Transcript Highlights:

• So anyway, what we are doing at WSDOT, we are testing out hydrogen in our fleet.
• funded is $200,000 for a backup generator that is hydrogen fuel cell powered, and we're going to be testing
• And we're going to be testing that on some of our traffic signals where we have power outages.

Summary: The Senate Transportation Committee held a work session on electric vehicles, renewable fuels, hydrogen, and related transportation investments, followed by public hearings on several bills. Agency presenters from WSDOT, Commerce, and Ecology described the Electric Vehicle Coordinating Council’s work, Washington’s slowing EV adoption growth, charging infrastructure gaps, and programs such as NEVI, ZEVIP, and a new medium- and heavy-duty incentive program. Members asked about fast-charging standards and whether higher-capacity chargers could be supported. Commerce also outlined renewable fuels and sustainable aviation fuel efforts, including the Office of Renewable Fuels, hydrogen and SAF modeling, technical assistance, and the Cascadia Sustainable Aviation Accelerator’s partnerships and funding. WSDOT then discussed hydrogen investments in transit, aviation, backup power, and corridor planning, while Ecology explained the alternative jet fuel programmatic environmental impact statement, its scope, timeline, and how it will support future project review. In the public hearing on Substitute House Bill 2114, the committee heard testimony supporting a no-fee replacement process for defective license plates within two years of issuance, with optional fee waivers later; the sponsor and county auditors said peeling or unreadable plates are a real customer-service problem, especially in eastern Washington. The hearing on House Bill 2111 concerned allowing the I-5 Bridge Replacement Project toll facility bond retirement account to keep its interest earnings instead of sending them to the general fund; the prime sponsor said it is a straightforward fix requested by the state treasurer. Substitute House Bill 1823 would update Transportation Improvement Board statutes by replacing “non-motorized” with “active transportation” and removing obsolete references; TIB said it is a cleanup bill that aligns statutes with current grant practices and complete streets policy. The committee also heard House Bill 2495, which would let the City of Seattle direct immediate impoundment of unattended vehicles blocking streetcar operations, similar to existing authority for Sound Transit. Seattle’s streetcar manager said blocked tracks cause frequent delays and that the bill would reduce waits for police authorization and restore service faster. Public testimony and sign-in counts were noted for each bill, but no votes were taken in the transcript, and the meeting concluded after the final public hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• In non-Muslim nations, Sharia is typically first tested as a shadow form of law before enough political
• The history and tradition test has been used often by the Supreme Court, specifically Justice Alito in
• So I don't think a court could find that this statute is unconstitutional because that's the test.

Transcript Highlights:

• know, the Seattle Indian Health Board is the only organization that has a true mechanism, tried and tested
• So we began during COVID working on tribes being able to access positive COVID tests in the Washington
• more diagnosis and drugs, but a re-evaluation of the entire system, which does not utilize objective tests

Summary: The House Health Care and Wellness Committee held public hearings on four bills and then took executive action on three measures. HB 2555 would require the Health Care Authority to apply for a Medicaid waiver to cover traditional health care practices provided through Indian Health Service, tribal, and urban Indian facilities. Supporters, including the prime sponsor, tribal health leaders, and the Health Care Authority, said the bill would recognize traditional medicine, expand access, and leverage federal funding, though HCA noted the July 1, 2026 waiver deadline and urban Indian reimbursement questions may be difficult to resolve. HB 2685 would codify tribal data sovereignty principles for state agencies, require reporting of notifiable conditions to tribal health jurisdictions, and exempt certain tribal data from public disclosure. Tribal representatives supported the bill as necessary for access, governance, and better public health planning, while the Washington Coalition for Open Government and HCA raised concerns about the breadth of the PRA exemption, undefined ownership interests, and implementation details. HB 2658 would require health carriers to submit standardized public data on behavioral health and other coverage and access metrics, with the Insurance Commissioner posting the information on a public dashboard. Supporters said the bill would improve transparency about mental health parity and help families, employers, and policymakers compare plans; opponents argued it duplicates or complicates recent parity reforms and could be misinterpreted. HB 2683 would shorten carrier credentialing timelines from 90 days to 30 days and require carriers to post billing and coverage information online. Supporters said it would reduce delays for providers and patients, while opponents warned the shorter timeline could be hard to meet and that posting information without login protections could raise privacy concerns. In executive session, the committee adopted two amendments to HB 2168, which concerns overdose mapping data, then reported the substitute bill out with a due pass recommendation by a vote of 16-1. It rejected an amendment to HB 2196 that would have extended PANDAS/PANS coverage to public and school employee plans, then advanced the substitute bill with a due pass recommendation by a vote of 15-2. Finally, the committee passed HB 2545, which would allow ambulatory surgical facilities to perform elective percutaneous coronary interventions, by a vote of 13-4, after members discussed safety, access, and cost savings.

