Transcript Highlights:

• And in reference to the veterans, as a combat veteran myself, with the 82nd Airborne, for the veterans
• I'm a student veteran, and I work in the Veteran Resource Center at Glendale Community College.
• Sustained funding for veteran resource centers ensures that every student veteran across California can
• This means that our college veteran centers are at the heart of veteran transitions back to civilian
• Statewide veteran resource centers serve over 65,000 students and veterans across 115 colleges.

Transcript Highlights:

• It is a message to California that veterans here who are serving, and when they that veterans here who
• Our veterans stay here. Our veterans stay here. Their experience stays here.
• , keeping veterans in California.
• Would I like to have the veterans please stand up? Thank you so much, veterans.
• million veterans.

Committee: Senate Revenue and Taxation

Transcript Highlights:

• war veterans.
• The legacy of Korean War veterans, their commitment to service, family, and community.
• THE LEGACY OF KOREAN WAR VETERANS, THEIR COMMITMENT TO SERVICE, FAMILY AND COMMUNITY.
• War veterans.
• WAR VETERANS SO, I JUST WANTED TO LET EVERYBODY NOW THAT EVERY ONE OF THOSE VETERANS THAT I MET FROM

Summary: The Senate convened, approved the prior journal, and discharged several identical Assembly/Senate bills from committee so they could be substituted on the calendar. The chamber then took up and previously adopted two commemorative resolutions: one designating April 2026 as Sikh Heritage Month and another honoring Korean War veterans. Senators from both parties spoke in support of the Sikh resolution, emphasizing the community’s contributions, service, and the need for recognition and inclusion; the resolution was opened for co-sponsorship and the Sikh guests in the gallery were recognized. The Korean War resolution drew remarks from members recalling family service and the sacrifices of veterans, with repeated calls to preserve their stories and honor their legacy. The Senate then moved through the calendar, passing a series of bills. Among them were measures related to charter bus safety and seat belt awareness, coverage for doula services under insurance, social services/EBT-related changes, education, navigation, highway, public service, and hospital-closure reporting. Several bills passed unanimously or with only one dissenting vote; the social services bill drew the most opposition, with Senator Murray objecting that New York should first address EBT chip technology and skimming before adding new vendor requirements. One bill on the calendar was laid aside for the day. The chamber also adopted a supplemental bill authorizing the South Country Central School District to finance certain deficits, described by Senator Murray as a necessary rescue to keep the district operating and pay staff. Senators discussed the state budget impasse during debate on an extender bill, with the sponsor explaining it was a “clean extender” to keep government running through May 4 and cover payroll, health, education, and other essential payments. Senator Helming raised concerns about the lack of rural health transformation funding and the consequences of the delayed budget for schools, local governments, and hospitals. The extender passed, and the Senate adjourned until Monday, May 4, 2026.

Transcript Highlights:

• And we've added into the bill that the organization must be veteran-led or veteran-managed.
• to veteran-managed.
• As you know, when a veteran transitions out of the military, there are several challenges that veteran
• to veteran, combat veteran to combat veteran.
• We do need to work with the Veterans Caucus as we...

Bills: HB2424 , HB2608 , HB2775 , HB2805 , HB2908

Committees: House Federalism, Military Affairs & Elections , House House Federalism, Military Affairs & Elections Committee of Reference

Keywords: Arizona political parties, precinct committeeman, precinct committeemen, proxy voting, party bylaws, county committee, state committee, qualified elector, election administration, political party rules, precinct representation, adjoining precinct, county party meeting, proxy attestation, notary public, witnesses, transitional housing, military veterans, grant program, housing services

Transcript Highlights:

• are 377,000 veterans in Missouri.
• I'm an Army veteran; I've hunted and fished all my life.
• I'm also a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
• Again, all other veterans already have most of those benefits.
• To give a veteran like me To give a veteran like me the same benefits and recognition as those who were

Committee: House Conservation and Natural Resources

Transcript Highlights:

• Affairs that there are 377,000 veterans in Missouri.
• I'm an Army veteran. I've hunted and fished all my life.
• I'm also a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
• Disabled veterans over 60 percent and former POWs are...
• Again, all other veterans already have most of those...

