Transcript Highlights:

• death<00:12:08.560> among<00:12:08.959> children<00:12:09.680> in<00:12:
• <00:12:16.079> And<00:12:16.320> when<00:12:16.560> you<00:12:17.600> lower
• <00:12:20.560> who<00:12:20.959> have<00:12:21.279> access<00:12:22.560>
• But if<01:12:02.320> the<01:12:02.560> forecast<01:12:03.199> is<01:12:03.520>
• > convene,<01:12:05.679> we<01:12:05.920> will<01:12:06.080> notify<01:12

Keywords: The live stream for the House Chambers was interrupted and this version was recovered from backups and should contain the complete Legislative Session. Convene 00:00:00 Senate Message 00:04:40 Calendar/2nd Readings 00:05:38 Orders of the Day 00:06:14 HB 312 00:06:42 Motions, Petitions, and Communications 01:11:07 Introduction of New Bills and Resolutions 01:13:24 Recess for ConC and Rules Meeting 01:14:30 ConC/Rules Report 01:19:42 Adjournment 01:21:18, 958, all

Summary: The House convened, received the invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, established a quorum with 89 members present, excused absent members, and suspended rules to allow co-sponsorships and vote modifications. The chamber approved the prior day’s journal and received notice that the Senate had passed SB 13, 22, 46, 51, and 90 and requested concurrence. On second reading, HB 134 (sexual assault nurse examiners), HB 168 with HCS 1 (voting under the influence), and HR 7 (recognizing guiding principles of elections in Kentucky) were reported. The House also recommitted HB 258 to the Transportation Committee and took up HB 312 for third reading and passage. HB 312, relating to concealed firearms and deadly weapons, drew the bulk of the debate. The sponsor argued the bill would allow law-abiding 18- to 20-year-olds to obtain a provisional concealed carry license, saying they are adults in other respects, the Second Amendment protects their right to bear arms, and Kentucky should align with other states. Supporters framed the measure as a constitutional rights issue and cited defensive gun use statistics, while one member argued the root problem is family upbringing rather than guns. Opponents said the bill would increase risks in schools and public spaces, pointed to concerns from school district police and SROs, and cited research linking younger age groups and loosened carry laws to higher firearm violence; they also argued the bill would make communities less safe and that no one’s rights would be taken away by voting no. The sponsor said no stakeholder had expressed opposition and clarified the bill would not change where firearms are permitted. The transcript provided does not include the final vote on HB 312.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:12:52.639> They<00:12:52.880> knew<00:12:53.120> their<00:12:53.360>
• their families<00:12:56.560> and<00:12:56.880> the<00:12:57.120> Albany<00:12:57.600
• Republicans<02:12:54.320> want<02:12:54.480> to<02:12:54.639> rip<02:12:54.880><
• :52.640> will<03:12:52.960> to<03:12:53.200> carry<03:12:53.520> out<03:12
• :55.600> I<03:12:56.000> know<03:12:56.399> that<03:12:56.640> the<03:12:

Keywords: U.S. House of Representatives Floor Proceedings on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, 1012, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• :00.680> to<00:12:00.959> invest<00:12:01.360> it<00:12:01.920> in<00:12:
• 00:12:09.760> of<00:12:09.880> the<00:12:10.000> lands<00:12:10.360> will
• that<00:12:11.440> long-term<00:12:11.920> interest<00:12:12.240> for<00:12:12.399
• <00:12:20.240> rights<00:12:20.440> were<00:12:20.639> never<00:12:20.920>
• c><00:12:26.000> our<00:12:26.360> obligations<00:12:27.000> to<00:12:27.680>

