Transcript Highlights:

• We're grateful for your leadership, for the men and women that you lead.
• Chief Stucky, would you please lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance?
• Lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Second reading of bills, the clerk will read.
• And we will always choose hope over hate, and we will lead with kindness and humility.
• Today we are grateful to have Pastor Fields lead us in a prayer. Will you pray with me?

Bills: HR1046 , SB1733 , SB1439

Summary: The House convened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and several special recognitions tied to the 31st anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing. The chamber honored the 138th Fighter Wing Civil Engineer Squadron Fire Department as Veterans of the Week, and also recognized Dr. Camissa Stewart as Doctor of the Day and Tammy Powell as Nurse of the Day for their roles in the 1995 bombing response. A lengthy floor presentation followed, featuring remarks from legislators, Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell, memorial museum leaders, Justice Stephen Taylor, and Pastor Ronnie Fields, all focused on remembrance, the Oklahoma standard, the victims and survivors, and the importance of hope, civility, and the rule of law. On legislation, Senate Bill 1733 was presented and debated. The bill requires school personnel who have reason to believe a student is a victim of child sexual abuse or sexual misconduct to report it to law enforcement within 24 hours. Supporters said it clarifies and strengthens reporting requirements to protect children, while opponents warned it could trigger harmful public accusations and undermine trust in educators and administrators. The House passed the bill 92-1, and the emergency clause also passed 92-1. The House also considered Senate Bill 1439, an oil and gas measure intended to bar speculative climate-related lawsuits and limit liability to actual violations and provable harm. Supporters argued it would prevent frivolous litigation, protect the state’s energy economy, and keep costs down for consumers; opponents said it would create a special legal carve-out for industry and shift costs to taxpayers and families. The bill passed 74-16. In addition, Senate Bill 2184 was assigned to Rules, and H.J.R. 1078 and H.J.R. 1079 were withdrawn from Rules and sent to appropriations and budget committees. The House adjourned after announcements and introductions.

Transcript Highlights:

• situation because they did attest that they're eligible to vote, but they weren't, and that could lead
• But they also have somebody that leads them into register to vote.
• But they also have somebody that leads them into register to vote. Thank you.
• Also have somebody that leads them into register to vote. Okay?
• from Green County anyway, to support Congress who, whose effort, at least some of them, under the lead

Summary: The House opened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and approval of the previous day’s journal by a 117-1 vote. Members then spent a large portion of the morning introducing guests, including students, civic groups, fraternity and sorority members, county officials, and visitors from various districts. The Speaker also suspended business several times to sign enrolled bills, including Senate substitute for House Bill 261, House Bill 2641, Senate substitute for House Bill 2423, and House Bill 2934. The chamber then debated House Concurrent Resolution 48, which urges Congress to pass the SAVE Act requiring documentary proof of citizenship to register to vote. Supporters argued it would protect election integrity and prevent non-citizens from voting, while opponents said it would create burdens, function like a poll tax, and disenfranchise eligible voters, especially women, rural residents, students, military members, and people who move or change names. After a motion for the previous question passed 93-42, the House adopted HCR 48 by a vote of 92-43. The House also passed House Concurrent Resolution 23, a federalism resolution affirming state control over elections, by a unanimous 137-0 vote after committee leaders said it had broad bipartisan support. The House then perfected and printed House Bill 2855, which adjusts workers’ compensation fund tax increments from 0.5% to 0.1% to better match receipts with expenditures; an amendment allowing replacement of attorneys in long-running permanent total cases was adopted first. Members also perfected and printed House Bill 1906, a short bill allowing township counties to authorize annual, semiannual, or quarterly payment of real and personal property taxes by ordinance. The session ended with announcements and a motion to recess until 2 p.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• to excess... ...appears to be on the right path for reliability purposes, unfortunately leads often
• So it might not be about the entire framework, but in my backyard where your lead witness represents,
• more of a local one, so it might not be about the entire framework, but in my backyard where your lead
• According to a report by Environment California Research and Policy Center, California is leading the
• According to a report by Environment California Research and Policy Center, California is leading the