Committee: House Conservation and Natural Resources

Summary: The Committee on Conservation and Natural Resources heard House Bill 2202, sponsored by Rep. Don Mayhew, which would allow active-duty military personnel, 100% disabled veterans, and youth during youth hunt seasons to receive certain hunting permits at no cost. Mayhew argued the bill would help recruit younger hunters, support military members and disabled veterans, and would not threaten conservation funding because the conservation fund has maintained substantial balances. Committee members questioned the bill’s fiscal impact, possible constitutional issues, effects on Pittman-Robertson federal reimbursements, and whether the bill duplicated existing Missouri Department of Conservation exemptions. Some members supported the concept of honoring veterans but suggested other funding mechanisms or clarifying language, and MDC said it would revise the fiscal note after misreading some figures. Testimony on HB 2202 was mostly opposed or informational. An Army veteran testified against the bill, saying current MDC rules already provide significant exemptions for veterans, active-duty personnel, and seniors, and warning the bill could reduce revenue and federal matching funds. MDC Deputy Director Aaron Jeffreys said the department already offers numerous veteran and military exemptions and supports veteran hunts through partnerships with NGOs, but also explained the agency’s fund balance is being used for major capital projects and is expected to decline. Several members and the sponsor debated whether conservation revenues are being held in reserve unnecessarily or are needed for ongoing projects and future obligations. The committee then heard House Bill 1734, sponsored by Rep. Colin Wellenkamp, which would create a Soil Erosion Control Fund Act to help homeowners associations finance erosion mitigation projects through assessments, state fund allocations, and matching local or grant dollars. Wellenkamp and supporters said erosion and flooding are causing major property damage, especially in water-rich and river-adjacent areas, and that the bill would give communities a practical tool to address problems that are too expensive for cities or counties to solve alone. Members from affected districts described severe flooding and erosion impacts, and the sponsor said the bill includes safeguards such as HOA nonprofit status, homeowner approval, and repayment terms to protect taxpayers. HB 1734 drew broad support from witnesses including the Community Associations Institute, a stream restoration business, the Missouri Municipal League, the Sierra Club, the Nature Conservancy of Missouri, and a St. Charles County lobbyist. Supporters said the proposal would help stabilize land, protect homes and property values, improve habitat and water quality, and reduce long-term public costs. No witnesses testified in opposition, and the hearing on HB 1734 concluded with no further business and adjournment.

Transcript Highlights:

• Good afternoon, everyone, and welcome to the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs.
• I’m Jim Keene, and I’m a member of the Melrose Veterans Advisory Board, Vietnam Veterans.
• It’s asking for a COLA on veterans benefits under Chapter 59, Section 5.
• Office of Veterans Services.
• You said that the payments to the veterans remain the same, which is important.

Committee: Joint Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs

Summary: The Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs held its first public hearing of the 2025–2026 session, with House Chair Rep. Joe McGonagle outlining the committee’s focus on veterans’ benefits, military families, and related policy priorities. He noted the committee’s recent record of advancing major veterans legislation, described the hearing as hybrid, and explained that testimony would be limited to three minutes. The committee then heard testimony on several bills, including H. 3886/S. 2503, H. 3863/S. 2480, and H. 3859, among others. Melissa Willett of the Department of Defense and Rep. John Stanley testified in support of H. 3886/S. 2503, which would expand support for military families by improving school open enrollment flexibility, special education continuity, concurrent jurisdiction for juvenile matters on military installations, and coordination around military protective orders. Committee members questioned the juvenile jurisdiction and protective-order provisions, with concerns raised about federal versus state authority and due process; witnesses said the jurisdiction change would be case-by-case and that military protective orders are commander-issued decisions that could be used as evidence in civilian proceedings. The Department of Defense said the proposal aligns with priorities from military stakeholders and other New England states. Jim Keene testified in support of H. 3863/S. 2480, seeking a cost-of-living adjustment for veterans’ benefits and extending certain benefits to Guard and Reserve members killed on active duty. Allie DeBateau of the Massachusetts Municipal Association testified on H. 3859, which would streamline veterans benefits administration by having the state pay benefits directly rather than reimbursing municipalities quarterly; she said this would reduce local administrative burden while leaving local veterans service officers’ roles unchanged. Committee members asked about municipal support and the fiscal impact, and the hearing concluded with no votes taken, followed by adjournment.

Transcript Highlights:

• As you know, I'm a—I advocate highly for veterans.
• In your way, how does this not help veterans and seniors?
• I'm just saying, and I'm just speaking from a veteran standpoint.
• I am very passionate about veterans, as you know.
• And I also am housing a homeless veteran. My daughter... I have two girls that are veterans.

