Transcript Highlights:

• Many of you talked about liability exposure or the cost of claims and then discussions about consumer
• </c><00:18:01.440><c> and</c><00:18:01.679><c> then</c> exposure or the cost of claims and then exposure
• </c> those claims. those claims.
• </c> is claims, process, and parties. is claims, process, and parties.
• the</c><01:28:45.920><c> exterior</c> their claim their claim for the exterior their claim their claim

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> HHRF's financial claim paying ability. HHRF's financial claim paying ability.
• And of that, almost 55% or exposure.
• If we take on a new uh exposure basis.
• ,</c><01:27:41.280><c> more</c> exposure basis, more buildings, more exposure basis, more buildings,
• If you divide exposure of 1 billion.

Transcript Highlights:

• insurance agents, consumer advocates for those folks that have struggled with price increases and claims
• are accountable in their renewal decisions, their non-renewal decisions, and especially in their claims
• Oftentimes, insurance does not cover the entirety of a litigated claim.
• Usually on a small business owner's policy, if someone were to own litigated claim.
• Again, I think it really comes down to the exposure of that building owner.

Bills: SB1241 , SB1242 , SB1442 , SB1592 , SB1623 , SB1625 , SB1913 , SB1940 , SB1949 , SB2102 , SB592 , SB992

Committee: Senate Business and Insurance

Summary: The Business and Insurance Committee considered a series of bills focused on credit card interchange fees, insurance regulation, alcohol licensing, utility contractor authority, medical marijuana bonding, and business liability. Senators Thompson’s SB 2102 and SB 1940 sought to limit swipe fees on large financial institutions and on taxes and tips, respectively; both passed after questions about the asset thresholds and their impact on merchants and banks. SB 1625, by Senator Fricks, would let the Oklahoma Insurance Department prepare impact analyses on health benefit plan legislation, and passed unanimously. SB 1442, by Senator Dossett, lowered distiller licensing fees, created a microdistillery license, and restored a liability insurance proof requirement through an amendment; it passed 11-0. SB 1623, by Floor Leader Daniels, would revise the state credit union charter and passed 11-0. SB 1242, by Senator Hamilton, increased the bond required for medical marijuana grows from $50,000 to $100,000 and passed 10-0. The committee also heard SB 1949 from Senator Logan, which would allow utility contractors to work closer to buildings on private property, up to five feet from structures, instead of stopping at the property line. The bill drew extended questioning from Senator Brooks about permitting, training, liability, and the relationship between utility contractors and plumbers; an industry representative testified that utility contractors already do much of the work under licensed plumbers and that the bill would reduce costs and speed projects, especially in rural areas. SB 1949 passed 8-2. Senator Reinhardt’s SB 1592 and SB 1913, both insurance-related committee substitutes, were described as ongoing negotiations aimed at homeowner insurance transparency and consumer protections; members were told the bills were still being refined, but both passed, 9-1 and 10-0, respectively. Additional measures included SB 592, which would let distributors issue credits to retailers after repeated product replacements, aimed at reducing losses from poor inventory control at large retailers; it passed 9-0. SB 992 would provide civil liability protection for businesses and property owners when violent criminal acts occur on their premises, except in cases of gross negligence; it prompted debate over gun-free zones, security, insurance, and whether the bill would reduce incentives for safety measures, but passed 5-3. Finally, SB 1241 created the Oklahoma Fraud and Ticketing Accountability Act to address fake tickets, bots, deceptive resale websites, and venue liability in the live-event market; supporters included arts venues, and the bill passed 8-0. The committee adjourned after completing its agenda.

Transcript Highlights:

• claims.
• Um they feel claims, third party claims.
• </c> debt that's being claimed by the lender. debt that's being claimed by the lender.
• Uh, it is That exposure is not abstract.
• So, from our perspective, this exposure.