Committee: Senate Energy, Utilities and Communications

Transcript Highlights:

• Karen Burnett here leads our partners for inclusive programs.
• Karen Burnett here leads our partners for inclusive communities.
• And Lisa Green, who leads our Advisor for the Empower Program, and Lisa Green, who leads our autism support
• from the experience of the student and following their lead in terms of making decisions around courses
• academically enriched environments, becoming active members of the college campus, and gaining experience leading

Committee: All TASK FORCE ON AUTISM

Summary: The committee heard presentations on three Arkansas programs serving students and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities. University of Arkansas representatives described the Empower Program, a non-degree, four-year inclusive postsecondary program for young adults with mild intellectual disabilities, and the Autism Support Program, which provides intensive academic, peer, and career coaching for degree-seeking students with autism. They explained the programs’ person-centered planning, residential and employment supports, fee structure of $5,000 per semester for each program, and scholarship/fundraising efforts to offset costs. Members asked about dorm arrangements, mentoring, individualized plans, and how students move in and out of support services, and the presenters emphasized independence, integrated campus life, and transition planning. Pulaski Technical College staff then presented the 3D program, a three-year transition program in culinary, baking, and hospitality for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They outlined integrated classes, internships, job placement outcomes, and data showing strong completion and employment retention rates. Questions focused on how success is measured, tuition and financial aid, and the challenge of securing community partners for practicum and employment sites. The presenters said the program uses rubrics that include technical and professional skills, charges $5,700 per semester, and is pursuing accreditation through the Inclusive Higher Education Accreditation Council. The final presentation was from SLS Community, a Fayetteville nonprofit serving neurodivergent adults through residential supports, supported employment, and community initiatives. Leaders described their vision for a future mixed-use “live-work-play” development at Cato Springs, current residential and vocational services, and community events such as a 5K and a neurodiversity health care conference. Family members testified about the need for adult services, trained direct support professionals, and better reimbursement and behavioral health supports after age 21. No formal votes were taken beyond approving the prior meeting minutes, and members also announced upcoming autism-related events and requested future discussion on task force appointments and ABA-related issues.

Transcript Highlights:

• Karen Burnett here leads our partners for inclusive programs.
• Karen Burnett here leads our partners for inclusive communities.
• And Lisa Green, who leads our... ...advisor for the Empower Program, and Lisa Green, who leads our autism
• from the experience of the student and following their lead in terms of making decisions around courses
• academically enriched environments, becoming active members of the college campus, and gaining experience leading

Committee: All TASK FORCE ON AUTISM

Summary: The meeting opened with routine business, including approval of the January 13, 2026 minutes, and a brief recognition of Autism Awareness Month. The task force then heard a presentation from the University of Arkansas College of Education and Health Professions on two student support programs: the Empower Program for non-degree-seeking students ages 18–24 with mild intellectual disabilities, and the Autism Support Program for degree-seeking students with autism. Speakers described academic coaching, peer and career coaching, residential supports, person-centered planning, internships, and scholarship/fee structures, noting that both programs charge a $5,000 per-semester fee and rely on scholarships and fundraising to offset costs. Members asked about dorm arrangements, individualized plans, and how students transition in and out of supports; presenters explained that Empower students remain in the program throughout, while Autism Support Program students may enter or leave services as needed. The committee next heard from Pulaski Technical College’s 3D program, a three-year transition and post-secondary program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities focused on culinary, baking, and hospitality training. Presenters outlined integrated classes with traditional students, faded support over time, internships, and outcomes such as 97 students enrolled since the program began, 57 graduates, strong completion rates, and many graduates obtaining and retaining jobs in the food service industry. Members asked about how success is measured, why rates are not 100 percent, the role of integrated classes, tuition, and community partnerships; staff explained that grading includes technical and professional skills, tuition is $5,700 per semester, and scholarships such as GETS and FAFSA help reduce costs. They also noted plans to expand offerings and pursue accreditation through the Inclusive Higher Education Accreditation Council. Finally, the task force received a presentation from SLS Community, a Fayetteville nonprofit serving neurodivergent adults through residential supports, supported employment, community activities, and advocacy. Leaders described a long-term vision tied to the Cato Springs mixed-use development, where housing, jobs, clinical services, and community amenities would be integrated in a “live, work, play” model. They discussed a residential program, a new vocational program called Program Forge, community events, and the challenges of the “services cliff” after age 21, especially for adults with complex support needs. Members and parents spoke about the importance of trained direct support professionals, ABA-based supports, and the need for better funding and service models for adults. The meeting ended with announcements about upcoming autism-related events and a request for future discussion on task force appointments and broader issues around ABA oversight and misuse.