Bills: HB2388 , HB2804 , HB2926

Committees: House Rural Economic Development , House House Rural Economic Development Committee of Reference

Keywords: HB2388, Arizona Commerce Authority, ACA, small modular reactor, SMR, nuclear energy, advanced nuclear, data center, data centers, economic development, study, appropriation, general fund, jobs, wages, tax revenue, broadband, infrastructure, secondary businesses, tertiary businesses

Transcript Highlights:

• for veterans court.
• with a nonviolent charge can qualify for veterans court.
• Veterans' courts have helped veterans rebuild their lives and return to their families and communities
• While veteran courts exist, their authority is limited.
• Florida is home to more than 1.4 million veterans.

Bills: S0050 , S0052 , S0432 , S0436 , S0524 , S0536 , S0590 , S0676

Committee: Senate Criminal Justice

Summary: The committee met with a quorum and considered several criminal justice bills. SB 50 on Veterans Treatment Courts was amended to clarify that entry into the program requires approval of the state attorney and to make the bill prospective only. Supporters, including veterans advocates and crime survivors, argued the bill would expand access to treatment-focused diversion for veterans with nonviolent charges and service-related trauma. The committee adopted both amendments and reported the bill favorably. SB 52, which creates an exemption from security licensing requirements for unpaid armed volunteers providing security at places of worship, also drew support from law enforcement and faith leaders who said it would clarify a legal gray area for churches; the committee adopted a strike-all amendment and reported the bill favorably. The committee then considered SB 436 on felony battery and prison release reoffender enhancements. An amendment was adopted to align felony battery involving injury to law enforcement with the bill’s intent to address the disparity between battery on an officer and resisting with violence. Members discussed concerns about mandatory minimums and the scope of the enhancement, including how it might apply in cases involving older prior offenses or mental health crises, but the bill was ultimately reported favorably. SB 676, which creates graduated penalties for adults who involve minors in animal cruelty offenses and increases penalties for related conduct, was supported by animal welfare advocates and reported favorably and unanimously. Later, the committee approved SB 536 on criminal gang members after adopting an amendment clarifying the definition of gang-related conduct and requiring multiple criteria for gang membership. Members raised concerns about social media, neighborhood association, juvenile application, and overbroad labeling, but the sponsor said the bill was aimed at gang-related criminal activity and recruitment, not innocent association. The committee also reported favorably SB 432 on controlled substances, which adds concentrated 7-OH to Schedule I and creates penalties for xylazine products that resemble candy or food and for trafficking in xylazine; SB 524, an FDLE bill updating duties related to medical examiners, training, and complaint service procedures; and SB 590, which tolls the statute of limitations for failure-to-report child abuse offenses until the crime is known to law enforcement. All of these bills were reported favorably, and the meeting adjourned after a final vote correction was entered for SB 524.

Transcript Highlights:

• The Senate Committee on Veterans and Military Affairs will come to order.
• A combat veteran who served 10 years in the United States Army.
• He is a veteran. His wife is a veteran. His son is deployed right now. He's a Marine.
• Because right now, those things you listed, veterans 100% P&T veterans are already getting all three
• Because right now, those things you listed, veterans 100% P&T veterans are already getting all three

Bills: HB3257

Committee: Senate Veterans and Military Affairs

Summary: The Senate Committee on Veterans and Military Affairs met with a quorum and considered three nominations to the Oklahoma Veterans Commission and one bill. The committee heard presentations for Rick Munchler, Robert W. Allen Jr., and Matthew Dukes, each described as having extensive military, public service, and veterans’ advocacy backgrounds. In each case, senators moved do pass, there were no substantive questions or debate, and each nomination received unanimous 5-0 approval to advance to the full Senate for confirmation. The committee also heard House Bill 3257, which would extend certain state benefits available to veterans who are 100% disabled due to a service-connected disability to veterans who are 100% disabled as a result of negligence or malpractice at a VA hospital under federal law. The author explained the bill would align state recognition and benefits with federal disability determinations in those cases, while noting the property tax exemption issue is constrained by the state constitution. After brief questions about the bill’s scope, the committee voted 5-0 to pass the measure to the full Senate. At the close of the meeting, the chair noted another committee meeting would be needed the following week to consider additional Veterans Commission nominees, and the committee adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• Our veterans stay here. ...bill to make sure that the labor stays here. Our veterans stay here.
• , keeping veterans in California.
• I've heard from far too many veterans, my brothers and sisters, who I've served with as a veteran, that
• Let's listen to our veterans. How can we do more? Let's keep our veterans here.
• million veterans.