Bills: HB20 , HB2612 , HB2404 , HB2459 , HB2194 , HB1880 , HB2284 , HB1969 , HB2458 , HB1546 , HB2161 , HB1721 , HB1641 , HB2137 , HB1782 , HB2360 , HB1965 , HB1897 , HB1513

Committee: House Consumer Protection & Commerce

Summary: The committee heard testimony on HB 20, which would create a lava zone insurance subsidy/fund. The Insurance Division opposed the bill, arguing that lava zones 1 and 2 are the highest-risk areas, that a subsidy would not reduce the underlying risk or loss costs, that it could invite similar subsidy requests for other hazards, and that the bill may conflict with HICV by diverting funds from the CRF. Members discussed the lack of authorized homeowners insurance in those lava zones, the role of HPIA and the surplus market, and the difference between the proposed lava-zone subsidy and the Hawaii Hurricane Relief Fund. The chair noted 37 submitted testimonies in support and one in opposition, and the committee then moved on without taking a vote on HB 20 in the portion provided. The committee then took up HB 2612, relating to mortgages, which would clarify that a mortgage does not exist independently of the debt it secures and is not independently enforceable from that debt. The Hawaii Credit Union League and Hawaii Financial Services Association opposed the bill, while several individuals testified in support, arguing it would restore Hawaii’s long-standing lien-state rule and prevent so-called “zombie mortgages” after the Hawaii Supreme Court’s White decision. Supporters said the bill would protect borrowers from delayed foreclosures and predatory lending practices, while opponents and the Insurance Division emphasized that foreclosure actions still require proof of standing and possession of the note, and that lenders generally pursue foreclosure without seeking deficiency judgments. Committee members questioned the Insurance Division about how the current market works, whether lenders could wait out the statute of limitations and then foreclose only on the mortgage, and whether equitable tolling or later defaults could allow refiling. The division said it is still trying to attract authorized insurers back into the lava-zone market, but has seen little progress. No vote or final action on HB 2612 was taken in the excerpt provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• hidden costs, one of the worst and most important for this committee is the worker and consumer exposure
• The race to the bottom also means increased toxic exposures for Californians, particularly California's
• Thank you. ...industry have long claimed change and knowing where their products were produced was an
• There are different exposure tracks, and digestion is the one they recently did.
• ...digestion is just not adequate exposure methods.

Summary: The committee heard several environmental and consumer-safety bills. AB 405, the Fashion Act, would require fashion companies to disclose and manage toxic chemicals in their supply chains; supporters said it would reduce worker and consumer exposure and align with existing industry frameworks, while retailers and business groups argued it would duplicate existing laws and raise costs. After questions about DTSC workload, international standards, and affordability, the bill was moved on a due-pass-as-amended motion to Natural Resources and held on call with three votes. AB 762 would ban the sale and distribution of disposable vape devices; supporters emphasized battery-fire risks, recycling contamination, and waste impacts, while cannabis and convenience-store interests warned it would push consumers to illicit markets and harm legal businesses. The bill passed on a due-pass motion to Business and Professions with three votes and was held on call. The committee also adopted the consent calendar with six votes. AB 794 would direct California to keep in place the federal PFAS drinking-water standard if federal protections are weakened, with supporters citing health risks and the need for certainty, and water agencies opposing the emergency-rulemaking authority and potential costs. Members debated whether the bill was too broad and whether federal funds would cover implementation; the bill passed on a due-pass-as-amended motion to Appropriations with four votes and was held open. AB 1148, the Safer Food Packaging Act, would restrict certain chemicals in food packaging; supporters cited cancer and reproductive-health concerns, while chemical, beverage, and manufacturing groups argued the bill should go through existing regulatory processes and that some chemicals lacked feasible alternatives. The author said she would remove antimony trioxide later in the process after hearing opposition concerns; the bill passed on a due-pass motion to Judiciary with four votes and was held open. Finally, AB 1338 would allow local air districts to recover costs for implementing fence-line air monitoring at metal shredding facilities, building on prior legislation and local air district efforts in AB 617 communities. The author said the bill would preserve local control and improve efficiency, and the South Coast Air Quality Management District testified in support. The transcript ends as the district witness begins testimony, with no vote yet taken on AB 1338.

Transcript Highlights:

• This has increased from $612 per claim in 2020.
• with emergency room claims rose 15%.
• claims process with regard to screenings or the claims process in general.
• Insurers may adjust to the increased risk exposure.
• It's those kinds of cases, but all of these claims are negligence claims.