Transcript Highlights:

• Coordinating testing times when we're in that building and the student is available is also a difficulty
• An examiner is likely to have 10 to 20 students being tested simultaneously by a single evaluation team
• have to maintain IEP service delivery, compete with multiple service providers to just schedule the testing

Bills: HB1662 , HB1683 , HB2534 , HB2557 , HB2594

Committee: House Education

Keywords: education agencies, administrative independence, superintendent, education reform, agency authority, education, school boards, district adjustments, administrative boundaries, educational governance, military families, child stability, transitional schooling, support services, special education, parental rights, educational access, evaluation reports, disability services, unhoused

Transcript Highlights:

• And now my next test is that the original hires on the Biden transition team, then White House legislative
• And now my next test is that some of what I think is some really exciting work around how we're structured
• And now my next test is: can I advance a slide? I can. Look at that.

Summary: The Senate Human Services Committee met on the first day of the 2026 session and heard a briefing and public testimony on Senate Bill 5966 concerning medically tailored meals. Committee staff explained that the bill would define medically tailored meals and set statewide standards for meals provided through state programs, emphasizing medical guidance, dietary and cultural accommodations, and prioritizing Washington-based nonprofit providers when possible. Senator T’wina Nobles, the sponsor, said the bill is intended to create a clear baseline for quality and accountability without expanding benefits or creating a new program, but rather to streamline and standardize existing efforts. Testifiers in support described existing medically tailored meal and food box programs already operating in Washington. Representatives from Meals on Wheels, Chicken Soup Brigade, Cascadia Produce, Emergency Food Network, and Meals on Wheels Spokane said these programs improve health outcomes for people with chronic conditions, support recovery, and help keep people stable in their communities. They also emphasized that local providers, volunteers, farmers, and food businesses benefit when state dollars stay in Washington. Several members asked whether the bill would create a new system; supporters said it would instead coordinate and standardize current waiver-based and contract-based services. Questions also touched on funding sources, delivery costs, and the role of Medicaid and other programs. The committee temporarily set aside the bill to hear from newly appointed DSHS Secretary Angela Ramirez, who outlined the department’s reorganization into new administrations and said the goal is to reduce silos, improve customer experience, and make services easier to navigate. She also briefed members on federal HR1-related changes affecting SNAP and Medicaid, including work requirements, immigrant eligibility changes, and tribal consultation, and said DSHS is developing a verification hub to reduce administrative burden. Members raised concerns about implementation, data collection, and how to avoid benefit loss due to paperwork issues. After the secretary’s presentation, the committee resumed testimony on SB 5966 and then adjourned without taking a vote.

Transcript Highlights:

• They underwent extensive testing, including functional MRIs, electroencephalograms, and monitored psychometric
• The testing occurred before a one-time administration of ibogaine, immediately afterward, and again four
• We have to have the opportunity to test new variations of these synthetic compounds. Thank you.

Summary: The Senate Ad Hoc Committee on Access to Breakthrough Mental Health Therapies held an informational hearing focused on psychedelic-assisted treatments for PTSD, depression, addiction, and related conditions, especially for veterans, first responders, and firefighters. The chair framed the issue as a response to long-standing barriers created by Schedule I restrictions and stigma, emphasizing that the committee was looking at supervised clinical use rather than take-home drugs. Members discussed the growing number of state psychedelic policy proposals, the federal breakthrough therapy pathway, and the idea of Arizona preparing for FDA approval and possibly sending correspondence to federal officials in support of expanded access and Right to Try implementation. Witnesses included retired Army Special Forces Master Sgt. Alan Mullen, who described participating in an ibogaine study for PTSD/TBI and said the treatment, combined with preparation and integration support, helped him confront trauma and showed promise under strict medical monitoring. Dr. Sue Sisley of Scottsdale Research Institute testified that her team is conducting FDA-controlled psychedelic trials, including psilocybin research funded by Arizona, and argued that these therapies can produce major symptom relief with limited doses when delivered in controlled settings. She also urged the legislature to help remove barriers to research and access, including support for Right to Try and possible federal action to allow controlled-substance access. Dan Freiberg of the Professional Fire Fighters of Arizona said firefighters face chronic mental health exposure and often lack effective options beyond traditional therapy or, in some cases, ketamine, and he supported any safe, effective treatment that could help members return to work and reduce suicide risk. Dr. Chung Trin, a mental health physician and trial investigator, explained the FDA breakthrough designation process, said several psychedelic treatments are in late-stage review, and stressed the need for Arizona to build clinical infrastructure so patients can access approved therapies quickly and safely once federal approval occurs. Committee members asked about safety, addiction potential, suicide risk, costs, patents, and whether natural versus synthetic versions of compounds like psilocybin would be available; the hearing ended with general support for continued research, possible legislative correspondence to federal officials, and no formal vote or bill action taken.