Transcript Highlights:

• So, please join them in the gallery for sector partnerships as they lead industry representatives are
• resources sector. gallery for sector partnerships as they gallery for sector partnerships as they lead
• <00:04:04.200><c> as</c><00:04:04.400><c> lead</c><00:04:04.600><c> industry</c><00:04:04.960><c> representatives
• </c> lead as lead industry representatives lead as lead industry representatives are<00:04:06.560><c>

Bills: SB3123 , HB1853 , HB1961 , HB1965 , HB1962 , HB1959 , HB2505 , HB2576 , HB1801 , HB1804 , HB1864 , HB2319 , HB2314 , HB2115 , HB1854 , HB2062 , HB1511 , HB1535 , HB2614 , HB2282 , HB1870 , HB1695 , HB1626 , HB1643 , HB1972 , HB1550 , HB1974 , HB1966 , HB1973 , HB2545 , HB1946 , HB1939 , HB1721 , HB1741 , HB1700

Transcript Highlights:

• of this sector as less than because it's automotive schools, it's other things that don't usually lead
• also seen, as we've increased fees that are, excuse me, citations and fines, that higher fines can lead
• meaningful oversight even while they continue to enroll California students in programs that may not lead
• “In programs that may not lead to intended employment outcomes.
• Meeting adjourned.” in programs that may not lead to intended employment outcomes.

Transcript Highlights:

• and practices will help Florida's education system lead both academically and environmentally.
• Yes, and certainly as an executive in Baptist Health, the leading executive, you understand the value
• We've been around for 85 years this August, and we are the leading fertilizer manufacturer for the golf
• We've been around for 85 years this August, and we are the leading fertilizer manufacturer for the golf
• I have spent over 20 years leading in the healthcare management industry, where I focused on culture,

Bills: S1694

Committee: Senate Appropriations Committee on Higher Education

Keywords: technology education, digital literacy, artificial intelligence, computer science, high school graduation

Transcript Highlights:

• First, this young lady just recently celebrated her bat mitzvah and insisted on learning and leading
• Next, this young man helps lead one of only nine high school teams in the entire country, invited by
• My Valentine, Rachel Spiegel. learning and leading the entire 2.5 hour learning and leading the entire
• c><00:19:18.080><c> young</c><00:19:18.320><c> man</c><00:19:18.559><c> helps</c><00:19:18.880><c> lead
• young man helps lead one of only<00:19:20.160><c> nine</c><00:19:20.880><c> high</c><00:19:21.120><c

Transcript Highlights:

• And New Mexico is also one of those leading states with a very strong 4-H program.
• I'd like to recognize, if they'd stand, Amanda Forrester and Serena Bartu, who are leading the Sierra
• close, I'm going to ask our 4-Hers in front and any that remain in the gallery to please stand and lead
• Lead us off. Go ahead, Colson. Lead us off. Thank you, Mr. President. Thank you, Mr. President.
• deeply curious about how things work, combining her passion for problem-solving with the desire to lead

Transcript Highlights:

• And New Mexico is also one of those leading states with a very strong 4-H program.
• And New Mexico is also one of those leading states with a very strong 4-H program.
• I'd like to recognize, if they'd stand, Amanda Forrester and Serena Bartu, who are leading the Sierra
• close, I'm going to ask our 4-Hers in front and any that remain in the gallery to please stand and lead
• Lead us off. Thank you, for security and loyalty. Thank you, Mr. President.

