Transcript Highlights:

• I teach AP Statistics, I-B-Math, and ACE Thinking Skills. Oh, you're like way beyond me, man.
• I'm here with Sea Alliance, Social Equity Through Education.
• I'm an organizer with C, the Social Equity Through Education Alliance.
• And as someone who liked to compete in the academic games competition, with Mr.
• It's not a zero-sum game. It's not a zero-sum game.

Committee: Senate Appropriations Committee on Pre-K - 12 Education

Transcript Highlights:

• I wear many hats, but the simplest way to introduce myself is that I'm a social psychologist.
• Social psychologist Dr. Michael Kraus highlights the consequences of this misplaced optimism.
• much a game of, you know, who you know, working, you know, together to make deals.
• And it's also a social hub for our building.
• ; it has socialized their proponents or their communities to see DEI as affirmative action.

Committee: Joint Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights, and Inclusion

Summary: The Joint Committee on Racial Equity, Civil Rights, and Inclusion held an informational hearing on diversity, equity, and inclusion in Massachusetts; no bills were heard or voted on. Chairs Bud Williams and Liz Miranda opened by framing the hearing as a response to recent federal actions they said threatened DEI efforts, funding, and civil rights protections in education and other sectors. They said the committee would hear from experts, agencies, advocates, and businesses about the legality and benefits of DEI and the impact of federal actions on the Commonwealth. Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler testified virtually that Massachusetts is pushing back against federal efforts to restrict DEI, including guidance and certification demands directed at schools. He highlighted state investments in early education, child care, early college, career and technical education, and educator diversity, arguing these efforts help close opportunity gaps for Black and brown students, students with disabilities, English learners, and other underserved groups. In response to member questions, he said federal education dollars are core to services for students and that the state is prepared to fight funding cuts while monitoring impacts across K-12, early education, and higher education. Elizabeth Matos of the Attorney General’s Office said DEIA programs remain legal under state and federal law and described AG guidance issued to help institutions navigate federal confusion. She reviewed litigation the office has joined or won, including efforts involving withheld school funds, museums and libraries, the Minority Business Development Agency, Head Start, AmeriCorps, and other federal actions. Members asked about immigration-related fear and profiling, and Matos pointed to existing Know Your Rights guidance, said complaints to the Civil Rights Division have increased, and noted the office is seeing issues involving housing discrimination, employment, public accommodations, and threats to call ICE. She also said the office is open to further legislative ideas but did not discuss specifics. Evelyn Carter, a social psychologist, testified that diversity, equity, and inclusion are often misunderstood and defined the terms plainly, emphasizing that diversity is a group characteristic, equity addresses unequal starting points, and inclusion is about belonging and access. She argued that DEI matters because it creates guardrails against bias, helps make environments accessible, and addresses ongoing inequities. In response to questions, she suggested practical strategies such as using clear criteria and written records in decision-making, broadening who is considered part of one’s in-group, and pairing bias awareness with concrete behavior-change tools. The hearing also included testimony from Meredith Tewitt of the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women, who spoke about the importance of DEI for women, veterans, and people who rely on federal institutions, and urged lawmakers to continue supporting inclusion and access.

Transcript Highlights:

• I think the biggest game changers, not just the multiple times a year.
• I'm curious in terms of performance in the school, are we giving them executive function skills?
• But these are technical skills that we have to teach them as well.
• But these are life skills that will be incredibly valuable as they go through.
• Are we are they losing those games that they that they pain during that 3rd grade retention?

Transcript Highlights:

• And I looked in the newspaper, and at the time we didn't have social media.
• </c> and at the time we didn't have social and at the time we didn't have social media.<00:10:31.040>
• All social media platforms consist of Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
• Chair, this is a game changer today.
• </c> Um, Michelle has definitely the skills Um, Michelle has definitely the skills to<01:15:47.520><c

Committee: Senate Judiciary

Summary: The committee hearing covered three judicial confirmations for the First Circuit family court. The first nominee, Maria F. Penn, was introduced for confirmation to a six-year term as a district family court judge. Testimony from family law attorneys and the Hawaii State Bar Association was strongly supportive, emphasizing her courtroom demeanor, preparation, knowledge of family law, respect for litigants and counsel, and ability to manage emotionally difficult family court matters. Judge Penn also spoke about her background, including her legal career, prior service as a PDM family court judge, and her view that family court requires both legal judgment and empathy. The chair noted that the committee would not vote that day and would take up votes the next morning. The second nomination was Wilson Aunga for a district family court judgeship. Supporters described his character, community involvement, and suitability for family court, including testimony from the Honolulu prosecutor, longtime friends, classmates, community members, and others. Speakers highlighted his work with youth, his leadership in the prosecutor’s office, his calm and impartial temperament, and his commitment to education and public service. The chair reported 105 supporters, no opposition, and one comment from the Hawaii State Bar Association. Additional testimony continued from members of the public, including a speaker discussing mental health and personal support for Aunga. Throughout the hearing, the chair enforced a two-minute limit on oral testimony and explained that the committee was short on time and would recess as needed. No votes were taken during the hearing; the chair announced that voting would occur the following day in the same room.

