Transcript Highlights:

• /c><00:15:06.759><c> typesc><00:15:07.040><c> ofc> that makes certain types of that makes certain
• types of reimbursement<00:15:08.199><c> Provisionsc><00:15:09.000><c> backc><00:15:09.240><c> to
• c><00:17:23.199><c> andc> certain types of documentation and certain types of documentation and Records
• ><c> clinicalc><00:50:00.079><c> typec><00:50:00.520><c> programc><00:50:01.000><c> atc> program
• a clinical type program at program a clinical type program at Franklin<00:50:01.760><c> Piercec><00

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The committee first heard from the Department of Labor on several House Bill 2 sections. Members discussed raising the annual elevator certificate fee, which had been $50 since at least fiscal year 2014; the commissioner said the Inspection Division generates more revenue than its costs, and members agreed to amend the fee to $75 and later voted unanimously to accept Section 137. The department also explained a proposed change to civil penalty/warning language in Section 139 to align enforcement across labor laws; that section was accepted unanimously. The commissioner then gave a detailed overview of the second injury fund, describing how it is financed by assessments on insurance carriers, how claims are reviewed for reimbursement, and how the fund is intended to reimburse certain workers’ compensation costs. Members questioned whether the program still serves its original purpose, whether it is revenue-neutral, and whether it should be sunset; the department said the fund is a mixed bag for the state and industry, but no sunset language was adopted. Sections 140 and 141 were then accepted unanimously. The committee next heard from the Judicial Council on Sections 125 through 127. The witness said the changes would streamline payment for indigent defense services other than counsel, reduce the number of bills requiring judge review, and expand the council’s ability to contract with providers for services such as translation and evaluations. He also explained a proposed fail-safe allowing the executive director to decline to process questionable invoices and send them to a judge instead. Members generally supported the streamlining, and Sections 125 through 127 were accepted unanimously. Toward the end of the discussion, members asked about the cost impact of changing the misdemeanor/felony threshold from $1,000 to a higher amount. The Judicial Council said felony cases are significantly more expensive than misdemeanors because they involve more hearings, more discovery, and more attorney time, with assigned felony cases costing several times more on average. No action was taken on that question in the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• c> concerningc><00:01:38.360><c> inc><00:01:38.520><c> thec><00:01:38.720><c> reportc><00:01:
• c><00:01:40.600><c> thosec><00:01:41.159><c> butc><00:01:41.280><c> Ic><00:01:41.399><c> want
• ><c> justc><00:01:42.119><c> highlightc><00:01:42.479><c> thec><00:01:42.720><c> threec><00:01
• ><00:01:45.439><c> ofc><00:01:45.600><c> allc><00:01:46.320><c> DHSc><00:01:47.040><c> didc><
• typesc> procedures on how to handle these types procedures on how to handle these types of<00:20:20.000

Keywords: 1183, house

Summary: The committee approved the January 16, 2024 minutes without objection. Members then heard a presentation from the Office of the Legislative Auditor on its December 2024 performance audit of the Department of Human Services’ outstanding provider debt in Minnesota’s Medicaid fee-for-service program. Legislative Auditor Judy Randall said the audit was launched after the office noticed a large accounts receivable balance during the state financial statement audit and became concerned that DHS did not understand the extent of the overpayments, had poor data, and planned to forgo recovery of some recoverable balances. Deputy Legislative Auditor Lori Lyson explained that DHS had reported $51.7 million in provider debt across about 2,500 providers in fiscal year 2023, with testing focused on long-term care facilities and the largest balances. The audit concluded DHS did not comply with legal requirements and lacked adequate internal controls. Findings included that DHS had not attempted to recover more than $40 million since collection notices were last sent in 2015 and 2019; that the department planned to write off some balances under $1,000 and some older than six years despite the auditors’ view that at least some of that debt may still be recoverable; that DHS overstated accounts receivable in its financial reporting because it had not updated its allowance calculation since 2019; and that MMIS data were insufficient to verify balances, with 20 of 59 sampled providers not reconciling and many dates inaccurate. In response to member questions, the auditors said the overpayments appeared to be routine program adjustments rather than fraud, but the department could not explain many of them because detailed data are only retained for about three years. They also said they did not know which specific DHS leader approved not collecting the debt, and that responsibility for recovery appeared split between program and finance staff, with each pointing to the other. The auditors recommended DHS recover the debt where possible, improve internal controls, retain better documentation, ensure accurate financial reporting, and work with the legislature if needed to clarify recovery authority.