Summary: The Senate convened, established a quorum, offered an invocation and pledges, and then spent much of the session on ceremonial recognitions and guest introductions. Certificates and remarks highlighted the 30th anniversary of 529 education savings plans and 4-H Day, with senators praising 529 plans as a family education-savings tool and 4-H as a major youth leadership program in all 33 counties. Members also recognized Scouts in America, including Michaela Kern as the first female Eagle Scout from Eddy County, and heard additional presentations tied to New Mexico State University, the College Assistance Migrant Program, and regional councils of government. Several senators used the floor to introduce students and community members from across the state, especially 4-H participants, NMSU CAMP students, and local youth leadership groups. Comments emphasized agriculture, leadership development, public service, and the importance of volunteer support. One senator also raised concerns about a prior Indian Day incident involving the Navajo Nation being placed at the back for the pledge, urging better decorum and respect in the chamber. The Senate then processed a governor’s message authorizing Senate Bill 149 for consideration and adopted multiple committee reports moving bills and memorials through the process, including measures referred to education, health and public affairs, tax/business/transportation, rules, finance, and judiciary committees. The body also introduced Senate Memorials 24 and 25 and Senate Joint Memorial 4. A call of the Senate was ordered after objection to moving to third reading, and the sergeant-at-arms reported Senators Sanchez and Tobiassen missing; the chamber remained under call while other business continued. The session ended with committee schedule announcements and a recess until noon the next day.

Transcript Highlights:

• pass by without expressing how much it saddens me that our state continues to embrace policies that lead
• That our state continues to embrace policies that lead to this, that lead to abortion as an elected procedure
• I think that's what leads to my confusion.
• I think that's what leads to my confusion.
• I'll turn it over to my experts to add why this is important and how this would lead to better trained

Bills: SB30 , SB43 , SB50 , SB136 , HB99 , HB49 , HB164 , SB30 , SB43 , SB50 , SB136

Committees: Senate Senate Judiciary , Senate House Judiciary

Keywords: SB30, induced abortion, abortion reporting, vital statistics, public health reporting, medical records, health care providers, repeal, New Mexico, pregnancy termination, abortion data, state reporting requirements, confidentiality, reproductive health, parole, life imprisonment, rehabilitation, criminal justice, victim rights, law enforcement

Transcript Highlights:

• could push these industries to reduce production or relocate, and we call that emissions leakage, leading
• They're an innovative, first-of-its-kind project that places Washington State at the leading edge of
• This bill makes changes to the Clean Fuel Standard rule that we think would be unfair and lead to more
• This bill makes changes to the clean fuel standard rule that we think would be unfair and lead to more
• spent so much time swimming and kayaking in is contaminated with unacceptable levels of selenium, lead

Bills: SB6172 , SB6246 , SB5932

Committee: Senate Environment, Energy & Technology

Keywords: Washington climate policy, greenhouse gas, GHG emissions, cap-and-invest, carbon market, emissions trading, allowances, covered entity, coal-fired power plant, coal plant, electric utility, electric generating facility, fossil fuels, natural gas, imported electricity, emissions leakage, air pollution, renewable energy transition, industrial emissions, railroad emissions

Transcript Highlights:

• think the work of this group has been instrumental in making change, but I hope it will continue to lead
• and help us lead the way on making the changes and the reforms that we need to make.
• And left untreated, it can really lead to not only suffering, but people dying.
• That is what repair looks like when Washington is taking the lead on ensuring there is due process and
• We need to intervene further upstream in order to prevent the crises that lead to youth needing these

