Transcript Highlights:

• Thank you so much. senator from the Big Island Senate senator from the Big Island Senate District District
• Uh, Senator Richards, or— Thank you, Senator.
• Senator, excuse me—Senator Alti followed by Senator Hashimoto and Senator Moriwaki.
• Senator, excuse me—Senator Alti followed by Senator Hashimoto and Senator Moriwaki.
• Senator ex excuse me Senator yes Senator Senator ex excuse me Senator Alti<02:41:14.080> followed

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The joint hearing of the Water and Land, Hawaiian Affairs, and Housing committees on January 29, 2025 focused on SB 534, with the chairs outlining hearing procedures, public testimony limits, and plans to allow extended presentations from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs (OHA) and the Hawaii Community Development Authority (HCDA) before moving to other testifiers. The hearing was presented as a public, transparent discussion of OHA’s plans for Kakaʻako Makai, with committee members noting that decision-making would follow if time permitted. OHA testified in strong support of SB 534. The chair of OHA’s Board of Trustees said the bill was a novel proposal for the legislature and emphasized that OHA was bringing together a broad coalition of partners and stakeholders, including representatives from construction, hospitality, education, law enforcement, civil service, and schools, as well as longtime community advocates who have opposed development in Kakaʻako Makai. OHA’s presentation reviewed the history of the area, the creation and role of HCDA, prior master plans, the 2012 land conveyance to OHA, and the argument that OHA has not been able to realize the full economic value of the lands because desired entitlements were not secured. OHA linked the bill to its constitutional mission to improve conditions for Native Hawaiians and argued that the state’s housing crisis makes additional development, including residential use, especially important. A major theme of the testimony was housing. OHA argued that Hawaiʻi faces severe affordability pressures, out-migration, and workforce shortages, and said that residential development in Kakaʻako Makai would help address those needs while also supporting the value of the trust lands. The presentation described HCDA’s authority over zoning and development in Kakaʻako, the existing reserved housing requirements, and the need for a master plan that could move forward if SB 534 becomes law. No votes or final committee action were taken in the portion of the hearing provided; the discussion remained in the presentation and testimony phase.

Transcript Highlights:

• We will start with Senate File 560. Senator Dornink, to your bill. Thank you, Mr. Chair.
• Thank you, Senator Pratt.
• Thank you, Senator Pratt. Senator Pratt, thank you, Mr. Chair.
• Senator McEwen, thanks.
• Senator McEwen, thanks.

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Labor Committee heard Senate File 560, a bill to require the Commissioner of Labor and Industry to establish a cost-per-square-foot valuation for residential building permits. Senator Dornink said the measure is intended to make permit fees more fair, reasonable, transparent, and predictable, and to reduce housing costs by limiting large differences in permit fees between municipalities. He said the bill would be sent to the Housing Committee without recommendation, and members discussed but did not act on a related amendment that would have shifted plan review and inspection fees to hourly and trip-based charges and made fee information publicly available. Testimony from Housing First Minnesota supported the bill’s goal, arguing that Minnesota’s housing shortage and high new-home prices make it important to reduce inefficiencies in the permitting system. The witness said permit valuations are often increased by cities, leading to higher costs for homebuyers, and cited examples of large fee differences between municipalities and claims of overcollection. He said some other states, including Texas and Wisconsin communities, use square-footage-based approaches. A League of Minnesota Cities representative opposed the amendment language and cautioned that trip charges and hourly billing would make fees less certain, could raise costs, and would be especially burdensome in Greater Minnesota; he said current valuation-based fees better reflect the actual cost and complexity of service and can be appealed if disputed. A representative of the Association of Minnesota Building Officials also raised concerns about the amendment, saying building departments provide consultations, inspections, plan review, and other services beyond a single trip, and that trip charges would not fit a responsive fee-for-service model. He said the current valuation system helps cover the full range of permitting work, though he acknowledged that a consistent square-foot valuation standard could improve transparency and reduce disputes over project value. Committee members asked about other states’ approaches and the scope of the bill, and the discussion emphasized that the proposal applies to one- and two-family dwellings.