Summary: The Budget Committee met with a quorum and took up several bills. HB 677, relating to state-covered fertility preservation for employees undergoing cancer treatment, was introduced as coverage for egg and sperm preservation for up to three years, with an estimated fiscal impact of about $813,000. After brief questions and no public testimony or amendments, the bill passed unanimously and was reported favorably. The committee then considered CS/HB 59, which would reform Florida’s wrongful incarceration compensation process by extending the filing deadline from 90 days to two years, removing the clean-hands requirement, and allowing exonerees to choose between the state compensation process and a civil lawsuit; it was supported by the City of Flagler Beach and passed unanimously. CS/HB 1313, which recreates the Resilient Florida Trust Fund in the Department of Environmental Protection before its scheduled termination in 2025, also passed unanimously after supportive testimony from advocacy groups. The committee received a lengthy presentation from the Department of Management Services on the State Group Insurance Program and the recent Revenue Estimating Conference. The presentation covered enrollment, revenues and expenditures, rising medical and pharmacy costs, emergency room utilization, GLP-1 drug spending, and options for tighter formulary and utilization management. Members asked about ER cost growth, GLP-1 coverage and copays, PBM oversight and potential conflicts, avoidable ER visits, cancer screening claims, dental and vision costs, specialty drug biosimilars, and possible savings from more restrictive pharmacy models. DMS said it would follow up on several questions and noted ongoing work on cancer coordination, preventive screening, biomarker testing, and a proposed member-facing benefits platform. The committee also heard extensive testimony on HB 301, which would raise sovereign immunity caps from $200,000 per person and $300,000 per incident to $1 million and $3 million, align limitations periods with private claims, and allow government entities to settle above the caps without a claims bill. Local governments, school-related entities, and county and city associations opposed the bill, warning of major fiscal impacts, higher insurance costs, and pressure on services; several speakers urged smaller increases or a tiered approach. Proponents, including families affected by catastrophic injury or death, argued the current caps are too low and the claims bill process is inefficient and unfair. After debate, the bill passed on a recorded vote, with some members voting no, and was reported favorably.

Transcript Highlights:

• omission, including but not limited to things such as physical abuse, emotional harm or neglect, exposure
• to chronic unsafe or hazardous conditions... ...harm or neglect, exposure to chronic unsafe or hazardous
• Then we need to define what exposure to chronic, unsafe, or hazardous conditions means.
• H.SPO exposure is a major factor present in an estimated 85% of recent cases related.
• HSPO exposure is a major factor present in H.SPO exposure is a major factor present in an estimated 85%

Bills: HB2511 , HB2660

Committee: House Early Learning & Human Services

Keywords: child welfare, dependency, imminent physical harm, child abuse, neglect, foster care, extended foster care, shelter care, out-of-home placement, Department of Children, Youth, and Families, DCYF, family law, juvenile court, child protection, unsafe home, substance use, caregiver impairment, relative placement, guardianship, adoption

Transcript Highlights:

• This specifically will apply to the unemployment claims, you know, sort of bucket.
• This specifically will apply to the unemployment claims, you know, sort of bucket.
• haven't had a compensable claim or a time-loss claim in three years, and they may keep this worker;
• So just to clarify, the bill will allow OAH to send mail to folks around their UI claims.
• costs by claim type and hours worked.

Summary: The Labor and Workplace Standards Committee met on January 28, 2026, first hearing staff briefings and then taking executive action on House Bills 1571, 2144, 2191, and 2372. HB 1571 would make heart conditions a presumptive occupational disease for certain firefighters and law enforcement officers; members spoke in support of the bill as a response to the stresses and exposures of those jobs, and it was reported out 8-1 with a do-pass recommendation. HB 2144 would require notice to employees when employers use electronic monitoring for performance evaluations. The committee considered several amendments to a proposed substitute, adopting an amendment clarifying private communications protections but rejecting amendments to broaden emergency exceptions and remove the private right of action. The bill, as amended, passed 6-3. HB 2191 concerns wages in the construction industry and employer/contractor liability for unpaid wages. The committee considered a proposed substitute and several amendments. Members rejected amendments to include public entities as owners and to extend the right to cure to subcontractors, but adopted amendments removing Attorney General enforcement authority and making additional clarifying changes. Supporters emphasized accountability for unpaid wages and protecting vulnerable workers; opponents raised concerns about the scope of liability. The amended bill was reported out 6-3. HB 2372 would require workers’ compensation time loss benefits to include the full employer health care premium contribution rather than a partial percentage. An amendment to add L&I invoice and notice requirements and bar attorney fees on the health-care-premium portion was rejected, and the bill was then reported out 6-3. The committee also held public hearings on HB 2563 and HB 2188. HB 2563 would allow the Office of Administrative Hearings to automatically serve unemployment-case notices electronically during a pilot period ending July 30, 2029. OAH testified that the change would reduce mailing costs and improve service, while the Unemployment Law Project warned it would harm claimants with limited digital access and create procedural barriers; no action was taken during the hearing. HB 2188 would require L&I to publish actuarial indicated workers’ compensation rates and explain when rate caps shift costs to other classes. Business groups supported the transparency measure, and L&I testified it could provide the information and that the bill would have no fiscal impact; the hearing was closed without action.