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: The committee took up HF 1425, which would prohibit the sale of state-owned school trust lands in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness to the federal government and instead require a land trade. Representative Skraba argued the federal wilderness law requires an exchange, not a sale, and said the state should trade Boundary Waters school trust lands for federal lands elsewhere, citing potential benefits for logging, mining, and school trust revenue. He said the current proposed sale price was too low and moved to lay the bill over for possible inclusion in a future bill. Later, he withdrew a DE1 amendment and instead moved to re-refer the bill to the Education Finance Committee, but that motion failed. Testimony was largely opposed to the bill. Aaron Vandal of the Office of School Trust Lands said the exchange option was no longer viable, that the lands have produced no revenue for education for decades, and that selling them is the trust’s last opportunity to generate returns for schoolchildren. Bob Meyer of the DNR supported Vandal’s position and said the agency could not negotiate mineral rights in the way suggested. Aon Clems of the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy and Amanda Hefner of Save the Boundary Waters both opposed HF 1425, though they emphasized different reasons: Clems argued a sale best fulfills the state’s fiduciary duty to maximize long-term returns for education, while Hefner said a sale would harm public education funding, align with the trust’s original purpose, and help consolidate federal ownership in the wilderness. Members then questioned the valuation and the practical differences between a sale and an exchange. Representative Jacob challenged the low per-acre price and asked about the federal government’s set-aside amount, while Representative Fischer asked how the appraisal was determined. DNR lands and minerals director Joe Henderson explained the valuation came from an independent appraiser, was based on the wilderness restrictions and lack of development potential, and was from a 2020 appraisal that is now being updated. Representative Schultz supported the sale approach and said the state should not transfer the land at such a low price. The committee did not advance the bill to the Education Finance Committee.

Transcript Highlights:

• :12:12.079> use<00:12:12.240> it<00:12:12.680> that's<00:12:12.920> great
• <00:12:14.399> to<00:12:14.600> go<00:12:15.360> let's<00:12:15.560> not<
• not use it<00:12:17.040> um<00:12:17.399> but<00:12:17.600> if<00:12:17.760>
• :12:24.760> we<02:12:24.880> have<02:12:25.000> a<02:12:25.239> a<02:12:25.400
• :12:11.080> be<04:12:11.239> close<04:12:11.479> to<04:12:12.000> 80<04:12

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• :00.639> uh<00:12:01.160> kind<00:12:01.320> of<00:12:01.800> give<00:12:
• 01.959> a<00:12:02.040> little<00:12:02.160> bit<00:12:02.279> of want to
• c><00:12:03.320> that<00:12:03.440> one<00:12:03.880> we<00:12:04.040> have
• :12:08.320> could<00:12:08.519> just<00:12:08.720> take<00:12:08.920> out
• <00:12:09.880> I<00:12:10.000> think<00:12:10.200> that<00:12:10.320> would

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The subcommittee discussed HB 694, focusing on how to set fair market rates for lease renewals involving state agencies and political subdivisions. Members and the New Hampshire Association of Counties worked through draft language defining fair market value, including how appraisals, depreciation, and building deficiencies should be considered. Testimony emphasized that market value and appraised value can differ significantly, and that the bill should allow flexibility rather than require a rigid formula. The group also debated what expenses should be included in lease terms. After discussion of examples such as utilities, custodial services, insurance, maintenance, and newer needs like communications or internet service, members agreed not to create an overly specific list. They settled on language stating that additional expenses, including but not limited to utilities and custodial services, would be negotiated separately. The final amendment was revised to apply to lease renewals for land, buildings, or space between a political subdivision and the State of New Hampshire, with renewals at fair market rate unless otherwise agreed by the lessor. The subcommittee agreed to have the amendment drafted at OLS and then closed the public subcommittee meeting on HB 694.

Transcript Highlights:

• <00:12:15.360> You<00:12:15.520> can<00:12:15.680> see<00:12:15.920> the<
• > as<00:12:17.440> you<00:12:17.520> go<00:12:17.680> notes<00:12:18.000>
• :12:25.680> rise<00:12:26.000> in<00:12:26.120> the<00:12:26.160> amount<
• And<00:12:32.200> then<00:12:32.440> the<00:12:32.640> trend<00:12:32.960> of
• c> to<00:12:47.839> find<00:12:48.080> the<00:12:48.120> right<00:12:48.320>

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• <01:12:03.560> now<01:12:03.880> I<01:12:04.000> was<01:12:04.120> a<
• ><01:12:16.159> us<01:12:16.360> to<01:12:16.520> say<01:12:16.760> to<01
• of<01:12:19.800> this<01:12:20.159> this<01:12:20.280> is<01:12:20.400><
• c><01:12:25.920> give<01:12:26.040> them<01:12:26.199> a<01:12:26.400> okay
• House Bill 10<01:12:53.040> people<01:12:53.320> of<01:12:53.560> various<01:12