Transcript Highlights:

• to wrap it up thank you sen uh Senator to wrap it up thank you sen uh Senator putam<00:13:10.000
• Senator Putnam, thank you. Mr.
• Senator Putnam, thank you. Mr.
• <00:31:34.840> umu Members Senator umu Members Senator umu verbin<00:31:36.880> thank
• um raain and then Members Senator um raain and then Senator Senator Senator chair<00:45:13.680> thank

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Summary: The committee heard informational testimony from student and advocacy groups focused on higher education affordability and support programs. Representatives of the Minnesota Association of Private College Students urged full funding for the Minnesota State Grant, describing it as essential for low- and moderate-income students and noting prior successes such as increased support for hunger-free campuses. Two student witnesses, including one first-generation college student and one refugee student, said the grant made college possible for them and warned that underfunding or cuts would limit students’ ability to choose the right school, especially at private colleges not covered by North Star Promise. Members asked questions about the students’ schools, majors, and why they chose their institutions. The witnesses emphasized scholarship opportunities, campus community, faith-based support, and the importance of financial aid in making college accessible. No votes or formal actions were taken during this portion of the hearing. The committee then heard from Vivian Dudley of Foster Advocates, who testified in support of the Foster Independence Grant. She described how the grant allowed her to begin college, stabilize housing and basic needs, and continue toward a social work degree, while warning that aging out of eligibility leaves foster youth facing renewed financial barriers. Members responded with supportive comments and asked about her educational path and work with youth; she said she wants to use her education to help others and to educate campuses on better supporting foster students. Finally, Shay Hornik of the University of Minnesota student government testified in support of North Star Promise, arguing that the program reduces financial burdens and signals that higher education should be accessible regardless of family income. Hornik cited student financial stress, rising living costs, and public opinion favoring greater investment in higher education, and urged expansion of North Star Promise to help middle-class families. No committee action was taken in the transcript.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm Senator Gary Dames. I represent Senate District 15 out in western Minnesota.
• won't happen in the Senate, so the Senate talking about that.
• Okay, you mentioned Senator Johnson the resolution to undo the power-sharing agreement.
• Senate so the Senate won't happen in the Senate so the Senate talking<00:25:33.919> about<00:
• you mentioned Senator Johnson the uh<00:26:04.360> resolution<00:26:04.880> to<00:26:05.080

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Summary: Senate Republican leaders held a press conference to roll out their “Minnesotans First” agenda, framing it as a response to Democratic control and arguing that recent budgets and policies have increased costs for families and businesses. They said the agenda centers on balancing the budget without tax increases, reducing mandates, lowering costs, and limiting government growth. Specific proposals mentioned included addressing inflation and energy costs, reinsurance and housing issues, child care tax changes, repealing or reducing certain taxes and fees, and creating a government efficiency board. Several senators outlined issue-specific priorities. On spending and taxes, Karin Housley criticized the state’s budget growth, said Republicans would not support a budget that raises taxes, and objected to shifting costs to counties and school districts. On fraud and accountability, Jordan Rasmusson said Minnesota has a fraud problem and backed a statewide Office of Inspector General, stronger legislative auditor powers, and tighter anti-fraud oversight of grants and agencies. On public safety, Michael Kreun called for repealing what he described as soft-on-crime laws and for tougher penalties on violent and repeat offenders. On education, Julia Coleman said Republicans want to pause mandates, increase local control, adjust funding to address disparities, and improve school safety. In the question-and-answer portion, leaders said some items could attract bipartisan support, especially anti-fraud measures such as an Inspector General office and strengthening the legislative auditor. They also discussed concerns about the governor’s budget, including proposed shifts in human services costs, nursing home and disability waiver funding, and benefits for undocumented immigrants. The group said it would continue working under the Senate’s power-sharing agreement for now, though they acknowledged uncertainty about whether it would remain in place for the rest of the session.

Transcript Highlights:

• [Music] The Senate will come to order. Senator Miller, I impose a call. The Senate is under call.
• Senator Johnson, Mr.
• numbers Senate file numbers Senate file numbers Senate file numbers Senate file numbers 202<00
• Members, Senate Resolution 7 will be referred to the Committee on Rules and Administration.
• interest any announcements of Senate interest Senator Senator Senator Jasinski<00:07:49.800> uh

