service descriptions, prohibit false or misleading statements, require certification with returned remains, authorize Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services rulemaking, and impose civil penalties for violations. With no questions or public opposition, the committee voted the bill favorably. The committee then heard presentations on robotics in agriculture and aquaculture. Dr. Nathan Boyd of UF/IFAS discussed the rapid growth of agricultural robotics, including AI-driven weed detection, targeted spraying, autonomous tractors, and harvesting technology, emphasizing reduced pesticide use, lower input costs, and labor-saving automation. Dr. Nicole Kirchoff of Live Advantage Bait and Adrian Johnson of the Florida Shellfish Aquaculture Association highlighted aquaculture’s economic and environmental value, Florida’s strong position in the industry, and challenges including hurricane losses, lack of insurance, land-use instability, capital access, and water quality. They urged support for working waterfronts, risk mitigation, and policies to help the sector commercialize and expand. The committee also heard from dairy producers Kevin Lusher and Jacob Larson. Lusher described his family’s dairy and artisan cheese business, noting reliance on USDA grants, rising costs, labor shortages, and regulatory burdens, and asked for more grant support, marketing for Fresh From Florida products, and permanent funding for Farmers Feeding Florida. Larson discussed the broader dairy market, declining herd sizes due to efficiency gains, high production costs in Florida, and competition from out-of-state processing, suggesting incentives for local processing and supply management. Finally, FDOT Chief Planner Wayway Schen presented on arterial and local road funding programs, including ART, ARTW, SCOP, SCRAP, CIGP, and TRIP, and said rural road needs remain significant, with more than $16 billion in unfunded or partially funded project needs. The committee adjourned after brief discussion and thanks to the presenters.

Transcript Highlights:

• of time and to prevent tedious repetition, I won't provide background on this bill since it's the companion
• In Section 2 of 6113, the same exemption for nonprofits that was in Section 2 of the House Companion
• When the House companion was in this committee, you adopted an amendment to a...
• When the House companion was in this committee, you adopted an amendment to exempt nonprofits, and we
• Last year, we held a conference dedicated to AI and health care with experts from the physician and tech

Summary: House Finance met in executive session on Gross Substitute Senate Bill 6346, the proposed “millionaires’ income tax” package. Staff reviewed the bill and a long list of amendments affecting the new income tax, related business tax changes, and several exemptions and implementation provisions. The committee adopted amendments to exempt diapers from sales tax, allow certain tribal income treatment clarifications, create an advisory group to help implement the tax, move up the repeal date for some business tax changes, and require the measure to go to the voters; several other amendments on federal conformity, agricultural income, pass-through entities, and the marriage threshold were rejected or withdrawn. The committee then adopted the striking amendment as amended and advanced the bill on a 9-6 do pass vote, with supporters arguing it would fund education, health care, child care, and tax relief, and opponents warning about competitiveness, capital flight, and the state’s spending growth. The committee then held a public hearing on Senate Bill 6097, which would add federally recognized Indian tribes as eligible entities for county Conservation Futures Program funding. Staff said the bill would not change the tax levy structure and would have no state revenue impact, while tribal witnesses said it would improve voluntary conservation partnerships for habitat, farmland, and open space. Members asked about the bill’s scope, and staff confirmed it applies only to federally recognized tribes. House Finance also heard Senate Bill 6162, a property tax reform measure that would consolidate the state school levy, expand senior and disability property tax exemptions, raise income thresholds, and simplify the application process with a standard deduction. The prime sponsor and county assessors supported the bill as a way to help seniors, disabled persons, and disabled veterans stay in their homes and reduce administrative burden, while several testifiers opposed it as a tax shift that would raise costs for others and potentially strain local revenues. Finally, the committee heard Senate Bill 6113, an administrative and technical tax cleanup bill related to last year’s tax changes; the Department of Revenue supported it and noted a possible clarifying amendment, while nonprofits, schools, libraries, health care groups, workforce training providers, and trade associations asked for additional exemptions for live presentations and related educational activities. The chair announced that Senate Bill 6097 would be added to Monday’s executive session, Senate Bill 6114 was removed, and amendments for Monday’s bills were due by 5 p.m. that day.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm sorry, there is a Senate companion to... I got a five o'clock.
• This is the Senate companion to HB4560 by Representative Anchia. that we have already heard in committee
• This is the Senate companion to HB4479 by Representative Ashby that we have already heard in the Committee
• This is the Senate companion to HB4196 by Representative...
• It is the Senate companion to HB4196 by Representative Aldous that we have already heard and voted out