Transcript Highlights:

• We offer these marketable. skills-based credentials, industry-recognized credentials to every one of
• Additionally, we've launched bachelor's degrees in public affairs and behavioral social data science.
• Worst sunburn I've ever gotten in my life was my first game at A&M. against UTEP.
• These will be related to education and social work.
• And the social work and the mental health thing is very important. important there.

Committee: House Appropriations - S/C on Article III

Transcript Highlights:

• That is, they are now able to tap into social security. Thank you. Thank you very much.
• The Social Security issue has now been addressed finally after all these decades.
• His fearless approach to the game.
• You know, I'm also someone who tried to enjoy the game of golf, but you know, I've also that the game
• for the social studies curriculum. for certain public school students.

Bills: SJR57 , SCR8 , SB8 , SB14 , SB24 , SB108 , SB112 , SB125 , SB213 , SB251 , SB315 , SB318 , SB371 , SB378 , SB379 , SB472 , SB487 , SB502 , SB513 , SB565 , SB621 , SB650 , SB689 , SB707 , SB710 , SB761 , SB763 , SB815 , SB854 , SB875 , SB896 , SB916 , SB925 , SB958 , SB961 , SB965 , SB973 , SB987 , SB990 , SB995 , SB1006 , SB1018 , SB1019 , SB1024 , SB1026 , SB1146 , SB1194 , SB1198 , SB1253 , SB1330 , SB1343 , SB1362 , SB1379 , SB1497 , SB1498 , SB1527 , SB1532 , SB1547 , SB1596 , SJR36 , SJR12 , SJR57 , SCR22 , SCR12 , SCR8 , SB565 , SB765 , SB62 , SB666 , SB707 , SB888 , SB687 , SB847 , SB1248 , SB14 , SB1006 , SB504 , SB925 , SB995 , SB857 , SB305 , SB296 , SB284 , SB815 , SB1379 , SB1497 , SB1499 , SB1498 , SB241 , SB304 , SB621 , SB1023 , SB1024 , SB686 , SB112 , SB371 , SB204 , SB609 , SB670 , SB502 , SB850 , SB854 , SB413 , SB1362 , SB1346 , SB1033 , SB1220 , SB1073 , SB810 , SB987 , SB1539 , SB447 , SB875 , SB406 , SB985 , SB965 , SB1119 , SB1505 , SB24 , SB1194 , SB1253 , SB1215 , SB1532 , SB1302 , SB856 , SB650 , SB583 , SB673 , SB213 , SB681 , SB1172 , SB1252 , SB378 , SB1343 , SB608 , SB487 , SB955 , SB957 , SB988 , SB990 , SB1019 , SB1021 , SB1120 , SB251 , SB958 , SB761 , SB541 , SB315 , SB379 , SB1018 , SB1737 , SB266 , SB1415 , SB1527 , SB125 , SB599 , SB1330 , SB53 , SB916 , SB896 , SB1352 , SB973 , SB785 , SB710 , SB472 , SB1450 , SB1502 , SB1566 , SB414 , SB1062 , SB1547 , SB961 , SB1038 , SB513 , SB578 , SB711 , SB746 , SB942 , SB1404 , SB1448 , SB1738 , SB108 , SB8 , SB318 , SB507 , SB533 , SB689 , SB1026 , SB1349 , SB1355 , SB1433 , SB1434 , SB1596 , SB1403 , SB1198 , SB1146 , SB763 , SB667 , SB1059 , SB617 , SB1567 , SB503 , SJR37 , SB16 , SB310 , SB311 , SB396 , SB505 , SB1209 , SB1210 , SB1470 , SB264 , SB924 , SB1029 , SB1185 , SB1202 , SB1358 , SB1364 , SB1569 , SB1697 , SB1376 , SB1228 , SB519 , SB878 , SB1350 , SB462 , SB1535 , SB827 , SB1585 , SB207 , SB1207 , SB1619 , SB1396 , SB920 , SB1484 , SB1273 , SB1741

Transcript Highlights:

• and Rio Rancho, where they have a very dedicated high school that is... ...specifically looking at skill
• So continuing that $12 million, but also having districts put some skin in the game with matching it
• You're looking at someone who's skilled in the trade himself or herself.
• These are marketable skills they're developing, and I just want to see us help them be successful.
• , sometimes social-emotional, sometimes social-emotional.

