Video & Transcript : 'cistern program' :
Page 204 of 500
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
Committee on Housing and Homelessness Prevention - 02/11/25
Housing and Homelessness Prevention
Transcript Highlights:
- 19.880><c> we</c> underlying uh premise of the program we underlying uh premise of the program we all
- as just the Challenge Program.
- This program also offers voluntary case management and a children's program for the residents.
- This program also offers voluntary case management and a children's program for the residents.
- </c><01:05:22.799><c> for</c><01:05:22.960><c> the</c> children's program for the children's program
Committee:
Senate Housing and Homelessness Prevention
HI
Transcript Highlights:
- the programming.
- We love the furlough program. We support the furlough program.
- . programming. programming.
- </c> programs that we would see? programs that we would see?
- </c> to complete said program. to complete said program.
Bills:
HB1769
Committee:
House Public Safety
Keywords:
criminal justice reform, rehabilitation, private prisons, racial equity, Native Hawaiians, community well-being, mass incarceration, 910, house, all
Summary:
The committee heard House Bill 1769, which would require the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to incrementally reduce the number of people incarcerated in private out-of-state correctional institutions. The DCR director opposed the bill, saying the department does not control overall prison population levels because courts determine admissions, and arguing that Hawaiʻi’s in-state facilities are already over capacity, especially Halawa, which he said is 165% over design capacity. He said only a small portion of the population is under departmental control through furlough programs and argued that bringing people home would require building a new medium-security prison.
Supporters, including the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, the Hawaii Correctional System Oversight Commission, the Public Defender’s office, and several individuals, argued the bill creates a phased, accountable path to reduce reliance on mainland prisons and bring people home. Supporters emphasized the harms of separating incarcerated people from ʻohana and culture, the disproportionate impact on Native Hawaiians, and the need for diversion, treatment, re-entry support, and fair sentencing. Several testifiers also said the department has more control than it claimed, pointing to underused furlough options, reclassification, and empty beds at some in-state facilities, while others urged clearer statutory language and guardrails.
Members questioned the director about whether people could be reclassified or moved to available beds at facilities such as Kulani and Waiawa, and about whether the department could do more through staffing and contract changes. The director said some proposals had been sent to the Department of Human Resource Development, but that major facility changes would be costly and that minimum-security facilities would need substantial upgrades to house medium-security inmates. After discussion, the chair said the committee would defer HB 1769 to Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. for decision-making and adjourned the meeting.
MN
Minnesota 2025-2026 Regular Session
House Agriculture Finance and Policy Committee 2/12/25
Agriculture Finance and Policy
Transcript Highlights:
- Density Grant Program, and the line extension programs, and that they also handled data.
- and Low Population Program.
- is the line extension program and state is the line extension program and in<00:45:15.599><c> 2022</
- > businesses</c> program this program actually businesses program this program actually businesses and
- and Deployment Program.
Committee:
House Agriculture Finance and Policy
WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Early Learning & K-12 Education Feb 25th, 2026 at 10:30 am
Early Learning & K-12 Education
Transcript Highlights:
- Implement comprehensive literacy programs.
- Those were requirements of the comprehensive literacy program in the underlying bill.
- For that program. It's not subject to appropriations. Right.
- So the district would have to pay the money for the program. I would think so. Yes.
- , and the striker removes the requirement to implement that program.
Committee:
Senate Early Learning & K-12 Education
WA
Washington 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Early Learning & K-12 Education Feb 25th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- Those were requirements of the comprehensive literacy program in the underlying bill.
- There is no language in the bill that requires the state to provide funding for that program.
- So the district would have to pay the money for the program. I would think so. Yes.
- The fiscal notes don't estimate, that I recall, don't estimate a cost for that program.
- , and the striker removes the requirement to implement that program.