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Summary: The Senate convened under call, completed the prayer and Pledge of Allegiance, and established a quorum. It then received the executive and official communications listed on the agenda, adopted the committee reports except those related to appointments, and laid the appointment reports on the table. Senate Files 202 and 571 were given second reading, and the bills on the introduction calendar received first reading and referral, with Senate File 824 specifically referred to the Committee on Elections. Under motions and resolutions, the chamber approved the author motions as a group. It also approved a motion to withdraw Senate File 222 from the Judiciary Committee and re-refer it to the Housing and Homeless Prevention Committee, with the understanding it would return to Judiciary after that stop. Another approved motion moved Senate File 621 from Commerce and Consumer Protection to the Agriculture, Veterans, Broadband, and Rural Development Committee, with agreement from the co-chairs. Senate Resolution 7 was referred to the Committee on Rules and Administration. During announcements, Senator Jasinski recognized his assistant Dom Ianetti, who was leaving for a new role after three sessions of service. Senator Limmer was excused from the session. On motion by Senator Johnson, the Senate adjourned until Monday, February 3rd at 11 a.m., and the adjournment motion prevailed.

Transcript Highlights:

• First on our agenda is Senate File 563. First on our agenda is Senate File 563.
• Thank you, Senator Hild.
• time, Senator Bahr.
• Chair, and Senator J.
• Uh, thank you, Senator Koran, and Senator Gustafson. Thank you, Mr.

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Summary: The committee first heard Senate File 563, a bill to change the board makeup of the Northern Koochiching Area Sanitary District. Senator Hild said the proposal had been heard the previous year and had broad support from local officials and stakeholders. Cali Briggs, the district’s executive director, explained that the board structure no longer reflected current populations and sewer service patterns: International Falls now holds six of eight seats after earlier consolidations, while East Koochiching has grown through sewer expansions and should receive additional representation. The bill would reduce the board to seven members, with International Falls having three seats, East Koochiching two, Rainier one, and one at-large member chosen by the board. The committee raised no substantive objections, and Senator Gustafson moved the bill to pass and go to general orders; the motion prevailed. Members then briefly joked about the topic and moved on to an overview from the Office of the Legislative Auditor. Legislative Auditor Judy Randall described the office as a nonpartisan legislative branch agency serving both chambers, with a mission of strengthening oversight, promoting accountability, and producing objective, useful reports. She outlined the office’s structure, including financial audits, program evaluations, and a growing special reviews unit, and explained the Legislative Audit Commission’s role in appointing the auditor and selecting program evaluation topics. Randall also emphasized the office’s broad access to records and data, its independence, and its responsibility to protect nonpublic information. Randall answered questions about the office’s authority over entities such as the University of Minnesota, explaining that OLA has audit authority there but often relies on the university’s internal audit function and can also conduct special reviews and program evaluations. She noted that public employees are required to cooperate and that subpoenas are available if needed, though the office prefers to maintain cooperative relationships. Special Reviews Director Katherine Tyson then described how her unit handles complaints and allegations involving misuse of public funds, data, or noncompliance with law, including preliminary assessments, communications with complainants and agencies, and deeper reviews when warranted. She said allegations and reports have increased steadily, with 481 received from 2020 through 2024 and nearly 10 per week on average last year, contributing to a heavier workload for her small team.

Transcript Highlights:

• Next, Senator Boldon.
• Next up, we've got Senator Abeler. Senator Abeler: Well, thank you, Mr.
• Next up, we've got Senator Abeler. Senator Abeler: Well, thank you, Mr.
• Senator Port, nothing? Okay. Anybody else? Senator Koran? Oh, thank you, Mr. Chair.
• Thank you, Senator Abeler.