Summary: The committee heard Senate Bill 1277, which would create a California Cost of Living Tax Credit modeled on the 2022 middle-class tax refund to provide refundable relief to low- and middle-income Californians facing high housing, fuel, energy, and general living costs. Senator Grove and supporters, including the California Policy Center and some local government representatives, argued the bill would put direct relief into the hands of working families. Opposition came from the California Tax Reform Association and the California Teachers Association, which said California already has progressive tax credits and that the proposal would be costly to the General Fund and reduce money for schools and other services. After extended debate, the bill was not advanced; a roll call vote on a motion to pass it to Appropriations failed 1-4, and the bill was held/fails on the floor with a request for reconsideration noted. The committee then heard SB 1287, which would create a capped tax credit to encourage private investment in short-line railroad infrastructure. The author and rail industry witnesses said the measure would improve safety, reliability, emissions, and freight movement, especially for rural communities and agriculture, and that it was a public-private partnership rather than a handout. Opposition from CTA and the California Tax Reform Association argued a direct grant program would be preferable to a tax credit. The bill was accepted with committee amendments and placed on call without a final vote in the transcript. Members also considered SB 1407, which would fully exempt military retirement pay and surviving spouse benefits from state income tax, increasing the prior partial exemption. The author, State Treasurer Fiona Ma, and veterans’ groups said the change would help retain veterans in California, support local economies, and align California with most other states. CTA and CTRA opposed on General Fund grounds. The committee approved the bill on a due-pass-as-amended motion to the Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs, with the roll call showing support and the bill placed on call. Later, the committee heard SB 1349, directing the Legislative Analyst’s Office to review major tax expenditures and evaluate their goals, beneficiaries, and effects on revenues and Proposition 98 funding. CTA, CTRA, and several local government and labor supporters backed the bill as a way to improve accountability for roughly $94 billion in annual tax expenditures. The bill was accepted with committee amendments and placed on call. The committee also heard SB 1078, authorizing Santa Cruz County to ask voters for a temporary half-cent sales tax to help fund health care and safety-net services amid federal cuts; it was placed on call. SB 1120, extending the California Competes Tax Credit through 2035 and making it refundable for certain strategic industries, received strong support from business and manufacturing groups and was passed on a due-pass-as-amended motion to Appropriations. Finally, SB 1275, which would replace the state sales tax on vehicle purchases with a vehicle license fee structure intended to increase federal deductibility for Californians, was passed 4-0 as amended to the Committee on Transportation.

Transcript Highlights:

• The fact that I have pursued Amber and Marcus Capone of the Vets Organization, an acronym for Veterans
• Approximately 20 veterans per day are lost to suicide with independent studies done.
• Veteran suicide epidemic, which has plagued our country for far too long as a nation.
• You are bringing hope to the hopeless, and the veteran community will lead the way for all others.
• What are some of the communities that could help outside of the veteran world?

Summary: The meeting was a Texas Capitol press event in support of House Bill 3717, which would advance ibogaine research and create a public-private pathway to move the treatment toward FDA approval. Speakers included Brian Hubbard of the American Ibogaine Initiative, Rep. Cody Harris, and VETS co-founders Marcus and Amber Capone. They framed the bill as a chance for Texas to lead on treatment for opioid use disorder, PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and other “diseases of despair,” especially among veterans and their families. Testimony focused heavily on the veteran suicide crisis and personal stories of loss and recovery. Marcus Capone described his Navy SEAL service and said conventional treatments had not been enough for many veterans, while Amber Capone cited VETS’ support for roughly 1,000 veterans and a Stanford collaboration that she said showed large reductions in PTSD, anxiety, depression, and suicidality after ibogaine treatment. Supporters also argued ibogaine may have broader applications, including for other substance use disorders and some neurological conditions, and emphasized the need for research, supervised clinical use, and insurance coverage. No formal committee vote or legislative action was taken in the transcript. The event ended with a brief Q&A and a call for Texas legislators to support HB 3717 and help move the bill forward.

Transcript Highlights:

• Do we respect only veterans, or can we respect people who help veterans? It's all connected.
• And when we talk about respect for veterans, I find that rich, because as a veteran, I swore to uphold
• And when we talk about respect for veterans, I find that rich, because as a veteran, I swore to uphold
• I also support veterans. I have family members that are veterans.
• veterans.