Bills: HB 1087, HB2504, HB4113, HB5144, HB5146, HB5377, HB5543, SB140, SB264, SB1244, SB1343, SB2121, HR868

Keywords: property owners, board vacancy, special election, association governance, community management, property owners' association, resale certificate, fees, real estate regulation, homeowners, HB 4113, Texas Rising Star Program, child care, child-care providers, Texas Workforce Commission, TWC, safety barriers, crash-rated bollards, bollards, playground safety

Transcript Highlights:

• There's a teaching with AI and there's the teaching about AI.
• but AI technology.
• of AI.
• You see some of the programs that we're currently using that have AI and generative AI.
• Every one of our courses will have an AI element inside of them. And all AI is, and Dr.

Summary: The Senate Committee on Education Pre-K through 12 met to hear a panel discussion on artificial intelligence in K-12 education. Dr. Maya Israel of the University of Florida gave an overview of AI literacy, the benefits of AI for personalized learning and teacher support, and the risks involving data privacy, overreliance, hallucinations, and misuse. She described the Florida K-12 AI Task Force, which published statewide guidance in March and is now providing professional development, case studies, surveys, and resources for teachers and families. She also noted that teacher preparation programs and microcredentials are being developed, but there is not yet a statewide baseline standard for teacher AI training. Superintendents Van Ayers of Hillsborough County and Kevin Hendrick of Pinellas County described district policies and implementation efforts. Hillsborough adopted an AI governance policy, created an implementation guide, and set rules barring generative AI use for students in pre-K through 7th grade while allowing limited, teacher-approved use for older students with district-vetted tools. Pinellas emphasized digital responsibility, parent transparency, data-use agreements, and a governance process for approving tools. Both districts said AI is being used for lesson planning, tutoring, reading-level adjustments, scheduling, and other administrative tasks, but they do not yet have reliable evidence that AI is improving academic performance. They also discussed teacher training, stipends, and certification efforts, including partnerships with universities and vendors such as Microsoft, Google, Magic School, and Gemini. Drew Allen of FSU Inspire offered an industry-focused perspective, arguing that AI is not new but that education must adapt more quickly to industry needs. He described Inspire’s workforce and research mission, its AI and robotics training for teachers, and the need to build teacher comfort and confidence through incentives and applied training. Committee members raised concerns about student dependence on AI, academic integrity, mental health, moral decision-making, data privacy, and whether schools should return to more paper-based testing. The panel generally agreed that AI should be used with strong guardrails, human oversight, and a balance between technology use and traditional learning. No legislation was considered, and the meeting ended with a motion to adjourn, which was adopted without objection.

Transcript Highlights:

• The clerk will read the summary of the bill: This bill establishes safeguards for the use of AI companions
• This bill establishes safeguards for the use of AI companions. Will the House agree to the bill?