Transcript Highlights:

• And if there were maybe a penalty for saying, "OK, if you take the kid, and then right after the test
• Lastly, this expansion would allow TIA to reach beyond tested subject matters in many districts.
• would get me up and get me in the morning to want to go to school and also keep me thinking about that test

Bills: HB2 , HB2

Committees: Senate Education , Senate Education K-16

Transcript Highlights:

• In the first paragraph in the bill, basically what I would suggest to you today, the test... for a mistrial
• As I read the provisions, what we're doing here... here is we're now changing the test from the judge
• And so the test is whether or not a fair trial is done. but whether there's a balancing of remedies in

Bills: HB 115 , HB507 , HB1765 , HB1847 , HB2046 , HB2239 , HB2328 , HB2309 , HB2417 , HB2728 , HB2794 , HB3206 , HB3566 , HB3694 , HB3744 , HB4254 , HB4697 , HB4733 , HB4915 , HB5465 , HB2813 , HB115

Committee: House Criminal Jurisprudence

Transcript Highlights:

• this coming May, Alabama will become the 12th state to include Taiwan's official Mandarin proficiency test
• in official Mandarin proficiency test in its seal of biliteracy system, allowing your residents to officially
• You've been road tested about 31 years with me, so I know what he is. years with me.

Bills: SJR 39 , SB 22 , SB 30 , SB 33 , SB 34 , SB 37 , SB 75 , SB 209 , SB 310 , SB 505 , SB 552 , SB 618 , SB 626 , SB 636 , SB 732 , SB 747 , SB 762 , SB 769 , SB 819 , SB 825 , SB 870 , SB 926 , SB 964 , SB 1030 , SB 1080 , SB 1099 , SB 1124 , SB 1177 , SB 1208 , SB 1233 , SB 1314 , SB 1325 , SB 1333 , SB 1405 , SB 1455 , SB 1506 , SB 1524 , SB 1541 , SB 1577 , SB 1579 , SB 1596 , SB 1646 , SB 1667 , SB 1727 , SB 1750 , SB 1758 , SB 1760 , SB 1791 , SB 1804 , SB 1806 , SB 1869 , SB 1923 , SB 1927 , SB 1951 , SB 1960 , SB 1962 , SB 2023 , SB 2024 , SB 2056 , SB 2078 , SB 2122 , SB 2129 , SB 2180 , SB 2183 , SB 2185 , SB 2207 , SB 2252 , SB 2361 , SB 2365 , SB 2368 , SB 2405 , SB 2411 , SB 2420 , SB 2425 , SB 2569 , SB 2717 , SJR 36 , SJR 50 , SJR 39 , SJR 63 , SJR 68 , SCR 12 , SCR 39 , SCR 38 , SCR 37 , SCR 42 , SCR 29 , SB 762 , SB 1596 , SB 62 , SB 666 , SB 847 , SB 284 , SB 854 , SB 1073 , SB 810 , SB 1539 , SB 1505 , SB 583 , SB 957 , SB 1502 , SB 507 , SB 1026 , SB 1349 , SB 1433 , SB 1434 , SB 310 , SB 505 , SB 264 , SB 1364 , SB 1376 , SB 1585 , SB 1772 , SB 2016 , SB 1163 , SB 619 , SB 1122 , SB 1877 , SB 732 , SB 731 , SB 397 , SB 508 , SB 1333 , SB 1436 , SB 964 , SB 287 , SB 2143 , SB 261 , SB 1247 , SB 1882 , SB 618 , SB 393 , SB 2243 , SB 2226 , SB 1919 , SB 1791 , SB 22 , SB 651 , SB 1080 , SB 826 , SB 1079 , SB 1243 , SB 1504 , SB 1851 , SB 1879 , SB 2237 , SB 1257 , SB 2034 , SB 1522 , SB 1151 , SB 596 , SB 1191 , SB 226 , SB 570 , SB 870 , SB 991 , SB 60 , SB 1401 , SB 1728 , SB 586 , SB 529 , SB 217 , SB 209 , SB 1923 , SB 1839 , SB 387 , SB 1874 , SB 1872 , SB 1873 , SB 1921 , SB 1883 , SB 1620 , SB 1838 , SB 2024 , SB 2429 , SB 1999 , SB 511 , SB 2309 , SB 2166 , SB 510 , SB 33 , SB 2420 , SB 1860 , SB 1541 , SB 1314 , SB 1398 , SB 1869 , SB 1750 , SB 855 , SB 1233 , SB 2425 , SB 2037 , SB 1758 , SB 1759 , SB 2365 , SB 1924 , SB 1818 , SB 1405 , SB 1762 , SB 1968 , SB 1977 , SB 2077 , SB 2321 , SB 1662 , SB 1663 , SB 2124 , SB 2204 , SB 1855 , SB 863 , SB 37 , SB 819 , SB 2078 , SB 2252 , SB 1962 , SB 2253 , SB 825 , SB 1577 , SB 1184 , SB 2018 , SB 2206 , SB 1901 , SB 1030 , SB 2368 , SB 1963 , SB 1960 , SB 1643 , SB 1625 , SB 1299 , SB 841 , SB 668 , SB 584 , SB 231 , SB 2411 , SB 1085 , SB 2431 , SB 2231 , SB 1490 , SB 530 , SB 34 , SB 1261 , SB 552 , SB 1099 , SB 1646 , SB 2180 , SB 1804 , SB 1937 , SB 1936 , SB 2569 , SB 1372 , SB 1208 , SB 1124 , SB 1506 , SB 1806 , SB 1868 , SB 2361 , SB 2314 , SB 769 , SB 1409 , SB 2122 , SB 434 , SB 1214 , SB 1951 , SB 2183 , SB 2046 , SB 1667 , SB 1870 , SB 1727 , SB 2405 , SB 2127 , SB 1975 , SB 1760 , SB 1734 , SB 1335 , SB 2066 , SB 2129 , SB 2246 , SB 2439 , SB 1624 , SB 1244 , SB 1468 , SB 2717 , SB 1612 , SB 1262 , SB 604 , SB 2395 , SB 2185 , SB 1832 , SB 1745 , SB 1746 , SB 2207 , SB 2023 , SB 1784 , SB 1524 , SB 626 , SB 528 , SB 437 , SB 269 , SB 1137 , SB 968 , SB 636 , SB 747 , SB 1325 , SB 1789 , SB 1455 , SB 2056 , SB 75 , SB 1940 , SB 2052 , SB 1927 , SB 2010 , SB 1579 , SB 2068 , SB 3034 , SB 844 , SB 1920 , SB 1177 , SB 1558 , SB 1236 , SB 1044 , SB 926 , SB 884 , SB 463 , SB 331 , SB 227 , SB 240 , SB 517 , SB 1200 , SB 1410 , SB 1626 , SB 1845 , SB 1863 , SB 2216 , SB 2681 , SB 1717 , SB 2053 , SB 546 , SB 2141 , SB 2949 , SB 2323 , SB 2200 , SB 2332 , SB 2199 , SB 1642 , SB 1150 , SB 1757 , SB 2050 , SB 1138 , SB 2051 , SB 2626 , SB 2458 , SB 1864 , SB 30 , SB 2201 , SB 1862 , SB 1583 , SB 1583 , SB 1055 , SB 2660 , SB 1898 , SB 2662 , SB 2662 , SB 2161 , SB 2161 , SB 2964 , SB 2881 , SB 1065 , SB 1065 , SB 801 , SB 2743 , SB 2533 , SB 2533 , SB 1413 , SB 1413 , SB 1 , SB 34 , SB 310 , SB 819 , SB 1030 , SB 1124 , SB 1208 , SB 1233 , SB 1333 , SB 1405 , SB 1541 , SB 1750 , SB 1758 , SB 1869 , SB 2078 , SB 2365 , SB 2411 , SB 762 , SB 33 , SB 37 , SB 505 , SR 402 , SR 409 , SB 2695 , SB 2695

Transcript Highlights:

• Essentially, the project involves testing the soils along this 10-mile stretch, deciding what to excavate
• I think it's gone now through three rounds of testing the river because every, you know, seven or eight
• thorough analysis of the laboratories that you're going to use, the laboratory you're going to use to test

Committee: Senate Environment and Public Works Committee

Keywords: presidential nominations, EPA, environmental policy, Fish and Wildlife, committee meeting

Summary: The committee meeting focused on the presidential nominations of Brigadier General Brian Nesvick as Director of Fish and Wildlife and Jess Kramer and Sean Donahue as assistant administrators at the EPA. Each nominee presented their qualifications and experiences in their respective fields, with an emphasis on their commitment to uphold the laws passed by Congress. The discussion highlighted the nominees' dedication to addressing environmental issues and their proactive stances on regulatory matters. After deliberation, votes were held to report the nominations favorably, despite some members voicing concerns regarding their qualifications and potential conflicts with environmental interests.

