Transcript Highlights:

• I serve my neighbors in Eastern Bloomington in House District 51B, and I'm the DFL vice chair of our
• I serve my<00:08:18.080><c> neighbors</c><00:08:18.400><c> in</c><00:08:18.639><c> Eastern</c><00:08:
• 18.960><c> Bloomington</c><00:08:19.440><c> in</c> my neighbors in Eastern Bloomington in my neighbors
• in Eastern Bloomington in House<00:08:19.840><c> District</c><00:08:20.280><c> 51B</c><00:08:21.280>

Transcript Highlights:

• Eastern Kentucky University reported various asset preservation project revisions for additional heating
• 00:03:13.239><c> six</c> to House Bill one and House Bill six to House Bill one and House Bill six Eastern
• <00:03:14.360><c> Kentucky</c><00:03:14.879><c> University</c><00:03:15.440><c> reported</c> Eastern
• Kentucky University reported Eastern Kentucky University reported various<00:03:16.400><c> asset</c><

Summary: The committee first handled informational reports on several bond and lease matters, including school district and board of education debt-service items, upcoming revenue bond issues in Henderson and Jessamine counties, and three advertised lease-space requests for state agencies. Members also reviewed prior lease transactions that had not been approved in November and December; the Finance and Administration Cabinet later canceled and rebid the Harlan County lease and moved ahead with the Perry County lease modification. Additional information items included a Kentucky Communications Network Authority quarterly capital projects report and Eastern Kentucky University asset preservation revisions. The committee then heard from Deputy State Budget Director Janice Thomas on four action items. She reported a $2.85 million USDA-funded renovation at Kentucky State University’s Betty White Building, a $294,000 increase for the Kentucky School for the Deaf’s Middleton Hall renovation, and a $6.1 million restricted-funds scope increase for the KCTCS Science Building Expansion in Elizabethtown. Members asked about how often the statutory 15% increase authority is used for school dormitory and cottage projects and about the competitiveness of construction bids; Thomas said bids are typically competitive but recent estimates have been difficult because of higher material and equipment costs. The committee approved the three action items unanimously and also received a no-action report on a $3.918 million Corrections project to repair and replace the KCIW kitchen drain line. Next, the Kentucky Infrastructure Authority presented seven loans and grants, all of which the committee approved unanimously. The package included sewer and water projects for Frankfort, Sturgis, Scottsville, Morganfield, Western Pulaski County Water District, and Springfield, plus an emergency $5.487 million Kentucky Waters grant for Eddyville after a catastrophic sewer plant failure and weather-related emergency declarations. The projects covered wastewater interceptor and treatment upgrades, sewer collection rehabilitation, water transmission main installation, and planning/design work, with loan terms ranging from five to 30 years and interest rates from 0.5% to 2.25%. Finally, the committee considered a $38.4 million Kentucky Housing Corporation conduit issuance for a 322-unit multifamily rental project in Jefferson County. A member asked how the committee participates in the transaction, and staff explained that it is a conduit issuance and not state debt. The committee then moved to approve the issuance.

Transcript Highlights:

• If you look into the Eastern Pacific right now, in the first 90 days, we've had a lot of people come
• And we've also seen increase in air patrols on the eastern side.
• Operation Southern Spear, where at this point we'll have cell drones in the Caribbean. and in the Eastern
• So right now I have eight operational in the Caribbean and three in the Eastern Pacific and more flowing

Committee: Senate Subcommittee on Personnel

Keywords: national security, China, Russia, cybersecurity, border security, military deployment, transnational crime, defense modernization, military strategy

Summary: In this meeting, key topics included national security concerns with an emphasis on threats from China, Russia, and transnational criminal organizations. Senior military officials provided testimony on the evolving risks posed by these adversaries, particularly focusing on cybersecurity and advancements in weaponry. The discussion highlighted the importance of a cohesive strategy among government departments to effectively respond to the challenges presented by these threats, emphasizing the need for modernization in defense capabilities. Committee members grilled the witnesses on border security and the implications of deploying military resources in domestic operations.

