Transcript Highlights:

• :48.120><c> loansc><00:02:48.560><c> typec><00:02:48.760><c> dealsc><00:02:49.080><c> wherec>
• installment loans type deals where installment loans type deals where people<00:02:49.400><c> arec
• > thosec><00:02:55.280><c> typesc><00:02:55.440><c> ofc> pay here car lots those types of pay here
• car lots those types of facilities<00:02:56.480><c> andc><00:02:56.560><c> theyc><00:02:56.680><
• <c> folksc><00:02:57.800><c> toc><00:02:57.920><c> doc><00:02:58.080><c> ac><00:02:58.280><c>

Keywords: Meeting Start: 00:00 Roll Call: 00:06 SB145 Discussion: 00:34 SB145 Vote: 03:05, 958, all

Summary: The committee met with a quorum present and took up Senate Bill 145, first adopting a committee substitute. Senator Givens explained that the bill addresses retail installment contracts under KRS Chapter 190 by adjusting the timing for collection/enforcement on past-due vehicle installment payments, with the substitute also aligning KRS Chapter 371 for non-vehicle retail installment contracts such as furniture and appliances. The substitute raises a fee from $10 to $15, a change described as updating an amount that had not been revised since 1996 and bringing the two chapters into alignment. Members discussed the bill in general terms, noting its relevance to weekly installment arrangements, buy-here-pay-here car lots, and consumer purchases of household goods. One member said the proposal made them somewhat nervous because of possible effects on consumers with low-value items, but stated there were no known concerns and that they trusted the sponsor’s judgment. No opposition was voiced during the roll call. The committee voted unanimously in favor of Senate Bill 145 as amended by the committee substitute, and the bill passed. After the vote, members thanked Senator Givens, and there was brief discussion that the bill had not yet reached the point of being ready for consent.

Transcript Highlights:

• 29.280><c> thisc><00:35:29.599><c> typec><00:35:29.760><c> ofc><00:35:29.920><c> powerc><00:35
• ><c> thisc><00:39:56.079><c> particularc><00:39:56.560><c> typec><00:39:56.800><c> ofc> goal
• with this particular type of goal with this particular type of energy.<00:39:58.000><c> Andc><00:39
• ><c> orc><00:40:05.040><c> incentivec><00:40:05.599><c> typec><00:40:06.000><c> programs.
• c> promotional or incentive type programs. promotional or incentive type programs.

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• :17.480><c> forc><00:15:18.320><c> thisc><00:15:18.560><c> typec> not real conducive for this type
• 28.840><c> typec><00:19:29.120><c> systems.
• c> typec><00:35:55.720><c> systemc><00:35:56.120><c> wasc> this one where the same type system
• ofc><00:36:25.840><c> thisc><00:36:26.000><c> typec><00:36:26.280><c> ofc><00:36:26.400><c>
• thisc><00:36:30.840><c> typec><00:36:31.040><c> ofc><00:36:31.160><c> equipment.

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The meeting opened with the pledge and prayer, a roll call established quorum, and members announced a Veterans Caucus meeting to follow the session. The committee also recognized distinguished veteran Joe Mash Masterson of Bardstown, who was praised for his Army service, long-time advocacy for veterans, and leadership in the American Legion and local veteran organizations. Masterson thanked his family, the American Legion Post 121, and the VA staff, and several members offered remarks honoring his service and the committee’s practice of recognizing veterans. The committee then briefly addressed a referred administrative regulation, 017 KAR 001 030, which leadership described as technical updates to existing policy; no vote was taken. After that, members heard testimony from KDVA and Finance and Administration officials on the ongoing HVAC replacement project at the Radcliffe Veteran Center. Officials said the system had been problematic for years, that design work began early to accelerate the project, and that the work was complicated by the need to replace the system in an operating nursing facility. They explained that the project was bid in March, awarded to Less Mechanical, and that protective measures, shop drawings, and equipment orders were underway. Committee members pressed officials on why the problem had taken so long to resolve, why the original system had been installed, whether the issue had been communicated regularly, and whether the state should be paying for a replacement in a relatively new facility. Officials said the original system’s components and warranties had failed, that they had tried to replace parts before moving to a full replacement, and that the system’s manufacturer and quality differed from a similar facility in Glasgow that had not had the same issues. They said the current phase one contract was about $6 million, with the remaining funds held for phase two to restore full occupancy; phase two design was nearly complete and could be bid later if funding is approved. Officials estimated phase one completion around January 2026 and full completion around March 2027, depending on funding and scheduling.