Summary: The Senate Human Services Committee held an evening hearing on several bills. Senate Bill 6249, sponsored by Sen. Torres, would require all people convicted of stalking to be supervised by the Department of Corrections. Staff explained current community custody rules and said the bill would make stalking convictions subject to DOC supervision; the fiscal note had been requested but not yet received. The sponsor and several survivors and advocates testified in support, saying stalking is dangerous, victims need ongoing monitoring, and supervision could help prevent future harm. No vote was taken. The committee also heard Senate Bill 6255, sponsored by Sen. Lovelett, which renames and updates the Legislative Executive Poverty Reduction Oversight Task Force (LuPRO) as the Legislative Executive Economic Justice and Well-Being Task Force, expands membership, and revises duties to monitor and update the state’s 10-year plan to dismantle poverty. Staff said the bill has a partial fiscal note showing a $4,000 OSPI cost for a report, with no additional cost beyond that this biennium. Testimony from DSHS and a constituent supported the bill as a way to improve coordination and accountability in poverty reduction efforts. Senate Bill 6286, sponsored by Sen. Orwall, would authorize the Department of Health to fine private detention facilities that deny inspectors entry, with escalating daily fines and a new account to support people harmed by wrongful detention or ICE-related abuse. The sponsor and supporters framed the bill as a human rights and public health measure, citing complaints about food, sanitation, medical care, and mental health conditions in private detention facilities. The committee then heard Senate Bill 6224, sponsored by Chair Wilson, which would create a Children and Youth Behavioral Health Leadership Council to implement the Washington Thriving Strategic Plan and extend the existing work group. Supporters from state agencies, providers, parents, and advocates emphasized early intervention, cross-system coordination, and youth mental health needs; one witness opposed the bill, arguing it should focus more on non-psychiatric causes of distress. The hearing ended with no recorded votes or final action on the bills.

Transcript Highlights:

• To achieve this, it directs the Office of Financial Management to lead the effort by contracting with
• It directs the Office of Financial Management to lead the effort by contracting with a neutral nonprofit
• Madam Chair and members of the committee, our mission is to be the pathway that leads more students to
• That helps ensure boards reflect the neighborhoods that they serve, leading to better, more responsive
• That helps ensure boards reflect the neighborhoods that they serve, leading to better, more responsive

Bills: SB6078 , SB6089 , SB5859 , SB5861 , SB6065 , SB5956 , SB5901

Committee: Senate Early Learning & K-12 Education

Keywords: SB 6078, child care, childcare, daycare, licensed child care provider, Department of Children, Youth, and Families, DCYF, prelicensing, licensing support, resource guide, child care center, family home child care, family home provider, outdoor nature-based child care, school-age child care, early learning, provider application, local permit notice, city permit, county permit

Transcript Highlights:

• Just a little bit of storytelling: I lead a team that has trained over 5,000 Washingtonians last year
• We appreciate the intent of this bill and believe it positions Washington to lead in the next generation
• We appreciate the intent of this bill and believe it positions Washington to lead in the next generation
• The intent of this bill and believe it positions Washington to lead in the next generation of advanced
• . ...is a forward-looking step that positions Washington to lead in the era of quantum technology, an

Bills: HB2357 , HB2365 , HB2446

Committee: House Technology, Economic Development, & Veterans

Keywords: civil air patrol, military, Washington, emergency services, public safety, digital opportunities, accessibility, technology, economic growth, education, quantum technology, economic development, workforce development, innovation, technology industry

Transcript Highlights:

• Just a little bit of storytelling: I lead a team that has trained over 5,000 Washingtonians last year
• We appreciate the intent of this bill and believe it positions Washington to lead in the next generation
• The intent of this bill and believe it positions Washington to lead in the next generation of advanced
• like every other technology, it has. the intent of this bill and believe it positions Washington to lead
• . ...is a forward-looking step that positions Washington to lead in the era of quantum technology, an