Transcript Highlights:

• And that's because of the hydrology of the entirety of this eastern Snake River Plain.
• River system in Water District 4 that supports the agricultural and economic prosperity of the whole eastern

Committee: House Resources and Conservation

Transcript Highlights:

• as a really good bill for all the districts in the state of Kentucky, especially the districts in Eastern
• :10:14.720><c> in</c> Kentucky, especially the districts in Kentucky, especially the districts in Eastern
• And despite the clear need for some relief for some of the schools, especially in Eastern Kentucky, the
• specified that this was for those who were in the middle of a federal or state of emergency, like the Eastern
• So naturally, those schools in Eastern Kentucky had to act. Okay?

Summary: The Senate Education Committee heard House Bill 132, which would change home and hospital instruction funding so schools can be reimbursed sooner when students miss school for short-term mental health-related stays. Representative Nick Wilson said current law requires a student to be out five days before funding begins, leaving schools unpaid when they provide instruction during 2- to 4-day absences. The committee gave HB 132 favorable expression unanimously. The committee then heard House Bill 193, a cleanup bill on dual credit scholarships. Representative J.T. Payne and KHEAA’s director explained that the bill consolidates academic and CTE dual credit scholarships into one statute to reduce administrative confusion, since the programs have been funded together in recent budgets. HB 193 passed unanimously with favorable expression. House Bill 241 drew the most discussion. The committee first adopted a substitute, which members said changed the bill to give the Commissioner of Education discretion, rather than a mandate, to grant calamity days. The bill and substitute centered on virtual instruction and Cloverport Virtual Academy: supporters said the school was a pilot project that needed more time and that a prior agency effort to cap virtual instruction would have effectively shut it down, while opponents argued the substitute would reward a low-performing virtual model and extend NTI/virtual learning too broadly. Testimony from an Oldham County parent criticized NTI quality and opposed adding more virtual days. No final vote on HB 241 was included in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• Recognizing the gentleman<01:09:03.440><c> from</c><01:09:03.679><c> the</c><01:09:03.839><c> Eastern
• </c> gentleman from the Eastern Shore. gentleman from the Eastern Shore.
• Recognizing the delegate from the Eastern Shore. >> Thank you, Madam Speaker.
• The Eastern Shore delegation will be meeting via Zoom at 9:00 a.m. tomorrow. >> Madam Speaker, you're
• </c><01:16:24.960><c> Shore</c> Born into slavery on the Eastern Shore Born into slavery on the Eastern

Transcript Highlights:

• And then I see uh sample procedures and Eastern Indiana. So, where do those Eastern Indiana.
• And the first one is a food as medicine program in eastern Kentucky.
• </c> is we saw for some reason in Eastern is we saw for some reason in Eastern Kentucky<01:17:10.880>
• </c> medicine program in eastern Kentucky. medicine program in eastern Kentucky.
• </c><01:20:01.840><c> Kentucky</c> people that live in Eastern Kentucky people that live in Eastern Kentucky

Summary: The task force opened with a moment of silence for the Louisville UPS plane tragedy, approved the October 15 minutes, and reminded members to submit policy recommendations before the December 16 meeting, when the group will discuss its report to LRC. The first informational presentation, from the Department for Public Health, focused on youth vaping. Elizabeth Good and Julie Brooks cited a recent Surgeon General report warning that youth vaping can harm brain development, mental health, lungs, asthma, and hormones, and noted Kentucky survey data showing 8.7% of students reported daily vaping and 19.7% used vaping products in the prior 30 days. They described prevention and cessation resources including Catch My Breath, I Can End the Trend, Not on Tobacco, My Life, My Quit, Quitline services, and the Kentucky TRUST retailer education program, which trained 3,371 individuals in 2024 and distributed 253 Tobacco 21 toolkits. The next presentation came from Kentucky ABC on implementation of SB 100, which created the division of tobacco, nicotine, and vapor product licensing. Commissioner Scotty Tracy and Jamar Carter said all retailers selling tobacco, nicotine, or vapor products must be licensed, regulations were filed October 31, 2025, and the online application portal is live. In response to questions about sales to minors, they said violations carry escalating fines for clerks and owners, with a fourth violation resulting in no license renewal for two years and unpaid fines also blocking renewal. They said complaints can be submitted through the portal, by phone, or on the ABC website, and enforcement investigates tips and may use underage compliance checks. The committee then heard from Kim McKenna Johnson of One Cross Community Health, who argued for a “deficiency-first” and holistic approach to care centered on nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplementation. She said her clinic serves more than 7,000 patients in Taylor and Marion counties and described a model that includes primary care, behavioral health, functional medicine, addiction recovery, and chronic care. She cited Kentucky health rankings, claimed nutritional deficiencies cost the state billions, and said many children are overprescribed while undernourished. She urged broader insurance coverage for nutritional testing and supplements, rural demonstration grants, and Medicaid pilots for clinically prescribed supplements. Members asked about testing costs, dietitian support, long-term cost savings, compliance, and whether medications are often used to prevent damage from noncompliance; the presenter said the lab tests are generally covered, supplements are the main cost barrier, and seeing lab results can improve family buy-in. No votes were taken during the meeting.