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Summary: The Health and Human Services committee heard a presentation from Department of Children, Youth, and Families Commissioner Tiki Brown on the department’s 2025 budget and transition plans. Brown said the governor’s budget pairs targeted reductions with modest investments, resulting in net general fund savings, while preserving core safety-net programs. Major proposals included funding for program integrity, modernization of the child welfare SSIS system, compliance changes for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), operating adjustments, and a transition account reallocation as the new department continues moving programs from other agencies through July 1, 2025. A large portion of the discussion focused on CCAP fraud prevention and oversight. Brown and Assistant Commissioner Diane Hy explained that the proposed statewide electronic attendance recordkeeping system would replace retroactive paper-based attendance reporting with more timely data, making it harder to falsify attendance and claim payments improperly. Brown also said the department is working with the Department of Human Services Office of Inspector General and other partners on compliance and fraud controls. Senators pressed for more detail on current enforcement, whether payments can be withheld for violations, and whether recent media reports showed gaps in oversight; Brown said payments can be stopped for false attendance records, suspended or revoked licenses, or fraud allegations, but not for health and safety violations alone. The committee also reviewed other budget-neutral policy changes, including expanding permanency support services for relative foster care and tribal equivalents, strengthening tribal child welfare grants, updating TEACH scholarship rules for early childhood educators, and adjusting the Great Start Compensation Support Payment Program to create a special revenue fund and extend a 10% payment increase to tribally licensed programs and programs on tribal reservation land. Brown also described a $1.5 million annual reduction to restorative practices grants, leaving a smaller ongoing base. No votes or formal actions were taken during the hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• Senate File 558 and, Senator KW, I will turn it over to you.
• thank you Senator K and Senator Muhammad thank you Senator K and Senator Muhammad so<00:38:07.560
• Senator Draheim, next on my list is Senator Draheim.
• <01:22:12.080> P<01:22:12.320> Senator units thank you Senator P Senator units thank
• ler uh Senator that uh wording Senator ler uh Senator or<01:29:28.960> thank<01:29:29.119>

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Summary: The committee heard Senate File 558, a bill to create a formal process for removing unauthorized occupants from real property, often described as a “squatters bill.” The author presented an A2 amendment, which was adopted, and explained that the bill would give sheriffs a structured complaint and verification process, allow fees, provide immunity when the process is followed, and impose civil remedies for wrongful removal and criminal penalties for false complaints. The bill also includes a provision on holdover situations, clarifying that certain unauthorized guests of tenants are unlawful occupants rather than tenants, and a use-of-excess-force provision was mentioned. Supporters said the measure is intended to give property owners and law enforcement a clearer, faster, and more consistent way to handle situations where people occupy property without a lawful basis, especially in rural or seasonal properties and in some landlord-tenant disputes. Senator Uty read a letter from Hubbard County Sheriff Corey Oas describing recurring problems with rental issues, couch hopping, and subletting without landlord knowledge, and a testifier from Pine Island described several local examples of prolonged and costly occupancy disputes, including a restaurant tenant who stopped paying rent and a rural property trespass incident. Committee members in support emphasized the need to balance tenant rights with property rights and to avoid leaving sheriffs to make ad hoc decisions. Michael D. from Homeline opposed the bill, arguing that existing trespass and harassment restraining order laws already address unlawful occupants and that the proposal creates due process concerns by allowing removal without a court hearing. He also warned that the bill’s definition of unlawful occupant could jeopardize oral leases, which are allowed under Minnesota law. In response, supporters said the bill is meant to distinguish true landlord-tenant relationships from trespass situations and to provide a workable process consistent with Minnesota law. At the end of the discussion, the chair announced that Senate File 558 would be laid over for possible inclusion. He also said Senate File 222 would be laid over, Senate File 559 would be moved with a recommendation to pass to the Judiciary Committee, and the fourth bill on the agenda was informational only.

Transcript Highlights:

• good Senator senator esperson good Senator Duckworth<00:14:02.519> uh<00:14:02.639> thank<
• Senator, Senator, thank you, Mr.
• <00:31:15.000> Senator you Senator Senator you Senator Senator H<00:31:17.279> thank
• Senator Dames Mr chair and Senator Senator Dames Mr chair and Senator Wickland<01:25:13.480>
• funded Senator Wickland Mr chair Senator funded Senator Wickland Mr chair Senator Dames<01:25:56.239

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Summary: The committee heard a reinsurance overview from Deputy Commissioner Julia Dryer of the Minnesota Department of Commerce on the Minnesota Premium Security Plan. She explained that reinsurance helps stabilize premiums in the individual market by reimbursing insurers for high-cost claims, and said Minnesota’s program has lowered premiums, preserved carrier participation, and helped maintain consumer choice. She warned that without continued funding, the program would be depleted and individual-market premiums could rise by about 25%, with potential losses in coverage and access to care. She also described the program’s structure under a federal 1332 waiver, the role of MCHA in administering the program, and the state’s receipt of more than $650 million in federal pass-through funds to date. Dryer said the current program is funded through the end of 2025, though the federal waiver authority runs through 2027. The governor’s proposal would create a new assessment on insurers, estimated at roughly 2% to 3%, to fund the state share of the program and avoid another full waiver submission. She noted that the proposal assumes MinnesotaCare funding would be held harmless and that the program would be reduced if federal basic health plan funding were negatively affected. She also said projected costs changed because individual-market enrollment has grown and enhanced federal subsidies were removed from the estimate. Members raised concerns about the proposal’s impact on premiums and the history of the fund. Senator Rasmusson argued the new assessment amounts to a large tax increase on health insurance and questioned who would be assessed and whether the surcharge would be capped. Dryer responded that the assessment would be based on annual claims experience and market conditions, with final amounts determined at the end of each year, not monthly. Senator Duckworth and Senator Frentz supported reinsurance as a way to keep premiums lower, while also questioning how the program should be financed. Senator Green asked about the mechanics of the assessment and the role of the department in setting it, and Senator H questioned why the fiscal note assumed 12% annual growth for program costs when general premium growth was lower. No vote or formal action was taken in the meeting.