Summary: The House began with ceremonial recognitions, including guests of Representatives Benham and Warren and a farewell acknowledgment for longtime floor staffer Michelle Martin, who is leaving House service for a role in the Senate. The chamber then took up caucus and committee announcements, recessed several times, and later returned to consider a series of committee reports and bills. House and Senate bills were reported from Rules, Appropriations, and Judiciary, including referrals of several measures to committees. The House adopted House Resolution 515 unanimously, urging Congress to review Major Richard D. Winner’s actions for possible Medal of Honor recognition. It also adopted House Resolution 208, directing a performance audit of services, wait times, and processes in the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services; supporters said it would help improve services for Pennsylvanians with vision impairment, while the vote was 201-1. The chamber then passed several bills with amendments, including measures on foster care youth benefits, AI companion safeguards, prison industry enhancement program administration, memorial bridge designations, firefighter and EMS donation options through PennDOT renewals, horse-racing background checks, and fertility preservation coverage. Several bills reached final passage. House Bill 1239, limiting homeowners associations from restricting rooftop solar installations, passed 109-93. House Bill 2146, amending the Sunshine Act to tighten the 24-hour agenda notice rule while preserving limited exceptions, passed 193-9 after debate over transparency and local-government flexibility. House Bill 2558, banning non-compete agreements for broadcast workers, passed narrowly 103-99 amid objections from Republicans and concerns about impacts on local broadcasters and contract rights. Senate Bills 971 and 972 also passed finally, dealing with township audit deadlines and municipal memorials for first responders. The House also approved House Bill 2412, funding state-related universities for fiscal year 2026-27, by 155-47 after debate over Penn State’s campus closures, accountability, and per-student funding differences; House Bill 2413, appropriating funds to the University of Pennsylvania, passed 195-7. The chamber then moved several bills back to Appropriations, signed Senate Bills 971 and 972, and adjourned until the next scheduled session.

Transcript Highlights:

• So AI chatbots are the next unregulated frontier.
• The first being an expert council on well-being and AI.
• At AI chat about guardrails, again, we talked about this.
• Encode believes that any child legislation on AI and chatbots or companion bots should maintain all avenues
• Encode believes that any child legislation on AI and chatbots or companion bots should maintain all avenues

Summary: The hearing focused on online safety controls and whether parental controls are sufficient to protect children on social media and other digital platforms. The chair and several members framed the issue as a child safety and public health problem, not just a technology issue, and said the goal was to understand what parental controls do, where they fail, and what policy solutions might be needed. Opening remarks also emphasized that California should lead on safer online spaces for children. Victoria and Paul Hinks gave emotional testimony about the death of their daughter, Alexandra, saying that despite using screen time limits, content filters, app restrictions, and other parental controls, their daughter was still exposed to harmful content and found ways around the settings. Researchers and advocates from Stanford, Children Now, and other organizations said parents face major challenges because digital parenting is complicated, platforms and apps change constantly, children can bypass controls, and many tools are costly or inaccessible. They argued that parental controls are often incomplete, hard to use, and not enough on their own to prevent harms such as cyberbullying, self-harm content, eating disorder content, and exploitation. Witnesses also discussed broader risks in digital spaces, including mental health harms, addiction, fentanyl-related contact through social media, and concerns about AI chatbots. Several speakers said safety should be built into products from the start, with stronger age assurance, clearer reporting systems, independent standards, and corporate accountability. Members asked about what “safe” means, whether other countries’ restrictions are effective, and which features are most harmful. There was broad agreement that no single tool is enough and that multiple layers of protection are needed. The final panel featured representatives from Meta, Google, OpenAI, and Roblox, who described their companies’ teen safety features and parental tools. They pointed to default protections for minors, content limits, bedtime and screen-time tools, age assurance efforts, and new parent notifications for certain self-harm searches. They also supported legislation on age assurance and app-store parental approval. Members pressed the companies on whether their tools are truly effective, and several witnesses acknowledged that current systems still have gaps and that more work is needed.

Bills: SB5906, SJM8014, SB6087, SB5520, SB6017, SB5890, SB6239, SB5886, SB6190, SGA9255, SGA9256, SGA9271, SGA9272

Keywords: data protection, personal safety, public accommodation, Washington residents, privacy, crime investigation, violent death, Aysenur Ezgi Eygi, state inquiry, public safety, children's items, donations, charitable donations, nonprofit, religious organization, public health agency, liability shield, gross negligence, intentional misconduct, car seats