Transcript Highlights:

• that they're all, while you said geographically assigned, they all seem to be pretty much on the eastern
• I'm wondering about whether you're seeing a difference between reporting happening in the eastern part
• of the state versus more rural...” “...difference between reporting happening in the eastern part of
• “Yes, so a vast majority of what we're seeing is coming from the eastern part of the state.
• Hampshire, and Vermont is about another 75, so we're working with about 375 Jewish institutions in eastern

Summary: The Special Commission on Anti-Semitism met to focus on the role of law enforcement in responding to anti-Semitic incidents. After approving amended minutes, the chair opened with remarks emphasizing that the Commission would confront anti-Semitism from any political direction and outlined the day’s agenda: extremist activity trends, hate-crime statutes, intergovernmental coordination, and security funding. The first presentation came from Ben Pott of the ADL Center on Extremism, who described rising extremist propaganda and anti-Semitic incidents nationally and in Massachusetts, highlighting groups such as NSC-131, GDL, and Patriot Front. He said these groups increasingly use anti-Zionist language, public disruptions, and online platforms to spread hate, and recommended prosecution where possible, civil litigation, education about symbols and tactics, and community reporting to law enforcement and ADL. Assistant District Attorney David Solvin then reviewed federal and Massachusetts hate-crime laws, including federal civil-rights and hate-crime statutes and state provisions for civil-rights violations, assault and battery to intimidate, religious vandalism, terroristic threats, and criminal harassment. He explained that many of these laws enhance penalties based on bias motivation, but some do not create standalone offenses or qualify as dangerousness predicates under current law. Commissioners pressed him on hypothetical fact patterns involving anti-Semitic slurs, symbols, and attacks, as well as on the limits of existing law for pretrial detention and the need for better data collection. Solvin said more training, better reporting, and possible legislative updates could improve enforcement, and he noted pending bills that would require more regular hate-crime reporting and expand protected classes. Detective Lieutenant Ryan Cepiel of the State Police Anti-Terrorism Unit and HART described the unit’s creation in 2023, its role in implementing prior hate-crime task force recommendations, and its work with local, state, federal, and community partners. He said HART has trained civil-rights officers, developed recruit and in-service curricula, created resource pamphlets and a Teams page, and is building a GIS-based reporting portal to improve tracking and victim support. Cepiel reported a year-over-year rise in reported anti-Semitic hate crimes in Massachusetts, while noting that current numbers are incomplete because reporting is inconsistent and there is no mandate for local departments to notify HART. Commissioners discussed underreporting, rural versus eastern Massachusetts coverage, the need for more officers and training, and the importance of making victims feel safe coming forward. The meeting ended with agreement that better data, training, and coordination are needed to address the rise in anti-Semitic hate and bias incidents.

Transcript Highlights:

• What we're finding in eastern Washington, which I know you know, Mr.
• What we're finding in eastern Washington, which I know you know, Mr.
• The Department of Fish and Wildlife has not gotten to a mapping system for eastern Washington, and their
• shrub-step, and I love everything that's going on, but this is increasingly not letting us develop in eastern
• could have maybe done something a little bit there, increased costs to help develop more housing in eastern