Transcript Highlights:

• pass a joint resolution allowing the surviving spouses of deceased, disabled veterans to continue to claim
• So they're making a claim. The science behind this is not exact. It's not an A to B, right?
• So this brings experts into the fold that can substantiate the claim. Thank you.
• The same remedies that are in place for exposure to radiation in all other ways, shapes, and forms. .
• ..for exposure to radiation in all other ways, shapes, and forms.

Summary: The State Affairs Committee opened with a tribute to the late Representative Joe Casello, with remarks from the chair and Ranking Member Eskamani honoring his service, especially his advocacy for first responders, veterans, and working people. The committee then turned to its only bill, HB 167, which would remove strict liability for certain previously mined phosphate lands if the landowner notifies the county and requests a Department of Health radiation survey. The sponsor said the bill is intended to create a voluntary process, add data about the land, and provide notice through the public record and title process. Members asked extensive questions about who pays for the surveys, how notice would reach future buyers, whether the bill affects renters or construction workers, and whether it would impact pending lawsuits. The sponsor said the landowner would pay for the survey needed to remove strict liability, plaintiffs would pay for surveys in litigation, the bill does not address OSHA or rental disclosures, and it would not apply retroactively to current cases because the complaint must include a survey. Supporters argued the bill simply replaces automatic liability with recorded notice and due diligence, while opponents said it could leave families and renters without adequate warning and should include stronger disclosure protections. Public testimony was in support from the Florida Chamber of Commerce, Associated Industries of Florida, and one individual. After debate, the committee voted 18-8 to report HB 167 favorably.

Transcript Highlights:

• Orlando Health sued Liberty HealthShare for unpaid claims for over a million dollars a couple years ago
• Yeah, but I don't work for the company, and I don't deal with the claims every day.
• Simply put, this bill will relieve taxpayers from shouldering Citizens' risk exposure.
• The behavior does not distinguish between catastrophic and non-catastrophic claims.
• I myself have been a victim of an insurance claim. I've been through the process myself. I know it.

Summary: The Committee on Banking and Insurance met with a quorum present and took up several bills, beginning with SB 834 on health care sharing ministries and insurance agents. Senator Yarbrough presented the bill to repeal a recent restriction on licensed insurance agents marketing or selling faith-based health care sharing programs. Supporters argued the change restores free speech and consumer education while preserving existing consumer protections; opponents said the bill was unnecessary and could increase confusion or misuse of agents and brokers. The committee adopted a title amendment and then reported the bill favorably after debate, with Senator Pizzo raising concerns about consumer reliance and lack of guaranteed coverage. The committee then approved SB 642 on foreign and alien bail bond insurers, SB 394 on reinsurance intermediary managers, and SB 266 on public adjuster contracts. SB 266 would let vulnerable adults rescind public adjuster contracts at any time without penalty; it drew support from consumer and industry groups, with some discussion about estimates and claim work product. The committee also passed SB 832 on residential property insurance transparency, which requires rate transparency reports and a consumer resource center at OIR, and adds a provision excluding land value from homeowners coverage calculations in most cases. Testimony on SB 832 was generally supportive of the transparency goal, though insurers said some of the required cost breakdowns may be difficult to produce as written. The committee next considered SB 1028 on Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, which would create a commercial lines clearinghouse to move eligible policyholders into the private market and reduce Citizens’ commercial exposure. Supporters said it would lower taxpayer risk and improve competition; a speaker suggested additional changes to deductibles, water-damage caps, and repair practices. The bill was reported favorably after a delete-all amendment and supportive debate from Senator Boyd. Finally, the committee passed SB 540 on the Office of Financial Regulation, which adds cybersecurity requirements for certain licensees, updates oversight of investment advisers and money service businesses, adjusts some charter and meeting rules for financial institutions and credit unions, and includes amendments clarifying repossession/deficiency claims, family office exemptions, and virtual credit union meetings. The meeting ended with all of the considered bills reported favorably and the committee adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• Orlando Health sued Liberty Health Share for unpaid claims for over a million dollars a couple years
• Yeah, but I don't work for the company and I don't deal with the claims every day.
• Simply put, this bill will relieve taxpayers from shouldering Citizens' risk exposure.
• The behavior does not distinguish between catastrophic and non-catastrophic claims.
• I myself have been a victim of an insurance claim. I've been through the process myself. I know it.