Summary:
The committee met for its final executive session of the session and took up several House bills related to early learning and K-12 education. House Bill 1795 on restraint and isolation in schools was briefed as prohibiting mechanical, chemical, and certain physical restraints, limiting isolation, and barring new isolation rooms; a proposed amendment to the striker was defeated, and the bill then advanced. House Bill 2219 on child care licensing and drug safety was briefed as requiring licensed child care settings to be free of high-potency synthetic opioids, drug paraphernalia, and manufacturing equipment, with amendments to add drug testing and broader controlled-substance prohibitions; both amendments failed, and the striker was adopted before the bill advanced. House Bill 1295 on literacy was described as setting curriculum and educator training requirements; the committee adopted a striking amendment that removed some district implementation and continuing-education requirements, then advanced the bill. The committee also heard briefings on House Bill 1634 on behavioral health supports in schools, House Bill 2557 on timelines for special education evaluation reports and eligibility meetings, and House Bill 2636 creating a public education review steering committee and JLARC review process, all of which had no amendments at the briefing stage.
In formal action, the committee voted to adopt the striker on HB 1295 and then passed HB 1795, HB 2219, HB 1295, HB 1634, and HB 2557 out of committee with due pass recommendations. HB 2636 was also advanced, but to the Ways and Means Committee rather than the Rules Committee. Several members noted concerns about costs and unfunded mandates, particularly regarding literacy implementation and child care safety provisions, while supporters emphasized student safety, child care safety, and clarity in existing law. The meeting ended with thanks to staff and adjournment.
VT
Vermont 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Session - 2026-05-12 - 10:00AM
Vermont Senate Floor Meeting
LA
Louisiana 2026 Regular Session
Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture, and Rural Development May 7th, 2026
Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture & Rural Development
Transcript Highlights:
- Maybe it's a program. I had to Act 30, Section 32 in that program, I mean, in that act.
- Maybe it's a program.
- 32 in that program, I mean, in that act.
- We also have Master of Science programs and a post-baccalaureate program in dietetics.
- Probably one of our top programs is our beef cattle program, production. And we developed via Dr.
Summary:
The House Committee on Agriculture, Forestry, Aquaculture, and Rural Development met to approve the October 3, 2024 interim minutes and then took up two resolutions. HCR 205, by Representative Kerner, urged USDA to use its Commodity Procurement Program to purchase domestic Louisiana shrimp. Supporters said shrimpers are facing very low prices, full cold storage, and an urgent need for federal purchases to stabilize the market and help local processors and fishermen. Commissioner Mike Strain explained that USDA commodity purchases can support schools, nursing homes, and food banks, and members discussed the need for cold storage, marketing, and better promotion of local seafood. The resolution was reported favorably without objection. The committee also considered HCR 188, which memorializes Congress to oppose any federal farm bill language that could negatively affect the use of hunting dogs; members said the provision had raised concerns about field trials, scent hounds, and hunting practices, and the resolution was also reported favorably without objection.
The committee then received a presentation from Southern University Ag Center and College of Agriculture leadership, led by interim president and chancellor Orlando McMeans and Executive Vice Chancellor Calvin Walker. They outlined the center’s research, teaching, and extension work, including medicinal cannabis research, beef cattle and smart ranching, viticulture, aquaculture, precision agriculture, food and nutrition, and support for small farmers and K-12 dual enrollment. They highlighted scholarship and enrollment programs, including USDA-supported 1890 scholars and JAG Stars, as well as partnerships with LSU and USDA. They also described major facility projects, including a high-tech meat processing facility, research labs, a vineyard, and a proposed 1,300-bed disaster shelter/mega shelter at the experiment station.
Members asked questions about meat-cutting and processing training, cattle genetics, and the shelter’s use when not needed for disasters. Southern officials said the new processing facility is intended to support training and workforce development, and that the shelter could also be used for events such as weddings, graduations, and agricultural activities. The committee expressed appreciation for the presentation and the work of the Ag Center. Representative Broussard then moved to adjourn, and the committee adjourned.
FL
Florida 2026 Regular Session
Appropriations Committee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development Nov 19th, 2025
Appropriations Committee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development
Transcript Highlights:
- So really excited about those programs.