Transcript Highlights:

• ><c> uhc><00:22:41.159><c> fromc><00:22:41.320><c> thisc><00:22:41.480><c> typec> to benefit
• c><00:40:19.760><c> whenc> was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes
• > typec><00:40:23.240><c> 1c> she was one year old naen has had type 1 she was one year old naen
• c><00:47:37.680><c> fundingc> uninsured patients this type of funding uninsured patients this type
• ><c> islandc><01:42:43.080><c> andc> that type of care here to the island and that type of care here

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The joint hearing covered HB 553 on biomarker testing coverage, HB 556 on colorectal cancer screening access, and later HB 712 on 340B drug pricing. For HB 553, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, patient advocates Natalie Heyman and Susan Hirano, a surgical oncologist, and the American Lung Association strongly supported the bill, arguing that biomarker testing should be covered when ordered by a doctor and guided by current evidence. DHS and several insurers offered comments and requested amendments, with DHS saying it appreciated the intent but wanted changes. The committees then voted to pass HB 553 with amendments, including a House draft and a defective date of July 1, 3000; both the House Health and Human Services and Homelessness committees adopted the recommendation unanimously. For HB 556, testimony focused on closing gaps in colorectal cancer screening, especially for uninsured and underinsured patients who can get stool-based screening but then cannot access follow-up colonoscopies. Community Clinic of Maui, ACS CAN, and the American Cancer Society supported the bill, with ACS CAN urging a program similar to the breast and cervical cancer control program and offering amendments. DHS requested that the program and appropriation not conflict with executive budget priorities, and the committees noted technical amendments, a defective date, a blank appropriation amount, and corrections changing Medicare references to Medicaid. HB 556 was also passed with amendments by both committees. The hearing then moved to HB 712 on 340B drug pricing and contract pharmacies. The Department of Health and the Attorney General’s office expressed concern that the bill would require the state to regulate private commercial activity and said the department lacked the expertise and resources to implement it as written, suggesting it might belong in a different statutory section. In contrast, PhRMA opposed the bill, while Hawaii Pacific Health and Hawaii Island Community Health Center supported it, saying 340B savings are important for hospital services and patient access to low-cost medications, especially where manufacturers have restricted shipments to contract pharmacies. No vote on HB 712 was taken in the portion provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• :35.440><c> typesc><00:11:35.639><c> ofc><00:11:35.920><c> situationsc><00:11:36.920><c> ifc>
• ><c> thisc><00:16:39.519><c> typec><00:16:39.720><c> ofc> the mechanism by which this type of the
• ><c> responsibilityc><00:18:03.159><c> andc> type of financial responsibility and type of financial
• c><01:00:34.799><c> ofc> Advocates fought against those types of Advocates fought against those types
• ><01:29:40.520><c> typesc><01:29:40.880><c> soc><01:29:41.119><c> thatc><01:29:42.040><c> the

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committee heard testimony on several bills. HB 655 would limit collection of unpaid motor vehicle taxes, fees, and penalties to the most recent five consecutive years of delinquency. The Department of Transportation opposed the bill, saying it could significantly affect state and county revenues and that the fiscal impact was hard to estimate. The Tax Foundation noted the bill would shorten the existing collection period, while an individual testifier supported it as a narrow measure that would help owners of old or inherited vehicles. In questioning, the department said it could not quantify the cost but suggested it would prefer case-by-case flexibility rather than a fixed five-year limit. HB 697 would authorize Department of Transportation and Department of Law Enforcement personnel to inspect and certify evidence from automated speed enforcement systems and would appropriate funds for the program. The Department of Transportation supported the measure, citing the workload created by the red-light camera pilot and the need to assist police and prosecutors. The Department of the Attorney General supported the concept but recommended technical amendments so the verification language would apply consistently across the chapter and allow the appropriate reviewing entity to act. The committee also heard support from the AAHU Metropolitan Planning Organization and opposition from three individuals. HB 711 would require defendants convicted of causing the death of a parent or legal guardian of a minor child while driving under the influence to provide financial support to the surviving child. The Office of the Public Defender opposed the bill, arguing that criminal restitution must be tied to verified losses and that this type of long-term support is better handled in civil court, where trusts, conservatorships, and insurance claims can be addressed. The Department of Transportation supported the bill as a deterrent to impaired driving, and police, prosecutors, and an injury prevention group also submitted support. Members questioned whether the measure was better suited to civil litigation, and the public defender agreed that the civil system was the proper venue. HB 108 would allow direct shipment of beer and distilled spirits by certain licensees and require county liquor commissions to adopt rules. The Attorney General raised constitutional concerns, saying the bill’s different treatment of out-of-state manufacturers could violate the dormant Commerce Clause and recommended revisions. Brewers and distillers testified in support, saying the bill would put beer and spirits on a similar footing with wine direct shipment, help small producers reach consumers, and support the local economy without increasing underage access. They also said the bill should be amended to address grandfathering language. No final votes or committee actions were taken in the portion of the hearing provided.

Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:11:45.519><c> typec> through the system that need that type through the system that need that
• ><c> thec><00:11:49.040><c> typec><00:11:49.200><c> ofc><00:11:49.440><c> activitiesc><00:11:
• c><00:14:44.000><c> findc><00:14:44.440><c> somec><00:14:44.800><c> typec><00:14:45.079><c> of<
• /c><00:14:45.240><c> ac> we trying to find some type of a we trying to find some type of a solution
• forc><00:40:33.760><c> thisc><00:40:34.000><c> typec><00:40:34.200><c> ofc><00:40:34.440><c>

Keywords: 1187, senate, all

Summary: The Human Services Committee received an informational overview from Direct Care and Treatment (DCT) staff on the agency’s role and current operations as it transitions from DHS. DCT described itself as Minnesota’s unique state behavioral health system, serving about 12,000 people annually through treatment facilities, residential group homes, and vocational sites, with about 5,000 staff and five major service lines including forensic services and the Minnesota Sex Offender Program. The presentation also reviewed the new executive board required by statute and the 47 work groups created to support DCT’s move to separate-agency status, with staff saying the board is in place, has met, and the work groups are on track for the July 1 deadline. Committee discussion focused heavily on system capacity, staffing shortages, and discharge bottlenecks. DCT said recruiting and retaining staff remains its top pressure, with many vacancies and overtime contributing to burnout. Members also raised concerns about long waits for admission, lack of step-down and community-based placements, and the effect on county jails and hospitals. DCT said it has expanded some capacity, including increasing beds in Willmar, reopening the Ironwood unit in St. Peter, and repurposing the CARE program site to add 16 forensic beds, but emphasized that the broader problem is the lack of community-based options rather than just DCT beds. Members also discussed priority admissions and a prior task force process for handling jail referrals. DCT said the priority admissions framework began July 1 of the previous year, uses factors such as medical acuity and impact on referring facilities, and is intended to help with backflow, though it does not solve the underlying bed shortage. Staff said the priority admissions review panel’s report is due February 15. In response to questions about a high-cost one-to-one care placement, DCT said it had found a less costly alternative and that each case has unique needs. DCT also reported progress on an electronic health record rollout and said a substance use disorder report requested by the Legislature is nearing completion.

Transcript Highlights:

• ><c> employeec><00:29:25.919><c> isc> the type of work that the employee is the type of work that
• 33.520><c> typec><01:24:33.760><c> tools.
• ><c> medicalc><01:28:42.719><c> orc><01:28:42.880><c> rescuec><01:28:43.199><c> typesc><01:28
• c><02:10:43.119><c> typec><02:10:43.360><c> ofc> maintain a state-of-the-art type of maintain a
• :15:49.599><c> typec><02:15:49.840><c> ofc><02:15:50.000><c> technologyc> invest in this type of

Keywords: 910, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• elevator which is the<00:11:28.920><c> onlyc><00:11:29.360><c> typec><00:11:29.600><c> thatc><
• 00:11:29.800><c> getsc><00:11:30.160><c> getsc><00:11:30.800><c> inspectedc> the only type that
• criteria by providing certain<00:17:22.120><c> typesc><00:17:22.360><c> ofc><00:17:22.520><c> documentation
• c><00:17:23.199><c> andc> certain types of documentation and certain types of documentation and Records
• typesc><00:39:37.640><c> ofc><00:39:37.760><c> thingsc><00:39:38.079><c> andc> discretionary