Bills: S0266 , S0394 , S0540 , S0632 , S0642 , S0832 , S0834 , S1028

Committee: Senate Banking and Insurance

Summary: The Committee on Banking and Insurance met with a quorum and took up several bills, beginning with SB 834 on insurance requirements for nonprofit religious organizations and health care sharing ministries. The bill repeals a recent restriction on licensed insurance agents marketing or selling faith-based health care sharing programs. Supporters argued the change restores free speech and consumer education while preserving existing fraud and disclosure protections; opponents said allowing agents and brokers could create consumer confusion and has been associated with bad actors. A title amendment was adopted, and after debate the committee reported the bill favorably. The committee also heard and passed SB 642, which extends reporting and duty requirements to foreign and alien bail bond insurers, and SB 394, a technical bill updating reinsurance intermediary manager law to match current DFS practice. SB 266, which lets vulnerable adults rescind public adjuster contracts without penalty, was reported favorably after testimony from supporters in the insurance and elder law communities and a public adjuster who said the intent was good but the bill may need refinement. SB 832, a residential property insurance transparency bill requiring rate breakdown reports and a consumer resource center, also passed after discussion about consumer clarity and whether the required cost categories can be compiled as written. Later, the committee approved SB 540, which creates cybersecurity requirements for mortgage and money service businesses, closes a regulatory gap for certain investment advisers, adjusts OFR examination-payment deadlines, changes de novo charter requirements, allows virtual credit union meetings, and makes other financial regulation updates. Several amendments were adopted, including a substitute amendment removing fintech sandbox provisions. Finally, SB 1028 on Citizens Property Insurance Corporation was reported favorably after debate over a commercial lines clearinghouse intended to reduce Citizens’ exposure and shift more business to the private market; members discussed taxpayer risk, market competition, and consumer protections. The meeting ended with adjournment.

Transcript Highlights:

• By far the most important concern is toxic chemical exposure.
• Turf fields... ...exposure.
• So that is one opposition we have, a complaint or argument against this, is that they're claiming that
• Let's be clear: the industry claims are often misleading.
• As an epidemiologist, I can tell you that it takes many years to determine if a long-term exposure is

Committee: Joint Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight

Summary: The Joint Committee on State Administration and Regulatory Oversight heard testimony on several procurement-related bills. Senator Lovely and steel industry witnesses supported S. 2167/H. 3411, which would require preference for U.S. manufacturers on public construction projects using steel and other materials. They argued that Canadian and other foreign fabricators underbid Massachusetts firms because of exchange rates, subsidies, and different labor-cost structures, causing local job losses and economic leakage. Committee members asked about tariffs, market share, and whether the bill should be folded into broader municipal legislation; the witnesses said public work should stay in Massachusetts and that the bill would help preserve local industry and jobs. The committee also heard strong support for S. 2107, a bill to increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities in state and municipal contracting. Work Inc. testified that a preference for contractors employing people with disabilities would expand competitive employment, reduce reliance on public assistance, and generate net savings for taxpayers. Members asked about the estimated savings and whether recent federal changes to benefits would affect the numbers; the witness said the figures may need updating but that the underlying employment opportunity remains important. Another bill, H. 3339/S. 2187, would prohibit state and municipal contracts for new artificial turf fields containing zinc, plastic, or intentionally added PFAS. Sponsors and supporters cited health risks, heat retention, injuries, and PFAS contamination, while committee members discussed local bans, disposal problems, and whether indoor facilities or alternative materials could be used. Inspector General Jeffrey Shapiro testified in favor of H. 12 and H. 13, which would update Chapter 30B procurement thresholds and allow municipalities to bundle snow hauling and removal with plowing contracts. He said the changes would give local governments more flexibility, reduce confusion between school and municipal procurement rules, and make snow contracts more attractive to vendors. Members questioned whether quasi-public agencies and state entities should also be subject to 30B, and Shapiro said many public entities have their own procedures but that transparency and fairness should apply across the board. The committee also heard support for S. 2150, a software licensing bill aimed at preventing vendor lock-in by ensuring state agencies can run purchased software in the infrastructure that best fits their needs; the witness said restrictive licensing can drive up costs and create cybersecurity and modernization problems, and that similar laws have already passed in several other states.