- Another program I want to highlight is a rural community investment program.
- This is Another program I want to highlight is a rural community investment program.
- , some of these are federal programs.
- So to be upfront, these programs are not viewed traditionally as economic development programs.
Summary:
The Appropriations Committee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development met to hear presentations from the Department of Commerce and the Florida Department of Transportation. Jason Mahon of Florida Commerce outlined the state’s economic development strategy, emphasizing Florida’s GDP growth, business formation, and strengths in manufacturing, high-tech, life sciences, defense, and financial services. He described the department’s tools for small business lending, rural investment tax credits, venture capital support, infrastructure and workforce grants, performance-based incentives, and disaster recovery loans, and highlighted examples such as ServiceNow, Williams International, Asteris, and Point Blank Enterprises. Senators asked about grant availability for small businesses, foreign companies relocating to Florida, workforce shortages in manufacturing, and whether additional tools may be needed; Mahon said most small-business support is loan-based and noted ongoing workforce and infrastructure challenges.
Jennifer Marshall of FDOT then reviewed major transportation projects and the Moving Florida Forward initiative, describing the state’s large portfolio of active contracts and major congestion-relief projects across Florida. She highlighted early completions and accelerated timelines on projects including the NASA Causeway Bridge, I-95 at US 1 in Volusia County, I-4 congestion relief lanes, the First Coast Expressway, the Howard Frankland Bridge, I-4 interchanges in Central Florida, A1A coastal protection work, I-75 improvements in Southwest Florida, and the I-395 reconstruction in Miami. Senators asked about how express lane projects are selected, whether toll revenues are used for local maintenance and improvements, the status of the Miami I-395 project, and the impact of losing electric-vehicle express lane exemptions. Marshall said FDOT works with local long-range plans and congestion data, and that she would follow up on several specific funding and project questions.
Committee members generally praised both agencies for project delivery, cost savings, and coordination with local partners. Senator Mayfield noted the importance of using savings and working with local governments, while Senator Wright commended Commerce’s role in economic development and FDOT’s work on major road projects. The meeting concluded with no further business, and the committee adjourned.
NM
New Mexico 2025 Regular Session
IC - Federal Funding Stabilization Subcommittee Nov 7th, 2025
Federal Funding Stabilization Subcommittee
Transcript Highlights:
- Yes, I don't know all of the appropriated mandatory programs.
- Many programs could be funded by other revenue streams.
- The mandatory programs continue to operate.
- New Mexico has a supplemental SNAP program.
- And we get basically half of the program revenues.
TX
Texas 89th 2nd C.S.
S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education Mar 27th, 2025
S/C on Academic & Career-Oriented Education
Transcript Highlights:
- of their coursework online from a centralized district program.
- And he was able to stay on track through our hybrid programming.
- This program lets me follow my passion in a way that works for me.
- We are a Texas Rising Star program with the highest state rating possible.
- Specifically, our preschool and pre-K program.
Bills:
HB117
WY
Transcript Highlights:
- </c> that program um from 2000 to 2006. that program um from 2000 to 2006.
- programs.
- </c> because we do have four programs, great. because we do have four programs, great.
- The SRF program is great.
- </c> tightly defined infrastructure program. tightly defined infrastructure program.
Committee:
Joint Appropriations
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Subcommittee No. 4 on State Administration and General Government Mar 12th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- They're relatively new programs.
- However, we have hit significant milestones for both our CCFPL program and our debt collector program
- we view as still in pretty early stage as programs.
- There are significant challenges that this program has experienced.
- We want to get them into our intervention program.
Summary:
The subcommittee heard budget proposals for Exposition Park, the California Science Center, the Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI), the Debt Collection Licensing Act program, and the Board of Registered Nursing. For Exposition Park, the administration requested $96.5 million for utility replacement, site improvements, code compliance, accessibility, and safety upgrades, plus $1.698 million for operational sustainability funded from the park’s improvement fund. The LAO said the proposals had merit but noted the first item could be downscaled if needed because of the state’s budget condition. Members emphasized the park’s deferred maintenance, major upcoming events, and the need to protect a statewide asset; both Exposition Park items were held open.