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The committee first discussed a proposed increase to the annual elevator certificate fee in the Department of Labor. The commissioner said the fee had been $50 for years and generated just under $300,000 annually, while the Inspection Division’s broader revenue far exceeded its expenses. Members noted the fee only covered the certificate, not the inspection itself, which is billed separately at $100 per hour. After comparing the fee to neighboring states and discussing the department’s revenue and staffing, the committee agreed to rewrite the language to set the fee at $75 and to vote on an amendment later. The committee then took up Section 139, which would expand the list of labor-law violations that can be penalized without first issuing a warning. The Department explained the change was meant to align House Bill 157 with other chapters, including youth employment and workers’ compensation provisions, where immediate civil penalties are already allowed. The section was accepted unanimously. A longer discussion followed on the Second Injury Fund. The commissioner explained that the fund reimburses insurers for certain workers’ compensation costs tied to claims involving pre-existing conditions, is financed by assessments on insurers, and requires notice within 100 weeks of injury plus a $10,000 deductible before reimbursement. He said the fund currently holds roughly $16 million to $22 million, one full-time employee administers it, and total staff involvement is about five to six people. Members questioned whether the fund should be sunset, but the department said the current House Bill 2 language does not propose a sunset; instead, it addresses increased hearing and litigation burdens after a recent Supreme Court decision. Sections 140 and 141, dealing with hearings, were then accepted unanimously. The committee also briefly discussed fines for late insurance coverage reporting, with the department noting the current rubric allows up to $50 per day but uses $112 per day, and members suggesting a lower amount.

Transcript Highlights:

• typec><00:09:21.600><c> studiesc> our agricultural irrigation type studies our agricultural irrigation
• type<00:35:41.680><c> ofc><00:35:41.920><c> facility.
• c><00:35:42.560><c> Soc><00:35:43.440><c> ourc><00:35:43.760><c> recommendationc> type of facility
• c><00:59:42.480><c> thec><00:59:42.799><c> differentc><00:59:43.119><c> typesc> work to to consider
• ><c> typesc><01:19:54.239><c> ofc><01:19:54.400><c> thingsc> a data center, all these types of

Bills: SF0050, SF0068, SF0084, HB0087, HB0029, HB0061, HB0090

Keywords: groundwater, water resource management, state engineer, aquifer study, corrective controls, monitoring wells, public reporting, irrigation, water management, funding, maintenance projects, tax assessments, state law, water conservation, Colorado River, drought, water rights, voluntary program, interstate agreements, water development

Transcript Highlights:

• > ofc><00:14:23.360><c> fuelc><00:14:23.880><c> suchc><00:14:24.079><c> asc> of other types of
• <c> Ic><00:16:19.880><c> wasc> Other types of vehicles.
• c><00:23:03.919><c> typesc> distinction in two of the various types distinction in two of the various
• ><c> otherc><00:23:35.840><c> typesc><00:23:36.200><c> ofc> used for various other types of used
• c> overc><00:24:36.480><c> ac><00:24:36.600><c> 10-yearc> types of bonds over a 10-year types of

Keywords: 1183, house

Summary: The Transportation Working Group met on January 15, 2025, with Chair John Kosnik opening by saying the committee expected to pass a transportation bill this year and emphasizing efficient use of transportation revenues, maintenance of roads and transit, and safety. Members and staff introduced themselves, and several representatives noted their interest in roads, bridges, and regional transportation needs. Kosnik also said he had spoken with Representative Kel about leadership arrangements and stressed that bipartisan support would be needed for a transportation bill. House Fiscal Staff’s Andrew Lee and House Research’s Matt Burus then gave an overview of transportation finance, focusing mainly on highways and transit. Burus explained Minnesota’s highway funding structure, including the constitutional Highway User Tax Distribution Fund and the related Trunk Highway Fund, County State-Aid Highway Fund, and Municipal State-Aid Street Fund. He reviewed the main revenue sources: the motor fuels tax, motor vehicle registration tax, motor vehicle sales tax, portions of the general sales tax tied to auto parts, vehicle rentals and leases, and the retail delivery fee. He noted several changes from 2023 legislation, including indexing of the gas tax, creation of the Transportation Advancement Account, and the retail delivery fee, which began in July 2024 and therefore would affect fiscal year 2025 rather than the fiscal 2024 data shown. The presentation also covered how highway dollars flow through constitutional formulas, including the 95/5 split from the Highway User Tax Distribution Fund, with the 5 percent set-aside used for town roads, town bridges, and flexible highway purposes such as turnbacks. Burus distinguished trunk highway bonds from general obligation bonds and explained that both are debt-financing tools for transportation projects, but with different repayment sources and uses. No votes or formal actions were taken at this informational meeting.