Transcript Highlights:

• 09:54.760><c> ratesc><00:09:55.640><c> forc><00:09:55.760><c> differentc><00:09:56.120><c> types
• c><00:09:56.400><c> ofc> payment rates for different types of payment rates for different types of
• ><c> oversightc><00:16:07.320><c> itc> identify the type of oversight it identify the type of oversight
• c><01:26:20.080><c> typec> things in place as a preventive type things in place as a preventive type
• , each<01:38:31.000><c> typec><01:38:31.280><c> ofc><01:38:31.440><c> grant.

Keywords: 1183, house

Transcript Highlights:

• ofc><00:04:36.720><c> thec><00:04:37.040><c> typesc><00:04:37.360><c> ofc><00:04:37.600><c>
• fraudc><00:04:37.840><c> thatc> understanding of the types of fraud that understanding of the types
• :04:39.040><c> typesc><00:04:39.280><c> ofc><00:04:39.440><c> schemesc> are occurring and the types
• of schemes are occurring and the types of schemes that<00:04:40.479><c> arec><00:04:40.720><c> being
• c><00:14:46.399><c> umc><00:14:47.199><c> uhc><00:14:47.440><c> thesec><00:14:47.680><c> types

Keywords: 919, house, all

Summary: House DFL leaders held a press availability outlining a broad anti-fraud agenda focused on state programs, especially Medicaid-related services, but also unemployment and tax fraud. They said the package is intended to strengthen accountability, improve oversight, and prevent fraud before it occurs, while arguing that fraud harms vulnerable Minnesotans such as children with autism, people with disabilities, seniors, and homeless people. They also tied the problem to long-term privatization of public services, arguing that outsourcing creates more layers and opportunities for fraud, and cited examples like county case management and managed care arrangements. Specific proposals discussed included strengthening the attorney general’s Medicaid fraud control unit, creating or expanding inspector general functions, requiring more in-person site visits, using electronic visit verification, improving background checks and fingerprinting, and upgrading outdated IT systems. Members said some bills would be relatively low-cost while others would require funding, and that bills without fiscal notes might move separately while others could be folded into budget discussions. They also said the House DFL had already taken steps in prior sessions, including creating a fraud unit at the BCA and adding DHS staff for site visits. The discussion also covered the Office of Inspector General bill, with DFL members saying they support placing the office in the executive branch and that the governor should make the final appointment for constitutional reasons. They said Republicans had blocked amendments they viewed as adding fraud-prevention authority to the OIG bill, and that the governor’s staff had not been involved in working groups. On a separate bill involving disclosure requirements, they said the committee version was improved but still flawed because it could interfere with investigations; they said it would next go to the Children and Families Committee. No votes were taken in the exchange, and members said they were still early in session and hoped for more constructive negotiations later.

Transcript Highlights:

• grouping<00:12:36.800><c> ofc><00:12:37.480><c> typesc><00:12:37.920><c> ofc><00:12:38.279><c>
• :53:17.240><c> licensec><00:53:17.640><c> typec> that um isn't one of those license type that um
• c><00:57:01.200><c> typesc> account um sort of the different types account um sort of the different
• 50.000><c> carec><01:14:50.120><c> providerc><01:14:50.560><c> typec><01:14:50.960><c> andc><
• ><c> forc><01:23:34.840><c> thec> types of programs are eligible for the types of programs are eligible

Keywords: 1183, house

Summary: The committee met for an introductory overview of its jurisdiction and budget, with the chair emphasizing the committee’s role over a large portfolio of children, youth, and family programs and the new Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). House Research and House Fiscal staff explained their roles and described the 2023-24 reorganization that transferred many programs from DHS, DPS, MDH, and MDE to DCYF, along with a statute recodification and a crosswalk resource for members. Doug Berg then walked through the committee’s budget structure, explaining the difference between all-funds and general fund views, the major funding sources, and how forecasted programs and grant bases roll forward. He highlighted that the committee’s general fund base is a little over $2.1 billion for the biennium, with large federal components such as SNAP and TANF, and noted smaller accounts including child protection-related opioid funds and federal reimbursement offsets (FFP) for administrative costs. Members asked several questions about federal financial participation, TANF, and the effect of the repeal of the Diversionary Work Program (DWP). Staff explained that FFP generally applies to administrative costs for federally related programs and usually does not change much unless program activity changes, while TANF is a block grant that has been stable for years. On DWP, staff said the program was sunsetted effective March 1, 2026, and that the associated funding and administrative costs were being reworked rather than simply removed. A member also asked about federal funding fluctuations; staff said no changes were currently factored in, though SNAP or other federal policy changes could alter future numbers. Danielle Penelli then presented on economic assistance and employment supports transferred to DCYF, focusing first on MFIP, Minnesota’s state-supervised, county-administered welfare program jointly funded by state and federal dollars. She explained that MFIP provides cash and food assistance, employment and training services, and related supports, with a 60-month time limit and certain exemptions for illness, incapacity, or other barriers to employment. She also described the program’s income and asset standards, including a $10,000 asset limit with exclusions for homesteads and one vehicle per assistance unit member age 16 or older. Members asked clarifying questions about how the time limit applies and what assets count, and staff responded that the limit applies to the caregiver and does not restart with additional children. Penelli also introduced support services grants, which fund employment services for MFIP, DWP, and SNAP participants through workforce centers, counties, tribes, and community agencies, and help cover some county and tribal administrative costs. She began outlining nutrition programs under DCYF, including SNAP, the Minnesota Food Assistance Program, the Minnesota Food Shelf Program, the Emergency Food Assistance Program, and the American Indian Food Sovereignty Program. No formal votes or bill actions were taken during this meeting; it was primarily an informational staff briefing and question-and-answer session.