The Science Center requested funding to open and operate the new Air and Space Center, including staffing for the facility that will display the Space Shuttle Endeavour and expand exhibit space. The LAO supported the proposal but suggested the Legislature consider alternative funding sources such as admission fees, parking fees, or private funds. Members discussed the Science Center’s public-private funding model, the importance of keeping access affordable for disadvantaged communities, and the tradeoff between free admission and long-term operating support. The item was also held open.
DFPI sought continuation of expenditure authority for the California Consumer Financial Protection Law, debt collection licensing, and broker-dealer/investment adviser workloads, and the LAO recommended limited-term funding with more cumulative reporting before permanent funding is considered. Members pressed the department on whether its workload and spending are tied to measurable outcomes rather than just activity counts, and DFPI cited complaint resolution, enforcement actions, and restitution recovered as examples of impact. The Debt Collection Licensing Act item drew similar LAO comments, but members raised stronger concerns about the financing model, the gap between projected and actual licensee counts, and whether spending levels are justified; that item was held open. The Board of Registered Nursing requested $1.4 million for eight special investigators to address rising complaints, and the board said most complaints are resolved through investigation, referral, probation, or rehabilitation rather than discipline. Members asked about complaint backlogs, viral and potentially automated complaints, bias in care, and the lack of broader inspection authority; the item was also held open.
FL
Florida 2026 Regular Session
Appropriations Committee on Higher Education Jan 21st, 2026
Appropriations Committee on Higher Education
Transcript Highlights:
- Programs like welding—we currently have a waiting list—and the upcoming electrician program demonstrate
- called the Watercraft and Vessel Engineering Program.
- of the program, and I'm an evangelist for the prepaid college program.
- And I have to say the prepaid program is an amazing program, has put so many kids through school and
- workforce programs aligned with today's labor market.
KY
Kentucky 2025 Regular Session
House Standing Committee on Health Services (3-14-25) -Upon Recess of House - 6PM
Transcript Highlights:
- , because it is a federal program.
- If they reduce the program in some way, if they increase the provisions of the program, then it will
- </c> decision to reform the this program decision to reform the this program because<00:03:48.439><c>
- It is a federal program.
- How's this program working?
Keywords:
00:25 Call to Order/Roll Call
01:36 Discussion of 25RS SB 153
23:11 Roll Call Vote on 25RS SB 153
30:56 Adjournment, 958, all
Summary:
The House Standing Committee on Health Services met on March 14, 2025, and took up a committee substitute for Senate Bill 153. The substitute deleted the original bill language and replaced it with provisions from Senate Bill 14, aimed at prohibiting pharmaceutical manufacturers from discriminating against 340B covered entities and adding reporting requirements for those entities. The sponsor explained that the protections would sunset after one year, allowing lawmakers to review data by July 1, 2026, and that Kentucky would continue to follow any future federal changes to the 340B program.
Members asked several questions about the scope of the reporting, including what “total operating cost” means, how duplicate discounts are prevented, whether the reporting applies only to hospitals and not federally qualified health centers, and who would receive the data. The sponsor said the reporting is intended to help the Cabinet for Health and Family Services and the Office of Health Data Analytics at LRC assess how the program is working, including charity care and community benefits, while preserving protections for rural hospitals and allowing them to continue using contract pharmacies. A representative from LRC confirmed the data would come to the General Assembly through the Office of Health Data Analytics.
The committee expressed mixed views about the balance between transparency and potential burdens on hospitals, especially rural facilities. Several members said they were supportive but had reservations about the reporting requirements and the sunset structure, while others noted concerns about unintended consequences and the possibility of changes on the House floor. The committee ultimately adopted the committee substitute, approved a title amendment, and reported Senate Bill 153 with House Committee Substitute 2 favorably. The meeting then adjourned.