Transcript Highlights:

• We hear that quite often with the testing and the documentation we need.
• where teachers could potentially risk legal action for performing basic duties, such as handing back tests
• Students do not have to put their legal name on tests and assignments, and often they don't.

Bills: SB211 , HB96 , SB215 , SB257 , SB13 , SB13

Committee: House Education Policy

Transcript Highlights:

• and it certainly needs to be updated on a regular basis to ensure that it uses current terms and testing
• , that it takes To ensure that it uses current terms and testing, that it takes cultural differences
• but there are tools out there that other states have been using for some time and that have been tested
• Apart from that, my daughter recently had genetic testing.
• Test it out with individuals in the system.

Summary: The Assembly Budget Subcommittee on Human Services held an informational hearing on several Department of Developmental Services proposals, with no votes taken. The first item focused on equitable access to intake and services for regional center clients, including standardizing eligibility assessments and modernizing the strengths-and-needs evaluation used to inform individual program plans. DDS said the changes would create a more consistent, equitable, and evidence-based process statewide, while the LAO explained the proposals as a response to disparities and inconsistent regional center practices. Advocates and regional center representatives were divided: Disability Rights California, the State Council on Developmental Disabilities, and some providers supported modernization but urged clearer safeguards, more community co-design, and stronger legislative review; others, including some regional center leaders and family advocates, warned against replacing the CEDER too quickly and stressed the need to preserve the person-centered IPP process. Committee members emphasized fair process, fidelity, and the need for a validated tool, while also noting that the proposals would not change eligibility definitions or replace IPPs. The second major item addressed state-operated transitional and rehabilitative services, including proposed time limits for stays at Porterville Developmental Center and Canyon Springs, plus the merger of the Community Placement Program and Community Resource Development Program. DDS argued that people should not remain in locked facilities for years and that the proposal would create urgency, clearer transition planning, a right of return, and a more efficient single program for community resource development. Supporters, including Disability Rights California, the State Council, the Public Defenders Association, and some service providers, said the proposals align with Olmstead and the Lanterman Act, reduce overreliance on institutions, and should be paired with stronger mental health supports, oversight, and notice to counsel. Opponents, including a district attorney representative, argued that a blanket 24-month limit could endanger public safety and that some individuals require longer, case-by-case commitments. Committee members said they wanted a more comprehensive plan showing that community placements and supports will be ready before people are moved, and they questioned whether an arbitrary timeline could work for such a complex population. Throughout the hearing, members repeatedly stressed that any implementation must be fair, transparent, and backed by valid tools, adequate community capacity, and public input. DDS said both sets of proposals would require legislative approval and that the department is still open to changes in trailer bill language and further stakeholder consultation. The hearing ended with the committee indicating it would continue reviewing the proposals and hear public comment, but no formal action was taken.

Transcript Highlights:

• Here we have a clear standard enacted by statute with a three-pronged test.
• That's our best distillation of the Geiger test.
• Here we have a clear standard enacted by statute with a three-pronged test.
• That's our best distillation of the Geiger test.
• Keep testing my block. All right, we're going to move to item 25, SB 1401.