Transcript Highlights:

• for a roll call thank you Senator for a roll call thank you Senator Senator Senator Senator Waters
• excused Senator MCU yes Senator avard is excused Senator MCU yes Senator avard is excused Senator
• Senator Prentiss yes. Senator Gray yes. Senator Innis yes. Senator Ward yes. Senator Ricciardi yes.
• I move that the Senate resolution for having been ordered to third reading be read a third time, all
• :53:29.960> Senator Senator Fenton no Senator MCU no Senator Senator Fenton no Senator MCU no

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• Senator Awa here. Senator Chang here. Senator Decoy here. Senator Deort here.
• Senator Dela Cruz here. Senator Elephante here. Senator Fevella here. Senator Fukunaga here.
• Senator Gabbard, Senator Hashimoto, Senator Ihara present. Senator Inouye present.
• Senator Kanuha present. Senator Kouchi present. Senator Kim, Senator Lee here.
• Senator McKelvie, hi. Senator Moriwaki excused. Senator Rhoads excused. Senator Richards here.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• The first item before the committee is Senate File 441, Senator Coleman.
• meman uh Senate too thank you Senator meman uh Senate file<00:15:57.720> 441<00:15:58.440>
• <00:21:31.279> Nelson uh Senator drowsky then Senator Nelson uh Senator drowsky then Senator
• <00:27:08.760> thank Senator bar then Senator Miller thank Senator bar then Senator Miller
• Thank you, Senator Klein. Senator Nelson brings us Senate File 455.

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• will be introduced by Senator Long.
• I agree with Senator Al...?
• I agree with Senator Aler...?
• I agree with Senator Al...?
• I agree with Senator Al...?

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Keywords: 927, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• That's all we have on Senate Bill 254.
• That's all we have on Senate Bill 254.
• That's all we have on Senate Bill 254.
• <00:09:19.760> Bill move on to the next one um Senate Bill move on to the next one um Senate
• well with that we'll go on to Senate well with that we'll go on to Senate Bill<00:10:27.279>

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committee opened its first hearing of 2025 and announced that all measures heard that day would be deferred to the next committee hearing for decision-making on Thursday, January 30. The agenda centered largely on procurement and government-operations bills, with testimony generally split between state agencies and local governments. On procurement measures, SB 254 and SB 383 would raise small-purchase thresholds; the State Procurement Office opposed both, while county officials, the City and County of Honolulu, the state librarian, and others supported them. SB 382, which would bar disclosure of a competing offeror’s proposal or evaluation score, and SB 462, which would require performance incentive contracts to specify pricing bases, goals, and formulas, drew mostly written comments and some support from agencies such as the Department of Transportation and Department of Education. SB 615, which would treat certain large change orders as new contracts, received opposition from the Comptroller and engineering interests. The committee also heard several bills on vacancies, appointments, and legislative oversight. SB 5 on state legislative vacancies had one supporting testifier, while SB 300 on deadlines for filling certain Senate vacancies drew opposition from several individuals and support from one late testifier. SB 1081, which would create a legislative budget office to provide fiscal analysis and reports on bills, received broad support from advocacy groups, civic organizations, and individuals. SB 711, requiring Senate advice and consent for certain executive-branch appointments, drew written opposition from the Governor’s Office and support from one individual. SB 375, establishing a select commission on government restructuring, had one written supporter. SB 418, which would require the Attorney General’s office to review a portion of administrative rules each year, prompted extended discussion about outdated rules, the difficulty of repealing or amending rules, and whether the bill should be refined; the AG’s office indicated the process is burdensome and could be streamlined. The committee then took up transparency and access measures. SB 55, requiring agency rules to be posted online in a digitally accessible format, received support from several advocacy and civic groups and written comment from the Lieutenant Governor’s Office. SB 870 would direct the comptroller to identify state office buildings that could provide equitable telecom access for remote participation in hearings, especially for residents with disabilities; the Comptroller supported the concept, and members discussed using libraries, DAGS facilities, county facilities, and other public buildings, with concerns raised about staffing, bandwidth, and competing public use. SB 270, a sunshine-law measure allowing board members to attend informational meetings and presentations, drew opposition from the Public First Law Center, which argued it would create a broad loophole and should be narrowed to existing county-council provisions. SB 45, concerning neighborhood board meetings and third-party presentations, prompted discussion about whether it actually addressed neighborhood boards’ Sunshine Law concerns; the committee was told it was not the right vehicle for that issue. SB 406, which would cap copying fees for government records at 5 cents per page with exceptions, drew support from media and transparency groups but opposition from DAGS, which said its actual per-page cost is much higher; members discussed possible electronic-copy alternatives and asked for more cost information before the next hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm Senator Jared K. C., Chair of the Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee in the Senate.
• move on to the next measure Senate move on to the next measure Senate Bill<00:18:49.600> 157<
• Senator A, thank you very much.
• <00:36:42.839> a judiciary Senator a judiciary Senator a he<00:36:45.240> thank<00:
• Richards<00:38:03.720> I Senator mckelvie yes Senator Richards I Senator mckelvie yes Senator