NM
New Mexico 2026 Regular Session
Senate - Tax, Business and Transportation Feb 5th, 2026
Transcript Highlights:
- Another question, Madam Chair, Senator, what programs, do you have any programs for asphalt companies
- I'm all for apprentice programs.
- Madam Chair, Senator, so the programs that we have now with these guys, are your guys' programs better
- So that is the benefit of our programs over other programs.
- Apprentice programs are great.
Summary:
The Senate Tax, Business and Transportation Committee heard and voted on several bills, beginning with SB 190, which would authorize revenue bonds for Gila Regional Medical Center to replace an aging linear accelerator for cancer treatment. The sponsor and hospital representatives said the project is critical for rural patients who otherwise travel long distances for radiation therapy. After a brief amendment changing the bond term from 20 to 30 years, the committee advanced the bill 7-0.
The committee then took up SB 152, a broadband affordability and rural telecommunications bill that would keep money in the broadband fund for maintenance, expansion, and a new affordability program after the federal ACP lapsed. The sponsor and broadband stakeholders said the bill is needed to close the digital divide, while some industry witnesses supported the affordability goal but wanted changes to broaden eligibility and adjust program rules. The committee heard public testimony from supporters and opponents, then passed the bill 8-0. Next, SB 77 would require certain highway and public works contractors to contribute to apprenticeship training funds; labor groups supported it as workforce development, while highway and asphalt contractors opposed it as an added cost and argued they already run their own training programs. After extended debate about whether the 60-cent-per-hour contribution would raise project costs or simply redirect existing prevailing-wage funds, the committee advanced SB 77 on a 5-3 vote.
The committee also heard SB 182, a dyed diesel gross receipts tax deduction for agricultural use, but held it for the tax package without a vote. SB 151, a corporate income tax decoupling bill intended to recover revenue lost to federal tax changes, drew strong support from tax and advocacy groups and strong opposition from business, oil and gas, and chamber representatives who called it a tax increase that would hurt investment and competitiveness. Committee members raised concerns about long-term revenue stability and business impacts, but the sponsors said the bill would restore state tax capacity and selectively decouple from federal provisions; the bill was held for later consideration in the tax package. Finally, the committee heard SB 133 on eliminating gross receipts tax on medical providers for medical equipment and supplies, and SB 212 on a ski-area construction equipment gross receipts tax exemption, with sponsors arguing both would improve competitiveness and support industry investment; both were discussed as possible tax-package items and held for further consideration.
KY
Kentucky 2026 Regular Session
Budget Review Subcommittee on Justice and Judiciary (7-1-26)
Transcript Highlights:
- </c><00:01:35.480><c> with</c> of the Office of Statewide Programs with of the Office of Statewide Programs
- ,</c> discretion around these those programs, discretion around these those programs, but<00:04:33.680
- </c> to evaluate all aspects of the program to evaluate all aspects of the program and<00:08:53.000><
- </c><00:14:04.320><c> Many</c> staff and program management. Many staff and program management.
- </c> diversion programs. diversion programs.
Summary:
The Budget Review Subcommittee on Justice and Judiciary received an update from the Administrative Office of the Courts on implementation of House Bill 504, the judicial branch budget, and court facility projects. AOC leaders said they do not anticipate problems balancing the outgoing biennium or fiscal year 2026, and explained that the budget changes were driven by the need to reduce costs while preserving required constitutional, court-rule, and statutory services. They also said the new filing fee increases authorized by HB 504 took effect that day and are expected to generate up to $5 million, while the reorganization is projected to save about $3 million in general fund dollars.
The bulk of the presentation focused on a major reorganization of the Office of Statewide Programs, which includes specialty courts, family and juvenile services, and pretrial services. AOC said the plan eliminates 170 positions and creates 109 new ones, mainly by reducing middle-management layers, expanding regional service delivery, and cross-training staff. Officials said 110 employees had already been offered or accepted placements, 24 had chosen voluntary separation, and the final number of employees leaving remains fluid until the process concludes around August 1. They emphasized that specialty court programs were not eliminated, but state-funded treatment court contracts and behavioral health liaison positions were removed, with treatment costs shifted to Medicaid or participants where appropriate.