Summary: The committee heard several public safety bills and took testimony on each, with members often noting amendments and continuing negotiations. SB 1009 by Senator Becker would require juvenile courts to find that less restrictive alternatives are unsuitable before ordering detention, and would require periodic review of continued detention and consideration of alternatives at disposition. Supporters argued it would reduce unnecessary youth detention and improve transparency; probation, judges, and police groups opposed it as an undue limit on judicial discretion and potentially unsafe in serious cases. The chair said he would recommend an aye with amendments, but the bill was held pending quorum and later remained on call. SB 1130 by Senator Gomez Reyes would update privacy law for wearable recording devices such as smart glasses, requiring consent before recording in places where people have a reasonable expectation of privacy and banning devices or accessories designed to defeat recording indicators. Supporters said the bill addresses secret recording and invasive surveillance; opponents from tech and hospitality groups sought clarification to avoid unintended liability for businesses and exempt workplace communication devices. Members discussed those exemptions, and the chair recommended an aye, but the measure also remained on call. Senator Blake Spear presented SB 99, which would let courts consider military protective orders in domestic violence proceedings and require better communication between civilian law enforcement and military authorities. Supporters from the Department of Defense, local officials, and military representatives said it would close protection gaps for military families; the ACLU opposed it on due process grounds because MPOs are issued without judicial process. The chair and author emphasized that the bill only allows consideration of MPOs and does not require civilian enforcement of them. The bill passed out on a vote, though it remained on call for additional members. The committee also heard SB 937 by Senator Gonzalez, restricting flashbang use for crowd control and banning flashbangs and explosive breaching charges in immigration enforcement, and SB 1022, creating a statewide anti-trafficking task force. SB 937 drew support from civil rights and community groups and opposition from police and sheriffs over the use-of-force standard and limits on tactics; it passed out on a vote but remained on call. SB 1022 was supported by survivor and faith groups and opposed by public defenders and sex worker advocates who raised concerns about racial disparities and enforcement harms; it also passed out on a vote. Later, SB 1395, extending criminal protective orders for certain felony sex offenses against minors up to 20 years, and SB 1230, increasing penalties for repeat illegal dumping, were both heard with mixed testimony and were held on call after committee votes. The committee also adopted a consent calendar and several bills were moved forward with amendments.

Transcript Highlights:

• We have continued to We are making incremental changes and improvements as far as our test scores go.
• Test. Okay. Our committee members, thanks again for having us.
• What are the metrics to test? To your question about accountability. We require information.
• Wondering where you're—who's doing the testing, where the monitoring sites are, and then how soon you
• He said tests showed that he had West Nile virus, for which the doctors told his family there was no

Committee: House House Government, Elections & Indian Affairs

Transcript Highlights:

• today's needs, but also with an eye towards new aviation technology and innovation currently being tested
• innovation aviation technology and innovation currently<00:26:41.680><c> being</c><00:26:41.920><c> tested
• </c> currently being tested. currently being tested.
• We actually have found a pilot program in federal government where they would test this to cancel the
• We just got it turned on. they would test this to cancel the noise they would test this to cancel the

Summary: The task force was called to order with a quorum present, and Commissioner Mark Carter of the Kentucky Department of Aviation gave the first presentation. He outlined the state’s airport system, noting 58 public-use airports, the department’s small staff, and its funding structure through a jet fuel tax that generates about $23 million annually, leaving roughly $15 million for airport investment after required deductions. Carter highlighted recent projects at airports including Bardstown, Madisonville, Central Kentucky Regional, Paducah, Sparta, Danville, and Henderson, and said the department has also expanded data collection on airport activity, hangars, schools, and training programs. He emphasized that the department recently completed the first statewide economic impact study of general aviation airports and is developing a five-year airport needs plan. Carter said several things are working well, including stronger communication with airports, the public, the legislature, and especially the FAA’s Memphis district office, which now involves the state more in project selection. He said the department is reasonably staffed overall, but identified workforce development and advanced air mobility as major gaps. In response to questions from Senator Nunn and Representative York, he said he did not have specific workforce shortage numbers on hand, but cited Boeing reports showing large national and global shortages of pilots and mechanics, and explained that instructor shortages and low wages limit training capacity. He also said air traffic control is an FAA function, though EKU has shown interest in developing a training program. Carter identified several needs for improvement: more workforce investment, more aviation education in high schools, more scholarships for pilot and mechanic training, more attention to advanced air mobility, and more frequent, institutionalized data collection. He also pointed to major pending capital needs at airports such as Elizabethtown, Owensboro, Harlan, Leitchfield-Grayson County, and Whitesburg-Letcher County, all of which would require FAA and state support. He urged airports to do a better job marketing their economic value and said the state should continue updating aviation studies so lawmakers have current information for policy decisions. The task force then heard from Lexington Blue Grass Airport Director Eric Frankl, who welcomed the new CVG director and thanked the legislature for creating the task force and supporting aviation infrastructure. Frankl said Blue Grass Airport has rebounded from the pandemic and now exceeds pre-pandemic passenger levels, while serving a mix of private aviation, pilot training, corporate aviation, and commercial airline activity. He described ongoing terminal-area planning, parking technology upgrades, and a major parking lot expansion expected to finish by early spring 2026, and said the airport is planning for future technologies such as vertiports and electric aerial vehicles. Frankl estimated that a broader terminal modernization program will cost roughly $500 million to $700 million over the next 5 to 10 years and said the airport needs continued state support to close funding gaps and remain competitive with other states investing in aviation.