Transcript Highlights:

• ac><00:18:02.799><c> particularc><00:18:03.200><c> typec><00:18:03.440><c> ofc> construction
• ><c> ac><01:02:38.880><c> containerc> type that can ship on the in a container type that can ship
• a type<01:27:32.880><c> ofc><01:27:33.120><c> whale.
• c><01:27:36.239><c> convincec> type of whale.
• ><c> ofc><02:12:42.400><c> mechanismsc> ensure that those type of mechanisms ensure that those type

Keywords: 1191, senate, all

Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:52:52.599><c> thatc><00:52:52.760><c> wec><00:52:53.000><c> servicec> types of clients that
• :09.200><c> typesc><01:04:09.440><c> ofc> counseling parenting those types of counseling parenting
• those types of things<01:04:10.000><c> therec><01:04:10.279><c> itc><01:04:10.440><c> there'sc
• these hearings we don't have one<01:06:27.799><c> typec><01:06:28.000><c> ofc><01:06:28.279><c>
• c> ac> one type of client we have such a one type of client we have such a variety<01:06:30.559><c>

Keywords: 910, house, all

Summary: The committee first considered House Bill 1324, which would require the Judiciary to contract for legal services for residential tenants in landlord-tenant disputes and allow attorneys, paralegals, and law students to provide those services, with an appropriation. The Department of the Attorney General recommended removing reference to Hawaii Public Housing Authority tenants because HPHA eviction proceedings are administrative and could conflict with the bill. Hawaii Appleseed and other testifiers strongly supported the measure, citing studies showing much higher tenant retention when counsel is available, and suggested adding notice of the right to counsel at key points such as rent increases, eviction notices, and lease signing. The committee adopted amendments, including the Attorney General’s suggested change and a technical amendment, and passed the bill out with a recommendation to move it forward; members voted aye, with one member voting with reservations and several excused. The committee then heard House Bill 126 on property forfeiture, which would increase transparency and accountability in civil asset forfeiture by clarifying covered property, changing disposition rules, and removing language requiring liberal construction of the forfeiture act. The Attorney General said forfeiture remains an important law enforcement tool and that the bill would not impair its use. The Office of the Public Defender supported the measure but argued civil forfeiture is broadly problematic because many people cannot meaningfully challenge it and are not entitled to counsel. Honolulu Police Department opposed the bill, saying forfeiture is useful in fighting illegal activity and that added procedures would delay enforcement and reduce operational funding from forfeiture proceeds. Community Alliance on Prisons, the Drug Policy Forum of Hawaii, and other supporters urged reform or abolition of civil forfeiture, citing transparency concerns and the risk of abuse. No vote on HB 126 was taken in the portion provided. The final measure discussed was House Bill 166, which would require the state to defend professionally licensed or certified state employees in certain civil actions, allow employees to hire their own counsel at their own expense, and set a process for the Attorney General to transfer or withdraw representation if the state declines to defend. Testimony from the Hawaii Association for Justice and labor representatives was in strong support, describing the bill as a negotiated clarification that balances employee protections with accountability and noting it had passed previously but died in conference. The transcript cuts off before any committee action on HB 166.

Transcript Highlights:

• What what<00:20:36.600><c> typec><00:20:36.800><c> ofc><00:20:36.880><c> treatmentsc><00:20:37.280
• ><c> arec><00:20:37.360><c> wec><00:20:37.440><c> talkingc> what type of treatments are we talking
• what type of treatments are we talking about<00:20:38.440><c> onc><00:20:38.560><c> those?
• they're sleeping, those different type<00:20:50.200><c> ofc><00:20:50.600><c> disorders.
• c> type of disorders. type of disorders.