Summary: The Law and Justice Committee first held public hearings on four gubernatorial appointments to the Sentencing Guidelines Commission. Kristen Ferreira, a Chelan County Superior Court judge, said she would bring a smaller-court and rural perspective. Lisa Mannion, King County Prosecuting Attorney, said she would contribute prosecutorial experience and support a fairer, more transparent sentencing system; Senator Wagoner asked about her role with the Washington Alliance for Gun Responsibility, and she said responsible gun ownership and Second Amendment rights can coexist. Kate Bedward, a longtime public defender and tribal defender, said her appellate work gave her insight into how sentencing affects people in Washington. Rochelle Cleland, seeking renewal as the survivor/lived-experience member, emphasized the need for survivor and victim voices on the commission and criticized the commission’s handling of recent reform votes and the vacant victim seat. The chair said the committee would take action on all four appointments on Tuesday and then move them to the floor. In executive session, the committee worked through several bills. SB 5906 on data and personal safety protections in public accommodations was amended with a substitute and an amendment requiring early learning providers and school districts to notify a union representative if a unionized employee is subject to immigration enforcement at the site; it received a do pass recommendation. SJM 8014, requesting an investigation into the killing of Aishinaw Eski Aege, was amended to make the memorial more objective and also received a do pass recommendation. SB 6087, expanding liability protections for donations of baby items, was adopted with a substitute and passed out of committee. SB 5520, the Wrongly Convicted Persons Act, saw two proposed amendments fail: one would have removed civil detention as a basis for compensation claims, and another would have eliminated advance payments within 30 days of judgment; the underlying substitute then passed out of committee. The committee also advanced SB 6017 on victim-centered, trauma-informed responses, adopting a substitute that changes how courts may handle direct questioning of victim witnesses in sexual assault and domestic violence cases; an amendment to let victim witnesses request the procedure was withdrawn for later floor work, and the bill was sent to Ways and Means. SB 5890 on reckless driving involving excessive speed was amended to create negligent driving in the first degree for driving more than 30 mph over the limit and passed to Rules. SB 6239 on arbitration for tort claims was amended to require mandatory arbitration for older claims and permissive arbitration for newer ones, then passed to Rules. SB 5886 on forged digital likenesses was combined with related language and passed to Rules. SB 6190 on protection of critical infrastructure was amended to require photos and database reporting for scrap metal transactions and then passed to Rules. The committee adjourned after completing its business.

Transcript Highlights:

• The Senate companion is over and eligible. The chair lays out on second reading SB 365.
• The Senate companion is over and eligible. The chair lays out on second reading SB 1786.
• Who's going to lead on AI development and who's going to capture that technology?
• What AI systems can. and cannot do.
• Your staff did a great job, or AI wrote that layout? We're still... human first in my office.

Bills: HB14, HJR31, HB43, HB18, HB 106, HB36, HB26, HB149, HB 121, HB206, HB136, HB3114, HB2733, HB1732, HB3700, HB467, HB 1130, HB1846, HB1442, HB 1147, HB2176, HB2701, HB805, HB2890, HB 1154, HB1644, HB2118, HB1718, HB2488, HB2596, HB1971, HB2468, HB484, HB2578, HB3204, HB 1041, HB307, HB685, HB1710, HB538, HB2525, HB3125, HB2027, HB2894, HB3077, HB3684, HJR99, HB1399, HJR5, HB1330, HB2110, HJR2, HJR6, HB1587, HB14, HJR31, HB43, HB18, HB 106, HB36, HB26, HB149, HB 121, HB206, HB136, HB3114, HB2733, HB1732, HB3700, HB467, HB 1130, HB1846, HB1442, HB 1147, HB2176, HB2701, HB805, HB2890, HB 1154, HB1644, HB2118, HB1718, HB2488, HB2596, HB1971, HB2468, HB484, HB2578, HB3204, HB 1041, HB307, HB685, HB1710, HB538, HB2525, HB3125, HB2027, HB2894, HB3077, HB3684