Transcript Highlights:

• The concern is that when a non-tribal member gets treated at an Indian clinic, the exposure that the
• The concern is that when a non-tribal member gets treated at an Indian clinic, the exposure that the
• The concern is that when a non-tribal member gets treated at an Indian clinic, the exposure that the
• This is an overview of claims data from 2020 to 2024.
• You'll notice that it cuts off at 2024 primarily because in 2025 we're still receiving claims up through

Bills: HB2402 , HB2555 , HB2599 , HB2685

Committee: House Health Care & Wellness

Keywords: phthalates, medical equipment, healthcare regulation, intravenous therapy, toxic substances, Medicaid, healthcare, traditional practices, health insurance, coverage expansion, therapy, psychotherapy, mental health, regulation, professional standards, tribal data, data protection, privacy, sharing of information, Indigenous rights

Transcript Highlights:

• On the next slide, we’ll move on to our goal of eliminating exposure.
• that individuals in multi-unit housing are especially vulnerable to secondhand smoke and aerosol exposure
• From FY 25, we’re specifically talking about eliminating exposure.
• Both took steps to continue protecting residents from secondhand smoke and aerosol exposure.
• this presentation around our key goals of preventing initiation, promoting cessation, eliminating exposure

Committee: House Tobacco Settlement Revenue Oversight Committee

Transcript Highlights:

• Reinsurance will be utilized to extend the HHF's financial claim-paying ability.
• Looking at the financial capacity table, the HHF plan is to pay initial claims from the existing $170
• </c><01:15:42.280><c> adjust</c> all the underwriting claims adjust all the underwriting claims adjust
• We talk about the exposure; we also refer to it as total insured value, or TIV for short.
• Right now our capital is dedicated to the existing exposure basis.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c> Department of Veterans Affairs claims Department of Veterans Affairs claims representatives<00:07
• </c><00:08:19.199><c> We</c> on claims. But that is simply false. We on claims.
• </c> pay an attorney or a claims pay an attorney or a claims representative<00:10:45.519><c> for</c><
• </c> to debunk misinformation that claim to debunk misinformation that claim sharks<00:11:36.560><c>
• Thank you. claim, those individuals will keep, claim, those individuals will keep, well,<00:18:51.200

Transcript Highlights:

• The all-payer claims database.
• The practical effect of the bill is that the one-time exposure at the academy would now legally suffice
• The practical effect of the bill is that the one-time exposure at the academy and now legally suffice
• The one-time exposure at the academy would legally suffice for an officer's entire career.
• I hear concerns about claims under our New Mexico Civil Rights Act.

Bills: HB99 , HB49 , HB164 , SB30 , SB43 , SB50 , SB136

Committee: Senate House Judiciary

Summary: Senate Judiciary began by announcing that Senate Bill 136 would be rolled over because the sponsor was unavailable. The chair then addressed criticism from the floor over how a prior bill had been handled, defending the committee’s practice of using committee substitutes and amendments without waiting for a new version from council, and emphasizing his authority to set hard stops and limit debate when he believes discussion is repetitive or dilatory. Several members responded, with some supporting the chair’s approach and others arguing that contentious bills deserve more time and fuller committee vetting. The committee then heard Senate Bill 30, which would repeal New Mexico’s requirement that induced abortions be reported to the state registrar. The sponsors argued the reporting law is outdated, unnecessary for public health, and potentially dangerous because provider information can be disclosed under broader vital statistics statutes; supporters from the ACLU, League of Women Voters, Bold Futures, and NOW echoed privacy and safety concerns. Opponents argued the reporting requirement provides transparency and public health data. After debate, the committee approved SB 30 on a roll call vote. Next, the committee heard Senate Bill 43, a bipartisan measure to modernize the Adult Parole Board statute after a prior veto. The bill would update parole factors for life-sentenced inmates, authorize per diem and closed hearings, and prevent parole hearings from being scheduled on victims’ birth or death dates. It received support from corrections officials and victims’ advocates, and the committee passed it without objection. The final major item was Senate Bill 50, which would remove several statutory in-service training mandates for law enforcement and give the Standards and Training Council more flexibility to set curriculum. Supporters said the current requirements are outdated and too rigid; opponents warned the bill could weaken recurring training in domestic violence, sexual assault, crisis intervention, and other high-risk areas. A motion to table failed, and the committee ultimately passed SB 50 on a roll call vote, despite divided member views.