Transcript Highlights:

• countable income below 138% of the federal poverty level to qualify for Medi-Cal, but again, the asset test
• cost for seniors up to 138% of the federal poverty level, as well as the elimination of the asset test
• As well as the elimination of the asset test that was previously used to determine Medi-Cal eligibility
• Obviously, I was so glad to see the asset test being eliminated.
• The greatest test of whether a society is doing its job correctly is how it's treating young people and

Summary: The joint Assembly Budget Subcommittee hearing focused first on long-term services and supports for older adults, especially the “forgotten/overlooked middle” who earn too much for Medi-Cal but cannot afford private long-term care. Administration witnesses from DHCS, the Department of Aging, and Social Services described Medicare’s limited long-term care coverage, Medi-Cal’s role, the elimination of the Medi-Cal asset test, and ongoing state studies and listening sessions on financing options. Testimony from advocates and researchers emphasized rising homelessness among older adults, the need for better navigation and coordination across health, aging, housing, and social service systems, and short-term policy steps such as share-of-cost reform, housing stability supports, and protecting home- and community-based services. Members highlighted the need for a coordinated, no-wrong-door approach and asked for the most impactful budget investments to address affordability and homelessness risk. The second major topic was the Community-Based Adult Services (CBAS) program. CDA reported that CBAS helps participants remain in the community, that 304 centers operate statewide serving about 42,000 people, and that demand is stable but access gaps remain in some regions. DHCS explained that a 2024 rate increase authorized by SB 159 became inoperative after Proposition 35, and that a separate 10% rate change on the fee schedule was the result of a DHCS system error; the department said it would not require recoupment, though managed care plans may act under their contracts. CBAS providers and advocates warned that reimbursement rates have not kept pace with costs, that several centers have closed, and that clawbacks could trigger more closures. They requested $74.8 million ongoing General Fund to close part of the rate gap and preserve the program, while members expressed concern about closures and the cost savings of keeping people out of more expensive institutional care. The hearing then moved to In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) and statewide collective bargaining. CDSS reviewed provider recruitment and retention efforts, including electronic timesheets, direct deposit, and the now-completed IHSS Career Pathways program, which trained more than 59,000 providers. CDSS also summarized its AB 102 workgroup report on statewide versus regional bargaining, saying the final report would be sent to the Legislature soon and that statewide bargaining appeared more viable than regional bargaining, though it would require clear statutory scope and major fiscal changes. The department estimated that each $1 per hour statewide wage increase would cost at least $1.3 billion to $1.5 billion annually. Labor advocates argued that IHSS wages, benefits, and training are too inconsistent across counties and called for statewide bargaining, consumer participation, and ongoing state funding. County representatives supported stronger wages but cautioned that counties need protection from new costs and administrative burdens, and consumer advocates warned that moving bargaining to the state could weaken local consumer control and the program’s consumer-driven structure.

Transcript Highlights:

• The MPCA is now requesting additional and more comprehensive testing by LSC and potentially even some
• </c> requesting additional and more requesting additional and more comprehensive<00:15:25.920><c> testing
• </c><00:15:26.720><c> by</c><00:15:27.040><c> LSC</c><00:15:27.519><c> and</c> comprehensive testing
• by LSC and comprehensive testing by LSC and potentially<00:15:28.160><c> even</c><00:15:28.399><c> some
• and the testimony bill and and the test and the testimony for<00:31:08.399><c> Mr.

Committee: Senate Higher Education

Transcript Highlights:

• There are valid<00:08:12.879><c> time-tested</c><00:08:13.520><c> methods</c><00:08:14.240><c> to</c>
• <00:08:14.479><c> exist</c><00:08:14.800><c> to</c> valid time-tested methods to exist to valid time-tested
• Uh, next up is Evan Weber for Test Our Hawaii in support.
• Uh, next up is Evan Weber for Test Our Hawaii in support.
• Uh, next up is Evan Weber for Test Our Hawaii in support.