Summary: The House Appropriations Committee met in executive session on a proposed substitute operating budget bill and worked through a long series of amendments before voting on the bill. Members discussed a wide range of budget items, including court funding for Thurston County civil filings, Attorney General funding for a domestic extremism task force, grants for Yakima aquatics access, North Mason mobile integrated health, mentoring programs, poverty reduction work, a proposed Department of Housing task force, federal grant inventory staffing, HEAL Act funding, assisted living rebasing, DCYF family resource centers and pediatric interim care, law enforcement training and equipment, shellfish and birthing center licensing fees, school bus depreciation, charter school accountability, transition to kindergarten priorities, and several Fish and Wildlife and OSPI grants. The committee also considered amendments related to the Columbia River Gorge Commission, shrub-steppe habitat mitigation, and a study on Lower Snake River reservoir drawdown impacts. Debate on many amendments centered on whether items were statewide priorities or local projects, and on the fiscal constraints of the budget. Supporters often argued that proposals would protect vulnerable populations, improve public safety, or leverage future savings and outside funding; opponents frequently cited budget pressure, the availability of existing funding, or the need to avoid singling out local projects. Some amendments were adopted, including Clark 343 on intent to fund up to 10,000 additional eCAP slots, Jones 419 on paint stewardship funding, and Stevens 070 limiting birthing center license fees. Many others failed, including amendments on Thurston County court funding, the domestic extremism task force, Yakima aquatics, North Mason mobile integrated health, mentoring, poverty reduction workgroup funding, the Department of Housing task force, federal grant staffing, HEAL Act funding, assisted living rebasing, the PIC Center contract, the Lacey regional training academy, and several Fish and Wildlife and OSPI-related proposals. The committee then moved to the underlying bill, Proposed Substitute House Bill 2289, and adopted a do pass motion after disposing of the amendments. The transcript indicates the committee ultimately reported the bill out of committee with a do pass recommendation.

Transcript Highlights:

• Jamie Miner on behalf of Eastern Municipal Water District, Monterey One Water, Santa Margarita Water
• Jamie Miner on behalf of Eastern Municipal Water District, Monterey One Water, Santa Margarita Water

Summary: The committee met without a quorum at first but proceeded with presentations and testimony. SB 31 by Senator McNerney would expand uses of tertiary treated recycled water, including for toilet and urinal flushing in food handling facilities, outdoor irrigation in certain settings, decorative lakes and ponds, and HOA common-area irrigation, while clarifying regulatory definitions and reducing the need for dual plumbing in some cases. The author and witness said the bill would help California reduce reliance on imported water and improve drought resilience. Multiple water agencies, cities, and related organizations testified in support, and no opposition was presented. SB 650 by Senator Cabaldon would make technical changes to the Delta Stewardship Act, including setting an appeals timeline, clarifying who may file appeals, and adding a severability clause. The author and a county supervisor witness described it as a good-governance and due-process measure with no impact on Delta conveyance projects. Support came from water district and statewide water association representatives, and there was no opposition. The committee also took up a consent calendar including AJR 9, SB 55, and SB 563, all of which were approved. Once a quorum was established, SB 650 was passed to the Judiciary Committee, and SB 31 was passed to the Environmental Safety and Toxic Materials Committee. The committee then adjourned after leaving the roll open briefly for additional members to vote.

Transcript Highlights:

• And part of the Eastern Kentucky crew of three regional engagements up there.
• </c><00:36:16.000><c> Kentucky</c><00:36:16.520><c> crew</c> And part of the uh Eastern Kentucky crew
• And part of the uh Eastern Kentucky crew of<00:36:17.040><c> three</c><00:36:17.720><c> regional</c>
• I am an Eastern Kentucky Regional Engagement Agent, and like my brother David down there said, I'm a
• </c> boots on the ground in Eastern Kentucky. boots on the ground in Eastern Kentucky.

Summary: The meeting was a discussion of fatherhood and a possible response to Senator Robby Mills’ Resolution 112, which had proposed a task force on fatherhood initiatives. After approving the June meeting minutes and confirming a quorum, the committee heard a presentation from Mark Ludwig, executive director of the National Council for Equal Shared Parenting, who argued that fatherhood is often left out of public policy and that stronger father involvement is linked to better outcomes in crime, education, substance abuse, and family stability. He cited Kentucky’s 50/50 shared parenting law as a model and urged fatherhood classes, employment support, mentoring, co-parenting education, and partnerships with community organizations, schools, and social workers rather than relying solely on state spending. He also said fatherhood engagement could save the state money by reducing incarceration and related costs. Members then raised concerns that the presentation did not sufficiently address structural causes of fatherlessness, especially incarceration, racial disparities, gun violence, poverty, housing, transportation, and sentencing policy. Senator Berg and Representative Kulkarni emphasized that Black and brown families are disproportionately affected by incarceration and violence, and questioned whether fatherhood programs alone can solve the problem without broader reforms. Ludwig responded that some fathers are pushed out by the court system or lack legal resources, and said reintegration programs and legal, financial, and community supports are part of the solution, though he had focused mainly on the need for fatherhood programming in this presentation. No bill was voted on and no formal action was taken beyond approving the minutes. The discussion appeared to be an initial policy conversation to gather ideas and perspectives for possible future work on fatherhood-related initiatives.