Summary: The Military Affairs and Border Security Committee heard two bills. SB 1055 would require immediate notification to ICE or CBP when a person unlawfully present in the U.S. is arrested by state or local law enforcement for a state or local offense. Supporters said it simply strengthens cooperation with federal authorities and clarifies existing law; opponents, including the ACLU of Arizona and several public commenters, argued it is redundant with current statute, could pressure officers to prolong stops or arrests, and would increase fear, racial profiling, and distrust of police in immigrant communities. Members debated whether the bill conflicted with SB 1070-era law and whether it would create new legal liability or merely add a reporting requirement after arrest. The committee voted 4-3 to give SB 1055 a do-pass recommendation. The committee then considered SB 1065, which appropriates $300,640,000 in FY 2027 from the general fund for a Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Military Veterans Fund. Senator Rogers described hyperbaric oxygen therapy as a non-drug treatment that could help veterans with PTSD and improve quality of life, while supporters emphasized the need to explore options for veterans’ mental health and trauma care. Some members said they supported moving the bill forward but had budget concerns or wanted more detail on how veterans would be selected for the program. The committee approved SB 1065 unanimously, 7-0, with a do-pass recommendation, and then adjourned until the following week.

Transcript Highlights:

• of a veteran, the mother of a veteran, and the grandmother of a veteran.
• youth, supporting fellow veterans, and strengthening communities. a veteran, the sister of a veteran
• ><c> and</c> of a veteran, a mother of a veteran, and of a veteran, a mother of a veteran, and a<01:03
• </c> a grandmother of a veteran. a grandmother of a veteran.
• </c> veteran is left behind. veteran is left behind.

Summary: The committee held a joint hearing recognizing the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and focusing on civic education, free speech, voting, and Minnesota’s America 250 commemorations. Opening remarks emphasized the importance of education, Indigenous land acknowledgement, and the idea that democracy depends on informed and engaged citizens. The chair then invited student debaters from the Minnesota High School League to testify about how debate, free speech, and evidence-based reasoning have shaped their education and civic participation. The students argued that debate teaches critical thinking, helps young people engage with difficult issues, and should be protected as part of a healthy democracy; one also urged lawmakers to move beyond empty promises and take action on issues such as eviction moratoriums, ICE collaboration, and protest protections. Commissioner Willie Jett of the Minnesota Department of Education testified that public education is where citizenship first becomes real, and that schools, libraries, and educators help students learn to listen, question, debate respectfully, and understand both the ideals and failures of American history. He said democracy is something each generation must learn and strengthen, and thanked the committee for convening the hearing. Former students Sarah Griffin and Charlie Crocker then offered tributes to Senator Swedzinski, describing how his teaching encouraged civic engagement, disagreement, and action, and how his classroom shaped their lives and public service. Their remarks emphasized that democracy is not a spectator sport and that ordinary people build it through small, courageous acts. Secretary of State Steve Simon followed with testimony on Minnesota’s civic culture and voter participation. He said Minnesota has long ranked near the top nationally in voter turnout, including youth turnout, and attributed that to a combination of good election laws and a strong pro-voting culture. He highlighted school-based civic education efforts such as pre-registration for 16- and 17-year-olds and the Students Vote mock election program, and noted that Minnesota’s congressional delegation was unanimous in supporting the Voting Rights Act in 1965 as an example of the state coming together on major moral questions. The Minnesota Historical Society then began its presentation on America 250, with Kent Whitworth describing the organization’s role, the new edition of the Northern Lights curriculum, and broader commemorative activities; Dr. Bill Convery introduced historical context about how Americans have celebrated independence and how the semiquincentennial can leave a legacy for future generations.

Transcript Highlights:

• Our veterans stay here. Our veterans stay here. Their experience stays here.
• , keeping veterans in California.
• Let's listen to our veterans. How can we do more? Let's keep our veterans here.
• Would the veterans please stand up? Thank you so much, veterans.
• million veterans.