Committee: House House Appropriations & Finance

Summary: The meeting began as an informal education budget work group focused on reviewing a revised House Appropriations and Finance Committee scenario and flagging concerns rather than taking votes. Staff outlined the main changes from the LFC recommendation, including moving the statewide student information system appropriation, adding funding for the Black, Bilingual, Multicultural and Hispanic Education Act, universal school meals overrun costs, an evidence-based CTE pilot with a 50% local match, STEM network funding, wellness room pilots, Martinez-Yazzie action plan items, and changes to innovation zone and out-of-school time appropriations. A separate handout on the seven-year CTE pilot explained spending patterns, reversions, and possible federal maintenance-of-effort concerns if the state continues funding beyond a true pilot. Members then debated CTE extensively, with several arguing it improves attendance, graduation, and career readiness and should be sustained or expanded, especially in rural areas, while staff and others emphasized that much of the current funding has gone to general operational costs rather than intentional program design and that regional or matched funding models may be more effective. Members also discussed STEM and math initiatives, the need for more industry involvement, and whether the proposed match requirements would be too burdensome for smaller districts and BIE schools. The discussion also covered the Black, Hispanic, and Multilingual Education Acts and the Martinez-Yazzie lawsuit. Some members stressed that the acts should be explicitly named in the budget language and not merely implied, while staff said the scenario reaffirms prior commitments by building the costs into agency operating budgets. Members raised concerns about charter school hold-harmless funding, declining enrollment, and the need to align spending with the needs of at-risk students. The work group ended the education portion without any votes, with staff noting they would incorporate the feedback and return with clarifications, including on CTE funding, the educational acts, and the charter hold-harmless item. The meeting then shifted to the child well-being and early childhood work group, where staff presented a revised Early Childhood Education and Care Department scenario. The proposal moved money toward child care assistance and early pre-K, kept the FIT program funding level unchanged, and used a mix of trust fund, TANF, federal, and operating-budget adjustments to close part of the gap between the executive and LFC recommendations. Members questioned the policy direction, especially the shift toward infant and toddler care and pre-K expansion, the impact on school-age child care, and the implications for continuity of care and provider costs. Staff explained that the scenario prioritizes younger children and at-risk families, includes language for a wage and career ladder, and would require legislation to raise the early childhood trust fund distribution cap from 500 to 525. Members also discussed a separate proposed CYFD pilot bill (HB 65), which would be distinct from ECECD funding. No votes were taken, and staff said they would return with more cost information on full pre-K plus wraparound care. A final work group reviewed C2 and Department of Information Technology-related appropriations. Staff compared the LFC and executive recommendations for new funding and reauthorizations, noting that the LFC generally limited new projects while the executive funded more. Members discussed several IT modernization requests, including the Secretary of State’s voter registration and election management systems, the Spaceport Authority, Game and Fish, the State Engineer’s WATERS system, ECECD’s FitKids and EPIC replacement discovery, and Aging and Long-Term Services’ enterprise system modernization. The main themes were whether to fund planning versus full replacement, how to avoid piecemeal spending, and whether new systems should wait for incoming leadership. The Secretary of State’s office said its system is nearing end of life and the planning funds would help prepare a realistic replacement request, while other agencies described aging infrastructure, cybersecurity risks, and the need for modernization. The work group did not vote on any of the items and ended with staff noting additional follow-up on funding needs and reauthorization details.

Transcript Highlights:

• Early childhood has been another social services has been another.
• This is where students can gain skills in so many different areas.
• It academic mentor and a social mentor.
• So many skills resume, building skills, professional skill had an interview and he came out almost better
• I'm an associate professor in social work at Florida Atlantic University.

Transcript Highlights:

• Their presence enriches the social and cultural fabric of our cities and towns from Los Angeles, Orange
• Their presence enriches the social and cultural fabric of our cities and towns from Los Angeles, Orange
• BTS, Parasite, Squid Game, some people call it the O징어 Game, Korean barbecue, kimchi, and taekwondo are
• At the heart of these communities... ...both the economy and the social fabric of the region.
• She was part of the social fabric of the Palisades.

Transcript Highlights:

• And for anyone who has been able to come to our parade or come to the Rose Bowl game, it really is a
• Hopefully everyone will come and take part in the Rose Bowl game and the parade.
• I know that my... ...will come and take part in the Rose Bowl game and the parade.
• I just want to say, in my times with you in Long Beach at ceremonies and at the games themselves, it
• At ceremonies and at the games themselves, it has been a joy to watch you.