Transcript Highlights:

• Basalt for almost 15 years and then over on the eastern plains.
• And if you go on the eastern plains...
• Denver-Boulder metro area, but from the eastern plains, the western slope, all over.
• When I was a county commissioner, I served on the Eastern Transportation Planning...
• On the Eastern Transportation Planning Region, I told CDOT at that time, if 385 doesn't get some major

Transcript Highlights:

• Our colleagues in EK SEP in Eastern Kentucky were already in many of their high schools.
• Our colleagues in EK SEP in<00:15:27.920><c> Eastern</c><00:15:28.320><c> Kentucky</c><00:15:29.040><
• c> were</c><00:15:29.360><c> already</c><00:15:29.760><c> in</c><00:15:30.079><c> many</c> in Eastern
• Kentucky were already in many in Eastern Kentucky were already in many of<00:15:30.480><c> their</c>
• </c> sectors or districts and uh, Eastern sectors or districts and uh, Eastern East<00:19:57.280><c>

Summary: The committee met with a quorum, approved the October minutes, and heard first a progress report on the state-funded “Putting Young Kentuckians to Work” initiative. Workforce leaders from Cumberland Workforce Development Board and Kentucky Works said the HB 1 funding has allowed them to contract with all 10 workforce boards and build new pipelines with high schools, area technology centers, school districts, and community and technical colleges. They reported an end-of-year goal of 3,600 job placements, with 218 placements reported as of October 2025 and enrollment numbers continuing to rise. Testimony emphasized that the program is aimed at disconnected youth and high school seniors, that federal WIOA funds are too limited to support this work alone, and that the flexible state funding has enabled short-term training and placements in fields such as welding, CDL, and CNA. Members asked about barriers to implementation, wage levels, and services for students with disabilities; presenters said the main challenge was building school relationships and that wage growth should improve as students gain more skills and credentials. The committee then received an update on the Kentucky Talent Attraction Initiative. Representatives from Greater Louisville Inc. and Commerce Lexington explained that the General Assembly previously provided $250,000 for a consultant to develop a statewide talent attraction and retention strategy, and that more than 13 organizations across the state support the effort. Development Counsellors International described its research process, including statewide stakeholder engagement, and said the goal is to create a Kentucky talent value proposition that combines job opportunities with quality-of-place messaging. They reported that Kentucky faces a shrinking labor force and a projected national worker shortfall, while internal research found 47% of working-age respondents could consider leaving the state within two years because they are not confident in career opportunities. At the same time, they said 96% of surveyed higher education students would stay if offered a full-time job, and 72% of employers expect to expand staffing in the next two years. The presenters said they are moving from research into messaging and an action plan, and that the strategy should be customized and measurable rather than one-size-fits-all.

Transcript Highlights:

• We have endeavored to expand our coverage into eastern Kentucky, where there are very few podiatrists
• 44.160><c> into</c> endeavored to expand our coverage into endeavored to expand our coverage into eastern
• 46.240><c> where</c><00:10:46.480><c> there</c><00:10:46.720><c> are</c><00:10:46.959><c> very</c> eastern
• Kentucky uh where there are very eastern Kentucky uh where there are very few<00:10:47.440><c> podiatrists
• </c><00:26:04.799><c> Kentucky</c> wonderful OT program at Eastern Kentucky wonderful OT program at Eastern