Summary: The Judiciary Committee heard testimony on HB 126, which would change civil asset forfeiture law. The Attorney General’s Office, Honolulu Police Department, and county prosecutors opposed the bill’s proposed SD1, arguing that requiring a criminal conviction and changing how forfeiture proceeds are distributed would weaken or effectively end the tool, create fiscal and law enforcement problems, and make it harder to address organized crime or cases where an owner cannot be identified. The Public Defender’s Office, Community Alliance on Prisons, Drug Policy Forum of Hawaii, and other supporters argued the measure would improve transparency and accountability, protect property rights, and reduce abuses that disproportionately affect low-income people. The chair questioned law enforcement about fairness, storage of seized property, and access to counsel, and the discussion focused heavily on whether forfeiture should depend on a conviction. No vote was taken. The committee then heard HB 280, which would make the Community Outreach Court permanent and appropriate funds for it as a division of the First Circuit district court. The Department of the Attorney General and Judiciary supported the concept and described the court’s success in helping people resolve cases, clear license stoppers, recall bench warrants, and access services, but suggested amendments to remove the Attorney General from the bill’s definition and funding mechanism. The Public Defender, Department of Human Services, mental health and substance use advocates, neighborhood and community groups, and others strongly supported the bill, emphasizing its benefits for people facing housing instability, behavioral health issues, and transportation barriers. No opposition was voiced, and no vote was taken. The committee also heard HB 370, which would increase partial public campaign financing for elective offices. The Campaign Spending Commission supported the original bill and asked the committee to restore the original percentage amounts, keep the proposed funding increases, and reinstate funding for two additional full-time staff positions. Supporters said the public financing system has not kept pace with inflation and needs modernization to be viable; a few testifiers opposed the measure. The committee reported 30 in support, two opposed, and one comment, and then moved on without a vote. Finally, HB 371 was heard, a campaign contribution bill that would bar state and county contractors, grantees, and certain related persons from contributing during the contract period. The Campaign Spending Commission said the bill is intended to address pay-to-play concerns and false-name contributions, while the State Procurement Office raised concerns about the burden of requiring agencies to provide contract information for all contracts regardless of dollar value. The testimony ended with the commission saying it was working with procurement and the Attorney General on implementation details; no vote was taken.

Transcript Highlights:

• Sorry, don't see you on the test. Thank you.
• Sorry, don't see you on the test. Thank you. Laura Brier from Kawaih?
• Sorry, don't see you on the test. Thank you. I did not submit testimony on this bill.
• Sorry, don't see you on the test. Thank you. I did not submit testimony on this bill.
• Sorry, don't see you on the test. Thank you. I did not submit testimony on this bill.

Committee: Senate Energy and Intergovernmental Affairs

Summary: The joint hearing began with SB 133 on energy, which drew opposition testimony from James Abraham, who said the bill was unnecessary because the Public Utilities Commission had already opened a proceeding to investigate wheeling, including intergovernmental wheeling, and should be allowed to finish its collaborative process. The committees then moved to SB 161 on county permitting and inspection, where several agencies submitted written comments or opposition, while the Grassroots Institute and HCDA-related testimony supported the measure. Members raised concerns about accountability and whether state agencies would report back on projects approved under any permitting exemption, and witnesses suggested annual reporting or amendment language to address that issue. The hearing then turned to SB 232 and SB 588, both related to renewable energy permitting. Testimony on SB 232 was largely supportive, but Rocky Mold of the Hawaii Solar Energy Association said SB 232 was an older version of a bill and that SB 588 was the preferred, updated measure. Members discussed whether the bill should be limited to residential or behind-the-meter customer-sited systems rather than utility-scale projects, and Mold clarified that the proposal was intended for customer-sited systems, not utility-scale facilities. For SB 588, the Department of Land and Natural Resources warned that state or county laws inconsistent with the National Flood Insurance Program could jeopardize flood insurance eligibility and related federal assistance, while Mold argued the bill’s FEMA floodway exemption was needed to avoid blocking solar installations on existing structures. The chair expressed concern about risking federal funding and questioned whether the exemption could be narrowed without defeating the bill’s purpose. SB 412, also on renewable energy, received supportive testimony from the State Energy Office and others. Members questioned whether a single coordinating entity should compile agency assessments, and Mark Glick said the Energy Office could take on that role if given the duty and sufficient staff. The committee then discussed SB 635 on energy efficiency, which would require state agencies to use energy-efficient lighting. Mark Glick testified that much of the work was already underway through benchmarking and related contracts, and a DAGS representative said the state was already assessing 590 buildings over 10,000 square feet, with results expected around 2027. Members suggested amending the bill to require annual status reports so the committees could track progress and avoid duplication. No votes were taken during the hearing.

Transcript Highlights:

• The SAT is an aptitude test to put states versus other states in regard to college applications.
• They look at standardized test scores, and we're near the bottom.
• So hopefully, it's a step to eliminate the SAT in regard to our aptitude testing. So good job.
• This bill requires health insurance plans to cover biomarker testing.
• The test is supported by medical and scientific evidence.