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• > auditor<00:12:05.519> summary<00:12:06.240> has<00:12:06.480> come<00:12
• :07.519> here<00:12:07.680> it<00:12:07.800> says<00:12:08.079> the<00:12
• <00:12:10.399> did<00:12:10.639> not<00:12:10.959> require<00:12:11.639>
• :13.000> in<00:12:13.199> it<00:12:14.040> rather<00:12:14.360> it<00:12:
• :12:54.760> pass<00:12:55.160> instead<00:12:55.560> HB<00:12:56.440> 1328

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The joint House Committee on Health and Committee on Consumer Protection and Commerce heard two midwifery bills, with testimony focused primarily on HB 1194. Committee chairs opened the hearing with rules for Zoom testimony and noted the bills relate to midwives. The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs said it supported the intent of HB 1194 and offered comments. Supporters of the bill, including the Midwives Alliance of Hawaii, argued that midwifery should remain subject to mandatory licensure to protect consumer safety, citing the state’s regulatory licensing standards and a 2025 state auditor sunset analysis. They said the bill would strengthen educational standards and public protection, and some offered clarifying amendments. Opponents argued HB 1194 would restrict access to care and fail to protect traditional, cultural, and community-based birth practices. Testifiers from the Hawaii Home Birth Task Force, the Hawaii Home Birth Collective, the Libertarian Party of Hawaii, the Center for Reproductive Rights, Pacific Birth Collective, and Papa Ola Lōkahi said the bill would limit licensure pathways, reduce access in rural and underserved areas, and burden Native Hawaiian and traditional practitioners. Several speakers said the measure could worsen Hawaii’s maternal health shortages, especially on Maui, and urged lawmakers to defer HB 1194 or instead advance HB 1328, which they said better protects practitioner access and cultural practices. The Hawaii affiliate of the American College of Nurse-Midwives said it opposed HB 1194 because it did not align with national or state standards for certified midwives and could create conflicts with Medicaid reimbursement and prescriptive authority. The ACLU also opposed the measure, emphasizing reproductive rights, privacy, and the need to preserve apprenticeship pathways to licensure. No vote or final committee action was taken during the portion of the hearing reflected in the transcript.

Transcript Highlights:

• Just<00:12:02.399> want<00:12:02.480> to<00:12:02.640> thank<00:12:02.800><
• c> you<00:12:02.959> for<00:12:03.120> your<00:12:03.360> time<00:12:03.600>
• c><00:12:09.279> the<00:12:09.360> talk<00:12:09.519> we've<00:12:09.760> had
• committee,<00:12:11.600> I<00:12:11.760> just<00:12:11.839> wanted<00:12:12.079
• <00:12:16.240> Um,<00:12:16.800> I'll<00:12:16.959> open<00:12:17.200> it

Bills: HF4893

Keywords: education finance, student support, aid allowances, appropriation, school funding

Transcript Highlights:

• :43.280> at<01:12:43.520> this<01:12:43.760> point<01:12:44.560> but<01:12
• c><01:12:49.920> um<01:12:50.640> we<01:12:50.880> can<01:12:51.199> update
• uh all<01:12:52.560> of<01:12:52.640> the<01:12:52.880> data<01:12:53.440> data
• <02:12:52.400> who<02:12:52.719> are<02:12:53.599> kind<02:12:53.760> of<
• Thank you for also<02:12:56.000> being<02:12:56.239> in<02:12:56.400> the<02:12:

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The joint informational briefing from the House Committee on Agriculture and Food Systems and the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Environment focused on the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity’s update on Hawaii’s biosecurity framework, especially implementation of Act 231 (2024) and Act 236 (2025). Chairs Corey Chun and Mike Gabbard opened the meeting by framing the briefing as an update on investments to fight invasive species and improve statewide evaluation and coordination. Department leaders Sharon Her and Richard Kim described historic legislative and executive investments that have allowed the department to rebuild and modernize biosecurity infrastructure to better prevent, detect, control, and eradicate invasive species. The presentation emphasized the importance of biosecurity to Hawaii’s agriculture, economy, environment, and public well-being, citing threats such as rapid ohia death, little fire ant, coconut rhinoceros beetle, brown tree snake, and red imported fire ant. Staff explained the state’s layered approach—pre-border, border, and post-border—and compared it to New Zealand’s model, stressing that Hawaii must act as a “net, not a wall” and that prevention before entry is far more cost-effective than response after establishment. They also outlined agency roles across the system, including agriculture, natural resources, health, transportation, enforcement, and university partners, and noted that Act 231 strengthened authority over high-risk imports, offshore treatment, compliance agreements, and pest management plans, while Act 236 renamed the department and clarified statewide biosecurity coordination. Jonathan Ho then walked through specific program areas and progress. He said pre-border risk analysis is being supported by Act 231 funding and a university contract, while offshore compliance and treatment efforts have improved substantially, including Christmas tree inspections from Oregon and Washington and airline declaration systems that provide advance passenger information. For border work, he highlighted inspections, surveillance, detector dogs, and port monitoring. For post-border response and readiness, he discussed the invasive pest hotline and dashboard, trace-forward/trace-back and diagnostics, preparedness for future threats, and the need to build stronger internal capacity. He also described a developing transitional facilities program authorized by Act 236, modeled on New Zealand’s certified facilities system, and said the department has already begun outreach to industry groups such as the Hawaii Floriculture and Nursery Association. No votes or formal actions were taken; the meeting was informational only.

Transcript Highlights:

• 12:11.600> things<00:12:12.079> that<00:12:12.399> are<00:12:12.880> paid
• > those<00:12:20.079> costs<00:12:20.480> continue<00:12:20.800> to<00:12
• > of<00:12:25.600> leveling<00:12:26.160> off<00:12:27.200> uh<00:12:27.440>
• And<00:12:32.560> then<00:12:33.440> um<00:12:34.720> then<00:12:35.360> uh
• c><00:12:35.519> you<00:12:35.680> you<00:12:36.079> see<00:12:36.320> that

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The interim task force on disaster prevention and resiliency met for its fourth meeting and focused heavily on insurance markets, affordability, and mitigation. Cochairs noted they are working toward recommendations for a later fall meeting. The main presentation came from David Snyder of the American Property Casualty Insurance Association, who said the insurance industry sees itself as part of the problem and part of the solution because it ultimately pays for losses created by natural conditions, development choices, and construction practices. Snyder described rising losses from natural catastrophes, inflation-driven increases in rebuilding and repair costs, more development in disaster-prone areas, wildfire exposure, severe convective storms, hail, and roof damage. He argued that Kentucky should avoid the mistakes he attributed to California, where regulatory responses contributed to a strained insurance market and greater reliance on the FAIR Plan. He said Kentucky’s private market appears to be functioning better, with relatively few FAIR Plan policies, and urged lawmakers to preserve that market through risk-based rates and policies that do not worsen availability. He recommended a broad mitigation strategy involving stronger building codes, land-use decisions, stormwater infrastructure, public access to risk data, and incentives for resilient construction. He highlighted programs such as the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety, fortified-home standards, wildfire-prepared community practices, and examples from Alabama, Louisiana, and Florida showing that mitigation can produce quick returns and insurance discounts. He also suggested catastrophe savings accounts, flexible coverage options, and a whole-of-government approach that includes the insurance department, building-code agencies, first responders, FEMA, NFIP, and NOAA. In questions, a legislator asked about the prognosis if carriers continue exiting markets and if nothing is done to address affordability and accessibility. Snyder said he could not predict market exits but stressed that regulators should monitor the market closely, use available data, and focus on loss prevention and mitigation. He said insurers want to do business in Kentucky and that the long-term solution is coordinated action among public and private stakeholders to reduce risk and keep coverage available.

Transcript Highlights:

• from<01:12:04.880> mahu<01:12:05.480> I'm<01:12:05.560> a<01:12:05.719>
• <01:12:27.480> Alice<01:12:27.920> families<01:12:28.360> like<01:12:28.560>
• mine where my<01:12:29.360> wife<01:12:29.520> and<01:12:29.679> I<01:12:29.800
• :12:31.639> medically<01:12:32.199> complex<01:12:32.679> child<01:12:33.280>
• niku for<01:12:39.199> over<01:12:39.480> 5<01:12:39.760> months<01:12:40.239><