Keywords: nuclear energy, advanced reactors, energy security, grant programs, Texas Advanced Nuclear Energy Office, farm products, tax exemption, ad valorem taxation, agriculture, Texas Constitution, livestock, producer, finance, young farmers, financial assistance, pest control, rural health, hospital funding, healthcare access, mental health services

Transcript Highlights:

• Our Senate rules talk about these bills that are not companion bills needing to go to the policy committee
• language is similar, and we have heard the underlying bill, it's still a new bill that does not have a companion
• With the increasing use of AI, particularly in health care, patients really truly deserve to know exactly
• So this bill just addresses a potential use of AI in nursing, and it clarifies that the only legal use
• And this bill is a perfect example of making sure that the algorithms, the Internet, AI, don't represent

Bills: SB5223, SB6071, SB5966, SB6061, SB6016, SB5973, SB5053, SB5249, SB6190, SB5574, SB6263, SB6282, SB5950, SB6074, SB6096, SB5609, SB5943, SJM8016, SB5907, SB6155, SB6158, SB6227, SB6085, SB6234, SB6274, SB5909, SB6045, SB6089, SB6170, SB5954, SB5762, SB6032, SB6082, SB6164, SB6176, SB6319, SB6308, SB6177, SB6052, SB6182, SB6335, SB6017, SB5470, SB5990, SB5046, SB5387, SB5637, SB5647, SB5839, SB5888, SB5962, SB6018, SB6037, SB6047, SB6078, SB6130, SB6147, SB6256, HB2155, HB2304, HB2367, HB2606, SB5998, SB6005

Keywords: criminal offense, fingerprinting, law enforcement, state regulations, public safety, overpayment recovery, modernization, health care, legislation, healthcare, nutrition, medically tailored meals, dietary support, food security, chronic illness, tourism, self-supported assessment, funding, statewide promotion, economic development

Summary: The Senate opened with ceremonial remarks, approved the previous day’s journal, and then moved through introductions, committee referrals, and caucus breaks. A resolution recognizing Ramadan, Senate Resolution 8680, was adopted after remarks from Senator Trudeau emphasizing charity, self-reflection, and restraint, and several members spoke in support of religious inclusion and community recognition. The chamber then took up several bills on final passage. House Bill 2304, expanding warranty options to encourage more condominium construction, passed overwhelmingly. Substitute House Bill 2492, requiring behavioral health and wellness training in construction apprenticeships, also passed after supporters cited high rates of mental health struggles and suicides in the trades. Substitute House Bill 2228, directing work on scissors stairs to improve housing efficiency, passed as well, as did Second Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1541, which revises the Veterans Affairs Advisory Committee to add more military and veteran experience. The most extended debate centered on Substitute House Bill 2355, the Domestic Workers’ Bill of Rights. Supporters argued it would provide basic labor protections, written agreements, minimum wage, and remedies for domestic workers, while opponents warned it would burden families, independent contractors, and small jobs with contracts, notice requirements, and private lawsuits. Several proposed amendments to narrow coverage or remove the private right of action were rejected, and the bill ultimately passed 28–20. The Senate also passed House Bill 2155 on nursing title use in the context of AI, Engrossed Substitute House Bill 2242 on preventive services and state health guidance, Substitute House Bill 2269 on middle housing in unincorporated areas, and Engrossed House Bill 1501 on HOA/unit-owner inquiries after adopting a committee striking amendment. The Senate adjourned until the next morning.

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• Members, we will be taking up discussion of companion measures in tandem, beginning with HSCR No. 1716

Keywords: 910, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• We’re experts in AI, and everything that you’ve seen in the news about generative AI and everything that
• Members, this is the companion bill to House Bill 118.
• Members, this is the companion bill to House Bill 118. Senator Hughes.
• Members, this is the companion bill to House Bill 118.
• Members, this is the companion bill to House Bill 2337 by Chairman Frank.