Summary: The Technology, Economic Development and Veterans Committee held public hearings on three bills and then a work session on tourism. House Bill 2365, concerning digital equity programs, would shift more responsibility to the Broadband Office, rename the Digital Equity Opportunity Program as the Digital Opportunity Program, expand the forum’s role, and require more reporting and outreach on broadband adoption and affordability. The prime sponsor and several advocates from community organizations, PTA, and digital navigation groups supported the bill, emphasizing the need for digital skills, cybersecurity, affordability, and trusted community partners. Commerce testified that the bill has technical and fiscal concerns and would add costs, and the sponsor said amendments were likely to reduce the fiscal impact. The hearing on HB 2365 was then closed. House Bill 2446 would direct the Department of Commerce to develop a state quantum strategy by June 30, using non-state funding if possible, to identify growth areas, partnerships, and workforce and economic impacts for the quantum industry. The prime sponsor, industry representatives, and technology organizations supported the bill as a way to keep Washington competitive with other states and build a quantum ecosystem. Committee members raised questions about fiscal impact, private funding, regulatory capture, and cybersecurity risks, including concerns about quantum’s effect on passwords and AI-related harms. A Microsoft representative requested a technical amendment to broaden the definition from quantum computing to quantum technology and said the company would follow up on funding and AI-regulation questions. The hearing on HB 2446 was closed. House Bill 2357 would create a Washington Division of Civil Air Patrol within the Military Department, allowing the governor to activate it for cadet training, communications, disaster relief, cybersecurity, search and rescue, and related missions. The sponsor, the adjutant general, the Civil Air Patrol commander, and a veterans coalition representative all supported the bill, citing recent flood response work, emergency preparedness, and youth training benefits. Testimony emphasized that the proposal would clarify coordination, not change federal authorities, and would not create a fiscal impact. The hearing on HB 2357 was closed without any amendment requests. In the work session on tourism, State of Washington Tourism and industry partners presented recommendations from an advisory group calling for a more sustainable, industry-led funding model, likely through an assessment or visitor-fee structure. They argued Washington is underfunded compared with western peers and estimated that a competitive program could generate $14.6 billion in additional visitor spending over the next decade, along with significant tax revenue and lodging tax growth. Speakers from tourism, the wine commission, hospitality, and advisory group leadership stressed predictable funding, industry governance, and statewide benefits, while committee members discussed international tourism, regional access, and the need to avoid further decline in the sector. The meeting adjourned early after the work session.

Transcript Highlights:

• the recently released report: If a lack of proactive management during this phase of the transition leads
• are unexpected refinery outages, which we've seen and we will continue to see, which would otherwise lead
• make that point on the record so that we don't lose sight of how important it is that we continue to lead
• it's certainly not the direction that California has led on in recent years and needs to continue to lead
• , but in the world, because our future generations depend on that and are relying on California to lead

Summary: The Assembly Natural Resources Committee heard three major bills. SB 237, by Senator Grayson, proposed a package of fuel-supply and permitting changes aimed at stabilizing gasoline prices during California’s energy transition. Supporters, including state officials, Kern County representatives, labor groups, and industry groups, said it would help retain in-state refining and drilling capacity, reduce price spikes, and protect jobs. Opponents, including environmental justice and conservation groups, argued it would expand oil drilling without enough community protections and would not meaningfully address climate goals. After extensive testimony and questions about emissions, sunsets, and long-term strategy, the committee passed SB 237 on a due pass vote, with some members voting no or not voting. SB 352, by Senator Reyes, sought to strengthen implementation of AB 617, the community air protection program, by codifying the Environmental Justice Bureau in the Department of Justice, extending monitoring requirements, and requiring annual legislative reporting. Supporters said the bill would improve accountability and ensure that funding for impacted communities actually produces emissions reductions. Some environmental justice advocates were neutral or not fully supportive because they wanted stronger language, while business and industry groups opposed the bill, arguing it was added late and duplicated existing processes. The committee approved SB 352 on a due pass vote. SB 840, by Senator Limon, was the cap-and-invest reauthorization package. It would update offset protocols, adjust how revenues are spent, and continue funding for key climate, housing, transit, and community programs, including AB 617. Support came from environmental groups, labor, local governments, housing advocates, and clean transportation organizations, while some agricultural interests objected that the package did not sufficiently prioritize climate-smart agriculture and methane reduction programs. The committee passed SB 840 on a due pass vote as well. All three measures were later confirmed out of committee after calls were lifted.