Summary: The Senate Standing Committee on Health Services heard Senate Bill 18, a bill described by the sponsor and podiatry witnesses as a modernization of Kentucky’s podiatry laws. The bill would recognize and regulate podiatric assistants, podiatric residents, and supervising podiatrists; allow podiatrists to supervise physician assistants in podiatry practices with approval from the relevant licensing boards; require new podiatrists licensed after January 1, 2027 to complete at least two years of residency; and extend disciplinary authority to the new categories. Witnesses said the measure would improve access to foot and ankle care, especially in rural areas, without expanding scope of practice. The Kentucky Medical Association was said to be neutral after working on the language with the sponsors. Committee members raised concerns about the meaning of “supervision,” whether it required direct or indirect oversight, and whether the bill could broaden billing or coding privileges. Dr. Roberts said supervision could mean direct supervision or indirect supervision, including being available by telephone, and noted the bill mirrors language used in allopathic PA supervision. He also said the bill would not change office staff billing roles and that podiatric assistants would not bill separately. Several senators said they supported moving the bill forward but remained concerned about workforce, cost, and scope creep. The committee adopted a committee substitute, then voted on the bill. The motion passed unanimously with favorable expression. After the vote, the committee moved on to a presentation on outpatient pediatric therapies, where providers described Medicaid reimbursement pressures, workforce turnover, and long waiting lists for children’s therapy services, but no action was taken on that presentation in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• obsolete building to establish the East Kentucky Applied Manufacturing Institute, or ECAM, program at Eastern
• Phase 3A further progressed the radio installation into existing sites in eastern Kentucky, so that's
• 29:21.360><c> into</c> installation into existing sites into installation into existing sites into eastern
• last geographic section of the state and that completes the project by moving through the rest of eastern
• </c> by moving through the rest of eastern by moving through the rest of eastern Kentucky.<00:29:54.320

Summary: The subcommittee heard capital project requests from the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet for fiscal years 2026-28. The cabinet described its large statewide footprint and said its facilities face significant deferred maintenance, with the governor’s budget proposing full funding for maintenance pool requests, including an additional $60 million for the Department of Corrections’ maintenance pool and cash funding through investment income. Officials said the projects were based on facility assessments and were presented as necessary public safety investments rather than wish-list items. For the Department of Juvenile Justice, the main requests were $35 million for a high-acuity mental health treatment facility and $45 million each for two new female detention facilities. Officials said the mental health facility would fill a gap for youth needing psychiatric care, while the female facilities were needed to support a regional detention model and address overcrowding; they noted the current female population has grown by 50% since July 2024. Members asked about locations, and staff said they were considering western Kentucky abandoned mine land and available land in Fayette and Jefferson counties, with current female placements in Boyd County and Warren County. For the Department of Corrections, officials requested funding for critical mechanical, electrical, plumbing, roof, and structural repairs, including $15.78 million for Kentucky State Penitentiary utilities infrastructure and additional funding for North Point Training Center projects. They also highlighted two re-entry initiatives: a KCTCS partnership for a re-entry campus at North Point and the East Kentucky Applied Manufacturing Institute at Eastern Kentucky Correctional Complex, both aimed at reducing recidivism through intensive training and job preparation. Members asked about the KCTCS re-entry model, and DOC explained it would be a more immersive, campus-style program than current prison-based vocational classes. The Department of Criminal Justice Training discussed projects at its Richmond campus and the planned Western Kentucky Training Center, including a replacement flat track and campus access road at Richmond and added training features in Madisonville. Officials said the Richmond changes were needed because EKU construction had removed the existing flat track and would affect access, while the Western Kentucky project would expand training capacity and reduce travel for law enforcement agencies. The Kentucky State Police then outlined the final phase of the statewide emergency radio system replacement, estimated at about $17.5 million, and said the system is being built in geographic phases; members asked how long completion would take, and staff estimated roughly four years after funding, assuming no major inflation spikes. No votes were taken, and the meeting remained informational with member questions and staff responses.

Transcript Highlights:

• So you can see that that stretches from eastern Kentucky all the way down to the river counties there
• you can see that that stretches<00:29:10.480><c> from</c><00:29:11.279><c> uh</c><00:29:11.520><c> eastern
• from uh eastern Kentucky all the<00:29:12.559><c> way</c><00:29:12.640><c> down</c><00:29:12.880><c>
• make sure that we can continue the to make sure that we can continue the outreach<00:29:48.399><c> Eastern
• We'd love to outreach Eastern Kentucky.