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Senate Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee held its first hearing of the 2025 session and reviewed several measures. SB 102 would restrict third-party restaurant reservation services from listing or selling reservations without a written agreement from the restaurant; the Attorney General recommended amendments to strengthen the bill against First Amendment and Contracts Clause challenges, and the Hawaii Restaurant Association strongly supported it, saying restaurants should control who represents them. The committee also heard SB 137 on electric utility mergers and acquisitions, with support from Ulupono Initiative and IBW Local 1260. Supporters said the bill would preserve state policy protections, including renewable energy and rate-making goals, and protect workers; IBW also suggested amendments, including a severability clause. The committee discussed a possible alternative approach from the PUC involving solicitation of bids from non-investor-owned utilities, and Ulupono said it would consider that idea but was concerned about preserving time for co-op formation. Members then heard SB 142, which would require insurers paying claims by check to send them by certified mail with restricted delivery and return receipt. The Insurance Division stood on its written testimony, while the Hawaiian Insurers Council, State Farm, NAMIC, and the American Property Casualty Insurance Association opposed the bill. A senator questioned whether the measure was too prescriptive and could create problems for claimants displaced by disasters; the response was that insurers and claimants usually remain in contact and that other payment methods may already be available depending on the carrier. SB 157 would ban algorithmic price setting in Hawaii’s rental market and require a public education program; the committee noted written testimony in support and comment, but no oral testimony was taken before moving on. SB 158 would create a state-owned bank implementation board within DCCA; DCCA’s financial institutions division, the Budget and Finance Department, and the Legislative Reference Bureau submitted comments, while the Hawaii Bankers Association opposed and the Hawaii Credit Union League commented. The committee also heard SB 318, which would require DCCA to adopt privacy rules for direct-to-consumer genetic testing and specify whether genetic information may be used for investigative genetic genealogy. The Office of Consumer Protection and Andrew Crossland opposed the bill, saying federal law and existing state protections already cover much of the area and that rulemaking would be a better way to address it; members raised concerns about federal changes and the need for state protections, but OCP said the bill was not the best approach. SB 332 would prohibit bundling foreclosed homes at public sale and delay finality of sales; L. Strong and written testimony supported it, citing Lahaina’s post-fire foreclosure risks and warning of investors profiting from the disaster. The final measure, SB 525, would require written notice and consent before mortuaries, cemeteries, or pre-need funeral authorities sell or recycle precious metals recovered after cremation. DCCA’s consumer protection and licensing divisions offered comments, while the Hawaii Funeral and Cemetery Association opposed the bill, saying it was surprised by the measure and was unaware of current consumer problems in the industry.

Transcript Highlights:

• Our first bill today is Senate Bill 27.
• Is there anyone else wishing to testify on Senate Bill 27? Our first bill today is Senate Bill 27.
• Senate Bill 27 testimony continues.
• Senator Kino aye.
• Senator Cana and Senator PLL are excused, and for all other measures recommendations adopted.