Committee: Senate Revenue and Taxation

Summary: The committee heard several tax and revenue measures. SB 1277, by Senator Grove, proposed a California Cost of Living Tax Credit modeled on the 2022 middle-class tax refund to provide direct relief to low- and middle-income Californians facing high housing, gas, energy, and general living costs. Supporters said it would help working families, farmworkers, teachers, and others; opponents, including the California Tax Reform Association and the California Teachers Association, argued California already has a progressive tax system, that refundable credits are costly and can be difficult to administer, and that the bill would reduce General Fund revenues and Proposition 98 funding. The bill was held on call after extensive debate and no motion was made at that time. The committee then heard SB 1287, which would create a targeted tax credit to encourage private investment in short-line railroad infrastructure. The author and rail industry witnesses said the credit would support safety, bridge and track upgrades, emissions reductions, freight efficiency, and rural and agricultural supply chains, while opponents argued a direct grant program would be preferable to a tax credit. The bill was accepted with committee amendments and placed on call after a motion to move it forward. SB 1407 would exempt military retirement pay and surviving spouse benefits from state income tax, with the author, State Treasurer Fiona Ma, and veterans’ groups arguing it would help retain veterans in California, support second careers, and keep federal retirement dollars in the state. The California Teachers Association and California Tax Reform Association opposed it as another tax expenditure that would reduce General Fund revenue. The committee approved the bill on a due pass as amended vote to the Senate Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs, with several members voting aye and others not voting, and the bill was placed on call. The committee also heard SB 1349, which directs the Legislative Analyst’s Office to review major tax expenditures and evaluate their costs, beneficiaries, and effectiveness. Supporters, including CTA, AFSCME, cities, counties, and many teachers, said the state needs more accountability for roughly $94 billion in annual tax expenditures and their impact on schools and the budget. The bill was moved with committee amendments and placed on call. Additional measures discussed included SB 1078, authorizing Santa Cruz County to seek voter approval for a temporary local sales tax increase to fund health care and safety-net services; SB 1120, extending the California Competes Tax Credit through 2035 and making it refundable for certain strategic industries; and SB 1275, which would convert the state sales tax on vehicle purchases into a deductible vehicle license fee to reduce Californians’ federal tax burden. SB 1120 and SB 1275 both received support from business and industry witnesses, with no opposition testimony noted, and were moved on call or with a due pass as amended vote as the committee continued through the file.

Transcript Highlights:

• , keeping veterans in California.
• I've heard from far too many veterans, my brothers and sisters, whom I've served with as a veteran, that
• Would the veterans please stand up?
• I'm a 30-year Army veteran, retired.
• million veterans.

Committee: Senate Revenue and Taxation

Summary: The committee heard several tax and revenue-related bills. SB 1277, by Senator Grove, proposed a California Cost of Living Tax Credit modeled on the 2022 middle-class tax refund to provide direct relief to low- and middle-income Californians facing high housing, fuel, and utility costs. Supporters argued it would help families struggling with affordability, while opponents, including the California Tax Reform Association and CTA members, said California’s tax system already provides relief and that the bill would reduce General Fund revenue and harm schools. After extended debate, the bill was put on call and later failed on a 1-4 vote, though reconsideration was granted. SB 1287, by Senator Retado, would create a performance-based tax credit for short-line rail investments; supporters said it would improve freight efficiency, safety, emissions, and rural access, while opponents preferred direct grants. The bill was placed on call and later passed 5-0 to Transportation. SB 1407, by Senator Archuleta, would exempt military retirement pay and survivor benefits from state taxes; the author, State Treasurer Fiona Ma, and veterans’ groups said it would help retain veterans and their economic contributions in California, while CTA and CTRA opposed on General Fund grounds. The bill passed 5-0 to Military and Veterans Affairs. SB 1349, by Senator Gonzalez, would direct the LAO to review major tax expenditures for effectiveness and impacts on schools and the budget; CTA and CTRA supported it as a way to increase accountability, and it passed 4-1 to Governmental Organization. SB 1120, by Senator McNerney, would extend the California Competes Tax Credit through 2035 and make credits refundable for certain strategic industries; business and industry witnesses said this would help startups and manufacturers monetize credits and attract investment, and it passed 5-0 to Appropriations. SB 1275, also by Senator McNerney, proposed converting the state sales tax on vehicle purchases into a deductible vehicle license fee to reduce Californians’ federal tax burden; the LAO provided technical testimony, and the bill passed 4-0 to Transportation. The committee also heard SB 1078, by Senator Laird, to let Santa Cruz County voters consider a temporary local tax increase for health and safety-net services, but it was put on call. Later, the committee returned to SB 1314, by Senator Min, addressing youth tobacco and illicit smoke shop sales, but the transcript cuts off before final action on that bill.

Transcript Highlights:

• Chairman and members, Senate Bill 1050 allows veterans to receive a lifetime veterans pass at no charge
• evidence that they are a retired veteran of the United States Armed Forces or a veteran of the United
• The amendment narrows it down a little bit to retired veterans and disabled veterans.
• If you're a veteran, then you present your veteran ID card from the VA or some other, you know, DD-214
• Although they don't take head counts by veteran and non-veteran, that's the estimated number of veterans