Summary: The committee met and approved the August 21, 2025 minutes. The main presentation came from Brandon Reid of the Kentucky Office of Agriculture Policy, who reported that implementation of the Kentucky Agriculture Economic Development Board created by Senate Bill 28 and House Joint Resolution 31 is ahead of schedule. He said the board has been appointed and has met several times, has adopted guidelines and an application process, and has launched its application on the KDA website. He also noted new staffing, including a project manager, and said the office is already working on projects, though some are confidential because of coordination with the Economic Development Cabinet and nondisclosure agreements. Members praised the effort and emphasized the importance of having agriculture represented in economic development work. Reid also described ongoing outreach by Commissioner Jonathan Shell, including farmer appreciation and classroom visits across the state. The committee then heard from Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton and Bluegrass Ag Tech Development Corp. executive director Jacob Ball about the Bluegrass Ag Tech Development Corp., a public-private partnership involving Lexington-Fayette, the Kentucky Department of Agriculture, the University of Kentucky, and Altech. They said the organization aims to make Kentucky a national and international hub for ag tech, and that it has already awarded challenge grants to startups. Ball explained that the program focuses on animal protein, nutrition, sustainability, mid-size farm solutions, and Kentucky traditions such as distilling and equine. He reported that two rounds of grants have totaled $925,000, with the first round’s seven companies leveraging that into nearly $7 million in follow-on investment, supporting 56.5 Kentucky jobs and creating more than a dozen new jobs. The presentation also highlighted statewide outreach, including applications and engagement from counties across Kentucky, and the goal of expanding participation in eastern Kentucky. Members expressed support for both initiatives and discussed the value of agriculture-specific expertise in economic development. Reid said the Department of Agriculture and the Economic Development Cabinet maintain regular communication and that the new board gives agriculture a seat at the table for future site and industry recruitment efforts. No additional votes or formal actions were taken beyond approval of the minutes.

Transcript Highlights:

• The line items here include four psychiatry residents at the Eastern Idaho Medical Residency.
• The line items here include four psychiatry residents at the Eastern Idaho Medical Residency, an additional
• You can see that the colleges—well, you can't see, but I can see—the College of Eastern Idaho would increase

Summary: The committee took up a series of JFAC budget items, beginning with health education programs. Members approved an FY 2027 increase of $900,000 and 2.5 FTP for psychiatry, family medicine, OB fellowship, child psychiatry, and veterinary education slots. They then adopted language to shift funding for the family medicine OB fellowship to the rural health transformation program if those funds become available before July 1, 2026, with the general fund then redirected to undergraduate medical education seats under H 368. The language drew debate about whether rural health money should be reserved for rural facilities and whether the provision would preempt a future committee’s role, but it ultimately passed. The committee next approved the Office of the State Board of Education budget, including Canvas LMS renewal, transfer of risk managers to institutions, and a federal post-secondary improvement grant, with a net increase of $4,487,900 and a reduction of four FTP. For colleges and universities, a substitute motion to add general fund support for an additional rescission restoration and other items failed, and the original motion passed instead, providing a smaller increase. Community colleges received a one-time general fund increase of $1,123,200 after the committee rejected a substitute that would have only reduced Canvas costs. Career Technical Education was addressed twice: first, the committee approved $957,600 one-time from the Career Ready Students Fund to restore a prior rescission in secondary programs; later, it approved $1,877,300 one-time from the same fund for secondary CTE programs after rejecting a substitute that would have used ongoing general fund support. The Department of Administration budget included utilities, Medicaid procurement staffing, training, document services, IT hardware, and a rescission correction. The committee rejected the main motion after concerns were raised about staffing for a large Medicaid managed care contract, but then approved the Permanent Building Fund budget, including $890,100 for design of a National Guard Readiness Center in Bonneville County and $71.6 million for replacement items and maintenance projects. Standard language and reporting language for that fund were adopted by unanimous consent. Finally, the State Lottery received approval for $25,800 in dedicated funds for replacement computers used in scratch-game design. The committee adjourned after announcing future work group meetings and upcoming budget agenda items.