Transcript Highlights:

• how higher education is adapting to meet evolving needs of our local employers, entrepreneurs, and leading
• It's a leading economy, not only in the state, but across the country and the globe.
• But San Diego actually has been, for a long time, a leading market in terms of advanced manufacturing
• appointee and chair of the California Commission on Asian Pacific Islander American Affairs, where I lead
• And that kind of leads into one of my questions that I had, which is, as your local experience in business

Summary: The Assembly Committee on Economic Development, Growth, and Household Impact held an informational hearing in San Diego focused on “Making Sense of California’s Economy: Real Cost Pressures and Household Impacts Facing San Diego.” Chair Salas and Assemblymember Darshana Patel opened by emphasizing affordability, housing, and the importance of bringing state policy discussions into the community. The first panel featured leaders from Cal State San Marcos and the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation, who described the region’s innovation ecosystem, the university’s role in social mobility and workforce development, and the importance of partnerships with K-12 schools, community colleges, military installations, and industry. They also highlighted regional strengths in life sciences, aerospace and defense, advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and venture-backed innovation, while warning that housing costs, federal research cuts, permitting delays, and small-business fragility threaten growth and talent retention. Committee members asked about collaboration among higher education institutions and what state policy changes could help. Panelists said the region’s universities are complementary rather than competitive and stressed the value of public-private partnerships, social innovation, and aligning academic programs with employer needs. On policy, they urged faster permitting, possible regulatory sandboxes, stronger research investment, support for cross-border trade and manufacturing, and more housing affordability to keep workers in the region. The second panel centered on small business and entrepreneurship, with testimony from Hydrostasis founder Dr. Debbie Chen, Amai co-founder Sven Davison, and Asian Business Association San Diego CEO Jason Pagal. Chen described building a hydration-monitoring wearable, the barriers women founders face in accessing capital, and the importance of SBDC, Stella Foundation, and university internship support. Davison described Amai’s edible cup business and how tariffs, supply-chain costs, and financing constraints forced the company to pivot manufacturing plans. Pagal presented survey data showing high relocation intent, difficulty hiring, and low confidence among businesses, and recommended expanded technical assistance, regional cost-of-living adjustments, and small-business affordability zones. During questioning, members discussed targeted procurement and local incentive models, the role of SBDC and other support networks, and how to better tailor state programs to local conditions. Public comment came from the California Southern Small Business Development Corporation, which stressed that access to affordable capital remains a major challenge and noted the volume of loan guarantee requests coming from San Diego. No formal votes were taken; the hearing concluded with closing remarks from both members underscoring the need to use local testimony to shape future state policy and support California’s economy, families, and small businesses.

Transcript Highlights:

• Sweden and Israel, uh, are already, uh, piloting such technologies and Texas has the opportunity to lead
• I mean, it will definitely lead to higher turnover. Yeah.
• This bill leverages our state's world-class universities, industry-leading tech partners.
• And economic development infrastructure to ensure that Texas is not just participating in but leading
• Texas must lead quantum to participate in the global future economy.

Bills: HB3146 , HB3719 , HB3895 , HB3923 , HB4748 , HB4751 , HB4936 , HB4952 , HB4990 , HB4991 , HB5061 , HB5196 , HB5238 , HB5246 , HB5487

Committee: House Delivery of Government Efficiency

Keywords: State Office of Administrative Hearings, SOAH, administrative hearings, contested case, contested case hearing, administrative law judge, ALJ, final decision, proposed decision, agency hearing, hearing continuance, rescheduling, Texas administrative law, Government Code Chapter 2001, workers' compensation, Department of Human Resources, Texas Labor Code, Transportation Code, Agriculture Code, Insurance Code