Transcript Highlights:

• </c><00:09:48.399><c> It's</c><00:09:48.880><c> it's</c> and that media exposure.
• It's it's and that media exposure.
• Um, should this move forward, they can claim the naming rights and then choose not to put any signage
• Um, should this move forward, they can claim the naming rights and then choose not to put any signage
• </c> should this move forward, they can claim should this move forward, they can claim the<00:24:38.159

Committee: Senate Economic Development and Tourism

Summary: The committee first heard SB 2627, which would exempt Hawaii Tourism Authority contracts and agreements for sports projects, events, and related marketing from the state procurement code and other competitive bidding requirements. HTA, DBEDT, and the State Procurement Office testified in support or with comments, while one individual offered general support for sports tourism. Senators focused on narrowing the bill so the exemption would apply more specifically to sports-related projects and marketing, rather than broad marketing activities, and discussed whether the bill should require notice to the State Procurement Office or approval by the chief procurement officer. Procurement officials said a reporting requirement would be the most expeditious option, while still allowing post-event monitoring and public posting of exemptions. Members also discussed whether the exemption should be limited to situations involving sole-source sports entities, such as major leagues or international sports organizations, to better justify bypassing procurement rules. The committee did not take a final vote in the portion provided, but members and testifiers agreed to continue working on the language. The hearing then moved to SB 2074 relating to state facilities and naming rights for the Aloha Stadium and Hawaii Convention Center. The Stadium Authority, HTA, and DBEDT testified in support, while the Outdoor Circle and other organizations opposed the measure. Opponents argued the bill could create fiscal and legal risk, echoing concerns raised in prior legislation and by the attorney general, and warned it would mark a major shift by treating public facilities as commercial branding opportunities. Supporters said naming rights could generate significant revenue to help fund the stadium project and reduce the burden on the state and developers. Senators questioned how signage would be handled, especially whether it would be exterior-facing or limited to inward-facing signage, and the Stadium Authority said it was willing to work with the Outdoor Circle on language that would preserve community aesthetics while allowing revenue generation. A senator cited a prior study estimating naming rights could bring in about $1.5 million per year over 20 years, and asked what that revenue would buy for the public; the Stadium Authority responded that it would help advance the project toward a larger, improved stadium. No final action was taken in the excerpt provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• But I don't think anybody will ever claim or promise that that's a reasonable level to expect.
• Divest Washington used O'Gaveld's Global Coal Exit List, G-SEL, to analyze the coal exposure of the SIB
• to abandon their rights. ...periods and as a tool to force immigrants with legitimate legal claims to
• Today I'm here to urge you to support SB 6304 and to reduce exposure to investments in companies that
• Today I'm here to urge you to support SB 6304 and to reduce exposure to investments in companies that