Committee: House House Government Committee of Reference

Summary: The committee opened with a lengthy chair’s statement about Department of Child Safety oversight, saying prior hearings had revealed systemic failures in communication, child placement oversight, response times, transparency, and accountability. The chair said the committee would continue pursuing reforms through legislation and ongoing reporting requirements. Members then discussed allegations involving child trafficking in congregate care settings and the need for separate legal representation for children who are victims of crimes, with one member saying the state and AG’s office were aware of trafficking issues and that outside representation was necessary. The committee then heard and voted on several bills. SB 1141, dealing with presidential electors if a candidate dies, withdraws, or becomes incapacitated before the Electoral College meets, received support from the sponsor and outside groups and passed 4-3. SB 1186, requiring disclosure of certain things of value by companies seeking government contracts or grants, also passed. SB 1808, concerning display of certain flags in HOA and planned community settings, passed after the sponsor said it was intended to protect the ability to fly the Israeli flag. SB 1050, providing a lifetime state parks pass for certain veterans, passed after adoption of an amendment expanding eligibility to some disabled veterans; Arizona State Parks testified neutral but warned of revenue impacts, while members debated the fiscal note and support for veterans. The committee also passed SB 1140, which creates a misdemeanor expungement process for certain people, including trafficking survivors, after testimony from anti-trafficking advocates and service providers who said it would help survivors rebuild their lives while excluding serious offenses. SB 1437, requiring public records to be provided in the least expensive electronic form when possible, passed over opposition from some local government groups. SB 1246, raising the delinquency threshold before a condominium lien foreclosure can occur, passed unanimously. SB 1664, lowering signature requirements for constable candidates in large counties, passed unanimously. Finally, SB 1338, making certain noncitizens ineligible for state or local public benefits, passed 4-3. The meeting ended with members offering farewells and thanks to one another and staff, and the committee adjourned.

Transcript Highlights:

• He is a veteran, and he is certainly passionate for issues that are impacting veterans, and we appreciate
• Not all veterans are broken.
• Nick Bussey, father, combat veteran, and founder of a social group for veteran voices called Veterans
• Nick Bussey, father, combat veteran and founder of a social group for a Nick Bussy, father, combat veteran
• , and founder of a social group for veteran voices called Veterans of California because they do need

Summary: The Assembly Committee on Revenue and Taxation heard several bills dealing with tax policy, local revenue authority, consumer protections, and incentives for development. AB 1726 would create catastrophe savings accounts for homeowners to save pre-tax dollars for disaster mitigation and recovery costs; it drew support from the Department of Insurance and the California Bankers Association, while the California Teachers Association opposed it because of the General Fund and Prop. 98 impact. The bill was referred to suspense. AB 1768 would authorize Los Angeles and Contra Costa counties to ask voters to approve local transaction and use taxes to offset projected federal funding cuts affecting health care and safety-net services; it received broad support from health providers and county representatives, opposition from one member and a resident, and passed the committee 5-2 to the Assembly Local Government Committee. The committee also considered AB 1790, which would repeal the Waters Edge corporate tax election and require worldwide combined reporting for multinational corporations. The author and supporters argued it would close a loophole, raise several billion dollars annually, and help fund schools, Medi-Cal, and other programs; opponents warned of double taxation, compliance burdens, retaliation from foreign governments, and job losses. After extensive testimony and member debate, the bill was referred to suspense. AB 2020 would provide a full property tax exemption for the primary residence of 100% disabled veterans and surviving spouses, and AB 2069 would create a targeted sales and use tax exemption to spur development projects at fairgrounds; both measures had support from sponsors and related organizations, no opposition, and were referred to suspense. Finally, AB 2705 would regulate third-party “asset finders” who help claim excess proceeds from tax sales by requiring written agreements, disclosure that claims can be filed free with the county, and a cap on fees at 10%. County officials and local government groups supported the bill as a consumer protection measure, while recovery companies and related firms opposed it, arguing the work is complex and the cap would reduce access to services. The committee moved AB 2705 to the Assembly floor on a 4-0 vote.

Transcript Highlights:

• veterans.
• Veterans or to benefit veterans.
• These federal cuts specifically targeted vulnerable veterans: veterans who are currently homeless, veterans
• Veterans who are currently homeless, veterans who are raising children, veterans awaiting disability
• Two, it requires counties to give veterans who apply for benefits a direct referral to county veteran