Transcript Highlights:

• typec><00:27:11.679><c> ofc><00:27:11.880><c> kpisc><00:27:12.440><c> thatc><00:27:12.600><c>
• ><c> OTc><00:46:26.920><c> PAc><00:46:27.480><c> typec><00:46:27.839><c> ofc> was tied to wholesale
• uh OT PA type of was tied to wholesale uh OT PA type of uh<00:46:28.720><c> marketingc><00:46:29.599
• toc><00:58:57.119><c> providec><00:58:57.520><c> whatc><00:58:57.760><c> typec><00:58:58.000
• ><c> ofc> board you know to provide what type of board you know to provide what type of uh<00:58:58.839

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The committee on Economic Development and Tourism met on April 1 to consider GM 510, the confirmation of Todd Aio to the board of directors of the Hawaiʻi Convention Center Authority. Testimony was overwhelmingly in support from HTA representatives and numerous individuals. Supporters described Aio as a strong leader with experience in tourism, development, nonprofit work, and public service, including his time on the city council and work with Disney’s Aulani, Ward Village, and the Hawaiʻi Community Foundation. In his remarks, Aio said he would bring legal, development, and corporate governance experience to the board. He emphasized the need for the authority to better define its role, oversee contractors, and help guide the relationship between destination management and branding/marketing contractors. He also said community engagement and cultural considerations should be central to tourism planning, and that the board should work to stabilize the agency during its transition. Members questioned him about board conflicts, the lack of a permanent HTA CEO, and how to measure the success of cultural and branding campaigns such as mālama and kuleana messaging. Aio said conflicts are inevitable when board members come from industry backgrounds, but they must separate their “work hats” from their board duties. He supported replacing the interim leadership with a permanent CEO once compensation legislation is finalized, and said success should be measured through better data, including possible exit surveys and other technology-based tools. He also said he would oppose replacing Hawaiian protocol with another cultural protocol, while supporting inclusion of other cultures alongside a Hawaiian sense of place.

Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:11:00.959><c> typec><00:11:01.519><c> programc><00:11:01.839><c> wherec><00:11:02.079><
• arec><00:11:17.920><c> thec><00:11:18.640><c> variousc><00:11:19.040><c> typesc><00:11:19.279
• typec><00:17:30.559><c> reactionc><00:17:31.200><c> thatc><00:17:31.600><c> nowc><00:17:31.840
• type program that people<00:21:54.480><c> canc><00:21:54.720><c> engagec><00:21:55.039><c> inc
• certain type be a recommendation for a certain type of<00:28:27.600><c> program,c><00:28:28.000><c

Keywords: 924, joint, all

Transcript Highlights:

• 05:28.240><c> targetedc><00:05:28.639><c> marketc> types.
• ><c> thosec><00:21:46.640><c> typesc><00:21:46.960><c> ofc><00:21:47.120><c> associationsc><00
• c><00:28:11.600><c> typesc><00:28:12.000><c> dayc> coverage for all construction types day coverage
• c> isc><00:37:47.119><c> ac> association types and I think it is a association types and I think
• <00:51:27.680><c> types,c><00:51:28.359><c> right?