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on a series of housing measures focused on streamlining approvals, reshaping financing programs, and expanding affordability requirements. SB 27 would exempt state-financed housing developments from County Council approval; SB 38 would bar county legislative bodies from changing housing proposals in ways that increase project costs; SB 25 would let counties reduce housing capacity in one area only if they offset it elsewhere with no net loss; and SB 379 would require perpetual affordability covenants for HHFDC projects and prohibit affordable housing in special flood hazard areas. SB 378 would create an HHFDC working group to identify mixed-use Maui properties for possible acquisition, SB 414 would authorize condemnation proceedings for a new Lānaʻi access road tied to disaster recovery, and SB 13 would eliminate the state income tax mortgage interest deduction for second homes. Testimony was mixed across the bills, with state agencies and housing advocates generally supporting faster permitting and more production, while county planners, NAIOP, Catholic Charities, and others raised concerns about local control, marketability, financing feasibility, and long-term affordability enforcement. A major portion of the hearing centered on the rental housing revolving fund. SB 70 would limit eligible applicants to government agencies or organizations that reinvest all surplus into additional housing; HHFDC said most developers would not object in principle but questioned how the surplus requirement would be enforced, while NAIOP and Catholic Charities opposed it as too restrictive and difficult to monitor. SB 71 would amend the fund’s preference criteria and eligibility rules, and SB 163 would require HHFDC to prioritize projects with the shortest repayment terms and highest unit production per dollar per year. HHFDC and some advocates supported the goal of faster recycling of funds, but NAIOP and Catholic Charities warned that shorter loan terms and narrowed preferences could burden developers and disincentivize projects, especially for lower-income tenants. The chair indicated SB 163 would be deferred and its concerns folded into amendments to SB 71. In decision-making, the committee voted to pass SB 27, SB 38, SB 70, and SB 71 with amendments, and SB 25 unamended. The chair said SB 27 would be amended to include projects with a state financing commitment and a report note that such projects still undergo 21-38 review; SB 38 would receive technical changes and language preventing county bodies from imposing cost-increasing conditions; SB 70 would add language addressing enforcement of the surplus requirement and a preamble citing the need to recycle taxpayer-financed housing value; and SB 71 would be amended to incorporate concerns raised in SB 163, including a broader preamble and revised priority criteria. SB 163 was deferred, while the other measures on the agenda were heard but no final action was described in the transcript excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• Uh, Senators questions. Senator DL, hi.
• Uh, Senators questions. Senator DL, hi.
• Senator Dco? please excuse Senator Richards. I... Senator FLL? hi.
• Senator dco pleas excuse Senator Senator dco pleas excuse Senator Richards<00:20:42.360> I
• Senator fukunaga excuse Senator vote Yes Senator fukunaga excuse Senator roads<00:27:45.360> hi

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committees first heard Senate Bill 151 relating to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands and geothermal development on Hawaiian homelands. DHHL and Ulupono Initiative testified in strong support, saying the measure would help advance clean energy goals, create economic opportunities, and support DHHL’s mission. Fine Electric also supported the bill. Several members of the public testified in opposition, raising concerns about consultation with beneficiaries, water impacts, land issues, and the scale of the proposed spending. In response to questions, DHHL staff explained slimhole drilling, the permitting distinctions between water exploration and geothermal exploration, and said prior studies and geophysical testing had been done. The chair then recommended passage with amendments, including SMA technical amendments, a directive to establish a permitted interaction group to study geothermal options, removal of the appropriation language, and a new effective date. The committees adopted the recommendation and passed SB 151 with amendments, with one senator voting no and several excused. The joint committees then took up Senate Bill 371 on property damage to critical infrastructure facilities. The Department of the Attorney General supported the bill with amendments, recommending broader critical infrastructure language to cover systems such as transportation, gas, power, water, and oil, and suggesting additional changes to improve prosecution. Utility and other supporters also testified in favor. The chairs proposed adopting the AG’s amendments except one, and further expanding the bill to make manslaughter explicit when a death results from disruption of critical infrastructure, and to add water as a covered infrastructure category. The committees adopted the amended recommendation and passed SB 371 with amendments. Finally, the Energy and Intergovernmental Affairs committee heard Senate Bill 585 on special purpose revenue bonds for Bana Pacific. The Attorney General noted a possible issue with the company’s entity status and the bill title, but Bana Pacific stated it was in the process of converting from an LLC to a corporation and was satisfied with the title. The State Energy Office supported the concept, and Bana Pacific described the project as an integrated biogas and green hydrogen facility that would support energy security, create jobs, and reduce emissions. The committee then moved on to Senate Bill 964 on waste-to-energy, where the State Energy Office offered supportive comments but many testifiers opposed the measure, arguing incineration is costly, polluting, and inferior to recycling. Written testimony showed more opposition than support, and public testimony focused on environmental and cost concerns.