Bills: HB1455, HB1777, HB2101, HB2136, HB2609, HB3142, HB3552, HB3846, HB4155, HB4514, HB4879, HB4995, HB5014, HB5139, HB5228, HB5436, HCR40

Keywords: mental health, jail diversion, law enforcement, reporting requirements, criminal justice, data collection, criminal justice reform, intellectual disability, mental illness, data reporting, public safety, reporting, substance abuse, sex offender, driver's license, identification, gunshot detection, unreported gunshots, municipal police, crime investigation

Summary: The committee met with a quorum and heard several bills, generally leaving them pending after testimony. HB 4995 would create a training/certification program allowing licensed physicians and certain EMS personnel assigned to tactical units to carry firearms during high-risk deployments, with supporters saying it would protect tactical medical staff and improve emergency care; the committee substitute was withdrawn and the bill left pending. HB 2609 would repeal the OmniBase/failure-to-appear-or-pay license hold program; the author and supporters argued it unfairly compounds debt and traps drivers in noncompliance, while judges and municipal court representatives said it is an effective, voluntary tool that prompts court appearances and reduces warrants. HB 4879 would create a grant program to help local law enforcement pay for lab testing of suspected hemp/THC substances, and HB 5436 would allow licensed auto recyclers to purchase certain untitled vehicles for scrap or parts to curb illegal sales, VIN cloning, and chop shop activity; both bills drew supportive testimony and were left pending. The committee also heard HB 1777, which would place a discrete sex-offender designation on driver’s licenses and state IDs for registrants under Chapter 62. The author said the marker would help law enforcement and businesses quickly identify potentially dangerous offenders and cited other states and research in support, while opponents argued it would function as a scarlet letter, increase harassment, and punish people who are already complying with the law. HB 4155 would create a Family Violence Criminal Homicide Prevention Task Force in the Governor’s Office to study risk factors, coordinate agencies, and recommend policy changes; the author, HHSC, TCFV, and a survivor testified in support, emphasizing the number of family violence homicides and the need for coordinated, data-driven prevention, and the bill was left pending. Finally, HB 4514 would authorize DPS to use facial image verification, with consent and confidentiality protections, to help businesses verify identities and combat fraud. Supporters from the lumber and identity-verification industries said it would reduce losses from fake IDs and organized theft, while the author stressed privacy safeguards and limited, consent-based use. The committee substitute was withdrawn and the bill was left pending.

Transcript Highlights:

• also provide energy-efficient service to help lower energy costs and water use for data centers and AI
• several from the United States, including the chief legal officer, the chief security officer, the chief AI
• I mean, there's a lot of AI bills floating around here.
• I mean, there's a lot of AI bills floating around here.
• Fitzgerald said H.R. 171 is a companion to H.R. 17 and that it calls for a study of the workforce-aligned

Bills: HR171, HCR49, HB632, HB1084, SB310, SB351, SB399

Keywords: HR171, House Resolution 171, M.J. Foster Promise Program, TOPS-Tech, TOPS Tech Award, Board of Regents, Louisiana Works, Louisiana Community and Technical College System, LCATCS, financial aid, scholarship, workforce development, career training, technical education, vocational education, postsecondary credential, associate degree, industry-based credential, high-demand jobs, high-wage occupations

Transcript Highlights:

• So if you have seen some of these companion apps being able, like Grok on Twitter, where they're able
• So if you have seen like some of these companion bops being able like GROC on Twitter where they're able
• Members, if you've been following the news about wearable AI devices, you've seen growing concerns about
• Many AI devices can also record audio and use artificial intelligence to transcribe conversations in
• transmitted back to the companies that make these devices, where the data may be stored, used to train AI

Bills: HCR6, HCR19, HB81, HB134, HB154, HB163, HB170, HB194, HB254, HB318, HB410, HB473, HB485, HB718, HB970

Keywords: HCR 6, House Concurrent Resolution 6, successions, intestate succession, testate succession, disinheritance, disinherison, forced heirship, forced heir, legitime, estranged heir, estranged child, inheritance, estate planning, wills, testaments, Civil Code Article 1617, Civil Code Article 1618, Civil Code Article 1619, Civil Code Article 1620