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• ><c> typec><00:22:31.320><c> issuesc><00:22:31.640><c> andc><00:22:31.799><c> thec> consumer
• c><00:55:08.200><c> typec><00:55:08.920><c> Dynamicc><00:55:09.920><c> thatc><00:55:10.119><c
• /c><01:46:45.440><c> differentc><01:46:45.760><c> typesc> um that in terms of the different types
• ><c> onc><05:14:45.878><c> premisec> 24 um license types our on premise 24 um license types our on
• premise license<05:14:46.680><c> typesc><05:14:46.878><c> werec> license types were license types

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The meeting began with introductory remarks for new and returning members of the House Commerce Committee, led by Chairman John Hunt. Members briefly introduced themselves and their backgrounds, and several noted the committee’s bipartisan, collegial tone. Hunt explained the committee’s structure and traditions, including the division into three subcommittees: banking and business, consumer protection, and liquor commission matters, with insurance now handled as a single area. He also reviewed basic hearing procedures, including decorum, questions for information only, and the committee’s practice of moving bills through subcommittees before full committee executive sessions. The committee then heard an overview from the New Hampshire Insurance Department, led by Commissioner DJ Bettencourt and staff. The department described its mission as promoting a safe and competitive insurance marketplace and emphasized consumer protection, market competition, and affordability. Officials outlined the department’s responsibilities, including licensing insurers, producers, adjusters, and TPAs; reviewing insurance forms; regulating companies and market conduct; overseeing financial solvency; and investigating insurance fraud. They also noted that the department is self-funded through assessments on insurers, collects premium taxes and fees for the state, and returned more than $2.7 million to companies in fiscal year 2024 due to underspending. The presentation also covered the broader regulatory framework for insurance, including the role of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners in promoting uniform standards across states and territories. Officials said New Hampshire licenses about 1,200 insurance companies and roughly 245,000 producers and adjusters, and that the department’s financial examinations are part of an accreditation system used nationwide. No votes or formal committee actions were taken in the portion provided; the session was primarily organizational and informational, with the insurance department presentation beginning the committee’s substantive work for the term.

Transcript Highlights:

• thisc><00:24:17.760><c> typec><00:24:18.120><c> ofc><00:24:18.800><c> grantc> Why is DHHOL wanting
• c><00:24:51.440><c> usingc> type of similar program without using type of similar program without
• and<00:25:48.440><c> thec><00:25:48.520><c> typec><00:25:48.760><c> ofc><00:25:48.880><c> financial
• ><c> thisc><00:32:50.480><c> typec><00:32:50.680><c> ofc><00:32:50.800><c> measurec> much interested
• > typec><00:53:35.560><c> ofc><00:53:35.680><c> informationc><00:53:36.360><c> thatc> identify

Keywords: 912, senate, all

Summary: The Committee on Housing, meeting jointly with the Committee on Health and Human Services, heard testimony on Senate Bill 2787, which would expand use of the rental housing revolving fund to provide loans or grants for purchasing rental units, and Senate Bill 2957, which addresses tenant displacement and relocation protections, as well as Senate Bill 2866, which would make the state rent supplement program for kupuna permanent and appropriate funds for it. Testimony on SB 2787 included support from DHHL, HHFDC, AARP Hawaii, and others, while the Attorney General recommended clarifying language and standards for grants, and the Tax Foundation questioned whether grants fit the revolving-fund structure. On SB 2957, supporters including OHA, PACT, medical-legal advocates, and tenant representatives emphasized relocation hardships from the KPT redevelopment, language access, and the need for clearer minimum safeguards; the Attorney General suggested defining “comparable units” and correcting a drafting error. On SB 2866, HPHA, Catholic Charities, AARP, the Executive Office on Aging, and others supported making the kupuna rent supplement program permanent to prevent homelessness among low-income seniors. During discussion on SB 2957, members questioned HPHA and tenant counsel about the KPT low-rise relocation process and what “comparable housing” meant in practice. HPHA said all tenants were relocated, but counsel described disputes over comparability, disability and family-size issues, and at least one offered unit that was not livable. For SB 2787, members questioned DHHL about why it sought funding from the rental housing revolving fund rather than other sources; DHHL said it was still exploring options and had mostly used its funds for infrastructure, with only a small portion used as revolving funds. The chair expressed concern about relying on scarce housing funds and urged more efficient use of DHHL’s existing resources. In decision-making, the committees voted to pass SB 2957 with amendments and SB 2866 with amendments. For SB 2957, the amendments would replace the bill with a working group on tenant displacement and relocation, include a blank appropriation and defective date, and request $75,000 for the working group; the motion was adopted unanimously by the members present, with Senator Favela excused. For SB 2866, the amended version would include a blank appropriation, defective date, and committee report language noting requests for $110,160 for two HPHA public housing specialist positions and $2.16 million for the state rent supplement program; this motion was also adopted, with Senator Favela excused. After the joint hearing adjourned, the committee returned to the housing-only agenda and continued discussion of SB 2787 before moving on to SB 3089, which would amend the down payment loan assistance program for low- and moderate-income first-time homebuyers; testimony on SB 3089 was beginning when the transcript ended.