Summary: The committee began with a work session from the State Investment Board, where staff described the board’s structure, $230 billion in assets under management, and its mandate to maximize returns at a prudent level of risk for pension and other state funds. They reviewed long-term performance, noting strong historical returns and explaining that the board generally invests public equities passively through low-cost index funds. Members also discussed sustainability practices, including ESG integration, proxy voting, climate and DEI blueprints, and the board’s view that divestment or asset-class restrictions can reduce returns and increase costs. Senators asked about deferred compensation, legislative influence over investment policy, and digital assets; staff said the board is slow-moving and that any major change would be studied carefully. The public hearing then focused on SB 5439, which would prohibit new thermal coal investments beginning in 2026 and require full divestment by 2030, with limited exceptions. Supporters argued coal is a poor long-term investment and a major climate and health risk, and several said the bill still gives the board flexibility to retain holdings in companies transitioning to clean energy. The committee also heard testimony on SB 6109, which would bar investments in private detention facilities and require divestment by 2030; supporters said state money should not profit from immigrant detention, while staff confirmed the board currently holds a small investment in Geo Group. SB 6304 would require responsible investment principles for the State Investment Board, including consideration of human rights, environmental degradation, corruption, and related risks, along with proxy voting guidelines and annual reporting. Testimony in favor emphasized ethical investing, climate risk, and avoiding complicity in human rights abuses, while board staff had earlier said they view such decisions through an investment-risk lens rather than a values-based lens. The committee also heard Substitute SB 5945, which would exclude most offenses committed before age 18 from counting as strikes under the state’s persistent offender law and would allow retroactive resentencing for affected people, with exceptions for first- and second-degree murder and serious sex offenses. Staff said the substitute would likely affect fewer cases than the original bill, with estimates ranging from about 10 to 24 resentencings. Public defense, prosecutors, and sheriffs’ representatives raised concerns about workload, victim impacts, and retroactive application, while supporters and pro bono providers said they were prepared to help with resentencing and reentry support. No votes were taken during the hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• As a result, many survivors have seen their insurance claims delayed, reduced, or denied altogether.
• The task force identified significant gaps in science, testing protocols, and claims practices.
• This ensures that survivors have real science-based standards governing their claims.
• For claims that occur after the effective date of the bill. Can we clarify?
• a certain threshold that now has to be met to be able to file claims for smoke damage?

Summary: The committee heard several insurance-related bills. AB 69, AB 1554, and AB 1680 all focused on California’s insurance market and the Fair Plan. AB 69 would require clearer notices to Fair Plan policyholders about coverage options, quarterly public reporting on clearinghouse programs, and additional broker/agent training to help depopulate the Fair Plan while preserving consumer choice. AB 1554 would require the California Earthquake Authority to post its annual report online and send it to relevant committees, and would direct the Insurance Commissioner to convene a working group on incorporating hazard mitigation into risk-transfer recommendations. AB 1680 would require the Fair Plan to comply with CDI examination findings, hire more staff, and improve clearinghouse operations; the Fair Plan moved from opposition to neutral after amendments, and the department said the bill would strengthen accountability and consumer protections. These bills were held pending quorum or taken up later, with authors requesting aye votes. AB 2198, by Assemblymember Rodriguez, would clarify title insurance rate-filing rules by specifying that title insurers file title rates and underwritten title companies file escrow rates, reducing duplicative filings and requiring rate schedules to be posted online. The California Land Title Association supported the bill, saying it codified longstanding practice and improved transparency, while the department continued discussions about possible revisions. The bill was left open for further questions and a later vote. AB 1795, by Assemblymember Gibson, would create statewide standards for inspecting, testing, and remediating smoke damage in wildfire-affected homes. The author and the Department of Insurance said the bill would establish science-based standards, protect survivors from unsafe reentry, require training and certification for relevant professionals, and improve claims handling; the department also described serious gaps found in its Fair Plan examination and recent wildfire claims. Insurers and some residents opposed or opposed unless amended, arguing the bill was still too broad, could raise costs, relied too much on industry standards, and left unresolved issues about legal standards, timing, and coverage. The bill remained under discussion, with the author saying negotiations would continue. AB 311, by Assemblymember McKinnor, would create an optional telematics-based auto insurance program to reward safer driving and improve road safety. Supporters, including road-safety advocates, victims’ families, and some insurance representatives, argued telematics could reduce speeding and distracted driving and save lives. Opponents, including privacy and consumer groups, argued the bill would create opaque surveillance pricing, undermine Prop. 103, and raise privacy and fairness concerns. After extensive debate, the committee passed the bill on a 3-0 vote and placed it on call. AB 1798, by Assemblymember Wilson, would bar life and disability insurers from using non-diagnostic genetic information from direct-to-consumer or other predictive genetic testing to deny coverage or raise premiums, while preserving use of medical history and family history and allowing consideration of certain high-value policies above $1.5 million. Supporters said the bill would reduce genetic discrimination and encourage testing; insurers argued genetic information is relevant to underwriting and warned the bill could raise costs and create inconsistencies. The committee chair and members noted the bill was close to agreement but still needed work, and the bill was moved with a 3-0 vote and placed on call.