Summary: The Assembly met after a quorum call and brief procedural business, including approval of the prior day’s journal, suspension of certain rules for guest introductions, and moving AB 568 to the inactive file. The chamber then recognized several visiting groups, including a fourth-grade class from Marigold Elementary School, representatives of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses and its Royal Court, and students from the University of California Students Association on lobby day. The main floor actions centered on two resolutions. ACR 147 by Assembly Member Lackey designated March 9, 2026 as California Special Olympics Day. Members from both parties spoke in strong support, sharing personal connections to Special Olympics and praising its impact on athletes, families, and volunteers. The resolution received 70 co-authors and was adopted by voice vote. H.R. 89 by Assembly Member Patterson declared March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Speakers emphasized rising colorectal cancer rates among younger adults, the importance of screening, and new testing options including blood tests. The resolution also received 70 co-authors and was adopted by voice vote. After the resolutions, Assembly Member Rodriguez offered an adjournment in memory of Bob Yuloa of Chino, a Navy veteran and longtime community servant. The Assembly then announced upcoming committee and floor session dates and adjourned until Thursday, March 12 at 9 a.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• These are high-skilled, high-demand, and high-wage positions, many of which do not require a four-year
• The Logos Technique... ...along with a healthy social environment on campus.
• It's part of their game plan to achieve that job or pursue their career that they've wanted all their
• They understand the importance of learning skill sets.
• Make no mistake, if you have skills or you're willing to learn new skills, we will find a place for you

Committee: Senate Appropriations Committee on Higher Education

Summary: The committee heard and voted on two higher education bills before moving to a long series of university and college board appointment confirmations. CS/SB 742 would let charter schools directly access the Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant Program for career and technical education programs tied to industry certifications, and would expand the money-back guarantee requirement from three to six programs at career centers and Florida College System institutions. A question was raised about whether the charter school access could reduce district funding or grant availability; the sponsor said it could, depending on available funds. The bill was supported by one appearance form and was reported favorably. The committee also heard SB 892, which codifies the Florida State University Election Law Center so it can continue and receive recurring funding. The sponsor and FSU witnesses said the center is nonpartisan and focused on evidence-based research, especially on election administration issues related to natural disasters and public confidence in elections. After testimony and questions, including about the center’s scope and funding, the bill was reported favorably. The remainder of the meeting consisted of testimony from numerous appointees to boards of trustees for state colleges and universities, including Tallahassee State College, Valencia College, New College, Pensacola State College, Florida Gulf Coast University, University of North Florida, St. Johns River State College, Palm Beach State College, Santa Fe College, Daytona State College, and Florida Atlantic University. Most nominees emphasized their personal ties to the institutions, support for workforce education, student success, and local economic development. Several highlighted priorities such as keeping tuition affordable, expanding internships and career pathways, strengthening nursing and other workforce programs, and improving graduation and retention rates. Some appointees also described campus-specific goals, including research growth at FAU and Harbor Branch, community engagement at New College, and continued support for health care workforce partnerships at FGCU. The most notable exchange came during testimony from Dr. Joel Rudman for the Pensacola State College board, where Senator Leek questioned him extensively about prior public comments that appeared to reference threats and drug testing legislators. Rudman said his remarks were aimed at Florida House members and not the Senate, denied any knowledge of illicit drug use by current or former senators, and said he was speaking candidly as a private citizen. Public testimony on his nomination included both support and strong opposition, with one speaker praising his community service and another warning about his alleged disruptive behavior and social media posts. The committee also heard from several supporters and appointees who were not questioned further, and the meeting ended with plans to vote on the appointments after all testimony was completed.

Transcript Highlights:

• professor of computer science and engineering, and I work in health informatics and AI as well as social
• professor of computer science and engineering, and I work in health informatics and AI as well as social
• skills with technical knowledge<00:12:09.519><c> it</c><00:12:09.680><c> provides</c><00:12:10.160><
• media and AI that learns from social media, and we know there is a lot of misinformation out in social
• ><c> know</c> learns from social media and we know learns from social media and we know there<00:57:47.240

Committee: Senate Jobs and Economic Development

Transcript Highlights:

• and learn different skills doing carpentry and things like that.
• During my time here, I have developed patience, coping skills, work skills, and, most importantly, recovery
• skills.
• It seems like this is more economic than it is social.
• And I have a problem with that because I'm having social issues.