Transcript Highlights:

• :41:38.720><c> samec><00:41:38.880><c> typec> problem and we could have the same type problem and
• How do we build those types<00:42:40.240><c> ofc><00:42:40.400><c> technologiesc><00:42:41.040><c
• > inc><00:42:41.280><c> globalc><00:42:42.000><c> becausec> types of technologies in global because
• c><00:42:51.119><c> andc><00:42:51.440><c> thec> types of disciplines and the types of disciplines
• c><00:42:56.000><c> typesc><00:42:56.160><c> ofc> forensic auditing and all the types of forensic

Keywords: 918, senate, all

Summary: Senate Republican leaders held a press event to roll out a package of anti-fraud proposals focused on state welfare and human services programs. Mark Johnson opened by citing recent fraud scandals, including a shuttered housing program and reports of vulnerable adults being left without care while providers billed for full services, and said Republicans want top-down reform, stronger accountability, new technology, and tighter oversight of taxpayer dollars. Michael Kreun said Republicans support an independent Office of Inspector General and argued the Senate-passed bill should not be weakened in the House; he also said the Senate should restore its role in confirming agency commissioners, especially at DHS, which he described as central to the fraud problem. Jordan Rasmusson outlined a plan to stop “blank checks” for DHS and DCYF services by requiring legislative audit review when a program exceeds budget by 5 percent and legislative approval for additional spending at 10 percent over budget. He also said DHS should adopt basic integrity tools such as electronic visit verification and client sign-off. Steve Drazkowski described two bills: a statewide “do-not-pay” list to block payments to ineligible people or entities, and an “I’m Not a Robot” proposal for Medicaid managed care that would require enrollee verification forms, with a 2 percent payment withhold used to encourage compliance and potentially fund county system upgrades. Mark Krueger said the state should improve technology and data use for eligibility determinations, citing other states’ rapid fraud-fighting systems, and proposed penalties for false reporting to the Legislative Auditor after a DHS audit found falsified site-visit records. Steve Gruenhagen said his bill would require DHS and DCYF to resume annual fraud-prevention and oversight reports to the legislature, which he said had stopped after 2017 despite rising fraud cases. Michael Holmstrom proposed unannounced site visits for all DHS and DCYF providers before enrollment, reenrollment, and revalidation, funded through provider service fees, and cited a recent case involving a woman with autism who was billed for far more care than she received. In the Q&A, Kreun said House Democrats’ delete-everything amendment to the inspector general bill removed the law enforcement division and stripped the bill of its “teeth,” and he suggested the governor’s office may have been involved in efforts to replace the bill with a weaker coordination council model. No votes were taken in the press conference.

Transcript Highlights:

• ><c> toc><00:52:22.720><c> doc><00:52:22.880><c> thatc><00:52:23.119><c> typec><00:52:23.280>
• ><c> underc><00:52:45.200><c> statec> um uh do those type things under state um uh do those type
• ><c> typec> any kind of criminal record, that type any kind of criminal record, that type stuff.<00
• ><c> typec> um those kinds of um crowd type um those kinds of um crowd type situations<01:21:40.880
• c><01:25:33.440><c> typec><01:25:33.679><c> gear.

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committee held an informational briefing on federal and state authority over National Guard deployment in response to civil protest or unrest, prompted by recent federal actions and the California litigation in Newsom v. Trump. The chair explained the purpose was to help lawmakers and the public understand the legal background, the status of the California case, and possible Hawaii policy responses. David Day of the Attorney General’s office outlined several recent federal immigration-related executive actions and enforcement directives, then described Hawaii’s participation in multiple lawsuits challenging federal funding conditions, data-sharing demands, and the birthright citizenship order. A major portion of the briefing focused on Newsom v. Trump. Day summarized the June 2025 Los Angeles protests and the president’s memorandum federalizing National Guard units under 10 U.S.C. 12406, which California challenged as ultra vires, procedurally improper, and violative of the Posse Comitatus Act, the Tenth Amendment, and the APA. He said the district court initially granted relief, but the Ninth Circuit stayed the TRO and held, in a published decision, that review under section 12406 is highly deferential and that the president lawfully exercised authority under paragraph 3. He also noted California-law issues about orders being issued through the governor, and said Hawaii had supported California through amicus briefs and would continue to do so; the bench trial was scheduled for August 11-13. Members then asked how Hawaii law differs from California’s and whether the Ninth Circuit ruling would control here. Day said the standard-of-review aspects would likely apply, but the California-specific procedural language about orders issued in the governor’s name does not appear in Hawaii law. The committee also heard from Colonel Lloyd C. Phelps of the Hawaii Department of Defense, who explained that National Guard activations generally occur under Title 10 federal orders, state orders, or other statuses, and said the June 2025 federalization mechanism was a Title 10 call-up. He began addressing the president’s authority, the Posse Comitatus Act, and Hawaii’s own preparedness, but the discussion was cut short and members indicated they would return to the topic later. No votes were taken.