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The Consumer Protection and Commerce Committee met on February 12 and heard several bills. HB 97, relating to travel insurance, drew only brief testimony: the Insurance Division stood on written testimony, one industry witness supported the bill and requested a minor amendment, and no one else testified or asked questions. HB 226, relating to window tinting, received support from the Department of Transportation, while the Honolulu Police Department offered comments on the proposed amendments, asking for clearer language on what it means to roll windows down, when the requirement applies, how it handles bad weather, and what sanctions would apply for noncompliance. No further testimony was offered on that measure. The committee also heard HB 1179, relating to rural emergency hospitals. The Department of Human Services stood on written testimony, and Maui Health Systems strongly supported the bill, saying it would help critical access hospitals better serve kūpuna and provide long-term care beds. There were no questions or additional testimony. HB 420, relating to remedies and the contractor repair act, generated extensive and sharply divided testimony. Opponents, including attorneys representing homeowners and AARP Hawaii, argued the bill was anti-consumer, would weaken homeowners’ ability to recover for construction defects, and would shift costs and risk to consumers. Supporters, including builders, realtors, the Chamber of Commerce, and D.R. Horton Hawaii, said the bill would create a more balanced and efficient process, reduce unnecessary litigation, and help builders address legitimate defects more quickly. Testimony on HB 420 focused heavily on whether the contractor repair process and class actions help or hinder repairs. Opponents said the bill would delay or limit homeowner recovery, especially for life and safety defects, while supporters said current class-action litigation can prevent direct communication with homeowners and slow repairs. Committee members asked questions about when communication with homeowners stops and whether repairs could be made before a class is certified. No votes or final committee actions were taken during the portion of the meeting provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• provided<00:12:03.519> by<00:12:03.680> the<00:12:04.079> federal<00:12:04.480>
• um<00:12:17.600> be<00:12:18.199> do<00:12:18.440> Outreach<00:12:18.920>
• <00:12:23.000> that<00:12:23.160> they're<00:12:23.279> entitled<00:12:23.639>
• > of<00:12:27.600> Veterans<00:12:28.040> Affairs<00:12:28.600> is<00:12:
• <00:12:31.760> programs<00:12:32.279> which<00:12:32.440> include<00:12:33.320><

Keywords: 1183, house

Summary: The Veterans and Military Affairs Division held its first meeting with a quorum present, opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, and reviewed decorum expectations and basic operating rules. Members and staff introduced themselves, and Chair Aaron Repinski emphasized that the committee would operate as a nonpartisan body focused on veterans’ issues. No minutes were approved because it was the division’s first meeting. Nonpartisan House staff then gave an overview of the Department of Military Affairs and the Department of Veterans Affairs, including their missions, organizational structure, and budgets. The presentation highlighted the Minnesota National Guard, Camp Ripley, enlistment incentives, the Emergency Services Program, and the Veterans Affairs programs for veterans homes, cemeteries, benefits assistance, and state-funded benefits such as the State Soldiers Assistance Program, Minnesota GI Bill, and Post-9/11 bonus. Staff also noted housing and homelessness-related initiatives, several committee-supported outside programs, and the Support Our Troops license plate funding split between the two agencies. The committee then heard from Trent Dils of Disabled American Veterans Minnesota on behalf of the Commander's Task Force, a coalition of congressionally chartered veterans organizations. He described the group’s unanimous legislative process and urged continuation of a separate veterans omnibus bill, arguing it has helped keep veterans issues apart from broader partisan disputes. He also began outlining the task force’s 2025 priorities, including hunting, fishing, and trapping benefits for veterans, but the transcript cuts off before the full list or any committee action on those priorities is completed.

Transcript Highlights:

• his parents, and we as a state have decided that you are a man or a woman at 18, not 17, not 16, not 12
• We've got another guy that's 21 years of age, and he left home at 12.
• Speaker, uh, Representative, last year we had conversations about undocumented kids within our K through 12
• law that you're referencing, so, Why are we willing to let them get their education from K through 12