Summary: The Special Commission on Correctional Consolidation and Collaboration met to approve prior minutes and then heard extensive testimony from people incarcerated or formerly incarcerated in county and state facilities, along with a few family/community perspectives. Much of the testimony focused on how county sheriff programs, reentry services, and step-down placements helped people obtain education, treatment, work experience, housing, IDs, and support for sobriety and family reunification. Witnesses from Hampshire, Barnstable, Hampden, and Franklin counties repeatedly described these programs as life-changing and credited staff with treating them with dignity, helping them prepare for release, and connecting them to community resources. Several witnesses contrasted county programming favorably with their experiences in DOC custody, saying DOC facilities often had overcrowding, limited access to programs, long waits, and little individualized reentry planning. Some said their sentence length or classification status made them ineligible for needed programs, while others described county facilities as more responsive and rehabilitative. A few witnesses also highlighted the value of culturally specific programming, educational blocks, restorative justice, and employment training. One witness from Hampden County described All-Exclusive Support Services as pivotal to her recovery and later employment with the sheriff’s office; another from Franklin County said the reentry center’s outside location made it easier to access help after release. Not all testimony was uniformly positive. A witness from Framingham described serious mental health needs that were not adequately addressed, saying she was offered superficial coping tools instead of counseling and that visitation restrictions for family members worsened her mental health. Another witness, a juvenile lifer, said long sentences and classification barriers limited access to meaningful programming and delayed preparation for release. Commissioners asked follow-up questions about DOC programming access, reentry preparation, visitation policies, and whether people were ready to benefit from services. No formal votes or policy actions were taken beyond approving the prior meeting minutes and moving through the testimony agenda.

Transcript Highlights:

• I'm with the Massachusetts Council for the Social Studies.
• are implementing high-quality instructional curricular materials in grades 3 through 8 in history, social
• The organization is my personal one: the Massachusetts Council for the Social Studies.
• We're well known for our games, actually, online games that engage students in various roles in our civic
• that relate to both careers in the real world, but also those skills that they need for making sense

Summary: The Special Commission on the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution met without a quorum, so no votes were taken and any items requiring action were deferred to a future meeting. Representative Sean Garballey welcomed new commission member Mona Roy and thanked outgoing members Susie Berry and Abigail Chandler, noting that the governor’s office would be contacted about open appointments to help restore quorum. The commission then heard a presentation from the Massachusetts Civic Learning Coalition, which outlined civics and history education programs tied to Mass 250 and America 250, including Civic Learning Week, teacher professional development, student civic projects, online courses, and curriculum resources from partners such as iCivics, Harvard’s Democratic Knowledge Project, GBH, Facing History and Ourselves, EDC, Revolutionary Spaces, and others. The Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism reported on the state’s 250th anniversary campaign, including a November event at the Old South Meeting House with the governor, lieutenant governor, and Boston Symphony Orchestra, strong media coverage, over $6 million in sponsorships, new TV spots tied to Ken Burns’ American Revolution documentary, and a new Massachusetts First webpage and merchandise. Revolutionary 250 gave an update on upcoming Henry Knox Trail commemorations, including events beginning in January at the state line and continuing in Great Barrington, Springfield, Worcester, Framingham, Cambridge, Roxbury, and Dorchester Heights, with related planning for the St. Patrick’s/Evacuation Day parade and other Revolutionary-era observances. The commission also discussed possible future initiatives for member working groups: contributing to an America 250 time capsule, organizing community-level “America’s potluck dinner” events on July 5, and coordinating readings of the Declaration of Independence on July 8. Members asked clarifying questions about how the potluck and time capsule efforts would work, and staff said an email would be sent after the meeting to gather interest and form small planning groups. The meeting ended with a motion to adjourn, a second, and unanimous approval.

Transcript Highlights:

• They need an orderly classroom environment so that they can shine with their own skills on behalf of
• Different noble ideas that we have within the school finance formulas and I don't want to play games
• ... skills, setting students on a path for long-term success well after they leave my classroom.
• and leading Texas employers to hire skilled workers from out of state.
• Topics that include grief and loss, family transitions, self-esteem, study skills, and motivation.

Bills: SB26 , SB 26

Committees: Senate Education , Senate Education K-16

Transcript Highlights:

• We are learning life skills that go beyond just the content we're learning in the program, though.
• , 89% develop self-confidence, and 97% of youth learn new skills.
• Those new skills mean the ability to be successful in school, career, and life.
• , 89% developed self-confidence, and 97% of youth learn new skills.
• Those new skills mean the ability to be successful in school, career, and life.

Committee: Senate Agriculture

Transcript Highlights:

• He can also use AAC in playing games with peers to help them understand and follow instructions and also
• These trainings would help drivers have the necessary skills to de-escalate situations that may occur
• Our students and families deserve skilled and attentive paras in their classrooms.
• We want dedicated and skilled educators working with our children, yet the districts expect paras to
• needs. ...complete ongoing training to meet evolving educational and social-emotional needs.