Transcript Highlights:

• > toc><00:29:38.960><c> typec><00:29:39.600><c> ifc><00:29:39.840><c> thec><00:29:40.080><c>
• :30:33.440><c> thec><00:30:33.679><c> operatorc><00:30:34.159><c> toc><00:30:34.480><c> typec
• ><c> bec><00:34:29.839><c> typingc><00:34:30.159><c> yourc> because you don't want to be typing
• ><c> toc><00:35:59.839><c> thisc><00:36:00.160><c> typec><00:36:00.320><c> ofc> the consequences
• <c> typesc><01:19:42.159><c> ofc><01:19:42.320><c> acquisitionsc><01:19:42.960><c> toc> uh with

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The committee met for its sixth and final interim meeting after a brief technical delay, approved the October 14 minutes, and heard a presentation on a proposed Kentucky hands-free driving bill. The main discussion centered on distracted driving and a draft measure modeled on South Carolina law that would prohibit holding or supporting a mobile electronic device while driving on public roads, while allowing limited exceptions for parked/stopped vehicles, navigation, emergency reporting, dispatch systems, first responders, and certain hands-free call functions. The bill would make a violation a $100 fine plus court costs, with the draft allocating fine revenue to the traumatic brain injury trust fund, Kentucky trauma care system, and veteran program trust fund. The sponsor also said the bill would address prior concerns about enforcement and clarify that officers need a clear, unobstructed visual observation before stopping a driver, and that they may not search or seize devices or make custodial arrests solely for the violation. Alyssa Burns gave emotional testimony in support of the bill, describing the death of her young daughter Kimberly in a crash she attributed to a distracted driver and urging lawmakers to pass the measure to improve roadway safety. The sponsor cited Kentucky traffic fatality statistics, including 814 deaths in 2023 and an estimated 20% involving distracted driving, and argued that the bill could reduce preventable deaths. Several members voiced support and sympathy, including remarks comparing the effort to past seat belt legislation and suggesting possible future additions such as community service. One member raised concerns about enforcement and whether officers could reliably observe phone use inside vehicles, while another asked about the bill’s interaction with existing texting-while-driving penalties and whether points would still apply. The sponsor said the draft was still being refined, acknowledged gray areas, and invited further changes as the bill moves forward.

Transcript Highlights:

• > contractsc><00:30:06.080><c> alsoc><00:30:06.480><c> thec><00:30:06.799><c> typesc> the number
• of contracts also the types the number of contracts also the types of<00:30:07.200><c> servicesc><
• types<00:30:59.360><c> ofc><00:30:59.600><c> contractsc><00:31:00.080><c> thatc><00:31:00.320>
• <c> wec><00:31:00.480><c> doc><00:31:00.720><c> throughc><00:31:01.200><c> uhc> types of contracts
• that we do through uh types of contracts that we do through uh through<00:31:01.520><c> justc><00:

Keywords: 00:32 Call to Order and Roll Call 02:30 Road Fund Report 17:22 Approval of Minutes 18:07 High Growth Counties Projects 56:00 Adjournment, 958, all

Summary: The Budget Review Subcommittee for Transportation met without a quorum at first, then later approved the July 15 minutes by voice vote after quorum was reached. The committee heard an update from the Transportation Cabinet on the road fund for FY 2024-25. Cabinet staff reported road fund revenue came in $38.5 million above the enacted estimate, with motor vehicle usage tax receipts setting an all-time high for the fifth straight year. Motor fuels tax revenue was below estimate and down from the prior year, while overall road fund collections totaled $1.86 billion, essentially flat year over year. Staff said the road fund ended FY25 with a $61.6 million surplus, which under the budget bill must be appropriated to state construction. Members discussed the gas tax formula, with Senator Higdon arguing it no longer works well because revenues fall when fuel prices fall, and the chair noting the committee may need to revisit the formula. The committee then received an update on High Growth County projects in the 2024 highway plan. KYTC said $16 million in HGC authorizations had been made, nine projects already had construction funds authorized or were otherwise underway, 12 more were scheduled to be let by the end of 2025 with estimated construction costs above $250 million, and one additional project was expected to be awarded through alternative delivery. The cabinet said it anticipated authorizing the full $450 million appropriated by the General Assembly. Members praised the effort and emphasized the need to get projects to market before the next budget cycle. Jason Sala of KYTC also explained why transportation projects take time, citing planning, design, right-of-way acquisition, and utility relocation as major steps that can delay delivery. He said these processes are complex and require coordination with property owners, utilities, consultants, contractors, and local governments. Eric Pelfrey then briefed the committee on professional and personal service contracts, saying they are used to expand cabinet capacity for design, inspections, right-of-way appraisal, safety, and related work. He reported that authorizations and payments for these contracts have trended upward over the past decade, and that the number of contracts has also increased. In response to questions, Pelfrey said design-build can speed some projects by overlapping steps, but it does not eliminate right-of-way or utility work when those are required; he said KYTC has been using alternative delivery more often, but project complexity still limits how quickly work can move.