Bills: SB1687, HB1687, HB4431, HB2894, HB2979, HB3262, HB3298, HB3369, HB3431, HB3462, SB1226, SB1876, SB1916, SB1920, HB3467, HB3498, HB3500, HB3521, HB3581, HB3650, HB3673, HB3764, HB3767, HB3781, HB3800, HB3831, HB3834, HB3941, HB2749, HB3970, HB3972, HB3979, HB3980, HB3981, HB3996, HB4095, HB4104, HB4191, HB4248, HB4298, HB4338, HB4427, HB4428, HJR1023, HB3660, HB3718, HB4326, HB3443, HB3880, HB3649, HB3000, SB1651, SB504, SB372, SB1326, SB1633, SB248, SB1242, SB1238, SB423, SB1989, SB1286, SB904, SB1213, SB1216, SB1827, SB65, SB1390, SB259, SB1944, SB540, SB2139, SB346, SB1595, SB1400, SB1555, SB1209, SB2110, SB1670, SB1061, SB2104, HR1057, SB1946, SB1734, SB1316, SB1360, SB1557, SB1684, SB2049, SB1410, SB2011, SB1437, SB1204, SB1732, SB1775, SB2084, SB1380, SB1572, SB1772, SB1224, SB710, SB1338, SB1266, SB1303, SB1307, SB1562, SB1794, SB1191, SB1983, SB1832, SB1448, SB1534, SB1593, SB1597, SB1630, SB1489, SB1726, SB1796, SB1806, SB1877, SB1451, SB1553, SB1632, SB1423, SB1425, SB1502, SB2180, SB1725, SB2182, HB3003, HB3004, HB4434, HB4324, HB4342, HB2137, HB4432, SJR50, SJR52, SJR53

Keywords: driver licenses, exam proctor, Service Oklahoma, commercial training, background checks, advance directive, advance health care directive, health care proxy, medical power of attorney, durable power of attorney for health care, living will, surrogate decision-maker, default surrogate, health care agent, capacity determination, supported decision making, mental health directive, psychiatric advance directive, end-of-life care, life-sustaining treatment

Bills: SB1687, HB1687, HB4431, HB2894, HB2979, HB3262, HB3298, HB3369, HB3431, HB3462, SB1226, SB1876, SB1916, SB1920, HB3467, HB3498, HB3500, HB3521, HB3581, HB3650, HB3673, HB3764, HB3767, HB3781, HB3800, HB3831, HB3834, HB3941, HB2749, HB3970, HB3972, HB3979, HB3980, HB3981, HB3996, HB4095, HB4104, HB4191, HB4248, HB4298, HB4338, HB4427, HB4428, HJR1023, HB3660, HB3718, HB4326, HB3443, HB3880, HB3649, HB3000, SB1651, SB504, SB372, SB1326, SB1633, SB248, SB1242, SB1238, SB423, SB1989, SB1286, SB904, SB1213, SB1216, SB1827, SB65, SB1390, SB259, SB1944, SB540, SB2139, SB346, SB1595, SB1400, SB1555, SB1209, SB2110, SB1670, SB1061, SB2104, HR1057, SB1946, SB1734, SB1316, SB1360, SB1557, SB1684, SB2049, SB1410, SB2011, SB1437, SB1204, SB1732, SB1775, SB2084, SB1380, SB1572, SB1772, SB1224, SB710, SB1338, SB1266, SB1303, SB1307, SB1562, SB1794, SB1191, SB1983, SB1832, SB1448, SB1534, SB1593, SB1597, SB1630, SB1489, SB1726, SB1796, SB1806, SB1877, SB1451, SB1553, SB1632, SB1423, SB1425, SB1502, SB2180, SB1725, SB2182, HB3003, HB3004, HB4434, HB4324, HB4342, HB2137, HB4432, SJR50, SJR52, SJR53

Keywords: driver licenses, exam proctor, Service Oklahoma, commercial training, background checks, advance directive, advance health care directive, health care proxy, medical power of attorney, durable power of attorney for health care, living will, surrogate decision-maker, default surrogate, health care agent, capacity determination, supported decision making, mental health directive, psychiatric advance directive, end-of-life care, life-sustaining treatment

Transcript Highlights:

• 00:12:15.120> into<00:12:15.760> a<00:12:15.920> certification<00:12:16.560>
• > best<00:12:17.320> management<00:12:17.680> practices<00:12:18.360> for
• that salt<00:12:19.160> reduction<00:12:20.160> with<00:12:20.360> an<00:12:20.480
• :21.840> to<00:12:22.040> limit<00:12:22.360> their<00:12:22.560> liability.
• So, we don't<00:12:25.040> we<00:12:25.440> um<00:12:26.120> voted<00:12:27.120>