Committee: Joint Joint Committee on Education

Summary: The Joint Committee on Education held a public hearing on a large slate of bills, with most testimony focused on two main topics: improving access to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) for students with disabilities, and raising educator pay statewide. On the AAC bills (House 514/Senate 418), parents, advocates, and attorneys described how AAC devices and communication books help nonverbal or minimally verbal children communicate, participate in class, and reduce frustration and behavioral issues. Testimony emphasized that while districts are generally required to provide devices, many teachers and school staff lack training to use them effectively; the bill would direct DESE to update licensure and training requirements so newly licensed teachers are prepared to support AAC users. Committee members asked about current teacher-prep practices, implementation, and whether DESE could act without legislation, and witnesses said the proposal was intended as a long-term solution and had previously received some support and compromise language. The committee also heard extensive testimony on House 733/Senate 370, which would set a statewide minimum salary of $70,000 for teachers and $55,000 for education support professionals (ESPs/paras), with inflation adjustments and a phase-in structure that would shift costs over time from the state to municipalities. Supporters, including the bill sponsor, MTA leaders, and school employees from several districts, argued that current pay is not a living wage, contributes to staffing shortages and turnover, and forces many educators to work multiple jobs or rely on public assistance. They said the bill would help recruit and retain staff and better reflect the importance of the work. Committee members raised questions about how the state would fund the mandate, how it would interact with Chapter 70 school aid and local budgets, whether other states have similar mechanisms, and whether the proposal could create disincentives for districts already paying above the floor. Witnesses pointed to the Student Opportunity Act, the Fair Share Amendment, and the need for a broader school funding formula review as possible parts of the solution. The committee also briefly heard and discussed Senate Bill 435/House Bill 736, which would require de-escalation training for school bus operators, with the training paid for by employers. The sponsor and a parent advocate said the bill was prompted by a school bus incident involving a child with cerebral palsy and epilepsy and would improve safety and reduce reliance on law enforcement. Members asked whether the bill should also cover bus monitors and other transportation staff, and whether private contractors and public operators currently provide similar training. At the end of the hearing, the chairs closed testimony on the full list of bills and adjourned the hearing without taking any votes.

Transcript Highlights:

• Sometimes that can be a pretty zero-sum game as we try to score points for our team and block points
• But good sportsmanship is about respect for your fellow players and the love of the game.
• The love of our game should be all about our constituents and the people of Texas. them and progress
• These women represent skill, teamwork, leadership, and perseverance.
• Our younger generation deserves to be equipped with the skills necessary to be financially autonomous