Members asked about the process, staffing impacts, specialty court participation, juvenile services, and how AOC will monitor the changes. AOC said the reorganization was developed by leadership, HR, and legal staff under direction of the Chief Justice and approved by the Supreme Court, and that it is intended to improve efficiency and frontline support rather than reduce services. They said specialty court participant levels are being watched closely, that CDW services will continue to use outside providers for programming, and that the agency will keep judges and stakeholders informed as the new structure goes into effect. No votes were taken, and the committee did not approve minutes because a quorum was not present.
NH
New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session
House Education Funding (02/18/2025)
Transcript Highlights:
- </c><00:25:03.320><c> to</c> relative to establishing a program to relative to establishing a program
- </c><00:28:19.320><c> they</c> to uh uh to qualify for the program they to uh uh to qualify for the program
- </c><01:01:06.559><c> this</c> free and reduced price meal program this free and reduced price meal program
- Um, that would change the program, um, removing the mandate and making it a grant program for districts
- </c> toolbox in order to keep their program toolbox in order to keep their program running<01:12:25.679
Summary:
The committee first took up HB 112, which would require students in the University and Community College systems to pass the U.S. citizenship civics naturalization test. A motion was made to retain the bill, and the committee voted unanimously to retain it, resulting in no report. HB 510, dealing with due process rights for students, student organizations, and faculty in higher education disciplinary proceedings, was passed over for a later meeting so the University and Community College systems could meet with the committee.
The committee then discussed HB 659, creating a college graduate retention incentive program, but retained it without further debate after noting the prime sponsor was unavailable. HB 770, concerning tuition credits for community service, was also held for later in the day because an amendment was expected. The most extensive discussion centered on HB 583, which would have the state participate in Medicaid direct certification for free and reduced-price school meals. Supporters argued it would identify more eligible students, reduce paperwork, improve accuracy in school funding formulas, and bring in additional federal child care scholarship money; opponents argued it would significantly affect school funding calculations and should be delayed. The committee rejected the amendment by a 10-8 vote and then voted 10-8 to retain the bill, with a majority report and minority report to follow.
HB 646, requiring school districts to establish an online application for free and reduced-price meal participation, was also debated. One member said many districts already do this voluntarily and that the bill was unnecessary; another proposed an amendment to convert the mandate into a grant program to offset startup costs, but the committee proceeded on the underlying motion and voted 10-8 to retain the bill, with a majority report and a minority OTP report. HB 665, concerning eligibility for the free school meals program, was then retained by an 11-3 vote.
Finally, the committee began work on HB 703, which would prohibit school districts from denying meals to students with unpaid balances and appropriate funds for that purpose. An amendment was explained that would remove state payment of district meal debt and instead require district policies against shaming or bullying students and allow voluntary donations to reduce debt. After discussion, a motion was made to ITL the bill, with the sponsor saying constituents opposed subsidizing the program and wanted districts to retain collection tools; further debate was underway when the transcript ended.
CA
California 2025-2026 Regular Session
Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee Feb 4th, 2026
Budget and Fiscal Review
Transcript Highlights:
- So we don't have the specifics of what the grant program would be.
- going toward a grant program.
- We've done something similar with the Abortion Access Fund program as well.
- And so I would just cite that for those two reasons, ...access fund program as well.
- . program.
Committee:
Senate Budget and Fiscal Review
Summary:
The Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Committee heard AB 106, an early-action budget bill providing $90 million one-time General Fund to support reproductive health providers affected by the federal H.R. 1 prohibition on Medicaid funding. Department of Finance staff explained that the money would be administered as grants through the Department of Health Care Access and Information because affected providers can no longer bill Medi-Cal during the federal restriction, which lasts through July 4, 2026. Members also discussed why the amount increased from an earlier $60 million estimate, with Finance saying the figure was updated based on additional claims data and provider information.