Transcript Highlights:

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• them<00:38:30.880><c> forc><00:38:31.119><c> thosec><00:38:31.280><c> typec><00:38:31.440><c> of
• ><c> typec><00:49:01.599><c> ofc> somewhat to even bring any type of somewhat to even bring any type
• ><c> typec><00:49:25.440><c> ofc> attorney's office whether on any type of attorney's office whether
• > daysc><01:12:53.440><c> onc> detention type hearing within 10 days on detention type hearing within

Keywords: 1136, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

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• c><00:20:06.680><c> So,c><00:20:06.840><c> that'sc><00:20:07.160><c> onec><00:20:07.480><c> type
• So, that's one type that's<00:20:08.160><c> ac><00:20:08.280><c> soc><00:20:08.600><c> there'sc
• :26:25.480><c> whatc><00:26:25.720><c> typec><00:26:26.040><c> ofc><00:26:26.160><c> information
• c><00:26:26.880><c> isc> have and what type of information is have and what type of information is

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• ><c> onec><00:01:42.640><c> billc><00:01:42.960><c> onc><00:01:43.159><c> thec><00:01:43.680>
• ><c> itc><00:01:49.960><c> toc><00:01:50.159><c> thec><00:01:50.719><c> uhc><00:01:50.920><c>
• 50.879><c> thec><00:03:51.040><c> typesc> just to show you kind of the the types just to show you
• kind of the the types of<00:03:51.519><c> projectsc><00:03:52.000><c> thec><00:03:52.159><c> types
• types of atmosphere that of projects the types of atmosphere that we're<00:03:53.400><c> reallyc><

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The Senate Standing Committee on Agriculture met with a quorum present and opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, led by guest Bob James of Barren County. The chair recognized visiting groups, including the Kentucky Leadership Program and the Kentucky Cattleman’s Leadership Program, before turning to the day’s only agenda item, Senate Bill 28. The committee adopted a committee substitute for SB 28 by motion and second, with no opposition recorded. The chair explained that the bill creates the framework and parameters for distributing $5 million in economic development funding included in the 2024 budget through the Department of Agriculture. Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell testified in support of the bill and described it as enabling legislation to help Kentucky attract more end users, processors, and further-processing operations. He highlighted the importance of existing agricultural processing in the state, especially poultry, citing growth in agricultural cash receipts from $3.1 billion in 1996 to $8.3 billion more recently, with poultry rising from 5% to 25% of the total. He also pointed to major processing facilities, job creation, and the broader impact on farmers and corn markets, including examples from Hopkinsville and other regions.

Transcript Highlights:

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• ><c> typec><00:29:01.720><c> ofc> we're have to deal with this type of we're have to deal with this
• ><c> typec><00:40:00.319><c> ofc> as we've testified they're two type of as we've testified they're
• two type of kids<00:40:01.319><c> onec><00:40:01.599><c> typec><00:40:01.760><c> ofc><00:40:01.960
• wantc><00:45:55.599><c> toc><00:45:55.839><c> sayc> type of child um so I just I want to say type

Keywords: 00:00:00 Introductions 00:00:22 Roll Call 00:01:56 Discussion on SB 85 00:14:03 Vote on SB 85 00:16:15 Explanation of Agency Amendment 00:19:04 Voice Vote on Amendment 00:19:33 Discussion on Kentucky Foster Children Housing, 958, all