Bills: SB801 , SB867 , SB2717 , SB2919 , HJR7 , HB4 , HB14 , HB27 , HB42 , HB46 , HB 100 , HB 111 , HB 112 , HB 121 , HB 126 , HB146 , HB186 , HB223 , HB229 , HB322 , HB367 , HB500 , HB521 , HB640 , HB705 , HB783 , HB 1052 , HB 1056 , HB 1105 , HB 1106 , HB 1178 , HB 1211 , HB 1234 , HB 1306 , HB1403 , HB1449 , HB1506 , HB1661 , HB1690 , HB1871 , HB1960 , HB2017 , HB2078 , HB2128 , HB2240 , HB2243 , HB2348 , HB2407 , HB2512 , HB2820 , HB2844 , HB2853 , HB2854 , HB2885 , HB3000 , HB3005 , HB3053 , HB3057 , HB3181 , HB3333 , HB3372 , HB3425 , HB3441 , HB3516 , HB3749 , HB3783 , HB3812 , HB3848 , HB3923 , HB3963 , HB4070 , HB4134 , HB4157 , HB4158 , HB4211 , HB4449 , HB4623 , HB4638 , HB4687 , HB4690 , HB4748 , HB4749 , HB4795 , HB4848 , HB5093 , HB5115 , HB5129 , HB5138 , HB5294 , HB5616 , HB5629 , HB5646 , HB5661 , HB5672 , HB5674 , HB5699 , HCR40 , SJR5 , SJR27 , SJR59 , SB4 , SB6 , SB8 , SB9 , SB10 , SB12 , SB22 , SB23 , SB25 , SB27 , SB34 , SB36 , SB37 , SB38 , SB40 , SB57 , SB140 , SB261 , SB293 , SB441 , SB447 , SB467 , SB512 , SB650 , SB777 , SB785 , SB924 , SB1188 , SB1281 , SB1318 , SB1333 , SB1398 , SB1448 , SB1566 , SB1579 , SB1621 , SB1723 , SB1838 , SB1862 , SB2167 , SB2405 , SB2406 , SB2407 , SB2878 , SB3059 , SB3070 , SB1 , SB17 , SB21 , SB260 , SB379 , SB509 , SB1198 , SB1405 , SB1506 , SB1637 , SB1833 , SB2155 , SB2308 , SB2601 , SB2778 , HB300 , HB2011 , HB2525 , HB5246 , SJR36 , SJR50 , SJR63 , SCR12 , SCR39 , SB2023 , SB62 , SB666 , SB847 , SB284 , SB854 , SB810 , SB1505 , SB583 , SB507 , SB1434 , SB1772 , SB2016 , SB1122 , SB731 , SB397 , SB508 , SB1436 , SB287 , SB1882 , SB393 , SB1791 , SB209 , SB2429 , SB1085 , SB1975 , SB2717 , SB1262 , SB636 , SB2056 , SB884 , SB1200 , SB1845 , SB2458 , SB801 , SB3014 , SB3013 , SB758 , SB2797 , SB2076 , SB2876 , SB1640 , SB1449 , SB1181 , SB1234 , SB2926 , SB2841 , SB1528 , SB1854 , SB317 , SB1250 , SB2082 , SB1237 , SB2819 , SB629 , SB2608 , SB1602 , SB2009 , SB867 , SB640 , SB1698 , SB2680 , SB913 , SB1071 , SB1086 , SB1087 , SB1483 , SB1444 , SB1553 , SB1556 , SB1703 , SB2133 , SB2297 , SB2298 , SB2622 , SB2955 , SB2334 , SB1367 , SB2044 , SB2363 , SB2565 , SB1888 , SB3036 , SB3057 , SB3043 , SB3063 , SB3035 , SB203 , SB2688 , SB2522 , SB2459 , SB2655 , SB2251 , SB1884 , SB2928 , SB2566 , SB2549 , SB2553 , SB2919 , SB1944 , SB1232 , SB1798 , SB2603 , SB2607 , SB2683 , SB1319 , SB3045 , SB3071 , HJR7 , HB5115 , HB3053 , HB1403 , HB223 , HB748 , HB5652 , HB3395 , HB180 , HB 1306 , HB322 , HB 126 , HB5650 , HB4894 , HB1629 , HB5698 , HB3171 , HB2694 , HB5664 , HB4690 , HB4464 , HB3623 , HB2520 , HB2213 , HB252 , HB146 , HB5596 , HB3619 , HB5320 , HB5651 , HB5670 , HB5665 , HB5437 , HB5679 , HB5699 , HB5661 , HB5662 , HB5654 , HB5672 , HB5656 , HB3812 , HB3057 , HB2035 , HB721 , HB346 , HB2512 , HB5695 , HB5694 , HB5674 , HB3185 , HB2348 , HB1871 , HB 1135 , HB 101 , HB5666 , HB5677 , HB5682 , HB5658 , HB4144 , HB3642 , HB3815 , HB2686 , HB2012 , HB1960 , HB227 , HB654 , HB1690 , HB2128 , HB4158 , HB4630 , HB1523 , HB2078 , HB1973 , HB3333 , HB3697 , HB3546 , HB3225 , HB3181 , HB2820 , HB1506 , HB 1234 , HB640 , HB521 , HB229 , HB186 , HB 119 , HB4795 , HB4466 , HB3749 , HB 1106 , HB4 , HB4170 , HB3909 , HB4081 , HB4145 , HB4157 , HB4285 , HB4463 , HB4995 , HB5138 , HB5624 , HB1449 , HB2598 , HB3629 , HB4361 , HB824 , HB1868 , HB4848 , HB2243 , HB40 , HB 117 , HB3686 , HB500 , HB3793 , HB 112 , HB 104 , HB 1056 , HB42 , HB3000 , HB 100 , HB2240 , HB718 , HB27 , HB4904 , HB4202 , HB2853 , HB5129 , HB5093 , HB4765 , HB4748 , HB4559 , HB4350 , HB4214 , HB3388 , HB3112 , HB5196 , HB4211 , HB3516 , HB3092 , HB4233 , HB4687 , HB705 , HB 1094 , HB2037 , HB3005 , HB3848 , HB 1105 , HB 121 , HB3372 , HB367 , HB783 , HB3336 , HB3441 , HB4449 , HB5616 , HB2407 , HB2854 , HB3425 , HB5294 , HB 1178 , HB4623 , HB14 , HB3963 , HB 1211 , HB5646 , HB5629 , HB3783 , HB4236 , HB46 , HB4638 , HB 1052 , HB4070 , HB5509 , HB5435 , HB4134 , HB3923 , HB3520 , HB3320 , HB2517 , HB2488 , HB5663 , HB2731 , HB3073 , HB2655 , HB2399 , HB541 , HB4099 , HB 111 , HB1532 , HB3483 , HB2963 , HB4580 , HB3748 , HB713 , HB632 , HB426 , HB4730 , HB 127 , HB5690 , HB5689 , HB5655 , HB3385 , HB2757 , HB4359 , HB5381 , HB20 , HB 123 , HB549 , HB5606 , HB2217 , HB2594 , HB796 , HB150 , HB 1057 , HCR141 , HCR40 , HCR59 , HCR76 , HCR81 , HCR46 , HCR111 , HCR83 , HCR84 , HJR7 , HB4 , HB14 , HB27 , HB42 , HB46 , HB 100 , HB 126 , HB150 , HB322 , HB367 , HB500 , HB640 , HB705 , HB783 , HB 1105 , HB 1178 , HB 1211 , HB 1234 , HB1506 , HB1690 , HB1871 , HB2078 , HB2128 , HB2240 , HB2243 , HB2407 , HB2512 , HB2853 , HB2854 , HB3000 , HB3057 , HB3181 , HB3372 , HB3425 , HB3441 , HB3749 , HB3783 , HB3812 , HB3923 , HB3963 , HB4070 , HB4134 , HB4157 , HB4211 , HB4449 , HB4623 , HB4638 , HB4687 , HB4748 , HB4795 , HB5093 , HB5129 , HB5616 , HB5629 , HB5699 , HB229 , HB521 , HB 1056 , HB 1106 , HB5138 , SR583 , SCR52 , HB223 , HB229 , HB521 , HB 1056 , HB 1106 , HB1403 , HB3053 , HB5115 , HB5138