Transcript Highlights:

• I am a business representative with Teamsters Local 760 here in Eastern Washington.
• enforcement officers, and corrections officers in cities and counties throughout central and parts of eastern
• So workers in small jurisdictions like Eastern and Central Washington don't have the same bargaining

Summary: The Labor and Workplace Standards Committee held its first meeting of the session and heard four bills. HB 2107 would make permanent and slightly narrow a temporary L&I requirement that, after an on-site safety inspection at a building construction site, the agency make a good-faith effort to notify the owner or employer within 10 working days if an immediately identified hazard could injure a worker. Construction industry groups and L&I supported the bill and said the pilot had worked well, with L&I reporting it had been able to notify owners almost 96% of the time during about 1,400 inspections. HB 2137 would remove the population threshold for binding interest arbitration for correctional employees in city and county jails. Teamsters representatives said the change would give corrections officers in smaller jurisdictions the same bargaining rights as other uniformed personnel and help address safety, staffing, and wage inequities. County representatives opposed the bill, saying it would increase bargaining and compensation costs for many counties, and asked for amendments requiring arbitrators to consider county finances and making awards nonbinding on county legislative authorities. HB 2264 would clarify unemployment insurance eligibility for workers who opt into an employer-initiated layoff or reduction-in-force plan, even if they can rescind their decision, so long as the termination results from the employer’s plan. Supporters said current court rulings create confusing and unfair denials of benefits for workers who leave in good faith during layoffs; NFIB raised questions about severance, retirement, and UI solvency. HB 2243 would allow physical therapists and occupational therapists to serve as attending providers in the workers’ compensation system. Physical therapy and occupational therapy advocates said this would speed care and return workers to work sooner, while retailers, food industry representatives, NFIB, the Washington State Medical Association, and L&I raised concerns about diagnosis, scope of practice, added costs, and the possibility that all PTs and OTs would have to join the provider network. No votes were taken; the committee heard testimony and then adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• We're a wholesale and retail supplier here in this neighborhood up in eastern Sacramento County and western
• Jamie Miner, on behalf of Eastern Municipal Water District, Santa Margarita Water District, Kerckhoff
• Imperial County is hurting, and Eastern Riverside County is also hurting pretty bad, to include some

Summary: The committee heard several water- and environment-related bills. SB 72, by Senator Caballero, would modernize the California Water Plan and set long-term water supply targets, including an interim goal of 9 million acre-feet of additional water by 2040. Supporters from water districts, local governments, business groups, and agricultural interests argued the bill is needed to address climate-driven shortages, protect the economy, and improve planning for droughts, flooding, recharge, recycling, storage, and conveyance. Opponents, including environmental and conservation groups, argued the bill could overstate demand, increase costs, and make it harder to protect instream flows and ecosystems. The committee discussed the science behind the 9 million acre-feet target and the need to balance water supply planning with fish and ecological needs. SB 72 passed on a do-pass motion to Appropriations. SB 369, by Senator Padilla, would require a local skilled and trained workforce for all Salton Sea restoration work. The author and sponsors said the bill would protect workers exposed to hazardous conditions at the Salton Sea, create good local jobs in Imperial County, and ensure long-term workforce standards for publicly funded restoration projects. Support came from labor organizations, contractors, and other regional stakeholders; no opposition testified. Members emphasized the region’s high unemployment and the importance of workforce development. The bill passed on a do-pass motion to Labor and Employment. SB 697, by Senator Laird, would update the stream system adjudication process by allowing the State Water Board to use modern technology, such as stream gauges and digitized records, when investigating water rights claims, while still allowing field investigations when needed. The author said the process has not been updated since 1976 and should be streamlined. After amendments addressed stakeholder concerns, there was no opposition testimony. The committee asked whether the bill would affect pre-1914 water rights, and the author said it would not. SB 697 passed as amended to Judiciary. The committee also approved consent calendar items SB 599, SB 609, and SB 765 earlier in the hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• friend and colleague, the lady from Floyd, who has dedicated her career to serving the people of Eastern
• That's why she holds a unique distinction in this body as the last Democrat representing Eastern Kentucky
• </c> people of Eastern Kentucky. people of Eastern Kentucky.
• distinction in this body as the last Democrat<00:15:14.320><c> representing</c><00:15:14.880><c> Eastern
• </c> Democrat representing Eastern Kentucky. Democrat representing Eastern Kentucky.

Bills: SB141 , SB124 , SB56 , SJR116 , SB94 , SB37 , SB127 , SB197 , SB66 , SB70 , SB133 , SB160 , SB214 , SB312 , SB52 , SJR62 , SJR75

Keywords: legal advertisements, tax rates, public hearings, transparency, local government, sick leave, education, teacher retirement, benefits, employee compensation, Medicaid, nonopioid analgesics, pain management, health care regulation, utilization controls, physician shortage, health care access, medically underserved areas, medical education, workforce development