Transcript Highlights:

• And then we have a visiting senator, Senator F, asked to come in, so please, Senator F, District 20,
• Linda Kalani Sonoda P. in support. a visiting Senator Senator flla asked to a visiting Senator Senator
• uh Senator F C in so please Senator uh Senator F District<00:13:53.880> 20<00:13:54.759> ever
• Senator Ihara, excuse. Senator K. Col, aye. Senator Deart, aye.
• > I<01:17:09.199> Senator ihar excuse Senator K col I Senator ihar excuse Senator K col

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Committee on Hawaiian Affairs opened its first meeting of the 33rd Legislature with housekeeping announcements, including live streaming, a two-minute testimony limit, and notice that the committee would reconvene later if technical problems forced an early adjournment. Members introduced themselves, and the chair explained that written testimony was already on file and that public testimony would be taken measure by measure. On SB 109, which concerns the relationship between Hawaiian and English versions of state laws, the Department of the Attorney General raised concerns that broadly allowing the Hawaiian text to supersede English could create ambiguity, and recommended narrowing the bill to laws originally drafted in Hawaiian that were never later amended in English. The Judiciary supported the bill, saying it reinforces Hawaiian as an official language, while OHA and several individuals also supported it. Testimony in support emphasized the importance of honoring Hawaiian language and preventing it from being treated as secondary. The committee then heard SB 268 on burial councils and SB 269 on the OHA budget. SB 268 drew strong support from OHA-related witnesses and many members of the public, who said burial council quorum problems and delays have hindered protection of iwi kupuna; one Moka representative opposed the bill, arguing the island had not been adequately consulted and that the real issue was the state process rather than council size. SB 269 received support from OHA and public testifiers who said OHA should be strengthened and better funded to serve Native Hawaiian needs. The committee also heard SB 624 relating to Prince Jonah Kūhiō, with DHHL and OHA supporting the measure to display portraits of Prince Kūhiō in public buildings; testifiers said the bill would promote cultural pride, education, and recognition of his legacy. No votes were taken during the portion of the meeting provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• me as Senate President, and for the past two years I've been Senate President.
• District, which is Senate District 60, where Senator DIC [questionable] held from, is a heavy DFL district
• because the Senate District uh which<00:02:49.000> is<00:02:49.120> Senate<00:02:49.440
• which is Senate District 60 where Senator<00:02:50.879> DIC<00:02:51.879> uh<00:02:52.159
• her death one of the things that Senator her death one of the things that Senator di<00:03:01.400

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Summary: The discussion focused on Minnesota Senate power-sharing after the chamber split evenly between DFLers and Republicans, leading to a temporary arrangement with two co-presiding officers instead of a single Senate President. Senator Bobby Joe Champion described the arrangement as historic but practical, noting that he and Senator Jeremy Miller both have prior leadership experience and mutual respect, which helps the Senate operate smoothly at the start of session. He said the agreement is intended to keep the Senate functioning while the seat in Senate District 60 remains vacant and until the 34th vote is restored. Champion said the power-sharing agreement will end once the tie is broken and the Senate regains a majority, after which one of the co-presiding officers will become Senate President. He expressed hope that he would hold that role, but emphasized that the broader goal is to keep the chamber focused on people-centered policymaking rather than partisan numbers. He also said some elements of the agreement, especially those that encourage closer collaboration, may continue even after the tie is resolved. The senator highlighted bipartisanship, committee balance, and working relationships across party lines as key features of the arrangement. He pointed to his role as co-chair of jobs and economic development and said he expects continued cooperation with Republican lead Senator Draheim on issues affecting Minnesotans. Throughout the interview, Champion framed the moment as an opportunity to “meet the moment” with leadership, citing the importance of how the Senate handles challenge and controversy.