The committee debate focused heavily on the policy implications of the funding. Supporters argued the bill is an emergency response to a targeted federal attack on Planned Parenthood and related family planning services, emphasizing that the funding would backfill non-abortion services such as cancer screenings, contraception, STI testing, mammograms, and prenatal care. Opponents questioned the use of General Fund dollars, the grant structure versus loans for other distressed providers, the Public Records Act exemption, and the bill’s priority compared with rural hospitals, developmental services, public safety, and other budget needs. Finance clarified that the federal funds at issue do not pay for abortion services and that the grant program would be open to eligible providers meeting criteria set by the department.
Public testimony was overwhelmingly in support from Planned Parenthood affiliates, Essential Access Health, Western Center on Law and Poverty, the California Medical Association, family physicians, OBGYN groups, and others, while some commenters used the opportunity to raise unrelated budget concerns such as Medi-Cal dental cuts, IHSS, and CalHome funding. After discussion, the committee approved AB 106 on a 12-4 vote and reported it out. The chair also noted that a later hearing would examine broader H.R. 1 impacts in more detail.
FL
Transcript Highlights:
- Projects under some of these programs are planned, funded, and scheduled in FDOT's five-year work program
- Let's talk about the arterial programs.
- The arterial highway and arterial widening programs are both statewide programs.
- The ARTW program, the arterial widening program, directs FDOT to identify and fund at least $20 million
- Moving on to our local programs, the Small County Outreach Program, SCOP, assists small county governments
Committee:
Senate Agriculture
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.
NH
New Hampshire 2025 Regular Session
House Finance Division I (01/22/2025)
Transcript Highlights:
- That program is a more labor-intensive program to administer.
- </c> Champions program and that grant program Champions program and that grant program is<00:33:51.399
- different programs.
- One of our other programs is a special use permit program that is a permit program that happens anytime
- and OHRV programs, as well as a federal Recreation and Rec Trail program.
Summary:
New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority officials, led by Executive Director Rob Dapice, briefed legislators on the agency’s structure and funding. They explained that the authority is created by state law but is not a state agency, its debt is not state debt, and it is governed by a board appointed by the governor and approved by the Executive Council. The discussion focused on the Affordable Housing Fund and the lead paint hazard remediation fund, including how state appropriations and federal resources are combined to finance affordable rental housing and lead abatement work.
Dapice said the Affordable Housing Fund is used as gap financing for multifamily affordable housing projects, typically alongside federal tax credits and tax-exempt bonds, and that state dollars leverage roughly 2:1 to 10:1 in additional federal and private investment, averaging about 4:1. He said the fund has received historic appropriations in recent budgets, including $30 million over the last two biennial budgets and an annual $5 million set-aside from the real estate transfer tax. He also said the fund is usually structured as 0% interest, deferred loans rather than grants, with repayments returning to the fund if projects generate cash flow.
Members asked about rents, oversight, staffing, revenues, and whether the programs had added positions. Dapice said affordability restrictions generally last 30 to 99 years, rents are tied to income limits and capped so tenants pay no more than 30% of income, and compliance staff inspect properties regularly to verify income eligibility and rent limits. He said the organization has about 130 to 135 employees, down from about 145, with no new positions added because of the appropriations. He estimated total revenues at roughly $300 million, with administrative budget around $22 million, much of it pass-through grant money.
On lead paint remediation, he said the state first appropriated $6 million in 2019, plus $1 million in ARPA funds, and that the program has cleared more than 500 units. He said the federal grant program is not annual or predictable, with a recent award of about $7.75 million, and that the maximum federal grant per unit is $177,000, typically paired with up to $100,000 in state loan support. He also noted that the program can address homes before a child is poisoned if lead hazards are identified, but that cases involving an already exposed child are a higher priority. No votes or formal actions were taken.