Keywords: 958, all

Summary: The committee met with a quorum, approved the prior meeting’s minutes, and then reviewed a series of administrative regulations from multiple agencies. Most of the regulations were presented as technical updates or policy clarifications, and in each case the committee approved staff-suggested amendments without objection. The Department of Revenue regulation would delete a section on tax credits for trusts and estates to align with statute. The Kentucky Public Pensions Authority package updated definitions, sick leave credit rules, hazardous/non-hazardous employment participation, refund procedures, contribution limits, mortality table references, and incorporated federal tax references. The Board of Medical Licensure regulations addressed renewal and activation of inactive physician-assistant licenses and renewal/reinstatement timelines for athletic trainer licenses. The Fish and Wildlife regulations revised rules for Otter Creek and Peabody areas by deleting definitions and creating shooting-range permit exemptions. The committee also heard emergency vocational rehabilitation regulations that would clarify definitions, due process rights, federal compliance, service fees, in-state service preferences, and service-specific requirements; a workforce insurance regulation updating contribution/reporting rules for professional employer organizations; and a horse racing regulation adding license categories for allied animal health professionals, animal chiropractors, and equine dental providers, while updating fees, application timing, and special events licensing. Members asked questions about the horse racing licensure changes, and the agency explained they were responding to prior session changes and adding guardrails, including veterinarian sign-off for equine therapist licensure on the back side of a racetrack. The Department for Public Health package made several personnel and salary-related changes for local health departments, including salary ranges for new hires, probation and evaluation rules, salary increases after probation, and limits on certain leave payouts for employees who separate without proper notice or are dismissed for cause. The Office of Inspector General regulation added electronic prescription references and removed authority to create a new prescription number for partial dispensing of Schedule II prescriptions. The Department for Medicaid Services regulations updated provider group definitions, removed some service limits, required prior authorization for all genetic testing for non-MCO recipients, changed physician fee schedule updates from quarterly to annually, and added reimbursement for department-approved vaccines. Members asked detailed questions about genetic testing prior authorization and sleep disorder coverage; the agency said prior authorization is intended to take two to five days and that sleep disorder services generally involve sleep apnea-related treatments such as CPAP machines and sleep studies. The committee then adjourned and announced its next meeting for Tuesday, May 12 at 1:00 p.m.

Transcript Highlights:

• c><01:26:58.960><c> typesc><01:26:59.280><c> ofc><01:27:00.400><c> youc><01:27:00.719><c> have
• ><c> farc><01:49:05.280><c> asc><01:49:05.440><c> thatc><01:49:05.679><c> typec><01:49:05.840
• c><02:05:30.960><c> positionc> type issues.
• ><c> typec><02:15:18.320><c> ofc> seems to be an uptick in that type of seems to be an uptick in
• /c><03:09:45.200><c> asc><03:09:45.520><c> wasc> types of things.

Keywords: 916, all

Transcript Highlights:

• c><00:19:07.039><c> typec><00:19:07.200><c> ofc> different levels within this type of different
• c><02:01:23.280><c> publicc> people to be in those types of public people to be in those types of
• <02:41:46.960><c> typec><02:41:47.120><c> ofc><02:41:47.280><c> thing.
• c> type of offense?
• uh type of an fishing is a common uh type of an attempt<05:45:41.920><c> toc><05:45:42.798><c> to<

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• 00:38:17.119><c> isc><00:38:17.240><c> ac><00:38:17.440><c> typec><00:38:17.599><c> ofc> stopped
• :52:36.359><c> typec><00:52:36.520><c> ofc> should also be safe I that's the type of should also
• ><c> otherc><01:53:21.639><c> investorsc> particular type with all other investors particular type
• <c> typec><03:53:15.520><c> ofc><03:53:15.920><c> Medicalc><03:53:16.399><c> Carec><03:53:17.359
• ><c> beforec><03:53:17.640><c> theyc> certain type of Medical Care before they certain type of Medical

Keywords: 928, house, all

Summary: The committee first heard testimony on House Bill 167, a PFAS-related measure to add ski, snowboard, and boat wax to the state’s list of banned consumer products containing PFAS. The sponsor said the product is already banned in many other places, alternatives exist, and the concern is that these products go directly into water rather than landfills. She cited high PFAS levels in several New Hampshire lakes and argued the bill would help stop further contamination. A member of the public also described personal experience with ski wax products disappearing from the market, suggesting PFAS may have been the reason. The chair then closed the hearing on HB 167. The committee next opened a hearing on House Bill 312, dealing with college athletes’ name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights. Representative Moffett explained the bill was prompted by the U.S. Supreme Court’s NCAA v. Alston decision and was modeled on New Jersey law. He said the bill would prevent colleges from restricting NIL compensation, require athletes to use licensed attorneys or registered sports agents, and limit certain endorsements involving addictive drugs, adult entertainment, firearms, and weapons. He framed the measure as a proactive response to a changing college sports landscape and noted possible future conflicts involving schools, agents, and endorsements. Committee members raised several concerns and suggested changes. One member questioned the bill’s exclusion of two-year institutions, another objected to the weapons restriction, and others asked how the bill would affect scholarships. The sponsor said the intent was to protect scholarships, especially athletic scholarships, and clarified that need-based scholarships were not meant to be affected. He also acknowledged discomfort with the endorsement restrictions and said the committee might want to broaden or revise the language. The hearing remained open for further consideration, with no vote taken in the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• use<00:03:05.680><c> umc><00:03:05.920><c> somec><00:03:06.239><c> typec><00:03:06.480><c> of<
• /c><00:03:06.959><c> approvedc><00:03:07.760><c> screeningc> use um some type of approved screening
• use um some type of approved screening instrument<00:03:08.800><c> toc><00:03:09.120><c> screenc
• ><c> areasc><00:10:30.240><c> thatc><00:10:30.560><c> incc> different types of areas that inc different
• types of areas that inc increase<00:10:31.519><c> ourc><00:10:31.760><c> taxesc><00:10:32.160><c