Transcript Highlights:

• In 2023, SGC identified factory-built housing as a game-changing opportunity to accelerate progress toward
• I have high standards and exceptional motivation skills, which earned me a transition to a lead role.
• Communication skills and the ability to work through day-to-day challenges make me a valuable part of
• Skilled and trained construction workers who already build housing right the first time, on time, and
• Retirement benefits—we should not allow, again, state and federally funded social service benefits to

Transcript Highlights:

• When I'm off sick, I miss those days, and I have to take away from my Social Security to pay for the
• When I'm sick, I miss those days, and I have to take away from my Social Security to pay for the car
• Amazon plays games with its drivers. It says Amazon on my packages, on my van, on my uniform.
• Amazon plays games with its drivers. It says Amazon on my packages, on my van, on my uniform.
• services, and skilled trades.

Summary: The committee heard several labor-related bills, with AB 1424, AB 1340, AB 288, and AB 746 all advancing on due-pass motions to Appropriations after testimony and roll calls. AB 1424 would require climate resiliency and extreme-heat protections in CDCR facilities; supporters described dangerous heat conditions for incarcerated workers and staff, while no opposition testified. AB 1340 would allow rideshare drivers to unionize and collectively bargain; drivers, labor groups, and researchers testified that app-based work is low-paid and unstable, while TechNet, Uber, Lyft, and other business groups argued the bill conflicts with Proposition 22 and could raise costs. AB 288 would let PERB step in when federal labor remedies are unavailable; supporters said it is needed because of NLRB dysfunction, while the Chamber of Commerce raised preemption and enforcement concerns. AB 746 would create an inmate cooperative program and a green reentry reserve; supporters framed it as a recidivism-reduction and reentry strategy, and there was no opposition testimony. The committee also heard AB 858, which would extend hotel and hospitality worker recall rights after declared emergencies and extend existing COVID-era protections. Hospitality workers and unions supported the bill as a way to protect jobs after pandemics, wildfires, and other disasters, while hotel, chamber, retail, restaurant, trucking, travel, and attractions groups opposed it, saying the current recall rules were meant to sunset and that the bill would create broad liabilities and hiring complications. The bill was moved to Appropriations but remained on call after the roll. AB 291, creating a credentialed educator apprenticeship program to address teacher shortages and improve diversity, drew support from education groups and stakeholders who said apprenticeships could lower preparation costs and provide better support; it was also moved to Appropriations and placed on call. Later, the committee took up AB 1104, a solar-energy bill intended to clarify that private solar customers are not “awarding bodies” and to ease certain business-to-business solar transactions while preserving prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements for contractors. Supporters said the current interpretation has chilled commercial solar adoption and harmed jobs, while opponents from electrical workers, PG&E, and others warned about expanded “over-the-fence” power sales and the need for clearer limits. Members questioned the lack of a definition of “small,” and the bill was held without a second. The committee also heard AB 338, which seeks $50 million for Los Angeles and Ventura wildfire workforce recovery; the author and county officials described major job loss and business destruction and said the funds would support displaced workers and rebuilding, with the testimony continuing beyond the excerpt provided.