Summary: The committee first took up Senate Bill 85, sponsored by Senator Meredith, which would move the Office of the Ombudsman from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to the State Auditor’s office and make related cleanup changes. Meredith said the bill grew out of a prior task force and a two-year transition from Senate Bill 48, and he argued the move would create independence, improve access to the ITWIST database, ensure complaints are not lost in the handoff, and add confidentiality protections for whistleblowers. Auditor Allison Ball and her staff said the bill would codify access and procedures after earlier disputes and a court-mediated settlement, and they described the measure as necessary to make the new structure work effectively. Members asked how the Ombudsman would handle complaints and verify services in cases involving waiver recipients and other cabinet services. Ball and her staff said the Ombudsman would investigate complaints, make inquiries, and provide accountability outside the cabinet structure, with timelines and procedures similar to the Auditor’s office. The committee also discussed staffing and whether the office would need more personnel; Ball said the office already had about 100 people but could use more. The bill passed 10-0 with favorable expression. The committee then approved an agency amendment to administrative regulation 922 KAR 1:001490 concerning foster parent background checks. Cabinet staff explained the amendment corrected a drafting error by removing references to civil determinations in a second section of the regulation because the system cannot search those determinations, while still allowing the required checks under state and federal law. Senator Herron asked what a civil determination meant, and staff said it could involve a court finding in a custody or abuse case, though such findings are now typically handled through the child abuse and neglect registry. The amendment was adopted. Afterward, the committee began a discussion on Kentucky foster children housing and related issues. Ball and Ombudsman staff presented a preliminary assessment of children placed in office buildings, saying the review covered 49 children placed over a four-month period and showed a different picture than the public narrative of only older, high-acuity youth. They reported that some children had no documented behavioral or disability issues, many came directly from home, the average age was 13, the average stay was four nights, and placements were spread across several regions rather than centered only in Louisville. Members raised concerns about the lack of formal policies and procedures, staff safety, and how to ensure children are treated appropriately, and Ball said the Ombudsman was continuing a deeper review. No final action was taken on that discussion in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

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• ><c> onec><01:34:31.040><c> typec><01:34:31.280><c> twoc><01:34:31.520><c> andc> statistics on
• type one type two and statistics on type one type two and justational<01:34:32.639><c> typec><01:34
• ><c> ingestingc><01:34:35.600><c> typec><01:34:35.840><c> ofc><01:34:36.000><c> diabetesc><01
• :34:36.639><c> whichc> insulin ingesting type of diabetes which insulin ingesting type of diabetes

Bills: HB1853, HB1591, HB1961, HB1854, HB1965, HB1962, HB1959, HB2505, HB2576, HB1801, HB1804, HB1864, HB2319, HB2314, HB2115

Keywords: HB1853, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, cognitive impairment, memory care, memory clinic, Hanai Memory Network, Executive Office on Aging, aging services, kupuna, caregiver support, long-term care, elder care, geriatrics, public health, dementia screening, care coordination, referral network, neighbor islands, rural health

Summary: The committee heard testimony on SB 2047, relating to pharmacy benefit managers. The Insurance Division said the bill would require new enforcement resources and estimated an appropriation of about $1.5 million and five positions. Kaiser Permanente asked for an amendment to exclude HMOs from the definition of third-party PBMs, saying the bill should not interfere with integrated care models. PCMA and the Hawaii Pharmacist Association supported narrowing amendments, with pharmacists objecting to section 3 and warning the bill as amended could create major operational burdens and a significant general fund cost. No vote was taken in the portion provided, and the chair moved on to the next measure after questions. The committee then took up SB 2080, which would allow Hawaii to join the psychology interjurisdictional compact. Supporters, including DCR, the Hawaii Association of Health Plans, the Hawaii State Association of Counties, the Grassroot Institute, and others, said the compact would expand access to psychology services, especially for people in rural areas or those needing continuity of care while traveling. Opponents, including the Board of Psychology and a Shamanad University psychology professor, raised concerns about client safety, crisis-response procedures, enforcement costs, FBI background checks, and possible loss of state control over training and specialization standards. The board said Hawaii’s current 1,900-hour internship/postdoc requirement is higher than the compact’s standard and that the state is still implementing a separate provisional licensing law that may address some access issues. The discussion focused on whether the compact would meaningfully reduce shortages and whether Hawaii should instead pursue changes within its existing licensing system. Finally, the committee heard SB 2277 on hospital price transparency. The Office of Consumer Protection initially noted the bill could require significant staffing, but later testimony from SHIP suggested the measure could be handled more simply by working with the Healthcare Association of Hawaii and publicly posting violations. The Healthcare Association of Hawaii opposed the bill, arguing hospitals already must comply with federal CMS transparency rules and that adding state requirements would increase costs and legal exposure, especially if violations were treated as unfair or deceptive trade practices. Steve Fenberg testified in support, saying the bill would simply codify existing federal requirements in state law and that he was open to amendments removing state enforcement and the unfair trade practice language. No final action was taken in the excerpt provided.