Committee: Senate Human Services

Summary: The Senate Human Services Committee heard several bills focused on developmental disabilities, food security, veterans, aging services, child care, and elder abuse reporting. SB 969 by Senator Reyes would make remote services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities a permanent option; supporters said virtual programming improves access, continuity, and choice, and there was no opposition. SB 1025 by Senator Hurtado would create an Office of Food Security and Affordability to coordinate state food programs, improve CalFresh enrollment, and develop a 24-hour hotline; committee members raised questions about duplication, metrics, and oversight, but the bill advanced after discussion. SB 1052 by Senator Gonzalez would allow the State Council on Developmental Disabilities to appoint contingent authorized representatives so people with disabilities are not left without support if a family member becomes unavailable; supporters described immigration enforcement, illness, and family separation as reasons for the bill, and members discussed administrative burden and renewal procedures before the bill passed. SB 1077 by Senator Gonzalez would require CDSS to prepare for future federal shutdowns by creating a communications and contingency plan for CalFresh disruptions and a state-backed emergency food assistance mechanism; members discussed how it would work with existing CalFresh administration, and the bill passed. SB 1201 by Senator McNerney would seek federal waivers to protect vulnerable veterans from new SNAP work requirements and require referrals to county veterans service officers; supporters said the federal cuts would harm homeless, newly discharged, and disabled veterans, and the bill passed. SB 1261 by Senator Laird would let aging and disability resource centers continue operating through partner transitions so services would not be interrupted; supporters emphasized continuity of care and the bill passed. SB 1110 by Senator Becker would revise child care subsidy funding and stabilization rules for alternative payment programs and community providers; supporters said the current reimbursement structure is outdated, and the bill passed after the author said a budget-related provision would be removed. The committee also later voted SB 969, SB 1052, SB 1077, SB 1201, SB 1261, and SB 1110 out of committee, with the bills kept on call for absent members, and began hearing SB 991 on elder abuse reporting, where supporters argued that licensing records should distinguish abuse from lesser resident-rights violations so families and policymakers can better understand facility conduct.

Transcript Highlights:

• Veterans, and one veteran appointed by the governor.
• Established veteran court programs, any municipal or parish governing authorities, improving veteran
• Oftentimes we talk about veteran homelessness and veteran suicide and the 501(c)(3)s who are doing remarkable
• of the post-9/11 veteran generation.
• And I have known many veterans.

Committee: House Appropriations

Summary: The House Appropriations Committee met on April 27 and first took up House Bill 175 and its companion House Bill 165, both dealing with lottery proceeds for veterans. HB 175 was amended to create a Veterans Service Grant Board within the Department of Veterans Affairs and direct $500,000 annually from Louisiana Lottery net proceeds into a Veterans Service Grant Fund, with unused money returned to the lottery proceeds fund that supports the MFP. Supporters, including the bill sponsor, The Boot Louisiana, LDVA Secretary Charlton McGinley, and Bastion Veterans Organization, argued the grants would help veteran services, workforce placement, mental health, housing, entrepreneurship, and retention of veterans in Louisiana. Members raised concerns about drawing from lottery proceeds that traditionally support education, but the committee adopted amendments and reported HB 175 favorably as amended. HB 165, the constitutional amendment companion, was also amended for technical and ballot-language changes and then reported favorably as amended for voter consideration. The committee then considered House Bill 457, which would authorize the Louisiana Department of Health and the State Fire Marshal to set minimum housing standards for homeless shelters, group homes, and halfway homes. The sponsor said the bill responded to a state auditor recommendation and to unsafe conditions in some facilities; he also explained an amendment changing the Fire Marshal’s duties from mandatory to permissive to reduce fiscal impact and allow agencies flexibility. Some members questioned whether local standards already existed and how enforcement and funding would work, while others supported the need for statewide minimum standards for human housing. The committee adopted the amendment and reported HB 457 favorably as amended. House Bill 488, by Representative Brough, sought to create a Belle Chasse Bridge Merit-Based Special Fund using recurring severance tax revenues from Plaquemines Parish to help buy out the Belle Chasse toll bridge and end what the sponsor described as excessive tolls and fees. He and several local witnesses, including business owners, a YMCA representative, and a parish council member, testified that the tolling arrangement had harmed access, businesses, and quality of life. The committee adopted a technical amendment clarifying the revenue source and then reported HB 488 favorably as amended. House Bill 566, which would prohibit state funds from supporting net-zero greenhouse gas initiatives tied to the 2022 Louisiana Climate Action Plan, drew significant debate over whether it would interfere with agency funding and economic development efforts; the sponsor argued the plan lacked legislative approval and should be repudiated, while members urged caution and suggested hearing from affected agencies. The sponsor agreed to consider deferring the bill, and the committee did not advance it at that time. House Bill 603, a constitutional amendment authorizing investment of state funds in digital assets and precious metals, was discussed as a way to hedge inflation and preserve value; members asked about limits and safeguards, and the bill was reported favorably. The committee then began hearing House Bill 763, a transparency measure creating a public database for settlement agreements involving state agencies.