Keywords: 926, house, all

Summary: The House opened with a moment of silence and handled several bill referrals and procedural matters. House Bill 957, relating to amendments to the charter of the town of Williston, received first reading and was referred to the Committee on Government Operations and Military Affairs. Senate Bill 255, establishing a pilot law enforcement government’s council in Windham County, was referred to Ways and Means under House Rule 35A because it materially affects municipal revenue. The House also noted that Senate Bill 198, on regulation of tobacco products and tobacco substitutes, had been reported favorably with amendment by Commerce and Economic Development. The chamber then suspended rules to take up Senate Bill 198 and committed it to the Committee on Human Services pending its entry on the notice calendar. The House also adopted in concurrence Joint Senate Resolution 49, setting weekend adjournment so that when the two houses adjourn on Friday, April 17, 2026, they must reconvene no later than Tuesday, April 21, 2026. During consideration of Senate Bill 218, relating to reducing chloride contamination of state waters, Representative Boutin offered a floor amendment aimed at strengthening municipal liability protections for towns participating in salt-reduction efforts. Supporters said the existing affirmative defense was too weak and could leave municipalities exposed to negligence claims despite their efforts to reduce salt use. Opponents, including members speaking for Judiciary and House Environment, argued the issue was legally complex, involved tort and insurance questions, and needed more vetting than a floor amendment; they also said the current bill already supports municipalities through certification and best-management-practices provisions. Both committees reported the amendment unfavorable, with Judiciary citing a 7-3-1 vote and House Environment a 10-1-0 vote. The session ended with announcements recognizing guests in the gallery and a notice that House Democrats would caucus in Room 11, while Republicans and Progressives would not, followed by a recess until the gavel fell again.

Transcript Highlights:

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• Uh, uh,<00:12:13.360> the<00:12:13.680> chairs<00:12:14.000> have<00:12:14.240><
• We'd like to<00:12:15.279> move<00:12:15.600> these<00:12:16.000> two<00:12:16.240
• <00:12:22.320> If<00:12:22.480> not,<00:12:22.720> Senator<00:12:23.040> Chang
• Um, Senator Chair votes I.<00:12:58.160> Senator<00:12:58.720> Gabard<00:12:59.200>

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The joint committees on Energy and Intergovernmental Affairs and Health and Human Services heard Senate Concurrent Resolution 58 and Senate Resolution 42, which urge counties to install special-needs recreational playground equipment in parks and playgrounds. Testimony came from the Disability and Communication Access Board, the Hawaii State Council on Developmental Disabilities, the Disability Rights Center, Autism Moms of Kona, and a Pacific Disability Center representative, all supporting the resolutions. Several testifiers asked that the term “special needs” be replaced with “access and functional needs,” and one requested language broadening the measure to explicitly include developmentally and intellectually disabled youth. A committee member also discussed the need for inclusion and the benefits of accessible play for all children. After questions, the chairs said they would adopt amendments from the Disability and Communication Access Board, Autism Moms of Kona, and Tina Marie Kira, along with technical, non-substantive changes. Both committees then voted to recommend passage of SCR 58 and SR 42 with amendments, with members voting aye and some excused. The committees then heard Senate Concurrent Resolution 163 and Senate Resolution 132, which request counties to adopt flexible setback requirements for state buildings and facilities to improve land use efficiency and public service delivery. Testimony in support came from the Grassroots Institute and the Department of Accounting and General Services. The chairs moved the resolutions forward with technical, non-substantive amendments, and both committees adopted recommendations to pass SCR 163 and SR 132 with amendments before adjourning.