Bills: HB0111, HB0112, HB0122

Keywords: capital construction, state funding, Wyoming, major maintenance, community colleges, task force, legislative services, budget appropriation, unexpended funds, sunset clause, healthcare, rural health, transformation program, funding, incentives, training, access, perpetuity fund, 916, all

Transcript Highlights:

• :22.400><c> reportc><00:36:23.200><c> typec> history.
• 36:37.359><c> thec><00:36:37.680><c> typec><00:36:37.920><c> ofc><00:36:38.079><c> reportc><00
• :36:38.960><c> that'sc><00:36:39.280><c> pulledc><00:36:40.160><c> andc> in the type of report
• type of landlord as well like what type of >> So<00:36:45.920><c> you'rec><00:36:46.160><c>
• c> typec><00:40:20.640><c> ofc><00:40:20.720><c> amendmentsc><00:40:21.520><c> andc><00:40:21.760

Bills: HB1849, HB2000, HB1753, HB1511, HB276, HB1513, HB2188, HB1876

Keywords: licensing, professional license, individual taxpayer identification number, immigration, state residency, right to repair, wheelchairs, consumer protection, repair providers, device documentation, HB1753, Hawaii Social Media Data Deletion Act, social media, account deletion, data deletion, privacy, consumer privacy, personal information, sensitive personal information, data retention

Summary: The committee on Consumer Protection and Commerce met on February 10, 2026, and heard testimony on several bills. HB 1849 relating to licensing drew comments from DCCA’s Professional and Vocational Licensing Division and the Hawaii Real Estate Commission, both of which stood on written testimony. The Hawaii Coalition for Immigrant Rights testified in strong support, emphasizing that some immigrants, including DACA recipients, are already contributing in Hawaii and that the state should help create pathways for them to remain and advance professionally. No vote or final action was taken on HB 1849 during the portion shown. The committee then heard HB 2000, the wheelchair right-to-repair bill. Encart opposed the measure, arguing that repair delays are largely driven by insurance prior authorization and that wheelchair repairs involve FDA-regulated medical devices where improper repairs could create health risks. Peter Fritz testified in support, saying the bill was modeled on similar laws in other states and that he had personal experience through his sister’s use of a wheelchair. Members questioned whether repairs done outside insurer networks might not be reimbursed, and Fritz said that was a concern but that the need for timely repair outweighed it. The committee also discussed HB 1753 on social media, where DCCA’s Office of Consumer Protection supported the bill but suggested an amendment to the definition of personal information. On HB 1511 relating to consumer protection, DCCA’s Insurance Division supported the bill, while the Alliance for Automotive Innovation and the Hawaii Automobile Dealers Association offered comments seeking to preserve legitimate manufacturer and dealer communications about vehicles, warranties, recalls, and related services. The committee also took up HB 276 HD1 and HB 1513 on condominiums. The Hawaii Real Estate Commission offered comments on HB 276 HD1. For HB 1513, the Hawaii Green Infrastructure Authority supported the bill, but DCCA’s Insurance Division opposed it, warning that diverting HHRF funds could weaken reinsurance arrangements and raise premiums for consumers who rely on the fund. Members questioned whether the proposed condo loan program would need HHRF money and whether the amounts in the bill were necessary, and the division said it opposed using HHRF for that purpose. The committee also heard HB 2188 on housing, where OCP supported the measure and the Hawaii Association of Realtors raised concerns about conflicts with the Fair Credit Reporting Act and the use of tenant screening reports, noting that a working group is already addressing landlord-tenant issues. Members asked OCP to research how other states handle similar laws and whether additional language is needed to avoid federal conflict. Finally, on HB 1876 relating to mental health, the Department of Health’s Adult Mental Health Division supported the bill but said it remains opposed to harmful, non-evidence-based treatment modalities; Pride at Work Hawaii also testified in strong support. No final votes or committee decisions were reported in the excerpt.