Transcript Highlights:

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• the office<00:12:22.399> in<00:12:22.560> room<00:12:22.760> 204<00:12:23.360><
• > happy<00:12:25.279> to<00:12:25.399> get<00:12:25.560> one<00:12:25.680
• :12:29.560> next<00:12:30.519> updates<00:12:31.519> uh<00:12:31.680> this
• <00:12:38.079> a<00:12:38.279> completely<00:12:38.680> updated<00:12:39.199>

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

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• <00:12:48.639> It's<00:12:48.800> good<00:12:48.880> to<00:12:49.040> be<
• <00:12:49.839> I'm<00:12:50.000> Randy<00:12:50.480> White,<00:12:51.120>
• and<00:12:54.800> I<00:12:55.040> have<00:12:55.360> uh<00:12:55.440>
• <00:12:58.000> My<00:12:58.160> name<00:12:58.240> is<00:12:58.399> Elseie

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The subcommittee first heard from the Justice and Public Safety Cabinet’s Grants Management Division on federal victim-services funding. Staff described the main grant programs they administer, including STOP VAWA, VOCA victim assistance, sexual assault services, Byrne state crisis intervention, and Project Safe Neighborhoods. They emphasized that VOCA is especially volatile because it is funded by the federal Crime Victims Fund, which has declined sharply in recent years, reducing Kentucky’s available awards and forcing cuts to state, local, and nonprofit subgrants. They also outlined steps the cabinet has taken to stabilize funding, including changing the subaward formula, aligning the grant period with the state fiscal year, subawarding one year behind the federal cycle, and retaining a reserve. Members asked about how funds reach victims, how subgrantee amounts are determined, and requested a breakdown of grant recipients and amounts; staff said they would provide that information later. The committee then received a detailed presentation from the Department of Juvenile Justice on alternatives to detention. Commissioner Randy White and staff explained that ATDs are short-term, less restrictive placements for low-risk youth, including electronic monitoring, home supervision, group homes, foster care, private child care, community programs, mentoring, evening reporting centers, and in-home wraparound services. They described the referral and approval process involving court-designated workers, detention alternative coordinators, courts, and county attorneys, and said DJJ currently has 16 ATD-related contracts, with placements, programs, and electronic monitoring among them. They also reported that between July 1, 2024, and July 30, 2025, 1,652 juveniles were involved in the process, including 168 diversion cases. Members questioned the cost of juvenile detention versus adult incarceration, whether families pay for electronic monitoring, whether there is a national model for juvenile detention, and what alternatives exist for truancy and contempt cases. DJJ said families do not generally reimburse for electronic monitoring, there is no single national model, and day treatment centers are an important alternative for some youth. The department also said it builds daily routines and wellness education into its facilities, and that more than two-thirds of its programs are evidence-based. Officials said they currently monitor vendor performance through quarterly reviews and can end contracts for poor performance, but that data tracking is still largely manual. They said the new JCOM system, now in pilot in the eastern region, should improve reporting and help identify outcomes and recidivism more effectively.

Transcript Highlights:

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• what<01:12:16.040> can<01:12:16.159> we<01:12:16.280> do<01:12:16.480>
• <01:12:23.080> we're<01:12:23.360> both<01:12:23.639> connected<01:12:24.120
• :12:27.760> Army<01:12:28.760> both<01:12:29.159> connected<01:12:29.600> in<
• > Bia<01:12:38.520> and<01:12:38.679> Bea<01:12:39.280> may<01:12:39.880>

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Summary: The Public Higher Education Study Committee held an organizational meeting and received an update from the university and community college systems on implementation of recommendations from the governor’s higher education task force. The systems said the task force report contained about 40 recommendations, and they have focused first on operational items while continuing to work on larger policy issues, including better alignment of public higher education with workforce and economic development needs. The committee also discussed reporting requirements under the amended law and whether quarterly reports are required or whether annual updates are sufficient unless the committee requests more. A major topic was expanding Early College and dual-enrollment opportunities. The chancellors reported strong growth in Early College participation, significant student and family savings, and state scholarship support that they described as producing a strong return on investment. They said the goal is to build clearer pathways so students can earn college credit, reduce debt, and stay in New Hampshire for postsecondary education. They also noted ongoing work to simplify admissions and transfer processes, including about 100 transfer pathways between the systems, direct-admit efforts for community college and university students, and continued development of transfer equivalency tools. Members pressed the systems and the Department of Education on direct outreach to high school students, especially juniors, so students would know they are eligible for direct admission and other opportunities. The main obstacle discussed was access to student contact information, with officials saying the issue may involve contract limits with the College Board and possibly statutory constraints on sharing data. Department of Education staff said they are meeting with the systems and vendors to determine what changes are needed. Committee members urged faster action so students and families can receive letters or other notices about in-state options, affordability programs such as Granite Guarantee, and pathways to community college and university enrollment.