Transcript Highlights:

• guestsc><00:01:20.439><c> orc><00:01:20.640><c> anyc><00:01:20.920><c> anyc><00:01:21.320><c
• 01:22.479><c> membersc><00:01:22.840><c> wishingc><00:01:23.079><c> toc><00:01:23.200><c> bec
• 01:26.479><c> rightc><00:01:26.640><c> intoc><00:01:26.840><c> ourc><00:01:27.000><c> agendac
• ><c> toc><00:02:19.920><c> getc><00:02:20.080><c> outc><00:02:20.239><c> ofc><00:02:20.360><c
• ><c> onec> I believe it has produced that type of result because you and I have talked.

Keywords: Meeting Start 00:00 Attendance Roll Call 01:45 SB 245 Discussion 02:20 SB 245 Roll Call Vote 04:12 SB 112 Discussion 05:25 SB 8 Discussion 25:20, 958, all

Summary: The Natural Resources Committee first approved the minutes from the prior meeting and then took up Senate Bill 245, which would give the legislature more authority to review appointments to the Fish and Wildlife Resources Commission and clarify language about commissioners serving before confirmation. The sponsor said the bill was meant to allow a deeper background review and prevent unconfirmed appointees from voting on budget matters. The bill was adopted with a sub and title amendment, and Senator Boswell explained his yes vote as a way to ensure timely and proper confirmation votes in the future. The committee then discussed Senate Bill 112, concerning fishing on privately owned lakes and ponds. Senator Boswell argued that landowners should be able to fish on their own property without a license and should control fish harvest on private waters, while still requiring permission for others to fish. Commissioner Rich Storm opposed the proposal, saying landowners already may fish on their property, warning that the bill could reduce fishing-license revenue and federal grant support, and noting the department’s work stocking fish, maintaining access, and funding conservation programs. Senator Webb said he was exploring possible compromise language, and other members raised concerns about pay lakes, youth access, and potential abuse of exemptions. Boswell ultimately withdrew the bill voluntarily, and the committee agreed not to vote on it that day. Finally, the committee heard a discussion-only presentation on Senate Bill 8, focused on long-term energy policy and the role of the Public Service Commission. The sponsor said Kentucky needs a broader energy strategy to address growing demand from new industries such as large data centers, grid capacity limits, and the need for expertise and possibly different pay scales to recruit qualified staff. Members responded positively to the discussion, noting the importance of the PSC and the need for continued work on the issue, but no vote was taken.

Transcript Highlights:

• ><c> thatc><01:48:57.360><c> typec><01:48:57.760><c> setc> the union leader has that type set the
• ><c> certainc><02:16:50.800><c> typesc><02:16:51.040><c> ofc> address the uh certain types of address
• <04:43:35.200><c> suddenlyc><04:43:35.600><c> toc> type of employer decide suddenly to type of employer
• 55.120><c> typesc><05:09:55.360><c> ofc><05:09:55.440><c> relationships.
• ><c> toc><05:31:34.240><c> thec><05:31:34.558><c> typesc> today already have access to the types

Keywords: 1189, house, all

Transcript Highlights:

• ><c> itc><00:01:27.600><c> asc><00:01:27.920><c> onec><00:01:28.080><c> ofc><00:01:28.159><c>
• is that there are thought about it is that there are different<00:19:02.240><c> typesc><00:19:02.640
• types of services that are different types of services that are available<00:19:04.640><c> andc><00
• bills are typically aimed at those type<00:52:01.200><c> ofc><00:52:01.440><c> consumerc><00:52:
• 01.839><c> electronicc><00:52:02.319><c> products,c> type of consumer electronic products, type of

Bills: SF0052, SF0024

Keywords: wildlife management, environmental restoration, funding, invasive species, aquatic ecosystems, native fish, habitat conservation, lottery, debit card payments, gambling regulations, state revenue, financial transactions, 916, all